The Conférence Épiscopale du Bénin (CEB) recently announced a colloquium on traditional African religion, scheduled for November 19-20, 2026, in Akpakpa. However, the announcement has sparked controversy, with Dodji Amouzouvi, a professor of religious sociology and a dignitary of the Vodun Sakpata, denouncing the event as an "intellectual and pastoral supercherie." Amouzouvi questions the feasibility of organizing a colloquium in just 22 days and criticizes the CEB for not respecting the rules of organizing a colloquium.
Amouzouvi argues that a genuine colloquium cannot be conceived "on" tradition without being "with" it. He emphasizes that the etymology of the word "colloquium" implies speaking together, and therefore, a colloquium on traditional religion must involve the stakeholders of that tradition. The professor questions the absence of key figures from the Vodun and Fa communities, as well as Beninese academics who have made significant contributions to the study of these traditions.
According to Amouzouvi, a colloquium typically involves 30 to 150 people discussing a specific theme together. He argues that the CEB's event, as announced, lacks the necessary conditions for a meaningful dialogue, and therefore, it is not a colloquium but a monologue. Amouzouvi also criticizes the CEB for treating traditional religion as a "folkloric object" rather than a "theological partner on an equal footing."
The CEB's announcement of the colloquium follows a media outcry sparked by the publication of the results of scientific research by Father Gaston AÏTONDJI. The Episcopal Conference's president, Bishop HOUNGBEDJI, had promised to address the issue. Amouzouvi welcomes the initiative but expresses concerns about the rushed organization and the lack of transparency in the event's planning.
Amouzouvi outlines the essential elements of a colloquium, including a clear theme, identified experts, an open call for papers, a defined problem, and a limited duration. He argues that the CEB's event lacks these basic elements, and therefore, it cannot be considered a serious academic or pastoral exercise.
The controversy surrounding the colloquium highlights the complexities of discussing traditional African religions in a contemporary context. Amouzouvi's critique emphasizes the need for genuine dialogue and collaboration between different stakeholders, including academics, religious leaders, and practitioners of traditional religions.
The outcome of the colloquium and the response of the CEB to Amouzouvi's criticisms remain to be seen. However, the debate has already shed light on the importance of respecting the norms and rules of organizing academic and pastoral events, particularly when dealing with sensitive topics such as traditional African religions.
Key points
- The Conférence Épiscopale du Bénin faces criticism over its planned colloquium on traditional African religion.
- Critics argue that the event lacks transparency and the necessary conditions for a meaningful dialogue.
- The controversy highlights the complexities of discussing traditional African religions in a contemporary context.
