Ubumuntu: A philosophy that defines Rwandan uniqueness

Ubumuntu philosophy is a worldview that emphasizes the interconnectedness of human beings and their shared humanity. It is a concept that is deeply rooted in Rwandan culture, and has been a guiding principle for many generations. Ubumuntu philosophy has been practiced in Rwanda for centuries. Before the arrival of colonialism, it was a fundamental part of Rwandan society, shaping everything from personal relationships to political structures. We explore the historical meaning of Ubumuntu philosophy in Rwandan culture, its modern relevance in Rwanda, and why the concepts of Ubupfura and Ubuntu are so important to it.

The Role of Ubumuntu in life of a Rwandan:

Rwanda has a long and complex history; by the 16th century, Rwanda had developed a centralized monarchy under the rule of the Mwami (king), with a complex social hierarchy based on cattle ownership and military prowess.  Ubumuntu philosophy has been a cornerstone of Rwandan culture, promoting a sense of community, empathy, and solidarity among its people. The word Ubumuntu is a combination of two Kinyarwanda words: "Ubu" meaning being, and "Muntu" meaning human. Thus, Ubumuntu means "being human."  

The Ubumuntu philosophy played a crucial role in pre-colonial Rwanda. It was a philosophy that promoted a sense of community, empathy, and solidarity among its people. At the heart of this system was the idea of Ubumuntu, which emphasized the interconnectedness of human beings and their shared humanity. Ubumuntu was expressed in a variety of ways, from the importance of personal relationships to the need for collective action to maintain social order. The concepts of Ubupfura and Ubuntu were also important components of this worldview, reflecting the values of honesty, integrity, and philanthropy that were essential to the society.

Ubupfura - the ultimate personality of man as a part of the society

 Ubupfura is a Kinyarwanda term that is often translated as "integrity," "honesty," or "uprightness." In the context of Ubumuntu, Ubupfura refers to a moral quality that is characterized by honesty, transparency, and a strong sense of personal responsibility. It is a quality that is highly valued in Rwandan culture, and is seen as an essential aspect of being a good and responsible member of the community.

Ubupfura was demonstrated in many aspects of daily life in pre-colonial Rwanda, from the way people conducted business to the way they interacted with each other. For example, when conducting trade, it was important to be honest and transparent about the quality and quantity of goods being exchanged. Similarly, when resolving conflicts or disputes, individuals were expected to take personal responsibility for their actions and work towards a peaceful resolution.

The concept of Ubupfura also emphasized the importance of respect for elders, community service, and humility. It ensured that individuals worked towards the well-being of the community, and it promoted social harmony and stability. The concept of Ubupfura is a vital aspect of the Ubumuntu philosophy in pre-colonial Rwanda. Ubupfura refers to the moral and ethical principles that governs Rwandan society to this day. It was a code of conduct that emphasized respect for elders, community service, and humility. The concept of Ubupfura was closely linked to the Rwandan social hierarchy, which was based on age, gender, and social status.

In pre-colonial Rwanda, elders were highly respected and revered. They were considered the custodians of traditional knowledge and wisdom, and their advice was often sought in matters of governance and decision-making. The concept of Ubupfura demanded that younger members of society show deference and respect to their elders. It was believed that this would ensure harmony and stability in the community.

Ubuntu in Rwanda: Selflessness for the good of the society

The concept of Ubuntu is another vital aspect of the Ubumuntu philosophy in Rwanda. Ubuntu is a term that is widely used in Africa, and it has been interpreted in various ways. In Rwanda, Ubuntu was closely linked to the concept of communalism. It emphasizes the importance of community, compassion, and mutual support, and it is often expressed in the phrase "I am because we are." The concept of Ubuntu demanded that individuals show selflessness, compassion and empathy towards others. It was believed that by doing so, individuals could create a sense of unity and solidarity within the community.

Ubuntu was closely linked to the Rwandan concept of Umuganda, which was a communal workday that was held regularly in pre-colonial Rwanda. Community service was another essential aspect of Ubuntu. It was an obligation for every member of society to contribute to the well-being of the community. This could take the form of building communal infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and public buildings, or providing assistance to those in need. Umuganda is an important aspect of Rwandan society that to this day is still practiced every last Saturday of the month . 

It is a day when members of the community come together to work on communal projects such as building roads, bridges, and public buildings.

