African Traditional Religions

This article gives a broad overview of African religious views and practices. There are so many different ethnic groups and it is very difficult to know the details of each religion practiced within these groups.

Remember that for the purpose of your APS module on spirituality, the focus always remains on the holistic care of the patient. We need to allow for spiritual care during illness but also consider how they see the illness and how religious practices may influence the patients’ health. Therefore, a short summary of the most prevalent religions in your area, might help you to understand the patient better. Include the following topics:

  • Broad overview of what is the believe
  • The moral conduct of the believe system
  • Holidays and festivals (practices during festivals)
  • Dietary practices
  • Rituals and ceremonies (practices e.g. female circumcision)
  • Controversial aspects of the religion