Reconstructing an African Oikotheology for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Abstract

African Oikotheology for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) seeks to address the deficiencies present in African Christian theological perspectives by integrating prophetic theology of social justice, African Oikotheology, the Ethics of Ubuntu, and frameworks of African Reconciliation. This integration aims to foster a sense of commitment and actionable response. However, the endeavour faces significant challenges, particularly due to strong eschatological influences and the difficulty of accessing African cultural contexts, which hinder its effectiveness within the Congolese environment. In the ongoing pursuit of a more Congolese-oriented African Oikotheology, this study proposes a theological framework that combines prophetic theology of social justice, African Ethics of Ubuntu, and African Views of reconciliation. This framework aspires to resonate with African Christianity and facilitate collaboration with various disciplines to tackle pressing issues such as natural resources management, conflict transformation, leadership challenges, poor governance, injustices, corruption, poverty, and the pursuit of peace and reconciliation both in Africa and globally. Central to this integration is an exploration of concepts such as Oikos, Ubuntu, justice, Exodus, Common Good, Peace, and reconciliation, alongside the incorporation of Bembe and Swahili proverbs. This synthesis is viewed as Africa's contribution to the global discourse on contemporary challenges related to natural resources, conflicts, governance, injustices, peace and reconciliation among the people of the DRC/Oikos. The thesis culminates in a collection of actionable suggestions, recommendations, and recognized avenues for further research.