Infusing African management philosophy into project management

• Main Authors: Carl Marnewick, Wikus Erasmus, Nazeer Joseph
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: AOSIS 2018-07-01
• Series: Acta Commercii
• Subjects: project management; African management philosophy; Western management philosophy; ubuntu; decolonisation
• Online Access: https://actacommercii.co.za/index.php/acta/article/view/585
• ISSN: 2413-1903; 1684-1999

Orientation: The project management field of study is investigated in the context of the current debate on decolonisation of the university curriculum. Research purpose: Current project management theories and curriculum are based on Western management philosophy (WMP). This creates tension on the African continent where the debate is currently about the revival of African management philosophy (AMP) and how it should form part of management theories and the discourse in general. Motivation for the study: The problem currently is that AMP is not incorporated or even discussed within project management literature. The aim of this article is to create discussion around AMP and how it can be infused into project management theories and ultimately the curriculum. The AMP and WMP are discussed through the lens of project management, specifically the Project Management Body of Knowledge. Research design, approach and method: Philosophical discussion was employed to facilitate the discussion of infusing AMP into project management. Various historical concepts and practices were explored to provide perspective concerning management philosophies and theories. Main findings: Infusing AMP into the curriculum must be a conscientious effort from the academic staff who teach project management. Moreover, true infusion of AMP is best facilitated through the interaction between academics, students and stakeholders. There are, however, certain processes that are principle agnostic and are independent of either AMP or WMP. Practical/managerial implications: We should philosophise more on infusing AMP into project management, creating new theories, and that the curriculum should be adjusted to incorporate AMP. Contribution/value-add: This paper stimulates discussion around AMP and project management.