Masters Theses or Dissertation

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Access to Justice Regarding Property Rights for Widows: A Case of Three Wards in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Tangaza University College, 2019-08) Muteithia, Catherine
The problem investigated by this study was access to justice regarding property rights for widows in Kasarani, Kibera and Kayole wards in Nairobi City County. The injustice suffered by widows in Kenya casts doubts on the equality envisioned in the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and its contribution to sustainable development of the society. This study employed the descriptive research design and made use of the mixed method design as both qualitative and quantitative data was required to provide more comprehensive as well as substantive data. The researcher used questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions to gather both qualitative and quantitative data. Content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data through identification of themes concerning challenges affecting widows as they access justice, cultural factors that facilitate the social exclusion of widows, and assess knowledge of existing laws and institutions that may assist the widows. The main objective of this research was to find out the specific areas and strategies that the widows could use to contribute towards property rights and social inclusion for social transformation. The study identified the barriers that stop widows from accessing justice and explored the levels of awareness and avenues of seeking legal redress among widows. The researcher further proposed that if there are interventions by significant others government, NGOs and CBOs, the family, religious institutions- the problem of inaccessible justice would greatly reduce if not eliminated altogether.
Assessment of Impact of a Hope-Building Intervention on Flourishing among Undergraduate University Students in Karen W, Lang’ata Constituency, Nairobi County.
(Tangaza University College, 2022-10-11) Churu, Beatrice W. E.
There is increasing recognition of the need for sustainable character formation of youth in Kenya, towards promoting better mental health outcomes. This study aims at contributing in character formation and improved mental health—by assessing the impact of an intervention of the character strength of hope among the participants towards ameliorating their level of flourishing. The study is carried out among young university students in Karen Ward of Lang’ata Constituency, Nairobi County. Pre- and post-intervention tests using the Adult Hope Scale (AHS) of Snyder and the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) of Corey Keyes were administered to a group of students in each of two Universities (N= 190)—one became the control and the other the intervention. Between the pre-test and post-test, the intervention group was administered a six session hope-building intervention in the context of group counselling. Through a Pearson coefficient (r) analysis carried out on the combined pre-test data of the two groups, a significant positive correlation (.569) between levels of hope and of flourishing was established. A Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance (R-MANOVA) carried out on the pre-test and post test data on hope and flourishing showed improvement for both variables in both groups. The difference in the extent of change is considerable with the control group positive difference at a mean of 0.63 and 5.28, compared to the intervention group mean difference of 7.28 and 12.43 for hope and flourishing respectively. Simple linear regression analysis a small but statistically significant influence of the intervention on flourishing levels (F = 10.9, p < .05), and gives a significant .314 or 31% influence of the raised level of hope on the raised level of flourishing. This impact of the intervention implies that character development can fruitfully be mainstreamed in the accompaniment of university students towards optimum flourishing outcomes.
Assessment of The Influence of Competitive Strategies on The Financial Performance of Small and Medium Dairy Processors in Nairobi County
(Tangaza University College, 2020-03) Mwangangi, Veronica
The dairy industry in Kenya plays an important role in the creation of employment and food security. It is one of the major drivers which the country is using to achieve the Sustainable Development goals and Kenya Vision 2030. The success of the sector however, is dependent on the ability of the different firms to improve performance through gaining a competitive edge that is sustainable. The main purpose of this study was to find out the competitive strategies used by small and medium dairy processors in Nairobi County, and to assess the influence the competitive strategies have on the financial performance of the firms. Specifically, the study sought to find out the competitive strategies used by small and medium dairy processors in Nairobi County, assess the influence of cost leadership strategy on the financial performance of small and medium dairy processors in Nairobi County, evaluate the effect of differentiation on the financial performance of small and medium dairy processors in Nairobi County, establish the influence of cost focus on the financial performance of small and medium dairy processors in Nairobi County, and determine the effect of differentiation focus on the financial performance of small and medium dairy processors in Nairobi County. The study used a descriptive survey research design, and a census of the firms. Questionnaire was the key instrument of data collection. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The summarized information was presented using tables and charts. The study found out that the dairy enterprises had adopted the differentiation strategy more than the cost leadership, cost focus and differentiation focus strategies as represented by 32% of the respondents. Additionally, from the findings of the study, 67.5% who were the majority of the respondents indicated that cost leadership had influence on the performance of the firms to a moderate extent, while 62.7% agreed that differentiation strategy influenced performance to a very large extent. Cost focus strategy with 31.3% majority and differentiation focus strategy with 44.5% majority also had influenced the performance of the firms positively to a moderate and large extent respectively. This implies that the adoption of Porter’s generic strategies influences the performance of firms. The study concluded that firms use more of the differentiation strategy since it had more influence on sales growth than cost leadership, cost focus, and differentiation focus strategies. It is recommended that a longitudinal and inferential study be carried out on a larger study population of the small and medium dairy firms, which extends beyond Nairobi County. The study recommended that a replication of the study be carried out using more objective measures of performance like profits. The conclusions made from the study findings may be used by managers of both existing firms and new entrants into the industry, who may need to make decisions on what competitive strategies may be suited to their business in order to position themselves in the industry and to improve performance.
