How 17 African Cultural Values Can Inspire Your Life
The thirteen features that make us unique as a species implies that there is no one way to approach life that is ‘correct’. With that said, looking at how other people navigate their own journeys can be highly impactful. Entering into an exploration of African cultures can yield valuable insights and may even help us to connect with our own ancestry if we feel disconnected from our roots.
Here are seventeen cultural values expressed in various African traditions, with a brief explanation of how they can enrich our daily lives.
1. Ubuntu. This term, which means “I am because we are”, is essentially a recognition of the fact that no individual can exist in isolation. We are all interconnected and, as such, our fates are connected. Ubuntu encourages us to find ways to honor one another, to support and elevate one another, and to find common ground.
2. Harambee. This Swahili word represents coming together as a community to help one another achieve a common goal. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration, recognizing that the talents of many are required to achieve something great, and that we should all be invested in the success of our collective.
3. Sankofa. A West African term that could best be translated to “look back to move forward”. Its meaning is incredibly relevant for people living in this age of progression. Sankofa encourages us to reflect on our past experiences so we may find our way forward.
4. Sasa. This is a Swahili term that translates to “now”. It conveys a sense of urgency and reminds us that our actions matter, and we must be mindful of the present moment and the impact we make.
5. It takes a village. This value emphasizes the important role community plays in raising and educating children. With a concerted effort from everyone, we can ensure that the future is one full of positive cultural values.
6. Fa. This is a concept from the West African Akan culture that encompasses the idea of fate, destiny, and divinity. It acknowledges that, while we are in control of our actions, there are also forces beyond us that shape our experiences.
7. Siwa. Siwa is a value that illustrates the importance of self-reliance and empowerment. It reminds us that we are a resilient people and we can overcome circumstances that may seem to be impossible.
8. Ubuntu. “I am because we are”. This value calls us to recognize the interconnectedness and importance of community in our lives.
9. Ayanmo. A Yoruba concept whereby people reflect that they are not self-created but they are instead a product of their community, history, ancestors, and culture. It is a valuable tool in determining your purpose, and how you can contribute to society.
10. Baraza. This Swahili word encapsulates the essence of respectful communication and dialogue. In our world, it is easy to forget how powerful conversation and deliberation can be. It represents the importance of gathering as a community to communicate and work out our differences.
11. Mottainai. This term, which translates to “take what you need and no more”, is used by the Bantu people of Southern Africa with regards to sustainable usage of natural resources. We live in a world where we sometimes forget the importance of preserving and using our resources strategically.
12. Sankofa. “Look back to move forward”. This concept reminds us of the value of introspection and hindsights.
13. Ubuntu. This value embodies the idea of collectivism over individualism. It helps by encouraging people to prioritize community and self within our lives.
14. Harambee. “Let’s pull together”. This term is being used in contemporary times to encourage a spirit of collaboration, partnership, and teamwork.
15. Masakhane. This Xhosa word translates to “let’s build together” and it represents an approach to problem-solving that emphasizes the importance of collective action. It highlights that each person should do their part towards a common goal.
16. Kucheka. This value embodies humor as a coping mechanism and the idea that tragedy and hardships can be alleviated by sharing light-hearted moments with others.
17. Ubuntu. A final reminder that we are all connected. A call to help when others are in need, as we never know when we will require help in return.
Wrap-Up
Cultural values from the African continent can bring insights that will lead to greater levels of success and fulfillments in our daily lives. Society has many things to learn from these cultural practices about the importance of community, teamwork, dignity, and more. The values mentioned above can be utilized as tools for navigating life with greater depth, and each one is worth exploring in greater depth.
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