Institute of Social Transformation

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Active Non-Violence: A Means of Personal and Social Change
(Tangaza University College, 2001-04) Kokonya, Pamela Achieng
Violence is as old as humanity. Efforts have always been there at various levels to minimize it yet the world today appears to be more violent than ever. More weapons than ever stand poised at all times on the brink of disaster. In part, this is seen as reason why the Americans keep an eye on Saddam Hussein, the President of Iraq for fear that he could destroy the whole Middle East or even the world. Today, many people live on a nervous edge all the time, thus requiring the large number of psychologists and psychiatrists that the world has. Before the era of the present advanced technology, one would destroy another person with a spear. Today, it would only take the press of a button to extinguish the whole world. For many years, many people have believed and acted as if the only solution to conflict is violence. Unfortunately, this is not the whole truth. Violence is a quick-fix method that succeeds in as much as it instills fear in the weaker party, leading to the withdrawal or submission of the weaker one. But the source of conflict still lurks. We see this in families that believe in corporal punishment as the one and only means of instilling discipline in their children. A child may have the habit of not eating in their house but feed to its full at the neighbor's. As a result, the parents constantly beat the child for doing so. Though the child, out of fear of more beatings may stop the habit, the reason underlying the behavior will not have been addressed. For instance, it could be that at the neighbor's, the family sits round the meals and each and every individual's needs are catered for, thus creating a very homely atmosphere which may be lacking at the child's home. Violence is force or the use of force that is injurious and destructive of the life or quality of life or dignity of any human person. Violence begets violence. Active non-violence on the other hand, is a way of life towards personal, social, national and international change based on the power of truth and the force of love. Parties in conflict dialogue for the betterment of all the stakeholders. There is no winner or loser. Violence has wrecked havoc in Africa; the continent has the largest number of refugees. Generally speaking, the refugee situation in, for example, Guinea is the worst in the world. The people are the poorest not because they are lazy but because of profit-driven economic integration that favors the already rich. However, we find non-violent ways of conflict resolutions though non-violence by the use of masses is a new concept. To some communities, especially the so-called warrior communities, such a concept is difficult to digest. There are cases where religion has been used to perpetrate violence. Examples of this include the Historical Christian crusades and the Jihad. However, the holy books such as the Qur'an, the Bible and the Gita among others, underline non-violence, portraying the Supreme Being as one of Justice and Peace and not war. For peace to reign in this world, it is important that the faithful adhere to their religious teachings and constantly dialogue among themselves and with other religions. This Long Essay is an effort to critique violence as the solution to conflicts and to propose an alternative, Active Non-violence, as a more effective and long lasting solution.
African Debt Crisis
(Tangaza University College, 1997-04) Gonzalez, Armando Ramos
The Third World debt crisis has been dragging on for over 15 years'. In 1990, the Third World debt exceeded a trillion dollars. With dimension so gargantuan, one wonders if it is not beyond hope and repair. In the face of so many issues, why should we look to the Third World debt? Debt is first and foremost a human problem. It both directly and indirectly affects the lives of people all around the globe. The dignity of persons, the sacredness of life, the bonds of community, the concern for the poor, all this is assaulted by the debt crisis. To live responsibly as a global citizen today one cannot ignore the extent and consequences of the global debt. Africa is the continent most affected by the debt crisis. By November 1992, Africa's total debt was then the equivalent to more than 100% of the continent's GNP. Latin America's total debt, in comparison, was equivalent to 50% of her GNP. Of the total debt servicing payment coining from Sub-Saharan Africa (excluding Nigeria) nearly 30% of it goes to paying loans given by private banks.2 This essay is going to present a picture of the African debt problem in order to encourage the Churches and Christians to consider the problem as a human problem and therefore a problem which can be considered in the pastoral programmes of the churches. Because it affects the lives of the poor. African debt crisis is a pastoral problem to be known. The first Chapter deals with the actual situation and an historical overview of African Debt Crisis. Chapter two explains the causes and effects of debt problem in the lives of the people, above all, the poor. Economic effects are presented separately in the third chapter. The ethical aspects are considered in the fourth chapter. Can the African debt be paid? It is a difficult question. The fifth chapter presents a possible solutions taking into account the "worldly", Christian and social ministry approaches. It is the goal of this paper to provide stimulation to encourage the faithful, the church hierarchies and everyone who feels concern with the gospel of Christ to be informed about a real pastoral problem which can make the future of our generation unbearable.
