MST-Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies

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Prevalence of Drug Abuse among Muslim Students in Public Secondary Schools in Mombasa County, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2024-07) Mohamud, Mwanaisha
Drug abuse among students is a growing concern world over because of its detrimental effect on health and development. Drug abuse related crimes and costs are eating into the limited resources. Urgent intervention is increasingly becoming critical agenda for countries and societies. In context, the prevalence rate of drug abuse among Muslim students in Mombasa County, Kenya is reported to be on an escalating trajectory. This is happening regardless of the region being perceived as predominantly Muslim and Islamic teachings are against drug abuse. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the prevalence of drug abuse among Muslim students in public secondary schools in Mombasa County, Kenya. The study was guided by the Social Learning Theory which states that behavior is learned and influenced by the people around us. This study was also informed by the Jurm Model (Theory) of Addiction which describes addiction as a crime, and drugs considered a social problem. Study objectives revolved on first, Islamic teachings on drugs among secondary schools in Mombasa County; second, predisposing factors of drugs among secondary school students; third, prevalence of drug abuse among secondary school students and finally, intervention strategies on drugs among public secondary schools in Mombasa County. Descriptive survey research design was used to guide the study. Simple random sampling technique was applied to get a sample size of 347 respondents. Questionnaire and interview schedules were used to collect data. A combination of the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) and Excel packages aided the analysis and results presented in figures or tables. The study findings reveal that, students abused drugs in order to improve academically, physical appearance and relieve stress. The study found peer pressure and availability of drugs as risk factors to drugs. Overall prevalence rate of drug use among Muslim students was 9.3%. Alcohol, tobacco and miraa (khat) were the most abused drugs. Conclusively, drug abuse among Muslim students was a real challenge, especially legal substances such as miraa/khat), alcohol, and tobacco. Academic and co-curricular engagement of all students in the school is ideal in reducing the peer pressures among the students. It is recommended that drug abuse intervention programs should be holistic, concurrently addressing both predisposing factors as well as the preventive factors in school and home settings. The school curriculum should be professionally and research based to ensure it is flexible enough to provide students with adequate time for leisure activities.
Contribution of Don Bosco Development Outreach Network to the Integral Empowerment of the Catholic Youth in Muranga County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-09) Waithaka, Lucy Njeri
Youth integral empowerment continues to attract serious global discussion due to the various challenges faced by youth today. These include unemployment, ill-health, and lack of education, drug abuse and crime. This calls for corporate interventions from the government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the Church to initiate programs that are geared towards empowering the youth in all dimensions to restore their dignity. Holistic development of the youth is one of the calls and the mission of the Catholic Church. Through it, the youth are supposed to be developed in all aspects of life. In Kenya, in Murang'a County, the Catholic Church tries to implement this through the Don Bosco Development Outreach Network (DBDON). The study interrogated the contribution of Catholic Church’s DBDON to integral empowerment of the Catholic youth in Murang’a County, Kenya. The study sought to bring to light the activities of DBDON towards Catholic youth integral empowerment in the study area. The study was guided by three objectives. First, it discussed the nature of the Catholic Church DBDON program towards integral empowerment of the Catholic youth in Makuyu. Secondly, it examined challenges faced by DBDON towards integral empowerment of the Catholic youth. Finally, it established the measures that could be taken to curb the challenges facing the DBDON program in integral empowerment of the Catholic youth. The study was guided by Holistic Christian Transformation Theory by Bragg, Samuel, Sugden (2003). The study was carried out in Makuyu, Maragua South Sub- County in Murang'a County. A descriptive survey design was used. Purposive and random samplings were used to select a sample size of 126 respondents from a study population of 185 Catholic youth and leaders of the Don Bosco Makuyu DBDON program. The target population was the Catholic youth who were currently in DBDON at the time of the study, the youth who had benefited from DBDON, the parish priest, and the administration of the DBDON program. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and represented through tables, pie charts and graphs. Qualitative data was organized into study themes that corresponded with the study’s objectives and later represented in narrative form. The study established that Catholic Church’s DBDON organization had established various programs that promoted youth integral empowerment. Additionally, the Catholic youth acquired skills which enabled them to become self-reliant and reformed. Moreover, the findings revealed that, the DBDON program had impacted the lives of the youth in several ways. Nonetheless, the results indicated that the DBDON program faces several challenges including financial constraints that derail their efforts, inadequate learning resources as well as poor participation. Therefore, the study recommends that the church should take measures to curb the challenges it faces in order to ensure effective youth integral empowerment. It is hoped that the findings of this study would spur a collective responsibility from all stakeholders who include government: the national and county, NGOs, community-based organizations (CBOs) as well as faith-based organizations (FBOs) to be involved in youth integral empowerment since the youth form a segment of the society’s population that is very vital.
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.
