What characteristic of the people in Africa did Prince Henry of Portugal see as an opportunity for Christianity?

Prince Henry of Portugal viewed the strong communal ties and existing spiritual beliefs of African people as an opportunity for spreading Christianity. He believed that their openness to new religious ideas could facilitate the introduction of Christian teachings. Additionally, he saw potential in converting African leaders, which could help establish Christianity more broadly across the continent. This perspective reflected the broader European objective of expanding their influence through religious conversion during the Age of Exploration.