In medieval Europe, the church was a vitally important institution both socially and culturally. Was there something similar in African society when it came to being a social and cultural institution and not just religious?

Probably a pretty poor headline so I'll try to explain. In medieval Europe the Church was much more then just a religious institution, but also an important cultural driver and even just a key social gathering place for much of the community. Those are the aspects I'm curious about as opposed to the more religious angles, but what existed to fill those cultural/social community needs.