Then within the Africans themselves, you have to distinguish between the Nilotes, the Kushites, the Arabs and the Bantu. Within the Bantu themselves, to pick one sub-group, you have to distinguish by geography. Even when you come down to tribal level you distinguish by totem, language, dialect and other considerations of lineage. In traditional philosophy, the spirits of the dead are ever present hovering in the spirit world. Though invisible, these spirit are nonetheless extant.
Specific rituals have to be performed in their honour.
They can even be instructed by the living to wreak damage on those deemed to deserve some form of punishment. On a positive note, they can also provide protection and guidance. Christianity urges people to make the most of their time here on earth because when we die we know nothing and cannot do a single thing, until that apocalyptic day of judgment. What ever work you might find to do, do it with all your might, for there is neither achievement, nor planning, nor wisdom in Sheol where you are going. Christ at one point tells a disciple to follow him and forget about going to bury his relative.