Pentecostalism and Evangelicalism have a long history in Africa, but it wasn't until the 1980s and 1990s that they started to grow rapidly, often encouraged by churches in the United States. Now the teachings of African church leaders have a wide reach that is not limited to Sunday mornings and midweek services. They broadcast TV and radio programmes, publish books, and have international branches that reach wide audiences beyond their own congregations. Pastors have become rich and powerful in countries such as Ghana, controlling thousands of votes. And with this power and money, they are aiming to shape policies.
