Has Organized Religion Benefited Africa and Its People?

The impact of organized religion on Africa is a subject of debate. While some challenge its role, others highlight its positive contributions. This article explores two key areas where organized religion has provided significant benefits to the continent and its inhabitants.

Literacy and Education

One of the earliest and most profound impacts of organized religion in Africa is the promotion of literacy and education. Missionaries, who often accompanied religious orders, have played a crucial role in establishing schools and providing educational resources in regions previously lacking such institutions.

Christian Missionaries and Educational Outreach

Christian missionaries have been particularly active in this regard. They established schools that eventually led to improvements in literacy rates across different regions. For instance, the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions (ABCFM) sent missionaries to Africa as early as the 19th century, where they undertook the task of translating religious texts into local languages and establishing schools.

Islam and Educational Initiatives

Islam has also made contributions to education in Africa, albeit primarily focusing on religious education. Islamic centers and schools (madrassahs) provide education in Arabic and religious texts, which has helped preserve and transmit Islamic traditions. Furthermore, initiatives like the introduction of Quranic schools helped in expanding literacy and religious knowledge.

Emergency Relief and Humanitarian Efforts

A specific and profoundly impactful role of organized religion in Africa has been in providing emergency relief and humanitarian assistance. The case of the Biafran conflict is a prime example of how religious organizations mobilized to address the crisis.

The Biafran Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis

In 1967 to 1970, the Biafran conflict in Nigeria led to severe famine and suffering amongst the local population. Despite international condemnation and widespread attention, there was little concrete action from world leaders. The UN considered it an internal matter, and other nations, including the UK and the Soviet Union, dismissed the situation as propaganda.

The Role of Churches in Addressing the Famine

Notwithstanding global indifference, religious organizations, particularly churches in the Western world, took immediate action. The Joint Church Aid (JCA), now colloquially known as "Jesus Christ Airlines," organized a massive relief operation. This relief effort involved hundreds of ships and aircraft, providing food, medicine, and medical support to the Biafran people. According to historical records, over 29 pilots lost their lives during these operations, primarily due to attacks by Nigerian forces.

Government Involvement and Subsequent Relief

While the initiative started with religious organizations, governments eventually stepped in to provide further support. Funding from the United States and humanitarian aid organizations like UNICEF also played a crucial role. However, it was the initial groundwork laid by churches that made the relief efforts possible and gave hope to the stricken population.

Conclusion

Africa has indeed benefited from organized religion in significant ways, both in terms of education and emergency relief. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the nuances of these contributions. Often, such benefits occur quietly or in small, unrecognized increments, and the successes are celebrated generously. On the other hand, failures and controversies, such as in the Biafran conflict, are often highlighted in public discussions.

The historical and ongoing role of organized religion in Africa highlights a complex interplay of positive and negative elements. While much has been achieved, there is always room for improvement and reflection on how these organizations can continue to serve the people of Africa effectively in the future.

Keywords: organized religion, Africa, benefits, missions, relief efforts