How do current social work practices in Southern Africa reflect a continuation of colonial ideologies? A decolonized framework to empower communities

Abstract

The impact of colonialism continues to shape social work practices in Southern Africa, where Western ideologies remain dominant in education, policy, and intervention strategies. Despite the profession’s commitment to social justice and community empowerment, its foundation in Eurocentric frameworks marginalizes Indigenous knowledge systems and often fails to address the specific needs of African societies. This study critically examines the persistence of colonial structures within social work and explores the necessity of a decolonized framework that prioritizes culturally relevant approaches. Decolonization is not a rejection of Western theories but a recalibration that centers African epistemologies, traditions, and values in professional practice. By integrating Indigenous philosophies such as Ubuntu, which emphasizes collective well-being, interconnectedness, and mutual responsibility, social work can develop contextually appropriate, empowering and sustainable solutions.