Alcohol Related Problems in Areas: A Case Study of Nairobi
(2001-03) Alberto, Lantana
Alcohol has been present in Africa for long time, being part and parcel of its social organisation at all levels. It indeed played an important socio-religious role in aspects as significant as recreation and celebrations. Alcohol abuse also existed but it was submitted to strong social control and therefore it was not an explicit problem as such. Colonization brought about remarkable changes, for instance, urbanisation and the introduction of the wage system. As a result, drinking patterns were absolutely distorted after the breaking down of the tight social structure characteristic of the African society. Strong beverages were also introduced and their consumption became a symbol of emancipation from the cultural ties and a step into the 'new society'. The production of alcohol beverages became thus a prominent economic activity, both in the formal sector but especially in the informal one. Rural-urban migration during the last three decades has overwhelmed the infrastructure of urban centres, contributing to the mushrooming of shanty towns around the cities. Survival in slums is a question of personal initiative and engagement in any type of economic activity, mostly informal but also criminal ones. There has been an increase in illicit production of alcoholic beverages as a means of livelihood for many and in particular for women. In addition, this has been a contributing factor to the achievement of a relative independence of women from the economic point of view. Related to this is the adulteration of alcoholic beverages that are an immediate health hazard. Unfortunately, alcohol abuse is on the rise, striking above all the poor at personal, family and social levels. It is a fact that there is a kind of culture of desperation in the slums. The intake of alcohol acts as a painkiller of the hopeless reality, indeed, the opiate of the poor, to use Karl Marx' slogan. The following study analyses the issue of alcohol-related problems in slum areas of Nairobi. The research was carried out in Kawangware and Kianda (Kibera) slums. The first chapter gives the background of the study and the framework of the dimensions of the issue at stake. The second chapter presents the different social theories on alcohol abuse in Africa. It also emphasizes how alcohol manufacture and abuse is a factor of poverty and of the devaluation of an integrative worldview. It concludes with a section that focuses on the pastoral approach to the problem. The following chapter gives the methodology that was used in the research, that is, which methods were used to collect the data and how it was analysed. Basically, two types of questionnaires were used: one for those who abuse alcohol and the other for those who manufacture or trade illegal brew. The fourth chapter analyses the data according to the two types of questionnaires. It presents the findings of the research in a critical manner and integrates the facts with the literature review. Recommendations and conclusions follow in Chapter Five. It also presents an analytic framework that endeavours to give a cohesive picture of the problem from where recommendations flow. Finally. Chapter Six is a project proposal as a concrete implementation of the recommendations outlined in the previous chapter. The project consists of a centre for the promotion of recreational facilities, cultural values and employment in Kawangware slum.
Appraisal and Evaluation of Lodonga Spiritual And Pastoral Centre
(Tangaza University College, 1998-09) Okello, Lawrence
Any pastoral activity will come to nothing if there is nobody at hand, properly formed and prepared to carry it out. The working tools themselves are useless except in the hands of properly formed catechists. As we are living in a challenging world, catechists must be prepared to face challenges as they spread the Gospel. We must be grateful to the Lord for this institution, a contribution by the laity, but it is also a challenge to our responsibility since those lay catechists must be carefully prepared for what is, at the very least a function of great importance in the church. It is therefore my wish to present in this paper indicating how the pastoral Centre of Lodonga is endeavouring to effect the same to meet the contemporary pastoral challenges evident throughout the Christian community of Arua diocese. I am therefore indebted to the director of Lodonga Pastoral and Spiritual Centre, the teachers and the students Catechists who with kindness and generosity availed me with the information that has made it possible for me to write this paper.
Appraisal And Evaluation Of Marsabit Technical School Marbabit Diocese-Kenya
(Tangaza University College, 1998-09) Yisrashe, Desu
After involving myself in this particular project and having worked within it for two months I am able to present this short evaluation of Marsabit Catholic Technical training Cent e This training Centre was established by Consolatas Fathers and brothers of Marsabit diocese. However since its completion the Consolata Father and Brothers did not run the project as a complete set up project for long. They handed it over to the congregations and lay helpers which means that for not less than 22 years the project has got not a permanent personnel The school is facing the problem namely, different missionaries come and Q0 after working for a year or two years. This kind of changes are well known in different organisations. But presently the project is run by the brothers of St., Joseph for the past four years until the present moment. However working in this project helped me with the knowledge on how to run similar project Being here for two months helped me to understand the positive and negative aspects of setting up a project. The evaluation of this project will be as follows.
