Reimagining Inclusion: The Role of Religion in Advancing Disability-Inclusive Development in Sub-Saharan Africa

The 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underscore the principle of 'leaving no one behind', yet persons with disabilities in Africa continue to experience significant barriers to inclusion. Among the contributing factors to this marginalization is the role of religion, which often perpetuates exclusionary practices rooted in cultural and theological interpretations. This paper critically examines the dual role of religion in both reinforcing and challenging the marginalization of persons with disabilities within the sub-Saharan African context. The study's central question is: How can religion, particularly Christianity, be harnessed as an asset in achieving disability-inclusive development in sub-Saharan Africa? The study argues that religion, when approached through the lens of public practical theology, holds transformative potential for fostering disability inclusion. By drawing on the influential position of African churches within communities, the paper advocates for a public pastoral care approach that can enhance SDGs. It highlights how sub-Saharan African churches can act as catalysts for social change by advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities and fostering inclusive community participation. It concludes by proposing actionable strategies that empower African churches to champion the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in both religious and societal spheres. The study contributes to understanding the complex role of religion in shaping the inclusion of individuals with disabilities within faith communities and society.