Religious Pluralism and Inter-Faith Dynamics in West Africa: A Comorian Perspective

Religious pluralism in West Africa is characterized by diverse religious practices coexisting within societies. The Comoros archipelago, located off the eastern coast of Africa, provides a unique case study due to its geographical isolation and cultural diversity. The research employs semi-structured interviews with key informants such as religious leaders, educators, and community activists. Ethnographic observations are also conducted at religious sites and public gatherings. Findings indicate that inter-faith dialogue groups have been established in three out of five inhabited islands, facilitating mutual understanding and cooperation among the different religious communities. The study underscores the importance of fostering inter-religious harmony to address common societal challenges such as environmental conservation and economic development initiatives. Recommendation for policymakers is the establishment of inclusive inter-faith councils that can mediate disputes and promote mutual respect among diverse religious communities in Comoros. Religious Pluralism, Inter-Faith Dynamics, Community Development, Comoros