Browsing by Author "Ronoh, Lucy Jepkemei"

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    Domestic Violence against Women in African Inland Church in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2024-10) Ronoh, Lucy Jepkemei
    Various studies indicate that women across the world are frequently exposed to different forms of domestic violence (DV). In Kenya, it is reported that almost half of the female population has directly or indirectly experienced domestic violence. Domestic violence is abusive behavior perpetrated by one’s partner in a relationship. It is notable that its patterns and persistence are interwoven into social norms and power relations. Uasin Gishu County, particularly Soy Sub-County, has witnessed a significant surge in gender-based violence (GBV) cases over recent years. The community, predominantly composed of the Kalenjin community, with over 75% conforming to the African Inland Church (AIC) Christian faith, forms a substantial and representative sample for this research. This research aimed to assess the prevalence of DV against women, with a specific focus on the role of the clergy within the AIC in addressing these DV. This study sought to examine the role of the church in addressing domestic violence among its followers the study utilized the feminist and cultural lag theories in situating domestic violence and its responses in a patriarchal context. The study employed a stratified sampling method, simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Data collection involved questionnaire interviews, key informant interviews (KIIs), and focus group discussions (FGDs). Qualitative data analysis utilized Excel to identify leading themes. Respondents' knowledge of factors causing DV against women and self-reported experiences were used to measure the existence and nature of DV. Quantitative data analysis, conducted using SPSS 2.0 software, employed descriptive and inferential statistics, presented through tables and figures. From the empirical analysis, a combination of patriarchal culture, financial constraints, alcohol abuse, and a lack of conjugal rights were found to contribute to DV against women. The study established that 32.6% of victims of DV sought help from the church through its leadership. It was further established that domestic violence is common among the faithful of the AIC church. While the clergy understand what constitutes domestic violence, the study establishes that the church does not have a substantive framework or policies to guide them on how to address domestic violence. The study also found that the coping strategies that were used may not solve the problem entirely, as the clergy are not well prepared to handle it. The study recommends comprehensive training for clergy and church leaders to effectively address DV, accompanied by the establishment of frameworks or guidelines within the church. Additionally, stronger collaborative efforts between the church, state, and other sectors are essential to creating synergy in addressing domestic violence in Soy Sub-County.