The Challenges and Problems Facing The Elderly in Contemporary Kenya
(Tangaza University College, 2001-03-31) Marango Wamalwa, Joseph
Old age is inescapable if one's life is long. In the African setting as you mature in years, you become a reservoir of wisdom. Your next of kin will come to you for advice. In fact they would like to hear from you what you might say on many things pertaining to the family lineage, clan or the village as a whole. This comes to be realised of course if your life is exemplary. It is therefore not an accident for African people to have a proverb that says, 'Old is gold.' This sounds appealing and that is why the elderly were not despised in traditional Africa unless one was involved in unacceptable practices such as witchcraft. However, things have changed. To praise the elderly people today as a unifying factor in the community and to associate them with wisdom is downgraded as sacrilege. A certain dignified person in one of the top universities in Nairobi astonished many people, when he claimed that wisdom of the elderly is no longer functional due to modem education.' Just to answer him before going too far, let us think about the so-called industrialised countries. They are rich and literacy is almost 100 percent. But when you turn on the other side of the coin, you see that promotion of wars in other countries, breakdown of family cohesiveness and the lust to accumulate is the order of the day in their backyard. Now, is this wisdom? The wisdom we talk about is that which comes from the inside of a person for the common good of all. It is inherent. It permeates all spheres of life to bring about justice and peace. This is the wisdom that we derive from our elderly friends. Affluence is becoming the most honoured and adored commodity in the world. Definitely, Africa is not spared because this new culture is catching up very fast. The social and economic trends are not elderly friendly. Physical changes such as wrinkles on the face due to aging are not admired either. Therefore, there is a need to adequately put in place checks and balances to respond to these circumstances competently. Chapter one highlights the problem at hand. Chapter two is literature review. Chapter three explains the methodology used in carrying out the research. Chapter four is about data analysis that attempts to articulate the current situation on the ground. Chapter five contains the discussions and recommendations. Finally, chapter six presents a project proposal that may be useful to counteract this sprouting phenomenon.
The Church and Human Promotion in Technical Education
(Tangaza University College, 1998-04) Aringo, Margaret
The subject of this essay is technical education. The Church has always shown a keen interest in the development of technical education. When talking of the Church, we are particularly referring to the Catholic Church, whose major aim is at creating and elevating the dignity of the poor, and raising their status in the Kenyan society as elsewhere. The Church aims at making a major contribution to the objectives above, through involvement in technical education, hence the titteThe Church and I luman Promotion in Technical Education'. This essay is an attempt to bring out the contribution and role of the Church in technical education, and the challenges facing this education in Kenya at present. My main aim in ' exploring this area is to provide some elements of reflection on these challenges, not only for local Churches and religious institutes, but also for the Kenyan government. I also hope to offer some possible orientations and proposals for action to improve technical education in institutions that are already in existence. The essay is as a result of both primary and secondary data collection. Primary sources of information involved: going out and visiting different technical training institutions run by the Church. This included interviewing those in administration of these institutions about the group of people (street children, orphans, primary or secondary school leavers), they are training; some government owned institutions were also visited and those in charge were interviewed. The secondary source of information is mainly from periodicals and a survey on the industrial training needs assessment and institutional capacity and capability in Kenya prepared by the Federation of Kenya Employers (EKE). This essay is divided into three chapters with two sections in each chapter. The methodology followed in this study is that of see, judge and act. In chapter one, I have attempted to give the meaning, role and trace the history of technical education in Kenya. It is a fact that the history of this education cannot be written without reference to the Christian missionaries and the colonial government. All these, up to the present existing institutions offering technical education in Kenya, will be seen in the first section. That the Church has always been concerned in the development of technical education is clearly set out in the second section of chapter one. This concern stems from the vision of her mission to care for the poor. To pursue this concern, the Church has contributed to this education through her dioceses, parishes and religious congregations in Kenya, by setting up technical training institutions. Some of these institutions are strictly for the Church, and others are in partnership between the Church and the government of Kenya. They include youth polytechnics, Christian vocational training centres and technical training institutes among others. We cannot treat the Church owned government due to partnership pointed above. does she control the policies concerned with institutions separately from those run by the Moreover the Church has no monopoly, neither technical education in Kenya. For this reason, chapter two examines sonic of the challenges facing technical education in Kenya. Section one of this chapter deals with technical training institutions while section two is concerned with disharmonies that underlie technical training in Kenya. In response to the challenges pointed out in chapter two, concrete measures and proposals to improve technical education have been discussed in chapter three in the first section. Citizens of any country need a training that will enable them earn a living and transform their lives. It is in this context that the Church insists on the promotion of training for transformation. Hence section two gives the Church some guidelines in this underlying task. Finally, there is a curious illusion that a more complete research is possible when there is less to know. My point here is that no course of study, neither does this essay claim any position of ideal completeness nor are the omitted facts of surbodinate importance. Therefore, this essay is only but a stepping stone to further research.
