Niger, Mauritania, Mali, Chad and Burkina Faso
Abstract
In Niger, Mauritania, Mali, Chad, and Burkina Faso, Christianity exists amidst predominantly Muslim societies and traditional African religions. In Niger, while Islam is the predominant religion, Christianity maintains a minority presence, largely influenced by neighbouring countries. Here, the Catholic Church plays a vital role in social development despite facing challenges related to inculturation and religious tensions. Mauritania is almost entirely Muslim, and its Christian population is very small and limited in its activities due to the criminalization of apostasy. In Mali, Islam as the largest religion coexists with traditional cultures, and Christianity is growing despite the rise of Islamic extremism. Chad has a substantial and growing Christian population, with churches significantly contributing to education and healthcare, fostering interreligious dialogue for lasting peace.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Christian Theology and Mission
Religion and Sociopolitical Dynamics in Nigeria
African Studies and Geopolitics
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Edinburgh University Press eBooks
- Pages
- 225–236
- Publication date
- 22 January 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter