Is there space in between? Religion and armed conflict in African states

The politicisation of religion in Africa is causing the international community growing concern, particularly the smouldering hatred between Muslims and Christians. The rising wave of religious violence across the continent has given rise to a proliferation of arms that has led to armed struggle in many African states. This paper sets out to examine the recurring issue of religion and armed conflicts in some African states. It will consider two monotheistic religions – Christianity and Islam – and the way they have interacted with each other in the region. And, finally, it examines the different ways in which religious activities are related to armed conflict in northern Nigeria, northern Uganda, Sudan, Somalia and Rwanda.