The biography includes those people who have contributed to social work in Africa at different periods in the development of the profession, both deceased and living. The list is arranged in alphabetical order. Suggestions for inclusion in this Biography are welcome – please use the form at the end. The list includes:
- people who contributed before Social Work became a profession
- people who contributed to introduction of Social Work in Africa
- people who contributed to Social Work education
- people who have promoted indigenous Social Work
- people who have contributed to decolonization of African Social Work
- those who have contributed to African Social Work literature
- people who contributed to social work indirectly, for example, as pan-Africanists, philanthropists or activists
Click the name of the person below to view an interview with them or to read their biography. You will also find videos and other resources that they have contributed.
Charlotte Makgomo-Mannya Maxeke (1871-1939), South Africa
Mai Musodzi Chibhaga Ayema (1885-1952), Zimbabwe
Regina Gelana Twana (1908-1968), South Africa and Eswatini
Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo (19 June 1917 – 1 July 1999)
Jairos Jiri (1921 – 1982), Zimbabwe
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, 1936–2016, South Africa
Kenneth Buchizya Kaunda, Zambia
Andrew Chad Nyanguru (28 Mar 1953-14 May 2014)
Lovemore Mbigi, Zimbabwe
Phillip Manyanye Bohwasi, Zimbabwe
Dr Noel Garikai Muridzo, School of Social Work, Zimbabwe
Dr Edmos Mthethwa, Department of Social Work, University of Zimbabwe
Associate Professor Gidraph G. Wairire, Kenya, Department of Social Work, University of Nairobi, Kenya