Religious syncretism refers to the blending of different religious traditions or practices within a single community, often occurring in contexts where multiple cultural and ethnic groups coexist. A mixed methods approach was employed, integrating qualitative interviews with a focus group discussion among 30 participants from diverse religious backgrounds in Rwanda's capital city. Quantitative data were collected through surveys targeting 500 individuals across the country to gauge perceptions and practices related to religious syncretism. Quantitative findings revealed that approximately 45% of respondents reported engaging with at least one form of religious syncretism, indicating a significant presence in Rwandan diaspora communities. Qualitative analysis highlighted themes such as interfaith dialogues facilitated by local leaders and the integration of traditional healing practices within Christian rituals. This study contributes to understanding the complex dynamics of cultural adaptation through religion among African diasporas in Rwanda, providing nuanced insights into syncretic religious practices that bridge diverse heritages. Future research should explore longitudinal studies to track changes over time and consider regional variations within the Rwandan context. Additionally, empirical evidence from other African diaspora communities could enrich comparative analyses.
Rugamba et al. (Fri,) studied this question.