Comboni Missionary Sisters As Social Ministers in Kenya From 1964 To 1998
(Tangaza University College, 1998-04) Esposto, Rita
The thirty-four years of life the Comboni Missionary Sisters have lived in Kenya, their involvement in the fabric of life of many Kenyans, their methodology of mission, the objectives and future goals as well as some suggestions for a better approach to mission, are part and parcel of this paper and the very reason for its existence. This essay is divided into three main chapters based on the see-judge-act research methodology. The sisters' commitment in health, women's promotion and education has been described, evaluated and some new proposals given as new ways to bring about a more contexualised ministry and relevancy in today's Kenya. I believe this to be the first scientific attempt to research and analyse the style of presence of the Comboni Missionary Sisters in Kenya, and furthermore, to be the first concrete application of the teaching dictated by the principles of social ministry into real life situations. Moreover, the novelty and beauty of this essay is that it is an experiential one based mostly on the lived praxis of the people it deals with. A questionnaire was used to gather the initial data. Twenty-six of them were sent out to various sisters involved in different ministries. Interviews were carried out as a means to collect first hand verbal information about the data researched. A great deal of the information making up this paper is also coming from the knowledge I gathered during my two years as a student of Social Ministry as well as from my personal reflection derived from belonging to the community of the Comboni Missionary Sisters. I have chosen to delve into the various aspects characterising the presence of the Comboni Missionary Sisters in Kenya primarily driven by the fact that this missionary family holds as a major priority the commitment to the integral development of women. The founder, Daniel Comboni, strongly believed in the presence and role of women in mission. Women were given a place of relevance in his Plan for the Regeneration of Africa. Comboni "was in fact convinced of the importance of education, particularly of women and young girls, and emphasised the necessity for lay women and missionary sisters to bring about a change in the condition of the African woman. For Comboni, consecrated women in Africa could help the African woman to be freed from poverty and oppression. In welcoming the light of the Gospel message, the African women would receive the power to lead their own people to freedom. '" This has been also my desire as I went about doing my research and I truly wish that my work and efforts will serve the cause of further reflections aimed at bringing about an always fuller life both for the Comboni Missionary Sisters in Kenya and the Kenyan women as well.
Communication
(Tangaza University College, 1996) Mwaniki, Esther N.
As human beings we possess many skills, gifts and graces. All these originate trom who is the giver of everything. Among all these gifts and skills, communication is most significant and useful. l am mostly concerned with the efficiency with which one shaws his or her opinions, ideas and feelings with other people. Through communication we interact with others, learn about them and ieveal ourselves to them. U is through communication that our personal relationships are established, maintained and sometimes destroyed and repaired. We create relationships with people in many ways through speaking, story telling, gestures, dances, dramas and rituals. In Africa we have rich cuain41 means of communication that should be retained and promoted. Today there are new means of communication. They are available to us in the form it television, radio, books and newspapers. These are called mass media. 'They connect us vvali people all over the world. For example by telephone and tax we are instantly in coward with people who are far away, These means of comnumication are vital to us today. They affect the way we think i. feel, pray, live and look at life. The modern means of communication change our way or feeling, reacting and living often without realizing it'. In different gatherings we interact with people-solving problems, developing new id, is and sharing knowledge and experiences. All in all we live and function in a society based un communication. Without the ability to communicate i.e. to speak, write, listen and read. of us would live in isolation, set apart from our fellow human beings.
