News

The University of Botswana (UB) recently hosted a "Religion and Inequality in Southern Africa" conference which brought together academics, religious leaders and activists to examine the complex interplay between religion, social justice and inequality in the region. Organised by the Faculty of Humanities, the conference aimed at fostering critical dialogue on how religion can address systemic injustices and promote equity particularly in the context of colonial legacies, gender disparities and economic inequality.

In his opening remarks, Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris, underscored the transformative potential of religion and culture. Professor Norris stressed the importance of understanding how such forces contributed to inequality while also acknowledging their role as agents of change. “This conference seeks to provide a platform for exploring how religion can be harnessed to address systemic injustices and support marginalised communities across Southern Africa,” he said.

German Ambassador to Botswana, Ms Gabriela Bennemann, underlined the urgent need to address gender inequality in the region particularly within the framework of religious and cultural systems. Ms Bennemann called for the dismantling of colonial-era structures to create gender-inclusive practices within religious institutions to empower women socially, politically and economically.

Delivering the keynote address, Professor Tabona Shoko from the University of Zimbabwe shed light on the intersection of religion and gender inequality in southern Africa. Professor Shoko noted that post-colonial dynamics and historical forces had shaped how religion intersected with gender roles especially in areas such as land ownership and economic participation. He also highlighted the growing movement within religious communities to challenge traditional norms and advocate for gender equality.

On the second day, Gabriel Faiman explored the relationship between religion, digital ethics and inequality. He noted how religious values could guide ethical behaviour in digital spaces, fostering justice and respect while addressing disparities in access to technology. Esther Nkhukhu-Orlando further enriched discussions by advocating for decolonising Christianity in southern Africa. She called for reinterpretations of Christian practices that resonated with local cultures and histories, challenging colonial impositions and reclaiming indigenous traditions.

The conference also spotlighted the value of indigenous knowledge and traditional healing practices thereby underlining their role in complementing modern medicine while preserving cultural heritage. Participants explored how such practices, deeply rooted in spirituality and ancestral wisdom, contributed to holistic well-being and empower communities to maintain control over their health systems.

Ultimately, the conference underscored the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue and practical collaboration. It provided a platform for academics, religious leaders and community activists to address systemic issues such as poverty, gender inequality and racial discrimination. The event also strengthened the connection between academic research and grassroots initiatives, laying the groundwork for more inclusive and equitable frameworks to tackle inequality across southern Africa.

As Professor Norris aptly concluded, “This is more than a conference, it is a call to action to use the power of religion and culture to create a more just and equitable society.”