Africa’s clicks to faith: digital religious practices among transnational Nigerian and Zimbabwean youth in the diaspora

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Authors: Sarah Kazira, Dominic Pasura
Cited by: 8
References: 50

Abstract

Drawing on digital hybridity, religious assemblages and transnational religion, this article examines how young Nigerians and Zimbabweans in the UK use digital platforms to participate in transnational religious practices, reclaim marginalised African Traditional Religions (ATRs), and reconfigure belonging and authority. While research on migrant religion has focused on physical congregations, less attention has been given to how digital media reshapes religion and spirituality. The analysis is based on 12 months of ethnography in London and Birmingham, 25 interviews with 15–35-year-olds from Christian, Muslim, ATR, and non-religious backgrounds. Observations on TikTok and Instagram were also part of the study. Findings demonstrate that digital engagement is not simply an extension of offline religion; it transforms the practice of religion and the negotiation of belonging. They also show how digital participation reassembles transnational religion, offering new insights into the intersections of religion, migration, and digital culture among African diasporic youth.

Fields of Study & Subjects

African studies and sociopolitical issues Media Religion Digital Communication Pentecostalism and Christianity Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Ethnic and Racial Studies
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
Volume
49
Issue
12
Pages
2588–2605
Publication date
24 February 2026
Language
EN