Community Participation Rural Health Development: A Case Study of Nakuru District in Kenya
(Tangaza University College, 2001-03-31) Munyua, Mary Wambui
Community constitutes the people living in one locality. In our study context, it refers to rural communities, that is, people living in the rural areas. Participation is taking part, being or becoming actively involved in something or some work. Community participation is, therefore, the active involvement of the whole people in the affairs or realities of concern to their community. Everyone takes part actively in every activity or organisation in that particular community. People become their own agents of development. The community participation for rural transformation is taken as the people's involvement in development projects by contributing human labour and material resources. It also includes the involvement of the same people in identifying their needs for development From there, the planning of a project or programme is undertaken. On this, Francis Wainbugu comments, "Common people are seldom consulted in the formulation of the plans and programmes and fixing of priorities". Need arises to acknowledge involving people in development projects that concern them at all crucial levels, namely, designing/planning, implementation and evaluation. In order to be genuine, this community participation should be present. The rural communities should be empowered to solve by themselves, their own problems. If it so, human development becomes totally genuine and embraces the whole person physically, emotionally. psychologically and spiritually. Their daily physical needs especially shelter, food, water, heat and security are addressed. Psychologically and emotionally love, care and company They also have need for personal relationship with the supernatural being. This search for truth about ultimate concerns and the mystery of life, death and God constitute the vital spiritual development
The Contribution of Montfort Missionaries for the Development of Women through Mass Media in Malawi
(2001-04) Harry Robert Chagoma, Henry
"We can understand the meaning of development etymologically by looking at its counter part. The Old French [mediaeval stem] puts the word 'to envelop' as a related word In this sense it means to wrap-up something or somebody. A very good example is of a letter put in an envelope. The letter is hidden by an envelope. Develop is referred to the opposite way and it means uncovering, this is the process of showing what was hidden. Therefore we should understand development as a movement towards positive direction despite the prefix [de] de - velopment. Development focuses on human beings for human growth. It is through human development that one can promote other developments because it involves human beings. Whether we speak of development in psychological, economic or political contents, it must sustain life. In life sustenance people are able to get basic needylike food, shelter and protection just to mention a few. Development touches the idea of respect and recognition. It promotes self-esteem of human beings, whether poor or rich, since respect and recognition as human beings allow them to be responsible and not be used as a tool. Media play a big position either in negating people or promoting people to develop. Some women are viewed as subordinates or objects in the media in this situation the media under develop women. In such situation women can not be developed. Again, the other value of development should be the freedom of being able to choose. Development can't take place where people are silenced and can not decide. By undermining those we call subordinates, we are limiting development because we do not want the subordinates, for example, the women or the poor to know what is revealed [refer to the first paragraph of development]. The idea of having freedom to decide or to express needs promotes development. The present modern world of technology is encouraging women to use the same media, which dehumanises them. Therefore traditional African values of communication should complement the modern mass media to promote women's development.
The Effects of Poverty On Children's Education
(Tangaza University College, 2004-04) Kassaye, Antuan Petros
Our world has consistently and persistently suffered from the cry of the poor. Some human rights activists, church organizations and governments preach about the eradication of poverty to pave the way for all people to live better lives; however, poverty is still proudly walking on our doorsteps. What is poverty? Poverty is a persistent problem, which has presented political and moral challenges to all societies at all times. In its simplest definition, poverty is a lack of the basic means of survival. The poor are those who, in normal circumstances, are unable to feed and clothe themselves properly, and risk death as a consequence. Latria sees poverty as a humiliation and the sense of being dependent and of being forced to accept rudeness, insults and indifference when we seek help. This definition makes lots of sense in our society today, especially when one is to make any comparison between the so-called rich and poor, the poor man is always trampled upon. The poor has no mouth and has no rights where they matter. The poor suffer from the hands of the rich and the poor are at the mercy of the rich. Such are the conditions of the poor as one poet describes them: The issue of poverty, therefore, is commonplace, but more visible on our continent of Africa. So many people are ravaged by poverty and so many children cannot go to school, while others are not privileged to enjoy the sweet moments of childhood because their parents have no time for them, as they go in search of food for their young ones. Other children suffer abuses from frustrated parents who are alcoholic. Other children go through the hard experience of broken dysfunctional homes. Education, on the other hand, is seen as a tool for enlightenment and salvation for the human race. Education, both informally and formally, is vital for the growth and the proper development of an individual. Challenged by poverty, many families in Africa are not able to offer basic education that should be provided in the family; hence it is harder to provide children with formal education. Poverty adversely affects education and the consequences include prostitution, robbery, the increase in moral decadence among the youths, and so on. Hence, unwanted pregnancies and abortions are very prevalent among young people. In my opinion, the lack of education caused by poverty plays a major role in these social problems. During the fact-finding stage of this research, the writer was personally involved in the day-to-day activities of the Bosco Boys Kuwinda project, Nairobi. The project is a non-governmental project run by the Church congregation of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Bosco Boys Kuwinda deals with the poor youth. They pay special attention to street children. The activities of Bosco Boys Kuwinda include: rehabilitation programmes, tailoring training, carpentry workshop, garden/shamba, dairy cattle, computer courses, piggery, poultry and sports (scouting, football, basketball, volleyball). In this research, the pastoral circle method of See, Judge and Act is the guide post in this narrative. The "See" dimension is where information on the ground is analysed. The information on the ground has been gathered from the writer's experience of working among the youth in the Bosco Boys Kuwinda project. The writer has broader and in-depth experience of working with the poor in Kuwinda for five years (1998-2004). All these five years of experience have been a challenge and a time of reflection for the writer about the plight of the poor youth. Therefore, this research paper is a part of an action taken in order to deepen our understanding and raise awareness about the poor who bleed daily in our neighborhood. The primary and secondary information in this paper is largely obtained from Tangaza library materials and interviews conducted in Kuwinda slum.
