Everyday Ubuntu: Living Better Together, the African Way by Nompumelelo Mungi Ngomane Book Review

Book Details

Title: Everyday Ubuntu: Living Better Together, the African Way
Author: Nompumelelo Mungi Ngomane
Year: 2019
Genre: Self-Help, Personal Development, Philosophy
Available Formats: Kindle, Audible, Hardcover

Buy Book HERE

Introduction

Have you ever read a book that feels like a warm embrace? Everyday Ubuntu by Nompumelelo Mungi Ngomane felt exactly like a tender, loving hug every time I picked it up. Upon reflection, this perfectly encapsulates the philosophy of Ubuntu—community, support, and togetherness. While I usually save my recommendations for the end, this book genuinely is for everyone—young or old.

For those familiar with me, the African philosophy of Ubuntu holds deep personal meaning. Since 2021, I’ve had the honour of lecturing on Ubuntu to first-year history students through Dr Nicholas Evans’ (a dear friend, colleague and mentor) “A History of Freedom” module. These sessions have deepened my appreciation for Ubuntu, making Everyday Ubuntu a natural and essential resource that I’ve repeatedly revisited and recommended.

Summary of the Book

Structured around 14 insightful lessons, Everyday Ubuntu delves into the essence of Ubuntu, a philosophy deeply rooted in the interconnectedness of human existence. Although the term originates from South Africa, Ubuntu’s core principles—community, compassion, and solidarity—are practised widely across Africa and resonate universally.

I particularly appreciated Ngomane’s skilful connection of Ubuntu with contemporary global contexts. Initially surprised by the numerous examples from the UK and Western settings, I quickly recognised this as a powerful choice, underscoring Ubuntu’s universal relevance. The book illustrates how kindness and community transcend cultural boundaries, making Ubuntu applicable to everyone.

Ngomane offers a compelling example of social media’s capacity for fostering Ubuntu. Despite its known drawbacks, social media can positively connect people, build communities, and enable collective growth, reinforcing Ubuntu as a modern, globally relevant concept.

What I Loved

Global Relevance of Ubuntu

The book excellently frames Ubuntu as a universal philosophy. While deeply African in origin, Ubuntu’s values of compassion and communal responsibility are universally applicable, challenging notions of cultural exclusivity.

Practical Applications for Daily Life

Everyday Ubuntu is practical, offering readers guidance on embedding Ubuntu principles into everyday interactions, workplaces, and communities. Ubuntu becomes more than theory—it’s actionable wisdom.

Memorable Lessons

• Lesson 4: Choosing to See the Wider Perspective Ngomane beautifully discusses South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, led by her grandfather, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, emphasising the value of acknowledging multiple perspectives. She extends this insight to post-genocide Rwanda, emphasising the role of education and understanding in community healing. This lesson highlights the complexity and compassion inherent in Ubuntu.

• Lesson 7: Choosing Hope Over Optimism Hope, particularly powerful in communities facing adversity, is showcased through Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment experience on Robben Island. Mandela’s choice to see hope and humanity in difficult circumstances illustrates Ubuntu’s transformative potential.

Discovering the Tutu Foundation

Before reading Everyday Ubuntu, I had limited knowledge about the Tutu Foundation. Ngomane’s insights led me to discover its impactful work across various London boroughs, further enhancing my appreciation for her global perspective and storytelling.

Recommendation

I wholeheartedly recommend Everyday Ubuntu to anyone interested in philosophy, personal development, and building stronger communities. It’s an inspiring, practical guide that speaks to readers of all backgrounds.

About the Author

Mungi Ngomane is a respected author, speaker, and human rights advocate. Granddaughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and patron of the Tutu Foundation UK, Ngomane promotes justice, dignity, and Ubuntu worldwide. She holds a Master’s degree in International Studies and Diplomacy from SOAS, University of London, and has extensive experience in Middle East conflict resolution and anti-discrimination initiatives.

For more information about her work, visit mungingomane.co.