Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009)

View Issue TOC

Religious Syncretism and Cultural Adaptation Among African Diasporas in Malawi

Simulangan Chimwanga, University of Malawi Kasambo Nkombe, Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, Mzuzu University
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18895528
Published: August 11, 2009

Abstract

Religious syncretism refers to the blending of different religious practices into a single system. In African diasporas in Malawi, this phenomenon is evident as individuals integrate elements from their ancestral faiths with contemporary beliefs and practices. This research employs a qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews with members of different African diaspora communities in Malawi. Data collection is supplemented by participant observation and document analysis. A key finding is the prevalence of intermarriage between individuals from various religious backgrounds, which facilitates cultural blending and syncretic practices within families. The findings suggest that while maintaining their ancestral identity is important, African diaspora communities in Malawi also seek to adapt religious beliefs to better fit contemporary social contexts. Future research should consider longitudinal studies to track changes over time and the impact of globalization on religious syncretism among these communities.

Full Text:

Read the Full Article

The HTML galley is loaded below for inline reading and better discovery.

How to Cite

Simulangan Chimwanga, Kasambo Nkombe (2009). Religious Syncretism and Cultural Adaptation Among African Diasporas in Malawi. African Public History Journal, Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18895528

Keywords

African diasporaMalawicultural adaptationsyncretismethnographyhermeneuticspostcolonial studies

Research Snapshot

Desktop reading view
Language
EN
Formats
HTML + PDF
Publication Track
Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009)
Current Journal
African Public History Journal

References