uMunthu and Bonhoeffer

This book seeks to contribute to the anti-corruption drive in Malawi by proposing a novel, responsibility-based approach, as a necessary corrolary to the state-driven, predominantly prosecutorial strategies of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). Malawi’s national frameworks in fighting corruption, including the National Anti-Corruption Strategy I (2008–2014) and II (2019–2024), explicitly acknowledge the moral responsibility of religious communities; in answering this call, this book proposes a constructive theological model in order to stimulate Christians to take public responsibility. In doing so, the book draws on Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s ethics of responsibility, arguing for proactive, faith-based anti-corruption efforts, grounded in accountability to and concern for the “Other.” Bonhoeffer’s ethics is explored in dialogue with the Malawian philosophical and cultural concept of uMunthu, presenting a transformative framework for churches and citizens that cultivates integrity and justice from within society itself.

• By (author) G. Lwinga