Belief in Witchcraft and its Effects on the Stability of Families in Mosocho Divison, Kisii County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-11) Obwaya, Nancy Kemunto
The purpose of this study was to examine the belief in witchcraft and its effects on the stability of families in Mosocho Division, Kisii County which has persisted to exist. The study was guided by three objectives; First, to establish various forms of witchcraft and their influence on family stability in Mosocho Division, Kisii County, second, to investigate types of punishment meted out on suspected witches and how they affect family stability in Mosocho Division, Kisii County and finally, to explore effects of belief in witchcraft on the stability of families in Mosocho Division, Kisii County. This was achieved by reviewing a number of published and unpublished materials based on the objectives. It was realized that various scholars have not addressed the belief in witchcraft and its effects on the stability of families. The study was guided by Marwick (1967) Theory of Social Accusation which argues that witchcraft accusations and allegations lead to social tension and hence breaks family relationships. The study applied descriptive survey research design conducted in Mosocho Division, Kisii County. Data was collected from Mosocho Division, Kisii County which comprises of seven locations. Data from respondents was collected through questionnaires and interviews. Pretesting of the questionnaires was undertaken to establish their reliability and validity. Proportionate and purposive sampling methods were used to collect data from a sample of Kisii elders, local government administration officials (chiefs and sub-chiefs), human rights activists and youths, that included both male and female participants with a total sample size consisting of 394 respondents. The respondent’s age, gender and period of residence were significant determinants. The collected data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 involving descriptive statistics for quantitative data. Qualitative data was analysed through content and thematic analysis aimed at consolidating thematic issues. The findings revealed that there was a wide array of witchcraft forms in the study area; and that inherited or family witchcraft was the most commonly practiced. Additionally, enmity, divorce, school dropout, development of mental health conditions, displacement and loss of property were the most detrimental effects of witchcraft in Mosocho Division. Moreover, the findings indicated that belief in witchcraft influences the stability of families. It is hoped that these findings through its recommendations will enable the community and local administration to come up with strategies and a platform that provide an opportunity for creating a more unified social order, based on family unity, and a more accommodative society devoid of witchcraft or its effects.
Pastoral Care among Bukusu Widows: The Case of the Pentecostal Evangelistic Fellowship of Africa Church, Bungoma County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-03) Simiyu, Jescah Naliaka
Both the African traditional and Christian groups emphasize on the significance of unwavering love for the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable. This study examined the pastoral care accorded to the widows within the Bukusu community. It set out to examine its implementation in line with biblical teachings and the extent to which the present cultural practices affect it. The general objective of the study was to investigate pastoral care for widows within the Bukusu community with specific reference to the Pentecostal Evangelistic Fellowship of Africa (PEFA) church in Webuye East, Bungoma County, Kenya. It was guided by the four objectives: first, to identify problems faced by widows within the Bukusu community following the deaths of their spouses; second, to examine the support PEFA church offers to widows in the Bukusu community during their grieving period; third, to explore the Bukusu widowhood practices observed by the widows and finally, establish strategies that can enhance the pastoral care program for widows among the Bukusu at PEFA Church. The literature was reviewed in the light of the study findings. This study was guided by Kubler-Ross‘ Theory of Grief (1969) and Ferguson‘s work on feminism published in 2017. Because the study employed a descriptive research design, the researcher collected factual data in a methodical manner through the use of questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions (FGDs). PEFA church leaders and widows made up the study's respondents. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select the study sample. While secondary data was obtained from relevant previously published materials, primary data was gathered using FGDs and questionnaires that were developed from the study objectives and interview schedules. Descriptive statistics, narratives, and verbatim citations were all used in the data analysis. Quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), grouped thematically, and presented narratively. The study findings revealed that widows within the Bukusu community face financial struggles, land loss, and debts after the death of their husbands. Moreover, PEFA church provides pastoral care which is limited because of the widows‘ high expectations and limited awareness. The study suggests strategies to improve pastoral care, which include income-generating activities (IGAs), support groups, healthcare, community-based organizations (CBOs), government registration, bursaries, and fundraisers. It is hoped that the findings of this study will enable the church, government and other stakeholders to understand the unique challenges the widows face within the Bukusu community. In this way, they can come up with appropriate mechanisms to mitigate them besides. Further, they can formulate relevant policy frameworks and their implementation to enhance effectiveness of pastoral care.
The Influence of Terrorism Activities on Muslim-Christian Relations in Garissa County, Kenya, 1998-2015
(Kenyatta University, 2023-03) Ismail, Abdi Aden; Newton Kahumbi Maina; Margaret Gecaga
Abstract
Roman Catholic Church Teaching on Sanctity of Human Life and its Bearing on Suicide Among Youth in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Sunguti, Henry Khakavo; Michael T. Katola; Margaret Gecaga
The primary goal of this study was to examine how the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church about the sanctity of human life relate to youth suicide. The World Health Organization stated on World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) of 2022 that an estimated 703,000 persons attempt suicide each year (WHO,2022). Suicide ranks as the fourth most common cause of death for those between the ages of 15 and 28worldwide, with over 77% of instances occurring in low- and middle-income nations (WHO,2019). When faced with traumatic life events like suicide, many turn to religion as a protective coping mechanism that gives them comfort and significance. According to Roman Catholic doctrine, life is sacred and, as such, is the preserve of God, the author. The problem statement was: Can the RCC's teaching on sanctity of human life enhance the mitigation of suicide among youth in Ruaraka Deanery, Nairobi City County, Kenya? The general research problem was to examine why some youth resort to suicide even after being exposed to the teachings of the RCC on sanctity of human life through various pastoral programs. The study's specific goals were to determine the factors that contribute to youth suicide cases, find out how the RCC teaches the sanctity of human life in various youth programs, look into how the RCC handles successful and unsuccessful suicide cases, and, lastly, develop different strategies to reduce youth suicide in Ruaraka. The study utilized two interconnected theories of suicide: David Klonsky and Alexis May's (2015) Three-Step Theory of Suicide (3ST) highlighted the ideation to action path of a suicidal person, while Thomas Joiner's (2005) Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS)emphasized the importance of an individual's social connections. The survey design employed in the study was descriptive. A purposive sampling strategy was employed in the Ruaraka Deanery to choose the ten parishes. Three methods were used to gather primary data: questionnaires, interview guides, and focus groups. The study's target group included the clergy, parish administration, youth, and catechists of Ruaraka Deanery. Youths were selected by simple random section, whereas clergy, catechists, and leaders were selected using a purposive sample technique. Consequently, the study findings showed: various factors lead to suicide cases and suicidal thoughts, social media and online sources, poor understanding of RCC teachings on sanctity of life, deficiencies in training of the catechists and ineffective methodology in teaching of the sanctity of human life. The study recommends: that the Catholic Deanery of Ruaraka needs to enhance the methodology of teaching the doctrine on sanctity of human life in catechism classes and other programs, the clergy availability to youth, and the government to step up efforts to enshrine religious teachings to address the problem of suicide in Kenya.
