Towards an African philosophy of violence: Exploring the epistemic link between religions and violence against women in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study investigated the epistemological connections between religious beliefs and violence against women in Zimbabwe. To accomplish this, I undertook a comparative analysis of traditional African religion, Christianity and Islam. A systematic literature review and key informant interviews (KKIS) with 15 academic and religious experts from diverse religious backgrounds in Harare informed the research, while the data was further validated by 3 religious experts from Christianity, Islam and African Traditional Religion. The analysis of primary and secondary data obtained from the literature review and KIIs explored how the three religions under study shape thought processes, worldviews and practices regarding violence against women. Focusing on marriage as a critical site of analysis, the study findings revealed that patriarchal power dynamics within all the three religions underpin the complex relationships between religion, gender and violence. Challenging dominant narratives that juxtapose African indigenous religions as inherently violent with Christianity and Islam as peaceful, the findings underscored the nuanced and multifaceted nature of these relationships. This research contributes significantly to an understanding of the intersections of religion, gender and violence in Zimbabwe, offering valuable insights for policymakers, scholars and advocates seeking to address violence against women.