Association between Fathers’ Involvement and Children’s Marriage Outcome Among Church-Going Couples in Westlands Constituency, Nairobi County-Kenya
(Tangaza University College, 2021-09-11) Maina, Stella W.
The role that a father plays is crucial in the development of a child’s emotions, cognition and social adjustment and research has been done on the impact that fathers involvement has on a child’s development right from infancy through adolescence and into adulthood. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between father involvement and their children’s marriage outcome. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the level of fathers’ involvement among individuals; to establish the effect the involvement of fathers has on marriage relationships; and to investigate the relationship between father involvement and demographic factors. The study was based on the Attachment Theory as well as the Theory of Psychoanalysis. This study employed the survey research design among married individuals both male and female from Westlands Constituency in Nairobi County who were above eighteen years of age. The data was collected using questionnaires from 384 participants using simple random sampling. The completed questionnaires were then analysed by the use of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) whereby the descriptive statistics were analyzed using frequencies and percentages while the inferential statistics were analyzed by use of the Pearson correlation coefficient. The study found out that there was low father involvement among the respondents that participated in the study. Father involvement was also found to have a statistically significant negative effect on marriage relationship outcomes (r= -0.312 at a p-value of 0.000). Moreover, the study found out that father involvement had a statistically significant positive relationship with age (r=0.127; p<0.05), gender (r=0.294; p<0.05), education (r=0.603; p<0.05), and marital status (r=0.592; p<0.05); but a statistically significant negative relationship with the number of years married (r=-0.232; p<0.05) and type of father figure (r=-0.270; p<0.05). The study recommends that a similar study be conducted to determine why marriage relationship satisfaction is low in cases where biological father figures are present in the children’s lives.
Association between Intrinsic Motivation And Academic Performance among Technical Vocational Education and Training Students In Two Faith Based TVET, In Nairobi and Nakuru
(Tangaza University College, 2016-08) Tarnongu, Biin Godwin
There is a fallacious but commonly held belief that Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is a field for academically inadequate students who need skills for employment. This negative perception could serve as a discouragement to TVET students. However, these students remain committed to attending TVET institutions up to graduation, which suggests that something motivates them. Studies have shown that, intrinsic motivation commits students to learning. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to establish whether intrinsic motivation is a driving force in the academic performance of TVET students. The study reviewed literature related to intrinsic motivation in learning, and the negative attitudes society has towards the TVET system of education. The study used cross sectional research design. As such, Mwangaza College, Nakuru, and Don Bosco Boys Town Technical Institute, Nairobi, were conveniently sampled. 182 respondents in Nairobi, and 166 respondents in Nakuru were randomly sampled (155 females and 193 males). The Intrinsic Motivation Inventory, with a demographic section, was used to collect data. Descriptive analysis of Intrinsic Motivation Scores across the Sampled Institutions showed that the overall average level of intrinsic motivation among TVET students was high (104.53/126). However, result from a one way ANOVA found no link between intrinsic motivation and academic performance. Students with B had the highest intrinsic motivation (M=105.6, SD=11.5), and students with D had nearly the same intrinsic motivation (M=102.0, SD=15.5) with B students. This result suggests that high academic performance could be a blend of intrinsic motivation and other factors not tested by this study.