Inrtegrating Akamba and Pastoral Counselling Models to Mitigate Infidelity in Africa Inland Church Kitui County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Munyoki, Dennis Mutua; Michael T. Katola; Philomena N. Mwaura
Sexual infidelity is a world-wide phenomenon that adversely affects the sanctity of marriage. It seriously impacts the family, which is the basic unit of the society. Christianity and culture have always provided moral standards by which social behaviour is regulated. This has been through structured guidance and counselling to the members of the society. The counselling emphasizes on morality, sanctity of marriage and family as the locus of the society. However, marital challenges and especially cases of sexual infidelity are still rampant among members of Africa Inland Church. It is paradoxical having pastoral counselling structures emphasizing on sanctity of marriage in place and at the same time, rampant cases of sexual infidelity. In the Akamba indigenous society, the counselling system was effective in that members of the society were socialised into acceptable behaviour commensurate with the norms, values and beliefs of the society. Thus, cases of marital instability and especially sexual infidelity were minimal compared to today when the church is perceived to have grown. The question about how AIC pastoral counselling programs can produce positive results, especially in regard to marital sanctity remains critical in this study. This calls for an integrative counselling model that brings both counselling techniques together for a more formidable counselling model. To achieve this goal, three specific objectives guided the study: to investigate the causes of sexual infidelity among Christians couples; to find out the challenges resulting from sexual infidelity and to assess the Akamba counselling elements that can be incorporated in AIC Pastoral counselling model with a view to finding ways of mitigating sexual infidelity in Africa Inland Church, Kitui County, Kenya. Although extensive research has been carried out on Akamba and Pastoral counselling techniques, sexual infidelity menace is insufficiently explored. Literature reviewed confirmed that AIC counselling approach, content analysis and timelines is a matter of concern. The study employed a descriptive survey design. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedules, Focus Group Discussions and through analysis of documents retrieved from the library. The research used purposive and simple random sampling method. Purposive sampling selected participants on the basis of their significance to the research topic. Descriptive statistics, frequencies and percentages were used in the analysis and presented through narratives, bar graphs and frequency tables. Mead's (1863-1931)Symbolic Interactionism theory, Emile Durkheim (1912) functionalist theory and Walker's (2020) Integrated Pastoral Counselling model, were applied to the data. These theoretical frame works were employed to articulate the fundamental role played by the church and community in socialization of individuals in the society and need to maintain theological integrity while doing integration. Key findings revealed that inadequate preparation before marriage, marital dissatisfaction, and geographical migration were among highly rated causes of sexual infidelity. The study concludes that the prevailing status of sexual infidelity in Africa Inland Church is likely to be addressed if the Church revisits and adequately reconstructs a pastoral-cultural integrative counselling model with a view of mitigating sexual infidelity for stability of Christian families in Kitui County, Kenya.
Roman Catholic Church Teaching on Sanctity of Human Life and Its Bearing on Suicide among Youth in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(kenyatta university, 2023) Sunguti, Henry Khakavo; Michael Katola; Margaret Gecaga
The primary goal of this study was to examine how the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church about the sanctity of human life relate to youth suicide. The World Health Organization stated on World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) of 2022 that an estimated 703,000 persons attempt suicide each year (WHO, 2022). Suicide ranks as the fourth most common cause of death for those between the ages of 15 and 28 worldwide, with over 77% of instances occurring in low- and middle-income nations (WHO, 2019). When faced with traumatic life events like suicide, many turn to religion as a protective coping mechanism that gives them comfort and significance. According to Roman Catholic doctrine, life is sacred and, as such, is the preserve of God, the author. The problem statement was: Can the RCC’s teaching on sanctity of human life enhance the mitigation of suicide among youth in Ruaraka Deanery, Nairobi City County, Kenya? The general research problem was to examine why some youth resort to suicide even after being exposed to the teachings of the RCC on sanctity of human life through various pastoral programs. The study's specific goals were to determine the factors that contribute to youth suicide cases, find out how the RCC teaches the sanctity of human life in various youth programs, look into how the RCC handles successful and unsuccessful suicide cases, and, lastly, develop different strategies to reduce youth suicide in Ruaraka. The study utilized two interconnected theories of suicide: David Klonsky and Alexis May's (2015) Three-Step Theory of Suicide (3ST) highlighted the ideation to action path of a suicidal person, while Thomas Joiner's (2005) Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) emphasized the importance of an individual's social connections. The survey design employed in the study was descriptive. A purposive sampling strategy was employed in the Ruaraka Deanery to choose the ten parishes. Three methods were used to gather primary data: questionnaires, interview guides, and focus groups. The study's target group included the clergy, parish administration, youth, and catechists of Ruaraka Deanery. Youths were selected by simple random selection, whereas clergy, catechists, and leaders were selected using a purposive sample technique. Consequently, the study findings showed: various factors lead to suicide cases and suicidal thoughts, social media and online sources, poor understanding of RCC teachings on sanctity of life, deficiencies in training of the catechists and ineffective methodology in teaching of the sanctity of human life. The study recommends: that the Catholic Deanery of Ruaraka needs to enhance the methodology of teaching the doctrine on sanctity of human life in catechism classes and other programs, the clergy availability to youth, and the government to step up efforts to enshrine religious teachings to address the problem of suicide in Kenya.
