Expanding the frontier of Christianization: non-cult activities of religious organizations in South Omo, Ethiopia

The article examines the main directions of non-cult activities of Christian organizations in frontier regions, using South Omo zone (the South Ethiopia Regional State) as an example. The research is based on indepth interviews with religious leaders conducted during field research in Hamar Woreda. There are 35 types of non-cult work implemented primarily by large churches that have a long-term presence in the region. Projects in the fields of education and enlightenment, social support, peacekeeping and conflict resolution were identified as priorities. Religious leaders share different approaches to non-cult activities. Some see it as a blessing and consider it essential for Christianization, while others view this approach critically and prioritize religious teachings. The non-cult activities of Christian churches in the region meets not only their own goals, but also the needs of the state, which sees them as important partners for integrating this peripheral region into Ethiopian society and the economy. It is shown that the high level of engagement of these organizations poses risks associated primarily with sociocultural transformations in local communities.

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