Association between Perceived Family Support and Purpose in Life among Secondary School Students Living within Moshi Municipality in Tanzania
(Tangaza University College, 2017-07) Maleli, Josephat
The purpose of the study was to investigate the association between perceived family support and purpose in life among secondary school students living within Moshi Municipality in Tanzania. This study found that young people with proper perceived family support tend to have a well-defined purpose in life and this is often associated with higher levels of individual happiness. Correlation study design was used. The method used was quantitative. Using convenience sampling, four schools with different socioeconomic statuses were chosen to participate in the study. A sample of 378 students was randomly chosen from these schools. Data was collected using questionnaires which contained questions relating to demographic data and questions relating to the objectives of the study. Data for the objectives was collected using a perceived family support scale and a purpose in life scale. Data was analyzed as descriptive and inferential. Pearson‟s correlation and linear regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between perceived family support and purpose in life among the students. The study examined the efficacy of demographic details in enhancing purpose in life. The influence of demographic variables such as such as age, gender, family income, education background, religious background, residence and living situation on purpose in life was measured using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). In general, the results suggest that while family support perceptions are conceptually increases through the mediators the more purpose in life increases. The analysis revealed a seemingly strong perceived family support with more than 96% of the students claiming that their family really tries to help them. Similarly, more than 90% of the students attested to the fact that their personal existence is purposeful and meaningful; with 92% of the students stating that they have clear goals and aims in life. The study revealed that only gender had a significant association with purpose in life (F =5.77, p<.05). Female students showed significantly better purpose in life (M=86.2, SD=11.6) than male students (M=83.6, SD=12.8). Other demographic variables such as age, family status, religious background, residence and living situation showed insignificant influence on purpose in life. The hypothesis that there is significant relationship between demographic variables and purpose in life among secondary school students living in Moshi Municipality is thus partially supported in favour of gender. The study revealed that the students surveyed had high levels of perceived family support and purpose in life. Male students had insignificantly higher levels of perceived family support than their counterpart female students whereas female students have significantly higher level of purpose in life than male students. The study concludes that there is a significant association between perceived family support and purpose in life. This means that about 90% of variations/changes in purpose in life are explained by other factors that were not tested during the current study. The study recommends that future studies on the association between perceived family support and purpose in life should include other variables not considered in this study, such as culture and happiness.
Association Between Purpose in Life, Depression and Anxiety Among Youth During the Covid 19 Pandemic in Kibra Constituency, Nairobi County
(Tangaza University College, 2022-09-11) Mutune, David Sila
Low levels of purpose in life are leading causes of depression and anxiety among the youth during covid-19 pandemic in Kenya since March 2019. This study analysed the association between purpose in life, depression, and anxiety in the period 2019-2021. The study collected primary data from a sample of 380 youth in Kibra Constituency, Nairobi County. The sample size per ward was arrived at through proportionate sampling technique. The study used Purpose in Life Test to measure levels of purpose in life and the Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale to assess the level of depression and anxiety. Both descriptive and inferential analysis were carried out using SPSS. The finding showed that participants had 89.3% low, 4.0% moderate, 6.7 severe anxiety while, on the hand, 53.6% had severe, 11.7% moderate, 34.7% mild depression. The finding also showed that Female were more depressed at 36.8% than male 28.5%. Furthermore, the study found that respondents had 77.1% low levels and 22.9% high levels of purpose in life. Depression and anxiety combined the participants had 60.8% low, 25.1% moderate and 14.1% severe. The outcome of this study recommends that the Ministries of Education and Health need to initiate policies on mental health intervention as mandatory for Kenyan urban slums to counter the negative influence on psychological health. The findings from this study can be useful to psychologists, psychotherapists and counselors to create more awareness of purpose in life among the youth.
