Indigenous practice- some informed guesses. Self evident and possible

Abstract

The inability of social work practice to make a credible and positive impact on the crisis in African development calls for a re-examination of the profession. The article argues that indigenisation offers opportunities for non-Western societies to develop professional practice based on theories, models, values, and processes emanating from relevant and specific knowledge about their societies. It is necessary and possible for social work in Africa to define its mission, knowledge base, and process based on local conditions in which it must operate. It is in this context that the justification for appropriateness, and hence indigenisation, lies.

Throughout history, and within the social sciences, the number of real paradigm shifts - true fundamental changes in concepts, methods, and conclusions - has been very small. However, whereas many paradigm shifts have failed, it is also true that some brilliant ideas have, at times, been ignored simply because they did not fit existing modes of thought (Matsumoto, 2000). In this regard, Lombard's (1996:172) assertion that there may be only two clear options in relation to change - "resisting change or participating in promoting it" - is close to the truth. The choice, however, is clear. Change must be promoted.

Alternative voices have always had trouble being accepted. When Africans and others rose against colonialism and Apartheid in South Africa, there was no automatic acceptance of their position.  Thus, with indigenisation, no one expects automatic acceptance, as issues must be debated and positions accepted and applied on their own merits. It is important, though, to note that the fact that some people may resist an idea does not invalidate it.