Interfaith Relations and Coexistence in Ghana

Interfaith relations and coexistence underpin Ghana’s social cohesion, national identity, and political stability within the broader context of Sub-Saharan Africa’s religious pluralism. This article examines the dynamics, opportunities, and challenges of interfaith interactions in contemporary Ghana through sociological, theological, and peace studies perspectives. Using a qualitative design and thematic analysis of secondary data, the research investigates how historical coexistence, cultural norms, and institutional structures have fostered relatively stable interreligious cooperation, while highlighting emerging tensions from the politicization of religion, educational conflicts, and socio-economic inequalities. Guided by pluralism theory, social capital theory, and the Convivencia framework, the findings reveal that interfaith coexistence largely occurs informally, rooted in community norms and values, yet it is increasingly shaped by media, globalization, and foreign religious influences. It contributes to a context-sensitive African model emphasizing indigenous values, participatory dialogue, and policy interventions to strengthen interfaith institutions, inclusive education, and sustainable peacebuilding practices in Ghana.