Association between Religiosity and Psychological Wellbeing Mediated by Religious Commitment among Members of Catholic Religious Orders in Nairobi County
(Tangaza University College, 2018-08) Kaivu, Winfred
Religiosity and Psychological Wellbeing have been widely researched in scientific studies. However, there is limitation of research between intrinsic/extrinsic religiosity and psychological wellbeing mediated by religious commitment among Members of Catholic Religious Orders in Nairobi, Kenya. Therefore, the present study analyzed the association between religiosity and psychological wellbeing mediated by religious commitment in a sample of 282 members of Catholic Religious Orders in Nairobi, aged between 25-60 years. New Indices of Religious Orientation Revised (NIROR), Religious Commitment Inventory and Ryff’s Psychological Wellbeing Scales were used to this aim. A causal comparative, cross-sectional study design was used to explore the effects of variables in a non-experimental setting. To achieve the objectives, descriptive analysis, simple linear regression, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and Pearson’s correlation were used to analyze the data. In addition, the study examined the impact of demographic variables of age, gender, level of education and years of religious profession on Psychological Wellbeing of members of Catholic Religious Orders. The study revealed that years in the Catholic Religious Order played an important role in influencing the relationship between Religiosity and Psychological Wellbeing. Participants in Catholic Religious Orders who had over 10 years had better Psychological Wellbeing than those who had been in the Catholic Religious Order for less than 10 years. The results of Pearson’s correlation showed positive significant association between intrinsic religiosity and psychological wellbeing and negative significant association between extrinsic religiosity and psychological wellbeing. The study also found out that religious commitment had significant influence to the relationship between intrinsic religiosity and psychological wellbeing but no significant influence on the relationship between extrinsic religiosity and psychological wellbeing. This means that members of Catholic Religious Orders with intrinsic religious orientation had significantly reduced psychological wellbeing compared those who had extrinsic religious orientation when exposed to much religious commitment. Lastly, to explore how members of Catholic Religious Orders could improve their religious commitment and psychological wellbeing, 3 focus groups consisting 8 participants each were conducted. The qualitative study showed that in order to promote psychological wellbeing, the leaders of Catholic Religious Orders have to come up with formative programs which can help the members to become intrinsically oriented for the sake of those who may be struggling with low psychological wellbeing.
Association between Self-Esteem and Happiness among Tangaza University College Student: A Comparative Study between the Lay and Religious
(Tangaza University College, 2018-09) Kariuki, Rosemary N.
The study explored self-esteem and happiness among the students from Tangaza University College Nairobi-Kenya. The study adopted a quantitative method, and used a crosssectional design. It targeted Religious and lay students in Tangaza University College. A systematic random sampling technique was used and a sample size of 298 students was gotten for the study. The Rosenberg Self-worth Scale, and Oxford Happiness Questionnaire by Hills and Argyle were the instruments of measure used to collect data. The data collected was cleaned, coded and analyzed using descriptive analysis and inferential analysis (Cronbach’s α, Pearson’s r, regression, t-test and ANOVA) with the statistical package for social sciences version 21. The results of the study showed that there are high levels of self-worth and happiness among the respondents. Demographic variables such as gender, age, educational level and religious background had no influence on self-worth and happiness among the participants. However, residential location had an effect on happiness of the participants. Religious students had higher scores in self-worth and happiness compared to their lay counterparts with t(296) = -3.171, p = .002, less than (p < .05) on self-worth and t(296) = -2.096, p = .037, on happiness. Lastly, the study shows that selfworth is not associated with happiness with Pearson’s r = .061, and p=.298). The importance of the study findings and limitations were discussed and suggestions for future research and the application of the findings of this study into the life of the target group for better self-worth and happiness.
Association between Work Engagement and Dimensions of Burnout among Catholic Priests in Durban Metro, South Africa
(Tangaza University College, 2017-09) Vukani, Johannes Phoseka
The present study focused on the association between work engagement and burnout. Previous studies suggest that work engagement and burnout have a negative correlation. This implies that they cannot exist in an individual at the same time. Whereas most of the research on the association between work engagement and burnout has been done in other parts of the globe, little has been done in the African context and has focused on other populations apart from priests. In this light, the study sought to examine the association between work engagement and dimensions of burnout among Catholic priests in Durban Metro, South Africa. Despite the fact that priests in this context seem to manifest a certain commitment and satisfaction in their work, they also seem to be overwhelmed by its demands. A mixed method design was used and data collected from 191 priests. Findings revealed significant levels of both work engagement and dimensions of burnout which implies that they experience both burnout and work engagement concurrently. The study serves to sensetise priests on the fact that the positive experience of work engagement can be compromised by the negative experience of burnout, and consequently lead to negative implications on their ministry. Persons who have direct and indirect relation with priests, such as Bishops and religious superiors as well as the beneficiaries of priestly service, can learn from the study that priests are human beings who need both moral and material support in order to sustain a positive experience of work.