Integrating Akamba and Pastoral Counselling Models to Mitigate Infidelity in Africa Inland Church Kitui County, Kenya
(kenyatta university, 2023) Munyoki, Dennis Mutua; Michael T. Katola; Philemona N. Mwaura
Sexual infidelity is a world-wide phenomenon that adversely affects the sanctity of marriage. It seriously impacts the family, which is the basic unit of the society. Christianity and culture have always provided moral standards by which social behaviour is regulated. This has been through structured guidance and counselling to the members of the society. The counselling emphasizes on morality, sanctity of marriage and family as the locus of the society. However, marital challenges and especially cases of sexual infidelity are still rampant among members of Africa Inland Church. It is paradoxical having pastoral counselling structures emphasizing on sanctity of marriage in place and at the same time, rampant cases of sexual infidelity. In the Akamba indigenous society, the counselling system was effective in that members of the society were socialised into acceptable behaviour commensurate with the norms, values and beliefs of the society. Thus, cases of marital instability and especially sexual infidelity were minimal compared to today when the church is perceived to have grown. The question about how AIC pastoral counselling programs can produce positive results, especially in regard to marital sanctity remains critical in this study. This calls for an integrative counselling model that brings both counselling techniques together for a more formidable counselling model. To achieve this goal, three specific objectives guided the study: to investigate the causes of sexual infidelity among Christians couples; to find out the challenges resulting from sexual infidelity and to assess the Akamba counselling elements that can be incorporated in AIC Pastoral counselling model with a view to finding ways of mitigating sexual infidelity in Africa Inland Church, Kitui County, Kenya. Although extensive research has been carried out on Akamba and Pastoral counselling techniques, sexual infidelity menace is insufficiently explored. Literature reviewed confirmed that AIC counselling approach, content analysis and timelines is a matter of concern. The study employed a descriptive survey design. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedules, Focus Group Discussions and through analysis of documents retrieved from the library. The research used purposive and simple random sampling method. Purposive sampling selected participants on the basis of their significance to the research topic. Descriptive statistics, frequencies and percentages were used in the analysis and presented through narratives, bar graphs and frequency tables. Mead's (1863-1931) Symbolic Interactionism theory, Emile Durkheim (1912) functionalist theory and Walker’s (2020) Integrated Pastoral Counselling model, were applied to the data. These theoretical frame works were employed to articulate the fundamental role played by the church and community in socialization of individuals in the society and need to maintain theological integrity while doing integration. Key findings revealed that inadequate preparation before marriage, marital dissatisfaction, and geographical migration were among highly rated causes of sexual infidelity. The study concludes that the prevailing status of sexual infidelity in Africa Inland Church is likely to be addressed if the Church revisits and adequately reconstructs a pastoral-cultural integrative counselling model with a view of mitigating sexual infidelity for stability of Christian families in Kitui County, Kenya.
Roman Catholic Church teaching on sanctity of human life and its bearing on suicide among youth in Nairobi City County, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Sunguti, Henry Khakavo; Michael Katola; Margaret Gecaga
The primary goal of this study was to examine how the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church about the sanctity of human life relate to youth suicide. The World Health Organization stated on World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) of 2022 that an estimated 703,000 persons attempt suicide each year (WHO, 2022). Suicide ranks as the fourth most common cause of death for those between the ages of 15 and 28 worldwide, with over 77% of instances occurring in low- and middle-income nations (WHO, 2019). When faced with traumatic life events like suicide, many turn to religion as a protective coping mechanism that gives them comfort and significance. According to Roman Catholic doctrine, life is sacred and, as such, is the preserve of God, the author. The problem statement was: Can the RCC’s teaching on sanctity of human life enhance the mitigation of suicide among youth in Ruaraka Deanery, Nairobi City County, Kenya? The general research problem was to examine why some youth resort to suicide even after being exposed to the teachings of the RCC on sanctity of human life through various pastoral programs. The study's specific goals were to determine the factors that contribute to youth suicide cases, find out how the RCC teaches the sanctity of human life in various youth programs, look into how the RCC handles successful and unsuccessful suicide cases, and, lastly, develop different strategies to reduce youth suicide in Ruaraka. The study utilized two interconnected theories of suicide: David Klonsky and Alexis May's (2015) Three-Step Theory of Suicide (3ST) highlighted the ideation to action path of a suicidal person, while Thomas Joiner's (2005) Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) emphasized the importance of an individual's social connections. The survey design employed in the study was descriptive. A purposive sampling strategy was employed in the Ruaraka Deanery to choose the ten parishes. Three methods were used to gather primary data: questionnaires, interview guides, and focus groups. The study's target group included the clergy, parish administration, youth, and catechists of Ruaraka Deanery. Youths were selected by simple random selection, whereas clergy, catechists, and leaders were selected using a purposive sample technique. Consequently, the study findings showed: various factors lead to suicide cases and suicidal thoughts, social media and online sources, poor understanding of RCC teachings on sanctity of life, deficiencies in training of the catechists and ineffective methodology in teaching of the sanctity of human life. The study recommends: that the Catholic Deanery of Ruaraka needs to enhance the methodology of teaching the doctrine on sanctity of human life in catechism classes and other programs, the clergy availability to youth, and the government to step up efforts to enshrine religious teachings to address the problem of suicide in Kenya.
