Southern Africa: A Natural Model For Religious Coexistence
Beyond Tolerance: Southern Africa’s Approach to Religious Diversity
A Peaceful Coexistence
LIVING in Southern Africa reveals an unexpected reality about religion in the region. Unlike much of Europe, where religious identity often divides and politicizes societies, Southern Africa presents a model of religious coexistence that is both natural and profound. Countries such as Zambia, Malawi, and Botswana offer powerful examples of how societies can embrace diverse religious identities without the suspicion or hostility that often accompanies them elsewhere.
Zambia’s claim to being a Christian nation does not translate into the religious exclusion that might be expected. Instead, people of all faiths—Muslims, Hindus, Jews, and others—live side by side in harmony, with little to no fear of harassment. Religion is an open part of everyday life, but it is not weaponized or politicized.
The Special Case of Malawi: Islam and Christianity Side by Side
Malawi’s experience is especially significant, given the country’s large Muslim minority, which makes up about 13% of the population. Muslims in Malawi are not just tolerated; they are an integral part of the social and cultural life. There is a deep-seated respect between Christians and Muslims, with members of both faiths attending each other’s family celebrations and funerals. Business is conducted together, and religious identity is seen not as a source of division but as a natural aspect of personal identity.
Unlike in many European countries, where religious identity is politicized, Malawi’s approach is more about coexistence and mutual respect. The fact that faith plays a vital role in daily life is seen as a personal choice and not as a point of contention.
Europe’s Struggle with Religious Politics
Europe’s religious landscape, particularly in countries like the UK, France, and Germany, stands in stark contrast to the situation in Southern Africa. Islamophobia has become institutionalized, with Muslims often viewed through the lens of suspicion and security concerns. High-profile political debates and media portrayals often depict Islam as a threat, and anti-Muslim hate crimes continue to rise.
In Europe, religion has become a tool for social and political control. Political leaders, commentators, and public figures frequently use religion to galvanize voters and rally support for exclusionary policies. This is a far cry from the open and tolerant approach found in Southern Africa, where faith is celebrated as part of one’s identity but is not politicized.
Religious Coexistence as a Social Strength
In Zambia, Malawi, and Botswana, religious identity is seen as a source of pride and personal belonging, not something to fear or politicize. This creates a society where people of different faiths do not just live side by side—they share experiences, support one another, and build a sense of community that transcends religion.
In Southern Africa, the strength of religious coexistence can be seen as part of a broader cultural identity—one that embraces diversity and inclusion, even amidst global tensions around religion. While there are still regions in Africa that suffer from religious conflict, the Southern African experience provides a hopeful blueprint for a future of religious harmony that the rest of the world, especially Europe, could learn from.