In pre-colonial Rwanda, Ubuntu was reflected in many aspects of daily life, from the way people worked together to cultivate crops to the way they celebrated important life events. It was also expressed through the act of giving to others, particularly those in need. Giving to others was seen as a way to demonstrate personal integrity and to contribute to the greater good of the community.

Without Ubumuntu, Rwanda is no more: Impact of Colonialism

The impact of colonialism on Ubumuntu philosophy was significant and multifaceted, leading to a gradual erosion of the social, cultural, and political structures that supported this philosophy. This erosion, in turn, contributed to the Tutsi Genocide of 1994 in Rwanda.

Prior to colonialism, Ubumuntu philosophy was deeply rooted in Rwandan society, influencing every aspect of life from social norms to political structures. The principles of Ubupfura and Ubuntu were central to this philosophy, emphasizing the importance of community, empathy, and solidarity. However, colonialism disrupted these social structures, and the colonial powers introduced new ideas, values, and practices that were often at odds with the traditional culture and beliefs of the Rwandan people. The colonial powers, especially the Belgians, introduced the idea of ethnic identity and divided the population into three main groups, Twa, Hutu and Tutsi. This division was based on physical and social characteristics, such as height, skin color, and occupation, and was used to justify colonial rule by portraying the Tutsi as a superior race deserving of privilege and power. This division created a new form of identity that was based on ethnicity rather than the traditional social structures and principles of Ubumuntu philosophy.

In conclusion, the impact of colonialism on Ubumuntu philosophy was significant, contributing to the erosion of traditional social structures and the introduction of ethnic identity as a new form of identity. This division and the subsequent breakdown of social cohesion and solidarity in Rwandan society contributed to the Tutsi Genocide of 1994. The tragedy of the genocide serves as a stark reminder of the importance of promoting Ubumuntu philosophy's principles of community, empathy, and solidarity in building a more peaceful and just society.

Renaissance of Ubumuntu philosophy

Ubumuntu philosophy has been revived in Rwanda as a means to promote unity, development, and global recognition. Here are some ways in which the philosophy is being used to achieve these goals:

1. Emphasis on community: Ubumuntu philosophy emphasizes the importance of community and social cohesion. By promoting this principle, Rwandans are encouraged to work together towards common goals and to support one another in times of need. This sense of community is particularly important in a country that has suffered from deep divisions and trauma. Practical examples: Monthly countrywide Umuganda (community services).
2. Focus on empathy: Ubumuntu philosophy emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion towards others. By promoting these values, Rwandans are encouraged to understand and appreciate the experiences of others, particularly those who have been marginalized or oppressed. This helps to build trust and promote healing, which are essential for unity and development. Practical examples: Social security policies for elders (monthly stipend --- not pensions), VUP policies to create job for the poorest of the poor, Gira Inka Munyarwanda (Cow exchange program stated by the Government).
3. Emphasis on solidarity: Ubumuntu philosophy emphasizes the importance of solidarity and collective action. By promoting this principle, Rwandans are encouraged to work together towards common goals and to support one another in times of need. This sense of solidarity is particularly important in a country that has experienced conflict and division.
4. Incorporation into national policies: The government of Rwanda has incorporated Ubumuntu philosophy into its national policies and programs. For example, the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission promotes the principles of Ubumuntu philosophy as a means to promote healing and reconciliation through support of Genocide survivors. The philosophy is also being incorporated into the national curriculum as a means to promote awareness and understanding of traditional Rwandan values.
5. Global recognition: The promotion of Ubumuntu philosophy has also helped to raise Rwanda's global profile by adopting Ubupfura in the ways of conducting state affairs with integrity and accountability. This has positioned the country as a global destination for high profile meetings with its reputable hospitality, made it one of the top countries in the world to invest in, ranked 38th in the World and 2nd in Africa, with less corruption and easy process to start a business.

In summary, the revival of Ubumuntu philosophy in Rwanda has helped to promote unity, development, and global recognition. By emphasizing community, empathy, and solidarity, Rwandans are encouraged to work together towards common goals and to support one another in times of need. The incorporation of Ubumuntu philosophy into national policies and programs, as well as its promotion, has helped to raise awareness of traditional Rwandan values and to promote Rwanda as a unique country.

Reference: La Philosophie bantu-rwandaise de l' etre (1956)