Black Theology of Liberation: Faith and socio-economic justice in South Africa’s struggles

Abstract

The connection between faith and socio-economic justice in post-apartheid South Africa remains a critical area of discourse, requiring focused theological analysis. This article specifically examines how Black Theology of Liberation must evolve beyond its traditional role in resisting racial oppression to actively confront contemporary economic injustices. It addresses the challenges of poverty, systemic inequality and intra-black economic divisions in black townships and villages, emphasising their impact on health, education, social cohesion and economic mobility. Using the framework of Black Theology of Liberation, this study critically engages neoliberal capitalism, corporate exploitation and the failure of post-apartheid economic policies to deliver justice for marginalised black communities. It argues that a renewed Black Theology must move beyond historical racial struggles to actively challenge economic exclusion and demand redistributive justice, land reform and poverty alleviation. By narrowing its focus to these key socio-economic challenges, the article highlights the transformative potential of faith traditions, particularly Christianity, in shaping a prophetic vision of justice. It contends that Black Theology of Liberation remains a necessary voice for economic liberation, calling for an urgent theological response to the deepening inequalities in post-apartheid South Africa.

Contribution: This article aims to address the challenges that black communities continue to face three decades after the dawn of freedom and democracy. It will utilise the Black Theology of Liberation to advocate for prophetic activism in the quest for the liberation of black people, while exploring the intersection of faith and socio-economic injustices within contemporary South African struggles.