Challenges of persistence of witchcraft in East Africa: A religious and human rights concern

Abstract

In recent history, there have been reported cases of hunting, lynching and killing of suspected witches in East Africa. The situation is so dire that it constitutes insecurity and gross violation of human rights. Loss of innocent lives, maiming of suspects and loss of property has brought fear and despondency among the aged who are the major targets of witch-hunting. Due to the materialistic nature of contemporary Eastern African societies, individuals driven by greed the desire to grab other people’s land, family feuds, patriarchy, climate change, drought, poverty and jealousy have all contributed to loss of life and property. Human rights promoters have advocated for severe punishment for the perpetrators. The legal process of proving witchcraft is difficult and complicated since this practice is mired in secrecy where the courts rely on evidence for conviction. In this article I argue that the challenges of dealing with the persistence of witchcraft are enormous since witchcraft is both a religious and human rights concern. Witchcraft being a part of African traditional religious beliefs can only be addressed by understanding its religious foundations and then dealing with its implications in contemporary society. I conclude by holding the view that to eradicate witchcraft and witch hunting requires legal, religious and social interventions.