The Transformative Power of the Gospel in Fulani Communities

Ecclesial Agency and Mission Praxis

Abstract

This study examines the transformative effects of the gospel on the Fulani, a nomadic and pastoralist ethnic group spread across Africa. The Fulani have a rich cultural heritage centred on their nomadic lifestyle and Islamic traditions. However, the spread of Christian missions and the gospel has brought significant changes to their socio-cultural landscape. The article highlights the role of the church in initiating and maintaining the gospel message within the Fulani community. It explores how Christian missions influence Fulani individuals, families, and communities, challenging and reshaping their traditional beliefs and practices. Through interviews, participant observations, and historical analysis, the paper provides insights into the multifaceted impact of the gospel on Fulani lives. Key themes include personal conversion stories, the influence of Christian education in shaping new worldviews, and the development of hybrid identities that merge traditional Fulani culture with Christian teachings. The study also addresses the challenges and opportunities for the church in a predominantly Islamic society, with a focus on interfaith relations. This work contributes to a broader understanding of religious dynamics in multicultural settings, emphasising the complexities of cultural transformation and identity negotiation. By focusing on the Fulani, the study offers a nuanced perspective on how the dissemination of the gospel interacts with cultural adaptation and community development, contributing to discussions of religious pluralism and social change across cultures.