Abandonment of Church by Youth-Believers in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Kisii County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Kireri, Douglas Omosa; Julius Gathogo; Francis Mwaniki
The study sought to explore the rationale behind the abandonment of the Church, mainly among the youth-believers in the Adventist Church in Kisii County, Kenya. It has investigated why an otherwise committed youth, who faithfully used to attend the Church would suddenly stop showing up on a weekly, monthly and/or yearly basis, despite living in the neighborhood; yet they still claim to observe the Sabbath. This following objectives guided this research; to analyze the practicability of the Baptismal Class Sessions in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Kisii County, to explore the reasons why youth-believers abandon the Church after baptism in Kisii County, and to suggest solutions to the challenge of the phenomenon of youth abandoning the Adventist Church in Kisii County. The study reviewed the literature related to the Church and the youths. The study was theoretically informed by Emile Durkheim‟s Functionalist Theory, which argues that society is a system of related parts of social institutions, such as the family, religion, and the economy. Durkheim‟s theory concludes that religion acts as both glue and a lubricant to the social process. The researcher adopted descriptive design in analyzing the data. The target population in this study was the S.D.A Churches in Kisii County because it involved the youths in these Churches. Purposive sampling was conducted where youths in Churches were included in the study. In this regard, ten selected clergy and other Church members were purposively interviewed. The study used three types of questionnaires, that is, for the clergy, Church elders, and for the youths. The study also used interview schedules and Focused Group Discussions. Piloting was conducted in Kirenga Central S.D.A in Lari to test the validity and reliability of the research collection tool-questionnaire. In a nutshell, the study established the critical factors that make the youths abandon the Church. The main reasons include; failure of parental roles, boring worship service, misjudgment by elder members, dropping out of a ministry, poor role models, dropping out of a group, and gradual withdrawal. The study also explored potential solutions to the problem of youths in the vice of abandoning the Church. This includes: an emphasis on fundamental teachings, reorganization of baptismal classes, and making religious instructions pleasant among other solutions. The study will be crucial to the Church, the society and the country at large because it is geared towards attempts in remolding the moral uprightness of the society, as the Church partly plays the role of instilling morals to the youth. To the clergy, the study will help them to put up necessary measures in place in order to retain the youths in the Church. The research found out that the baptismal class sessions are in place in preparing new converts to become church members. It was also noted that there are a number of reasons that make the youth to abandon the church and solutions to these reasons were suggested. The research therefore recommended a number of issues that can be looked into to help in youth retention. These recommendations include improving the methods of preparing the new converts by making adjustments in the baptismal classes and also coming up with activities that will engage the youth in church to help in retention among other recommendations.
Evolution in the Religious Beliefs and Practices of the Abamarama of Kakamega County, Kenya, C. 1850–1960
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Otswondo, Wilberforce William; Gimode A. Edwin
This study is a historical analysis of the evolution of religious beliefs and practices among the Abamarama of Kakamega County who belong to the larger Abaluyia ethnic group. The study traced the evolution and development of religious beliefs and practices of this community as occasioned by decades of encounter and interaction with Christianity. This study makes a contribution to our knowledge from a historical perspective of the Abamarama culture and the Christian missionary enterprise. Among the objectives addressed in this study were, to: analyse the indigenous religious beliefs and practices of the Abamarama from c. 1850-1885; examine the response of the Abamarama to mission Christianity, 1885-1930; establish the extent of adoption of western Christian beliefs and practices by the Abamarama 1930 to 1960. Literature on the cultural history of the Abamarama and other related studies were reviewed for purposes of establishing gaps of knowledge in this study. The research was informed in the Symbolic Interactionism theory and the Conflict theory of religion. The study employed qualitative research design in gathering data for this theses. The study used purposive-stratified and snowballing sampling techniques to select the informants. The study used both primary and secondary sources to gather information. Primary sources included oral interviews and archival sources from the Kenya National Archives and the Christian mission archives in Butere. Focus Group Discussions (hereafter FGD) and oral questionnaire for the interviews were employed as research instruments that assisted in gathering primary data. The data was analysed qualitatively because of the qualitative nature of this study. Data from the archives, oral interviews and library was analysed in corroboration with that from secondary sources. The research begun upon receiving authorization letter from Kenyatta University. Research permit was issued by the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation. The study acknowledged all the authors that were cited in this research. Names of informants were not shown on the interview guide sheets for purposes of confidentiality. From the study findings; Abamarama had developed social, economic and political organization in the pre-colonial period. They had well-established religious beliefs and practices based on ancestor veneration and the belief in the Supreme Being. The interaction between Abamarama and Christianity caused resistance from Abamarama who later accepted and blended Christian values with their indigenous culture and formed a new hybrid religion. The Christian community that was formed among the Abamarama by 1960 was not pure Christianity but a syncretic religion. The findings of the study may be used by other scholars to conduct studies on transformation of culture among other ethnic groups within Kenya.
