Reclaiming orthodoxy: strengthening religious literacy to counter violent extremism

Abstract

Violent extremism in Sub-Saharan Africa has escalated in recent years. As these groups have weaponised religion to achieve their aims, so also can it be a source of resilience. Credible religious scholars and institutions can dismantle extremist ideologies and build individual and communal resilience against radicalisation, thus stifling recruitment and the leadership succession of extremist groups.