Religion and Development in Africa: History, Status, and Future Prospects

Abstract

The burgeoning field of religion and development has continued to gain scholarly attention globally, especially recently. The article explores and reviews the study of religion and development in Africa by drawing on multiple literature and theoretical approaches. Structured around the history and survey of the current status of the study of religion and development in Africa, the article maps and projects its potential future. Religion, a significant tool for (de)development in Africa, holds immense potential to bring about positive social transformation for the common good. Being a complex process that focuses on improving both the material and immaterial aspects of human life, development can pivot on religion to create a better future for Africa. There is a need for robust and nuanced discourses on the academic study of religion and development that interrogate development theories and practice and their relevance to the African context. In the long run, this will address contemporary contentions and contestations on the role of religion and development, especially in Africa.