Exploring Social Work Gaps in Africa with Examples from South Africa and Botswana

Abstract

This paper aims to discuss current social work gaps in service delivery in Africa with examples from Botswana and South Africa. The paper uses the review of literature methodology. Findings indicate the following gaps: dependence syndrome emanating from residual/remedial practice; social workers not motivated, recognized, or remunerated adequately; social workers are lacking in advanced techniques; and not adequately prepared to handle emergent contemporary development challenges such as HIV and AIDS. The paper recommends adequate recognition and modest remuneration of the social workers; social workers to be trained in application of advanced techniques; and should be encouraged to adopt the developmental component to avoid dependence syndrome.