The Role of Religion in Regional Peace Diplomacy The Case of the East African Community, 2001-2020

Abstract

Despite its importance in promoting peace, religion has been overlooked in the promotion of regional peace diplomacy in East Africa. The study’s objectives were as follows: to examine people’s perceptions of religion’s potential for regional peace diplomacy in the East African Community (EAC); evaluate areas in which religion has been applied in regional peace diplomacy; and assess the challenges religion faces in promoting peace diplomacy in the EAC region. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Sudan were among the six EAC countries studied. The study’s main focus, however, was on the three founding states: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, with Nairobi serving as the primary data collection location. Religious institutions, post-graduate students from private and public universities, and government leaders and policymakers comprised the target population. The EAC is an intergovernmental institution, and religion influences peace diplomacy in both active and passive ways. Religion, while playing a role in promoting peace, can also be a source of conflict, in line with the findings. As a result of the various beliefs and values that exist among religions, the business of fostering peace is the mandate of state governments in the EAC. The study recommended that religious leaders be trained in peace diplomacy and that more research be conducted into the influence of religion on local governance in the EAC block to ensure the sustainability of peace and conflict resolution.