The chapters in this volume foreground the ambivalent role of religion and culture when it comes to African women’s health and well-being. Reflecting on the three major religions in Africa, i.e. African indigenous religions, Christianity, and Islam, the authors illustrate how religious beliefs and practices can either enhance or hinder women’s holistic progress and development. With a specific focus on Zimbabwean women’s experiences of religion and culture, the volume discusses how African indigenous religions, Christianity, and Islam tend to privilege men and understate the value of women in Africa. Adopting diverse theological, ideological, and political positions, contributors to this volume restate the fact that the key teachings of different religions, often suppressed due to patriarchal influences, are a potent resource in the quest for gender justice. In sync with the goals for gender justice and women empowerment envisioned in the United Nations’ Agenda 2030 and Africa Agenda 2063, the contributors advocate for gender-inclusive and life-enhancing interpretations of religious and cultural traditions in Africa.

Contributions by: Ezra Chitando, Kudzai Biri, Sophia Chirongoma, Macloud Sipeyiye, Elias G. Konyana, Tracey Chirara, Dudzirai Chimeri, Tabona Shoko, Mavis Muguti, Tawanda Mbewe, Martin Mujinga, Lindah Tsara, Simbarashe Munamati, Francis Machingura, Joyline Gwara, Menard Musendekwa, Isheanesu Sextus Gusha, Chipo Mable Hatendi, Tapiwa Praise Mapuranga, Tariro Zhou, Barbara C. Manyarara, Kevin Shijja Kuhumba, Kudakwashe Bryson Kabaira, Blessed Simbarashe Matsita, Christine Nakyeyune