Empowerment of Women In Kenya
(Tangaza University College, 1998-04) Kamara, Simon Muriithi
Women have been discriminated and their rights have been violated since time immemorial. They have been overlooked by the male chauvenism and the traditional cultures. These two aspects have contributed a lot to the humiliation of women to a great extent. Some view woman as second class human beings, who should always be under the 'umbrella of a man'. In this Essay, I will suggest how women in Kenya can be empowered. Though women should be empowered in all spheres of life, I will concentrate on the following spheres: political and legal, economic, health and educational. In the first chapter I shall try to portray the status of women in connection with the above spheres. The second chapter is intended to elaborate the main reasons as to why women are in those positions they are in the society. In the third chapter, I will suggest how women can be empowered in political and legal, economic, health and educational spheres. Then I will also propose Gender Responsive Education as one of the most important aspects which, I feel, can enhance women empowerment in the society, if at all it is put into practice. In this long Essay I will apply the See-Judge-Act methodology which I believe is an appropriate and recommendable approach for social ministries in mission. Before embarking on what I am intending to elaborate concerning the empowerment of women in Kenya, I would like to clarify some of the relevant terminologies which I believe they are relevant to the Essay, namely empowerment and women.
Experience In Chaminde Training Centre
(Tangaza University College, 1998-09-15) Kamara, Mary W.
Urbanisation is them 'n course of the high rate of the population in Nairobi city. The city attracts young people aged 16years to years from rural areas for various reasons. The insufficiency land ,t near the villages lack of lancji. Poverty because of drought and famine. For example Machakos, Kisumu and many other places. City salaries are much higher in comparison to rural income in general about one third of lowest official city salaries. These also includes house allowances. As a result of infrastructures in rural areas which encourages many people to come to the city. Most of the modem equipments are available for example running water, electricity, schools, dispensaries and hospitals. Sociological reasons which affects young people in particular when city dwellers either university students, laborers or unemployed return to the rural for a visit they acquire prestige in the eyes of rural population because they are smart dressing on the latest fashions. For young people these is considered as a big issue and therefore many young people in rura rream ofi to come to the - io city themselves. These are some of the information I got from some of the clients in Mukuru slums. Chaminade training centre is assisting the needy people to be independent through canceling, skill training, spiritual sharing and referrals. In these area education is one of the most important aspect which I feel will enhance needy people empowerment in Chaminade training centre in Mukuru slums in Nairobi. In my experience in Chaminade training centre, I apply the Seejdge- Act methodology which I believe is very important and recommendable approach for social ministries in mission. The following pages I will share about my experience in Chaminade training centre one of lmani projects in Mukuru slums in East land of Nairobi. These programme consists of about 50 expectant mothers who are in pregnancy crisis. The Women come from nearby slums which are Mukuru site of Njenga, Reuben site, Sinai, Pipeline, Quarry and Lunga Lunga. Most of these women are single mothers but there are also a few who are married. The single mothers many times attempt to carry out abortions due to the lack of finance, unmarried status, inability to raise children and mostly because of lack of basic necessities. Married mothers find themselves also in a stressful situation because of unplanned pregnancy which comes at an early stage when they are still breast-feeding. In this case, the married mothers find it difficult to plan or even space their children,iince artificial family planning is not accepted in tthhee Catholic Church,-bat also it has many side effects on the health of mothers, and-therefore it A is not practiced in most families by the married couples. The women attend clinic at the medical Missionary of Mary dispensary, and they are later referred to the Social work office for counseling and for family life lessons which enable them to carry on the pregnancy up to delivery time rather than carrying out an abortion. During the time of pregnancy, these women attend classes once a week every Tuesday afternoon. They have lessons such as Natural family planning, group sharing for building their self-esteem and Ante-natal clinic and to give birth in the hospital, food and nutrition, personal hygiene and video shows on stages of Child development and of abortion. Gospel living lessons are also offered to them for nourishing their spiritual needs, and installing i/good and healthy moral conducts in their day to day life. After delivery, each woman is provided with a set of baby clothes and half of the maternity fees is paid for them. It is after two weeks that these women join the mothers group lessons.
Family Life Education: The Challenges That The Youth Are Facing Due To Ignorance In Their Human Sexuality.