Effects of Alcohol Abuse on Family Stability in Nyeri County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Muchiri, Beatrice Nyawira; Josephine Gitome; Joseph Nzau
The impact of alcohol abuse on families is a dire concern, with breadwinners directing a significant chunk of their funds to drinking, and several individuals abdicating their family commitments. In Nyeri County, Kenya, alcohol abuse has adversely affected the county, with several livelihoods claimed through illnesses such as cirrhosis, negligence and suicides. Considering the significant influence that the church has on its faithful in this region, it could take a role in forestalling these worrying trends. The study focused on the Cathedral Parish households of Nyeri Catholic Archdiocese, where the effects of alcohol abuse on family stability had not received adequate attention. Guided by the following objectives, the study sought to: assess the Roman Catholic moral teachings on alcohol consumption; evaluate the Catholic church initiatives of safeguarding family stability; evaluate the causes of alcohol abuse; and to analyze the socio-economic effects of alcohol abuse on family stability in Cathedral parish households of Nyeri Catholic Archdiocese. The research also analyzed themes derived from peer reviewed literature on the topic of alcohol abuse and family, relating scholarly views to the objectives. The study applied the Family Systems Theory while targeting was 166 respondents. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were applied to select 31 Catholic Men Association, 70 Catholic Women Association, 18 youth members, 1 Bishop, 1 Catechist, 2 parish priests, 21 persons with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), 21 affected spouses and one prolife coordinator. Questionnaires, interview guides and focus group discussions were used for data collection with validity and reliability ensured by conducting a pilot study. Qualitative data was analyzed by sorting in terms of themes and ranked according to their frequent weight while quantitative data was analyzed through percentages and frequencies using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. The study ascertained that Catholic Church Moral and social teachings advocated for temperance in terms of alcohol consumption. Further, the Church strongly teaches followers on strong and stable family units. The teachings were understood by the parishioners, though social economic factors superseded the effectiveness of the teachings on alcohol abuse. The common socio-economic impacts of alcohol abuse in Nyeri were marital separation, high rates of domestic violence, children consumption of alcohol, high rate of school drop-out in the affected households among others. The study concluded that alcohol abuse significantly affected family stability in Cathedral Parish households of Nyeri Archdiocese. Therefore, the Catholic initiatives on alcohol abuse were critical in ensuring family stability. The study recommended that the church could establish comprehensive programs that involved collaboration with government and non-government agencies in order for them to work together for stability of the affected families in the households and the entire community. It was hoped that the information that the study provided would be useful to social workers, priests, scholars, counselors and practitioners dealing with family and social matters.
Roman Catholic Church’s Efforts in Addressing Violence against Women: a Case of Women in Marriage, Maragua Parish, Murang'a County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Mburu, Evan Njuguna; Ruth Muthei James; Humphrey M Waweru
Violence against women (VAW) is a gender-based violence act resulting in physical, sexual, or psychological harm or suffering to women. VAW is a fundamental violation of human rights. This study was to investigate efforts of the Roman Catholic Church in covering violence against women in Maragua Parish, Murang’a County. Led by the following objectives, the study aims: to find out the prevalence of violence against women in Maragua Parish, to establish the strategies employed by the church to concentrate to violence against women in the parish, to suggest comprehensive mechanism which can be adopted by Maragua parish to address violence against women. The study was carried out in thirteen out station within the parish and it had specific focus on CWA, CMA, married individual not in the two association and the head priest. Radical feminist theory was used. The study employed the stratified sampling method. The target population according to the parish record (2014) was 5,420 as per the Morgan and Krejicie (1970) model determining sample size a total of 357 respondents were targeted to find the sample size per stratum. Data from church members was obtained using questionnaires and the interview schedule for the head priest. Analysis of quantitative data was done with the aid of descriptive statistics entailing frequencies and percentages. Inferential statistics entailed Chi-square tests as spearman and rank correlation order test to confirm the presence of casual relations between variables. The techniques were used to analyze qualitative data collected using interview schedules. Analyzed data was presented in the form of frequency, pie charts, percentages and tables. The study found that 74% of the respondents were aware of violence against women in the parish. Presence of pastoral counseling programs to confirm violence against women was legible as evidence from 32% of the respondents.67% of the respondents deemed themselves to have been aware of the Church teachings .54% of the respondents considered the Church teachings to advocate against domestic violence. The study recommended that the Roman Catholic Church should seek to implore the members to extol the virtues of love and tolerance in marriage as a prerequisite for harmonies coexistence in the households. Catholic Church should accelerate the counseling programs in place with the view to helping reverse the trend with regard to incidence of domestic violence. Activities like workshops, seminars and capacity building forums for the membership should scale up in the Church. The Catholic Church should seek to entrench the practice of involving women in positions of leadership. This may have a positive effective on building their confidence and self-esteem. It may infuse a sense of respect and belonging from the congregants who also include the male members of the community.
