The Beauty and Challenges of Reconciliation Rituals in the African Spiritual Domain: A Case Study of the Guiziga People in Cameroon

Abstract

Amidst the struggles and conflicts experienced throughout the African continent, traditional reconciliation rites hold an essential place. Although the evolution of African societies to modernity and formal legal structures, as well as to Christianity and Islam, seems to undermine the position and role of these rituals, 
they are still relevant. The present article presents both the beauty and challenges of reconciliation rituals precious to the African Spiritual domain. Using a case study of the Guiziga people in Cameroon, this paper intends to demonstrate that the value of African rites of reconciliation resides in the view that conflict resolution must ultimately lead to forgiveness between the conflicting parties. This article’s standpoint is inspired by the philosophy of Ubuntu which seeks harmony between individuals in the community as a whole.