Mapping Religion, Gender, and Sustainable Development in East and Southern Africa: An Introduction

Although the role of religion in sustainable development is ably recognised, the manner in which it has intersected with gender and sustainable development in Africa is not adequately studied. Therefore, this chapter maps up the intersections of religion, gender, and sustainable development in Africa from an interdisciplinary perspective. Contextualised in East and Southern Africa, the chapter shows the volume’s particular focus on SDG Number 5 which seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls by 2030. Other related SDGs, such as 3 and 4, are also addressed. By showcasing the negative and positive roles of religion in sustainable development in East and Southern Africa from a gendered perspective, the chapter demonstrates the various complexities, problems, and solutions in various disciplines that affect humanity with specific reference to the African continent and presents lessons for attaining SDG, 3, 4, and 5 and its related targets.