The Influence of Four Selected Muslim Non-Governmental Organizations on Education and Humanitarian Work in Mandera County, Kenya (1991-2018)
(Kenyatta University, 2020) Kosar, Roble Oyow
This thesis is entitled the influence of four selected Muslim non-governmental organizations on education and humanitarian work in Mandera East Sub-County (MESC), Kenya (1991-2018). The study was specifically aimed at exploring the involvement of Muslim NGOs in education and other humanitarian sectors in MESC, finding out the challenges facing them while carrying out education and other humanitarian activities, and establishing the involvement of the local community in the education and other humanitarian activities. The data of this study was obtained from primary and secondary sources. The study population was 220 participants. 202 beneficiaries of the Muslim NGOs’ activities, 30% from each NGO, were randomly selected from a list given by the Muslim NGOs. The other participants were four representatives of the Muslim NGOs, seven school principals and three elected Members of the County Assembly representing the areas in MESC where the NGOs operate. The study was guided by the Islamic State Welfare Theory and the Alternative Development Theory. The study was also guided by the principle of altruism as championed by the Islamic State Welfare Theory. Alternative development is development from ‘ below’ and below refers to both community and NGOs. The study used purposive sampling method in selecting the representatives of the four Muslim NGOs, the seven school principals and the three MCAs. The data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. SPSS method was used to analyse the questionnaires and coding categories was used to analyse the interviews. The collected data was presented using tables, graphs and figures. The study found out that sponsoring students in secondary schools and provision of relief food are the main activities carried out by the Muslim NGOs in Mandera East Sub-County. However, AMA engages in construction of classrooms and provides other limited facilities to schools such as books and furniture. AMA also engages in construction of wells and dams. Islamic Relief provides healthcare services such as training of medical staff, organizing medical camps, and immunization. The local community is not involved in the design and planning of the projects and selection of the educational beneficiaries of the Muslim NGOs. The Main challenges the NGOs face are lack of funds, insecurity, clanism, government restrictions and overdependence on donor. The study generally found out that few of the Muslim NGOs are engaged in capacity building measures and hence the methods they use in solving the humanitarian and educational needs of the local community lack sustainability.
Participative Leadership In Relation To Seventh-Day Adventist Church’s Growth In Kilifi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2020-06) Muthuri, Peter
This research set to explore participative leadership in relation to SDA Church‟s growth in Magarini Sub-county, Kilifi County, Kenya. Part of SDA‟s policy recognizes that authority rests in the entire membership. However, the situation on the ground is different since ordinary members are not allowed to participate in leadership. The research sought first, to examine the extent of members‟ inclusivity in leadership to enhance growth; second, to explore the causes and analyze the effects of lack of participatory leadership thus correlating members‟ involvement in leadership and church growth. SDA leadership style is exposed to forces and is affected by factors that undermine church growth. Team Leadership Model was considered an appropriate theoretical orientation for this study in order to highlight constant team analysis and improvement to cultivate church growth. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. To generate data, questionnaires were administered, besides FGD Guide and observation schedule. Nine SDA Churches took part in the study out of which 287 respondents satisfactorily participated. Data generated from field research were presented and analyzed as per the research objectives. It was observed that few members involved themselves in evangelism and opening of Sabbath schools respectively. However, not all Churches had up to date registers. Churches lacked serious Bible study divisions. Members and leaders lacked knowledge on team management. Obstacles to effective communication and socio-economic factors related to gender and family issues were prevalent. Leaders should work in groups by clarifying group roles and initiating more team independence, by taking actions that are goal-focused and which satisfy needs. They should resist forces that lead to exclusive leadership. Further, they should use a combination of various practices of leadership such as prayer life, Bible study, seminars/workshops, conducting time-frame schedules, visitation of members and attending revivals. Participative leadership motivates people and encourages them to be involved in activities; it engages in decision- making necessary for the growth of the church. It calls for team effectiveness where members manage activities corporately, respect church‟s beliefs and counsels, share information, deliberate on issues and agree before implementation of activities to enhance church growth.
Contributions of the National Independent Church of Africa to Socioeconomic Development in Kibugu Parish, Embu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2020-09) M’arimi, Wilfred Mwenda
The growing interest by scholars on the role of the Church in transformation of the society prompted this study to investigate the contribution of the National Independent Church of Africa (NICA) to socio-economic development in Kibugu Parish, Embu County, Kenya. Specifically, the study discussed the Biblical and pastoral basis guiding involvement in socio-economic development besides examining how NICA carries out socio-economic activities in the study area. Further, the study identified the challenges and the strategies adopted by NICA to overcome them. The study was justified by the need to find out how NICA fulfils Jesus’ mission of being the healer, comforter and feeder of the hungry by contributing to their social and economic development. It is hoped that the study findings will assist faith-based non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other religious groups whose aim is to engage in sustainable community development in rural areas. The study’s conceptual framework was drawn from the Structural Functionalism Theory of Religion. This theory holds that society is composed of various institutions such as religion which play the role of social control, cohesion, provide meaning and purpose to life. In this respect, the study used the theory to look at how NICA contributes to transforming the lives of Christians from a state of disempowerment to socio-economic empowerment. The researcher used the descriptive case study design because it intensively and exhaustively investigates the social unit. Purposive and simple random sampling methods were used to select a sample size of 124 respondents from a target population of 371. Qualitative data from the respondents was obtained using focused group discussions (FGD) and interview schedules while questionnaires were used in gathering quantitative information. The researcher adhered to ethical considerations while gathering responses from the informants. Collected data was analysed using descriptive statistics, narratives, and verbatim responses. Then it was coded and processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). From the obtained data, the findings of this study revealed that NICA Parish engages in socio-economic development through sponsoring education, nurturing talents, extending love as well as praying and paying medical bills for the sick in hospital. Furthermore, the study revealed that NICA has no schools, vocational training institutions and hospitals in the area of study. Lack of adequate funds and long period of stay of a pastor in one Parish were among the challenges facing the Parish. The findings further suggests that NICA lacked a clear strategic plan that is critical in outlining her vision and goals. Despite the challenges, NICA’s efforts and commitment to changing the socio-economic welfare of people in the study area is commendable. This study recommended that the Church should formulate a clear strategic plan and have a long-term plan of establishing its own educational and health institutions. The strategic plan will enable the Church to understand her weaknesses, strengths, area where it has potential and the threats to its socio-economic development. Besides, NICA should organise seminars and workshops to educate the believers on better and modern farming practices as a way of economically empowering them.
