Philanthropy in the development field: a typology in the sub-Saharan African context

Abstract: Notice taken towards the position of philanthropy in sub-Saharan Africa has increased in the lastdecade. Increasing amounts of private wealth, charity and philanthropy initiatives are changing the landscape earlier characterised by traditional forms of philanthropy that have been practised between people and communities. This study explored the central conversation around philanthropy in sub-Saharan African context, in order to synthesise the literature and create a classification that explores the relationship within philanthropic action. A critical literature review was conducted, and thematic analysis was used to explore the literature. Resulting from the final themes, a typology consisting of 3 global and 3 local types of philanthropic action was created to conceptualise philanthropic action in sub-Saharan Africa.