Perspectives on African Indigenous Religion and the Natural Environment: Beings, Interconnectedness, Communities and Knowledge Systems

Abstract

This article explored the intricate relationship between African Indigenous Religion (AIR) and the natural environment.  It uncovered diverse perspectives on how African communities historically engage with and conserve their natural surroundings and underscored the contemporary relevance of these insights in addressing global environmental challenges. The article covered a wide range of online and offline materials, including books, book chapters, and journal articles, offering a comprehensive understanding of the connections between indigenous belief systems and environmental conservation in Africa. By analysing key recurring themes and concepts within the literature, including African ontology, belief in God, ancestral roles, deities, community values, moral status, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), the article synthesised insights from previous research and identified important areas for future research.