(Tangaza University College, 2001-03) Njogu, Pauline
The research examines the challenges that are facing youth on matters concerning human sexuality, due to ignorance and how to deal with the issue. The study also aims at searching the general attitudes of the society towards youth, difficulties and problems they encounter through their sexuality. Data collection involved experiencing life among the youth of Ongata Rongai, talking to them apart from reading and analysing secondary sources. In so doing, we are sensitive to See, Judge and Act methodology. Among our research findings, is the fact that the youth are part of the society but are not taken seriously. The youth have a great need for family life education. They need to understand self and others, including family and their place in the family and their responsibilities. They also need self control and be capable of differentiating infatuation, sexual desire and love. The proper formation, the youth will grow slowly integrating things step by step. By the time they become adults they are expected to be balanced human persons in their sexuality. Our plea is that this is a no-one-person's responsibility but we must corporately network to adequately address this social challenge. Finally, my research follows some pattern. The first chapter is the background to the phenomenon. Chapter Two focuses on literature review. In the third chapter is about research methodology. The fourth chapter deals with results and analysis. The fifth chapter. we cites the observations and theological reflection for social analysis. The last chapter proposes strategies towards rehabilitation programs and a project proposal to implement our suggestions.
The Food Crisis In Sub-Saharan Africa
(Tangaza University College, 1997-05) Kabagambe, Vincent K.
Food is the prime sustainer of human life. Yet, no other region in the world finds itself so haunted by food insecurity. While Latin America's per capita food production is rising and population growth rates decreasing, exactly the reverse is true of Africa. Whereas health improvements elsewhere are recorded, drought and famine continue to impair the health of Sub-Sahara's enormous populations, particularly its children and elderly. By 1985. some 150 million African - more than a third of the region's population - depended partially or totally on imported food. Even currently, the World Bank estimates 60% of these human lives as consumers of fewer calories than required for normal life. This helps to explain why 5 million children in Africa die every year and another 5 million are crippled permanently by malnutrition and hunger. If this essay will expose the depth of the food crisis, in order to trigger useful responses from its readers, then its purpose will not have been in vain. This Essay seeks to address the complex question. What has gone wrong in Africa? It does so from one, but nevertheless vital angel: The Food and Agricultural sector. Space and time have restricted me to a summary discussion of the defects in the structures and systems of this sector typical of Sub-Saharan Africa; and also the factors judged to be responsible for people's inaccessibility to adequate food supplies. I selected Kenya as a case study of specific constraints that block achieving food security. A series of significant issues were then underlined as crucial to Kenya's food security. It is important to note that this essay claims neither strict professional nor exhaustive treatment of the topic. For instance, no marine food sources were discussed, statistical computations and inferences are minimal. Specifically, the scope of this project has sought to be informative on the need to transform structures, factors and systems that render food security an illusion for Africa. Basically, the research design (method of data collection and analysis) is largely random. This means that when referring to Sub-Saharan Africa, every country within this population (region) has the same or equal change of being considered as a case for reference. South Africa and Nigeria are not components of the population. Even in the case of Kenya, all data is provided on a random basis. The data for the research project was all gathered and summarised either as deductions from already published researches, documents or papers; or as personal perceptions and syntheses on the subject. Tables and figures in the text were borrowed from sources given in footnotes.
Impact of Development on Environment
(Tangaza University College, 1997-04) Dzinda, Eddie
The purpose of this paper, is precisely to investigate the relationship between human development activities and environment. The research is purposely made technical as an attempt to put to surface the reason why so many people, organizations and nations are particularly worried about this issue. To reach to this point we shall historically trace some development activities of our fore-fathers in relationship to their contact with die environment. This shall be coined with an investigation of the modes they used to conserve nature. A combination of these two aspects form our first chapter. The second chapter is the central theme of our discussion. In this part we shall try to see main causes of environmental degradation. Attracted by the call of the Pope John Paul H, ( in his encyclical, Sollicitudo Rei Socialltis) in which he calls for a global respect for nature. The pope realized that the natural resources are limited and using them as if they are not exhaustible would seriously endanger their existence, thus denying a God-given access to nature for both present and future generation. In this case we shall attempt to spontaneously highlight the need for a true solidarity with the future generation. To come up with information, we employed some few techniques. The teclmique used is mainly empirical observation and recorded material. The first and departing point of this paper is based on observation. In this area a deductive procedure played a vital rule because we have drawn the general principles and leading ideas from what we observed to particular areas of environmental degradation. Our approach was also analytical, in that several terms, notions and details were scrutinized in the areas that suited our paper only. We also used a comparative approach for we went back to history and compared the past activities with the gravity of the present. In spite of this, it should be borne in mind that this paper is not exhaustive in it's own nature, It is a starting point for further future reflections to be made in this area.
