The Entanglements of Religions, Health, and Political-Economy in Africa

The spiritual mandate of Pentecostalism in Africa is closely associated with “miracle healing” that poses a threat to congregants’ health and dignity, as has been reported in many countries. On the other hand, Radical Islamism has assumed a significant political and economic influence on the continent. The contestation for economic and political control of most African countries by various religious groups has also created tension expressed in insurgency with far-reaching socio-political implications. Although sociologists have often viewed religion as a source of solidarity and mental support in the society, it is increasingly becoming a divisive tool that threatens the fabric of most African societies, which tend to undermine social progress. In this session, we will explore the entanglements of religion, health, and politics in Africa and how they shape the trajectories of the continent. We invite theoretical and/or empirical papers that focus and attempt to address any aspect of the following areas:

1. How has religion responded to social problems in Africa or has become a social and/or health problem in its own right?
2. In what ways has religion been used as a tool for division and domination in Africa?
3. How have politicians and authoritarian rulers used religion to perpetuate their rule in Africa?
4. What role should religious organizations play towards poverty alleviation and mental health in Africa?
5. How has religion facilitated or undermined the consolidation of Africa’s democracy?