FAQ — Tuzafrika

What is We-ism?

We-ism is the philosophical and geopolitical doctrine formulated by Tuza Shema and carried by the Tuzafrika institute, built on three pillars — Useful-Existence, the Knot of Destinies, and Awakened Service. It holds that no existence is accomplished alone: "I am useful, therefore We are. We are, therefore I exist."

Is We-ism a communitarian or identity-based withdrawal?

No — it is the opposite. Communitarian withdrawal sets an “us” against a “them”; We-ism widens the “We” to all whose destinies are bound together — neighbours, communities, peoples, including those one has been in conflict with. It is neither nationalism, nor tribalism, nor a collectivism that erases the person: it is their antidote. Where withdrawal says “us against them”, We-ism says “us, with them”.

Why TUZAFRIKA?

TUZAFRIKA was born from the conviction that the fractures of the Great Lakes region — and, beyond it, those of the modern world — are not resolved through the isolation of nations or individuals, but through the recognition of a shared destiny. The institute translates this conviction into doctrine, training, and field action.

How is this different from Ubuntu?

We-ism shares the same deep intuition as Ubuntu — the person is realised through others. But where Ubuntu is a traditional wisdom passed down through culture, We-ism is a codified doctrine, with its own pillars, disciplines and methods of application (mediation, co-development, training), designed to address the contemporary geopolitical challenges of the Great Lakes region and beyond.

How do I join the Way of We?

By reading the Manifesto, then signing the Charter of Companions — a personal commitment to embody the ten principles of the Charter in daily life. In return, the Charter sets out five guarantees that the Way owes you.

How do I become a Companion of the Way?

Simply sign the Charter of Companions. Anyone may join freely, whatever their background or beliefs, by committing to practise Awakened Service.

Do I need to be African or live in Africa to join Tuzafrika?

No. The Way of We is open freely to anyone, regardless of origin, nationality or belief, as long as they commit to practising Awakened Service.

Is We-ism compatible with my religion or culture?

Yes. We-ism is neither a religion nor a confessional entity: it is a doctrine of moral and geopolitical philosophy. It does not ask you to give up your beliefs or culture, but to recognise that existence is fully realised through usefulness rendered to others.

How can I financially support Tuzafrika?

By making a donation or becoming a partner of the institute. Find all the details on the Support page.

Can I create a Circle of We in my city or country?

Yes. Circles of We give the doctrine local form, through spaces for reflection, training and collective action. The process for creating one is explained on the Create a Circle page.

What happens if I no longer follow the ten principles after signing the Charter?

The status of Companion is not a permanent title acquired once and for all: it rests on the constancy of one's deeds, recognised by one's peers. Signing the Charter is a personal and public commitment, not an institutional guarantee — it is the consistency between one's word and one's daily life that earns, or forfeits, recognition as a Living Landmark. Acknowledging a fault and drawing the consequences is part of that constancy: a Companion is not required to be blameless at all times, but to remain engaged on a recognisable path of progress. The Charter also guarantees you withdrawal without dishonour: you may leave the Way at any time, without having to justify yourself (article 14).