Christian - Muslim Relations in Malawi. A case Study of CCAP Nkhoma Synod, Areas of Dedza North West and Lilongwe East

Abstract

This dissertation traces and examines the interaction between Christians and Muslims in the areas of Dedza North-West and Lilongwe East, the Nkhoma Mission area in the Central Region in Malawi. Firstly, it gives a brief history of the coming of Islam and Christianity to Malawi with an emphasis on Nkhoma Synod, which led to a situation in which the majority of the people of the area are Christians, but a sizable minority are Muslims, both at the Lakeshore and in the Uplands. Secondly, the research examines the relationship between Christians and Muslims over the early missionary period with its emphasis on conversion (1889 – 1920), the strategizing mission work period (1920-1950), the period of indigenizing missionary work (1950-1962) and the period of consolidation of the mission work under the Neighbour Mission, the period in which the Programme for Christian – Muslim Relations in Africa (PROCMURA) approach to Christian – Muslim relations was applied. Through the study of history and of the present day situation, the thesis establishes the principles which have guided and are guiding the relationship between Christians and Muslims in the area, relating these approaches to current thinking on the relationship between Christianity and other faith communities. Here special prominence is given to the “moderate” PROCMURA approach, and the mutual perceptions and relationships between Muslims and Christians are analyzed through interviews and group discussions of members of both Mosques and CCAP congregations. The dissertation presents both the approach and the work of PROCMURA as it relates to Malawi. PROCMURA’s approach to Christian – Muslim relations is echoed in the work of the Neighbour Mission of the CCAP Nkhoma Synod, and its achievements are described. It is the intention that this research may help to remove the fear of Christians that Islam is expanding very fast in Malawi and the perception of some Muslims that Christianity is dominating in most issues over the Muslim minority in Malawi. To help in this process suggestions are made on how dialogue between Muslims and Christians can be conducted and on how both communities can grow in respect and understanding and how the may address current issues concerning them both, like the HIV and Aids pandemic.