Religious Syncretism and Cultural Adaptation within African Diasporas in Morocco

Religious syncretism refers to the merging of different religious beliefs or practices within a community, often leading to unique cultural expressions. Cultural adaptation in African diasporas in Morocco involves the integration and transformation of traditional African customs under Moroccan societal norms. The research employs ethnographic methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival research. Data analysis will utilise thematic coding of interview transcripts and qualitative content analysis of religious texts. A notable finding is the prevalence of Islamic-African syncretism, with over 50% of respondents reporting practices that blend elements of both religions in their daily lives, often to reinforce social cohesion within communities. The study highlights the complex interplay between Moroccan and African cultural identities through religious syncretism, offering insights into community resilience and identity formation among diaspora populations. Further research should explore the long-term impacts of these syncretic practices on communal values and social integration within Morocco's diverse society.