Good Governance and Management for a Sustainable Future of the Church: Exploring Ubuntu as a Framework of Necessity

Abstract

This article examines the Ubuntu philosophical framework as a transformative approach to enhancing good governance within churches. Ubuntu, rooted in African philosophy, champions interconnectedness, generosity, and communal responsibility, reinforcing ethical leadership and sustainable governance structures. The research that undergirds this article explored how collective participation and shared accountability contribute to improved church leadership practices, fostering trust and inclusivity among congregants. To achieve its objectives, this article employs a qualitative methodology, focusing on non-numerical data to capture lived experiences. Quantitative elements supplement the analysis, with interviews conducted among key informants from two denominations. Findings reveal that effective governance and management are pivotal to church sustainability, improving leadership standards and ensuring ethical stewardship. Furthermore, biblical perspectives on stewardship and leadership underscore the necessity of strategic planning, financial management, and human resource development within church structures. However, inadequate theological education often leads to poor governance and leadership dependency, hampering institutional resilience. This paper advocates for integrating governance and management principles within church administration, demonstrating how Ubuntu-based leadership models foster empowerment, sustainability, and adaptability in evolving socio-political contexts. Ultimately, an Ubuntu framework provides a compelling governance approach that prioritizes ethical leadership, congregational empowerment, and structured administration, ensuring churches remain resilient and impactful in their communities.