Paper short abstract:

This presentation represents a self-critical look at the role of the CIHA Blog in challenging paternalism and neocolonialism in the nexus between religion and development.

Paper long abstract:

The CIHA Blog's mission is "to transform the phenomenon of aid to Africa into egalitarian and respectful relationships that challenge unequal power relations, paternalism and victimization. Our research and commentaries highlight critical and religious voices to explore connections among issues of faith, governance, gender, and race in colonial and post-colonial contexts. Through analysis and dialogue, we strive for equality, justice and, ultimately, respect for others’ desires, beliefs and practices." Our presentation, by several CIHA Co-Editors, assesses the role of the blog both in bringing forth religious voices and voices critical of religion in debates about aid and humanitarianism, and in validating the role of African religious traditions and practices, which are often overlooked in the mix. Our presenters, from the US, South Africa, and Senegal, represent different perspectives and religious traditions, speaking from the "contextual theology" of practice in settings that are dominantly Christian liberationist, Muslim and "traditionalist," and "western."

In particular, we seek to highlight the forms of dynamic syncretism that animate African aid practices, from the African Instituted Churches (AICs) to the fetishes of Casamance and the "traditional" healing practices in Fatick, Senegal, South Africa, and across the continent. We look at active and passive ways of denigrating or ignoring these practices by both secular and mainline religious (Christian and Muslim) aid groups. Additional presenters (the form would not accommodate their emails): Simangaliso Kumalo (KumaloR@ukzn.ac.za); Mame Penda Ba (mame-penda.ba@ugb.edu.sn).