BiAS 7 – The Bible and Politics in Africa
the people on the street. Concern for the weak and vulnerable is all im-
portant and should receive full attention. Swart (2008:119) refers to the
fact that the churches, acting as a catalyst for people-centred develop-
ment, should initiate a prolonged process comprised of a complex and
interrelated set of dimensions or components including a far more care-
ful phase of collective planning prior to any form of engagement. Intro-
spection into our motives, a more deeply grounded reflection on the
complexities of poverty, a biblical understanding of poverty and an iden-
tification of the role-players and potential partners in the community.
In general the influence of the church should lead to a better dispensa-
tion in Africa.
Nürnberger (1999:382) writes that human motivation must change to
bring about a just and empowering society. Change from concern for
justice to concern for the weak and vulnerable is necessary. Effah
(2006:90) explains that human capital should be developed.” The sub-
Saharan African region needs to address the human factor decay, im-
prove health and education, and tackle economic issues to make pro-
gress in the effort to minimize poverty.” Carnes (2005:40) sees some
hope, though not optimism: “Despite their massive problems, African
nations are growing economically. Urban Africa is sprouting skylines
like never before. Overall growth of gross national income for 2005 is
expected to be 5.4 %. In addition, African Christians are integrating faith
and politics in new ways. Thirty years ago, Africa had only three elected
heads of state. Today there are 30. In democratic states like Nigeria,
South Africa, Kenya, and Zambia, corrupt officials are thrown out, often
after massive church agitation”.
Van Niekerk (2002:123) emphasises the importance of the household in
combating poverty in Africa. He is of the opinion that the household
should be re-established and strengthened to have a nucleus of sound
and healthy relations and that the church should help is this regard.
Slum upgrading may be a positive incentive for helping the poor in
informal areas. Van Dijk (2006:196) is of the opinion that it helps the
poor directly. In many instances, the poor are forcibly removed instead
of being helped to upgrade their environments. The inclusion of the very
poor in the upgrading of their areas is necessary for the improving of
their living standards (Van Dijk 2006:196). The future of Africa hinges
on the alleviation of poverty and, especially so, in the informal settle-
ment areas. All possible interventions are needed, also from the church.