Assessment of the Spread and Social Effects of HIV and AIDS among Muslims of Kibera Informal Settlement, Nairobi City County-Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2019) Omondi, Dinah Nyangweso
The title of the study is assessment of the spread and social effects of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) among Muslims of Kibera Sub-county, Nairobi County, Kenya, authored by Dinah Nyangweso Omondi. HIV and AIDS is a social- health pandemic that has entered its third decade with an estimated 36.7 million people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) and 25 million AIDS- related deaths globally. Islam encourages fidelity by prohibiting some practices in an effort of up-bringing a morally upright society. Despite the Islamic proscriptions, some Muslims engage in the prohibited practices thus, causing a paradox between the teachings and the individual behavior since they are sometimes in conflict, hence, the need for this study. The general objective of the study is to assess the spread and social effects of HIV and AIDS among Kibera Muslims and how they mitigate them. The specific objectives are to examine the spread of HIV among Muslims of Kibera, discuss the influence of Islamic practices on the spread of HIV and AIDS, discuss the social effects of HIV and AIDS, and assess how Islam mitigates the spread and social effects of HIV and AIDS. The study employs a descriptive design and both quantitative and qualitative research methods are used to collect and analyze data. The independent variable for the study is the HIV risk behaviors, while the dependent variable was the HIV prevalence. The intervening variables are the knowledge, skills, beliefs, attitudes. The study is conducted in Kibera Sub- County, Nairobi County since Nairobi is one of the Counties well represented by all religions found in Kenya Islam included. Kibera Sub- County was suitable for the study because it has a larger Muslim population and a high HIV prevalence of 20%. The target population for the study is Muslims living with HIV and AIDS (MLWHA). Purposive, convenience and random samplings techniques were used to get the sample population. The data is collected through observation, questionnaires and focus group discussions. The findings are analyzed and presented manually using the narrative form, frequency tables and percentages. According to the study findings, Muslims of Kibera are among those infected by HIV and AIDS since the ratio of infected Muslims as compared to non-Muslims is 1:30. Muslim practices (prohibited and enhanced) can either mitigate or enhance the spread. Some of the HIV and AIDS social effects include among others; stigma, discrimination, orphans and poverty. To mitigate the HIV and AIDS social effects, Muslims make charitable contributions which are used to assist the less privileged in the society such as MLWHA.
Religious Approaches to Peace Bulding and Reconciliation in Areas affected by Ethnic Conflicts within Kuresoi North-Nakuru County, Kenya (1992-2008)
(Kenyatta University, 2019-04) Chepkorir, Betty C.
In Kenya, the issue of ethnic related conflicts seems to be very prominent. Its effects have been felt both at local and national levels. Religion represented by religious individuals and organizations is often at the heart of rural communities involving many people. Guided by the biblical principles of peace, love and justice, religion has an important role to play in peace building and reconciliation. Religion has the theology and language of healing, forgiveness and reconciliation. In areas affected by ethnic conf1icts globally, religion has helped ease tensions and heals wounds brought therein. Despite the role of religion in peace building and reconciliation however, ethnic conflicts continue to escalate from time to time. The main objectives of this study therefore is to evaluate various approaches used by the religious peace makers and organizations and factors which hinder their effectiveness in peace building and reconciliation in Kuresoi North –Nakuru County. The study was conducted among various religious leaders, individuals and groups represented by churches. The research was guided by a combination of Holton model, Montville and Burton theories. It is hoped that the study will be helpful to the Department of Philosophy and Religious studies, Kuresoi North community and the country at large in the process of peace building and reconciliation in areas affected by ethnic conflicts. In this study different variables were considered; Independent variables are peace building and reconciliation while dependent variables are the religious approaches. The study employed a mixed research design. The primary data were contained in duly filled questionnaires and interviews while the secondary data were in notes form. The sample size was that of one hundred and ninety-three drawn from the Roman Catholic Church, Pentecostal Assemblies of God and the Baptist Churches. Data was presented using frequency distribution and percentage tables, bar graphs and pie charts in relation to the research topic. The study established that the main causes of ethnic conflicts in Kuresoi North include competition for resources, political instigations, security and recognition and acceptance. The study’s findings indicated that religious methods such as, problem solving workshops, mediations and negotiations and confessions have been very effective in peace building and reconciliation. However, the study established that the religious approaches are not applied continually so as to promote peace and reconciliation. Religious leaders and organizations should therefore promote peace and reconciliation continuously and not wait for ethnic conflict to erupt so as to be relevant.

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