A study on the concept of murtad and its socio-religious implications on mission among Mbororo people in Mbé, Ngoundéré City, Cameroon

Abstract

This study examines the concept of Murtad (apostasy) and its socio-religious implications among the Mbororo of Mbé, Ngoundéré city, Cameroon. The Mbororo, a pastoral community, live according to a strict code of pulaaku (Fulani ethics), which closely links social identity to adherence to Islam, making abandoning this faith a major social taboo. This research aims to understand how the concept of Murtad constitutes a significant obstacle to missionary work and affects the social status of Mbororo converts to Christianity. The qualitative phenomenological approach employed, which included in-depth interviews with eight Participants, enabled the development of a missionary strategy adapted to the local context. The study's findings reveal that apostates (Murtad) often experience severe and significant ostracism, family separation, and sometimes violent reactions, generating a sense of insecurity among those who wish to leave Islam. The data collected was used to develop a seven-step mission strategy aimed at reaching Muslims in general and, in particular, the Mbororo people of the Adamawa region.