The Reverend Dr Johnson Mbilla, General Adviser of the Programme for Christian-Muslim Relations in Africa, has called for tolerance, respect and harmony among Muslims and Christians.

He said the two religions, which have the most followers in Africa, share doctrinal, traditional and historical similarities, which should be harnessed for the mutual benefit of all.

He said it would not be out of place for theological institutions to include the study of Islam and Islam-Christian Relationship in their course content.

Rev Mbilla said this would eliminate the growing religious tension, acrimony and clashes seen in some African countries.

He was speaking at the opening of a four-day conference in Kumasi, as part of activities to mark the 40th anniversary celebration of the West African Association of Theological Institutions (WAARI).

It was on the theme: “Theology and the church in Africa; the challenges and prospects – Reflecting on 40 years of the WAATI experience”.

The goal is to assess the impact of theological education within the African context, and make recommendations to enhance the overall development of WAATI.

Those attending are from the seminaries, theological colleges and the religious department of universities in Anglophone countries across the sub-Saharan Africa Region.

Rev Mbilla said it is important for institutions to develop comprehensive programmes for the study of Islam to help theologians to interpret the gospel in a manner that do not violate good neighbourliness.

He said the essence of theology bother on salvation, the relationship between man and his maker, good neighbourliness and love.

The Very Rev Dr Nathan Samwini, General-Secretary of WAATI, asked his colleagues to be abreast of the Association’s constitution to help appreciate their responsibilities.