The relevance of religion for development has been widely acknowledged in global politics. International organizations such as the World Bank or bilateral players such as Germany or Switzerland emphasize the constructive role of religious organizations for development. Accordingly, Western donors, the United Nations, and civil society organizations fund and support faith-based non-governmental organizations. It seems to be common sense that Christian values are likely to be conducive to development of societies. However, little is known about the nature of faith-based organizations (FBOs) and how individual beliefs and FBOs impact development.

Paul Gifford presented the findings of his book "Christianity, Development and Modernity in Africa”. He argued that ‘African Christianity’ comes in very different forms, with very different consequences for development. He observes an unremarked diversity within African Christianity; on the one hand, an enchanted Christianity that views the world as pervaded by spiritual forces, and on the other a disenchanted Christianity that discounts such forces. His findings were discussed by experts on religion and development in a subsequent panel discussion, which was based on the following guiding questions: How does Christian belief influence development in Africa? Do faith based organizations impact development in Africa? Should development cooperation engage more with religious actors?

Programme

Christianity, Development and Modernity in Africa (book presentation)

Paul Gifford, School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London

Discussants

Ismaïl Lagardien, Former Member of the Secretariat of the National Planning Commission in the The Presidency of South Africa & Guest Scholar at  German Development Institute / Deutsches Institut für Entwicklungspolitik (DIE)

Martin Mauthe-Käter, Deputy Head of Policy Division, Political Staff, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development

Moderator: Julia Leininger, German Development Institute / Deutsches Institut für Entwicklungspolitik (DIE)


Discussion with the Audience
End of the Discussion and Get-Together