Why Africa's Ubuntu philosophy is changing how the world measures happiness

Finland, for the eighth year in a row, remains the happiest country in the world, while Afghanistan remains the unhappiest country according to the World Happiness Report 2025. 

The World Happiness Report (WHR) emphasises the importance of social connections and kindness in driving happiness. Africa’s Ubuntu philosophy, which highlights communal well-being and interconnectedness, offers invaluable lessons to Western societies grappling with rising loneliness and political polarisation.

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) became the first African institution to host the launch of the WHR on World Happiness Day last Thursday. 

The event marked the WHR’s 13th edition. 

The findings are powered by Gallup World Poll data and other sources, including the Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, and analysed by leading experts in well-being science.

Gallup CEO, Jon Clifton, said: “Happiness isn’t just about wealth or growth but rather about trust, connection, and knowing people have your back. This year’s report proves we underestimate how kind the world is. If we want stronger communities and economies, we must invest in what truly matters. Each other.”

Launching the report at UJ is more than a celebration of data but a call to action. As the world grapples with social isolation and declining trust, Africa’s example of Ubuntu and resilience offers a path forward.

UJ’s globally renowned well-being economist and WHR contributor, Professor Talita Greyling, advocates for African-centric quality-of-life metrics. 

“Africa’s story is one of resilience and hope. Our communities thrive on the principles of Ubuntu, caring for one another, sharing what we have, and finding joy in our connections. These values are not just cultural but also essential to our collective happiness and offer a blueprint for a more connected world,” Greyling said. 

“For example, the report highlights that sharing meals with others is strongly linked to well-being across all regions. In Africa, communal dining is a deeply ingrained cultural practice, fostering strong social bonds. This stands in stark contrast to the United States, where the number of people dining alone has increased by 53% over the past two decades.”

Greyling continued: “As the first African host of the WHR launch, UJ has positioned itself at the forefront of global conversations on happiness and well-being. The event not only highlighted Africa’s contributions to the science of happiness but also reinforced the continent’s role as a leader in fostering global unity and compassion.”

The report, under the theme “Caring and Sharing”, investigated global happiness factors, emphasising social connections, trust, and kindness.

It also reveals insights into global happiness rankings. 

For example, South Africa ranks 99th globally on the Life Ladder scale, with a score of 4.98, compared to Finland’s top-ranking score of 7.78. However, compared to other African nations, South Africa ranks 4th, while Mauritius leads the continent at 5.99.

Mauritius frequently surpasses other African countries in crucial areas such as Positive Affect (0.71) and Freedom to Make Life Choices (0.82). The country is known for its stability and prosperity.

South Africa, which faces challenges in areas like Donated Money (0.14) and Volunteered Time (0.20), excels in Perceptions of Corruption (0.85), ranking 6th in Africa and 28th globally. 

Africa’s capacity to promote trust and openness in governance — a crucial component of societal well-being — is emphasised by this.

The 2024 Life Ladder rankings further highlight Africa’s diversity. 

Mauritius (5.83) and Libya (5.82) lead the continent, while nations like Sierra Leone (3.00) and Malawi (3.26) face significant challenges. 

Even in these rankings, African communities’ resilience shines through. 

Countries like South Africa (5.21) and Algeria (5.57) demonstrate steady progress, reflecting the continent’s capacity for growth and adaptation.

Simon Fraser University professor of social psychology and World Happiness Report editor, Lara B Aknin, said: “Human happiness is driven by our relationships with others. Investing in positive social connections and engaging in benevolent actions are both matched by greater happiness.”