An Integral Response to Challenge Of Leprosy a Case Study of Misufini Leprosy Centre
(Tangaza University College, 2002-04-03) Mwinami, Vincent M.
The researcher examines the phenomenon of people with leprosy, highlighting some of the major causes that lead to these people being discriminated against and isolated from their families and society to languish in poverty. The study explores the general attitudes of the society towards people with leprosy difficulties and comes up with possible strategies for intervention. People with leprosy are part and parcel of human life. But the society does not recognise them. The society views these people as a problem rather than as a priority in development plans. Drugs are being provided free by international organisations such as World Health Organisation (WHO), German Leprosy Relief Association (GLRA), and International Leprosy Presentation (ILEP). But due to lack of interest among the leaders, corruption, misuse of funds, economic instability, our government have failed to import them. The research clarifies that leprous people are keen on improving their life, but they lack sufficient support from the government and society. Given proper facilities these people could contribute more in their own development. This work is divided into six chapters. Chapter One gives background information on the area and issue of research, stating the problem, objectives, basic assumptions and justification of the study. The second chapter is a review of literature related to the study. The origin of leprosy, its causes and risks and the current situation in different countries are looked at. The gaps regarding studies on leprosy are identified. Chapter Three shows the research methodology used in data collection. In particular the sampling procedure and the tools used in carrying out this research are discussed. In the Fourth Chapter, we have analysis of data emanating from research findings. Chapter Five is a theological reflection on people with leprosy. Views of the society, from the Bible and the social teaching of the Church on the reality of leprosy are explored. The attitude of people with leprosy towards themselves, the researcher's experience with these people and role as a social minister are included in this chapter as well. Recommendations and conclusions deriving from the study finalise the chapter. Chapter Six is a project proposal for the work. It represents the pragmatic response to the issues highlighted in the study. The researcher has come up with a project proposal as a step addressing the real needs of the people with leprosy in Misufini Leprosy Centre (MLC).
Integrated Home Care Aids Services
(Tangaza University College, 1998-09) Barozi, Anselm
Aids was first recognised in Uganda in 1981, but because of the negative feelings and sensationalism that surrounded this subject, the Govt. of the day decided too bury its head in the sand like the proverbial Ostrich. A lot of time therefore lost between 1981 and 1986, when the recent government got into power. Our government has had no qualms about being frank to our people on issues of a National catastrophe such as the a Aids epidemic. When NRM (National Resistant Movement) came to power in 1986 the problem had already spread to most part of the country. The gates to national and international effort aimed at controlling the epidemic was opened. Unfortunately, our government's efforts and the high level of awareness among the population, the AlDs epidemic is becoming more and more serious in the place. However, this awareness has over the last few years started paying off I am informed that there has been a marked decline in the incidence o other STDs. AlDs has, however, hit hardest those who are not only in their most sexually active fears, but also in their most economically productive years. A number of professionals working in government and other institutions have died. This will affect production by small-holders, which accounts for over 90% of our country's export earnings. With regard to social services, AIDS is already affection our over-stretched medical services. Apart from looking after AlDs patients, secondary infections such as tuberculosis (TB) have increased because of AlDs. It is understood that already a two - to - three fold increase has been observed in our region, where dominant TB is common. Yet treatment for a single case of TB costs US $ 126. If you remember that the per capita health expenditure is US$ 3.50 in this region, you cansee the magnitude of the problem. In Uganda, over the six last years with the help of UNICEF, Uganda has managed to achieve over 90% immunisation coverage for the six Immunisable diseases, including TB, thus dramatically reducing the infant Mortality rate To make matters worse, I am afraid, however, that AlDs might reverse these achievements
Mukuru Promotion Centre
(Tangaza University College, 1998) Meheretab, Lula
The project paper was-canied-eut-at the Mulcuru Promotion Center as a study case during the long holidays. The Mukuru project was very important for a social minister to be immersed or experience for future ministry. The project personnel is made up of social workers and community development workers. The project paper mainly deals with the different features that is; its history, scope of the study area, methodology study and analysis, problem factors or analysis, problem, organizational structure; long term and short term strategies, the project activities and planing approach, financial aspect, development of slums, etc.. In social ministry or mission, it is helpful to be able to deal with these issues. The paper will also mention the observation and recommendations and, analysis of the activities. In my view, the two months of experience at the Mulcuru Center was a very cresting one. It enabled me to understand the lives of the population; their strength and their weaknesses specially their needs. This project is an attempt to try to defend their right and dignity by working and living with them.

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