Towards Understanding the Nexus Between Religion, Conflict and Peacebuilding in Africa

This research argued that the place of religion in conflict and peacebuilding in Africa, cannot be over-emphasized. Africans are notoriously religious, and religion permeates every aspect of their existence. However, African continent in many respects has experienced political, economic, cultural and religious retardation due to wars and crises that have bedevilled her over the years. No society thrives in a chaotic, violent and conflict situation. Hence, there is no option to peace and peaceful co-existence if any meaningful development is to be achieved by any society. This work adopted phenomenological and sociological methods in examining the key issues raised; while data were collected using secondary sources. The paper discovered that while religion could cause conflict, religion is intrinsically good and plays important role in the restoration of peace and tranquillity in Africa, through dialogue, oath taking, advocacy and preaching and teaching. It is rather man’s perception, uncanny behaviour, approach and use of religion that made it look as if it plays ambivalent roles. No world religions have claimed to be a violent religion. Religious leaders, government agencies were advised to engage proper religious tenets in addressing conflict situations in Africa in order to drive peace and development in the continent.