ABSTRACT
Religion in Africa today cannot be understood without taking into account contemporary media technology that has been an integral part of its distinctive dynamic character and the rapid development of a new religious climate. Radio, TV, cassette recordings, amateur video and loudspeakers have long been used for religious programming, private piety and proselytizing. In the 21st century new information and communication technologies emerged in Africa: mobile telephone networks and text messaging, the internet, YouTube and social media sites like Facebook. Religious leaders and practitioners seized on these powerful tools to serve their mission and recruit converts. African popular culture – from hip hop music to the movies of the African film industry – conveys religious themes and capitalizes on sensational portraits of religion. When transmitted through these new media, the experience and expression, practice and perception of religion are transformed. How are contemporary media and the ICT revolution transforming religion in Africa now? How have new media reshaped the image and mission of African religions? How has religious media influenced popular culture and vice versa? This chapter will address such questions by exploring various interfaces of religion, media, and popular culture in Africa.
