Catholic Archbishop in Angola Urges Criminalization of Diviners to Protect Communities

Angolan Archbishop Raises Alarm Over Diviners’ Influence on Social Harmony

In Angola’s capital, Luanda, the Catholic Archbishop has recently voiced strong concerns regarding the growing presence and influence of diviners within local communities. He asserts that these spiritual practitioners contribute to social fragmentation by sowing distrust and fear among neighbors and families. The Archbishop argues that such practices erode communal bonds and exploit vulnerable individuals, often leading to economic strain through exorbitant fees for dubious services.

He highlights several detrimental effects linked to divination activities:

• Fractured family relationships: Suspicion fueled by supernatural accusations weakens kinship ties.
• Financial exploitation: Many community members fall victim to costly rituals promising protection or fortune.
• Erosion of cultural values: Traditional ethical frameworks are undermined as superstition takes precedence over shared morals.
• Escalation in social unrest: Fraudulent practices associated with divination have been connected to increased crime rates and community tensions.

Advocating Legal Action to Mitigate Harmful Divination Practices in Angola

The Archbishop has called upon Angolan lawmakers to introduce legislation criminalizing harmful divination activities. He stresses that unchecked reliance on supernatural claims fosters division, obstructs societal progress, and distracts from practical solutions addressing real challenges faced by communities. Particularly at risk are young people who may be lured into these practices under false pretenses of guidance or protection.

The key issues prompting this call include:

• Sowing discord within neighborhoods: Diviners often manipulate fears causing suspicion between friends and family members.
• Economic drain on households: Expensive ceremonies coupled with empty promises deplete limited financial resources.
• Diminishing confidence in formal justice systems: Dependence on mystical remedies undermines trust in courts and law enforcement agencies (source link).
• Breach of human rights safeguards: Reports indicate instances where coercion or intimidation accompany certain divinatory rituals.

Strategies for Enhancing Community Resilience Through Cultural Engagement and Education

Tackling the challenges posed by divisive spiritual practices requires a multifaceted approach combining legal action with educational outreach aimed at fostering mutual respect for cultural heritage while protecting vulnerable groups. Effective interventions should promote dialogue between religious leaders, traditional authorities, civil society organizations, and government bodies-creating inclusive platforms where misconceptions can be addressed openly without stigmatizing cultural identities.

This collaborative framework might include initiatives such as:

• Cultural exchange forums : Spaces where diverse faiths share perspectives encouraging empathy over suspicion;
• Eductaional workshops : Public seminars highlighting common values underpinning Angolan traditions;
• Mediation programs : Community-led conflict resolution blending customary dispute mechanisms with modern legal principles;