Influence of Youth-Related Social Challenges on the Development of Contemporary Gospel Music in Evangelistic Outreach: A Case Study of Mavuno Church, Machakos County, Kenya
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Date
2025-05
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Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate how youth-related social challenges shaped the development of contemporary gospel music as a tool for evangelistic outreach at Mavuno Church in Machakos County, Kenya. Through a qualitative case study approach, the research examined the interplay between social issues such as unemployment, substance abuse and digital influences and the evolution of gospel music styles that resonated with young congregants. The study utilized a qualitative case study design to investigate the impact of youth-related social challenges on contemporary gospel music at Mavuno Church, employing semi-structured interviews with n=20 diverse participants, direct observations of church services and document analysis of song lyrics and reports, conducted in Machakos County from January to June 2024. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis, manually coding transcripts to identify themes like “youth unemployment” and “hip-hop influence,” providing a systematic exploration of music’s role in evangelistic outreach. Ethical measures, including informed consent and anonymity. Findings illuminated that contemporary gospel music, infused with hip-hop, reggae and urban rhythms and emerged as a powerful medium to address youth challenges. Songs like “Tumaini Langu” tackled economic hardships, resonating with unemployed youth, while others promoted redemption to counter substance abuse. These musical adaptations aligned with youth cultural preferences, shaped by digital media exposure, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual engagement. The study revealed a 40% increase in youth participation in evangelistic activities, attributing this to music’s appeal. Through bridging generational gaps, contemporary gospel music not only enhanced evangelistic efforts but also promoted social transformation, encouraging positive behaviors like community involvement and recovery from addiction. This research underscored music’s transformative potential in urban Kenyan churches, offering a model for leveraging cultural expressions to address social and spiritual needs.
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Nyariaro, D. M; Dr. Muthei, R. J &Waweru, H. M. (2025). Influence of Youth-Related Social Challenges on the Development of Contemporary Gospel Music in Evangelistic Outreach: A Case Study of Mavuno Church, Machakos County, Kenya. Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 9(5), 104 -115.