Association between Work Engagement and Dimensions of Burnout among Catholic Priests in Durban Metro, South Africa
(Tangaza University College, 2017-09) Phoseka, Vukani Johannes
The present study focused on the association between work engagement and burnout. Previous studies suggest that work engagement and burnout have a negative correlation. This implies that they cannot exist in an individual at the same time. Whereas most of the research on the association between work engagement and burnout has been done in other parts of the globe, little has been done in the African context and has focused on other populations apart from priests. In this light, the study sought to examine the association between work engagement and dimensions of burnout among Catholic priests in Durban Metro, South Africa. Despite the fact that priests in this context seem to manifest a certain commitment and satisfaction in their work, they also seem to be overwhelmed by its demands. A mixed method design was used and data collected from 191 priests. Findings revealed significant levels of both work engagement and dimensions of burnout which implies that they experience both burnout and work engagement concurrently. The study serves to sensetise priests on the fact that the positive experience of work engagement can be compromised by the negative experience of burnout, and consequently lead to negative implications on their ministry. Persons who have direct and indirect relation with priests, such as Bishops and religious superiors as well as the beneficiaries of priestly service, can learn from the study that priests are human beings who need both moral and material support in order to sustain a positive experience of work.
A Call to Live the Gospel Way of Life In Pursuit Of Ultimate Happiness According To Thomas Aquinas
(Tangaza University College, 2014) C. Togarasei, Haparari
In discussing on Aquinas‟ teaching on ultimate happiness, we will bring about the understanding on how this teaching is related to the gospel call for eternal happiness especially the Beatitudes. The project is all about trying to promote a living faith and faith in action among the believers as a way to attain ultimate happiness. The entire study has four chapters. Chapter one gives us the general introduction, this includes the structure of the study; purpose of the study, the rationale of the study, the central question of investigation and the methodological consideration. Chapter two treats the teaching of Aquinas on ultimate happiness. We will explore how God is perceived in Aquinas‟ ethics and how Aquinas sees the unity between the ethical lives we live now and the life with God at the end of our life here on earth, which is the ultimate end. We will be interested more on the divine influence in one‟s moral life. In chapter three we deal with the beatitudes and the necessity of the Church in the pursuit of ultimate happiness. The CCC teaches us that the beatitudes confront us with the decisive choice concerning our using of earthly goods as we prepare ourselves for the final end, eternal life. (cf CCC, 1726). We will look at how the church helps us to enter into the commitments of faith; the church will be depicted as the community of belief and action. The church helps and calls us to pursue this journey to ultimate end with conviction, vigor through the help and encouragement we receive from the community of believers. In the last chapter, chapter four, we will treat the topic on suffering and ultimate happiness. We will also look on how we should teach or preach about ultimate happiness to people who are suffering and who seem not to be experiencing the love and goodness of God in their life situations.
Care for Creation a Christian Environmental Ethic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
(Tangaza University College, 2012) Kamwanga Kibila, Joseph
Today, more than ever before, the phenomenon of the environmental crisis is presented as the crucial threat to all life-forms on the planet. Forests are cleared, rivers are drying up, rains are becoming short and unpredictable, cancer cases are increasing, and nuclear accidents just as it has happened in Japan on March 22/2011. All these situations have become a cause of great concern for all people living on earth. Innumerable conferences and meetings, from Rio de Janeiro to Pocantico, from Kyoto to Kuala Lumpur, from Copenhagen to Cancun and Durban, have been held by world scientists, economists, and policymakers in the same spirit of great concern about the environmental crisis, as an effort of searching for a global solution for this problem because every creature is suffering from it whether directly or indirectly. Peter Raven, the director of the Missouri Botanical Garden, wrote in the paper titled “We Are Killing Our World” with a similar sense of urgency regarding the destruction of nature. Many theories have been developed about the damage to the earth. Some people have even charged Christians with carelessness and an arrogant attitude towards creation. Others blame human activities through modernisation and technology as the roots of the damage to creation which we are experiencing today. Other people still say that human beings have nothing to do with the environmental crisis because it is mostly natural. They, for instance, mention natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, floods provoked by typhoons or tsunamis, etc. I had an experience during my childhood concerning the environmental crisis. We used to play football in a big green field with many trees, reserved for children’s games. That space does not exist anymore because all the trees have been cut down and houses have been built. This is the case as well for some forests which have completely disappeared in my region. In face of such a situation and being aware through the courses I had in Theology at Tangaza, I have realized that this problem cannot be overlooked anymore. In order to be concrete in my topic, I took the case of my country, DRC, which has become one of the greatest victims of the environmental crisis caused by the careless attitude in using the natural resources which are considered as a ‘scandale géologique’ resources. 2 , in other words, the incommensurable quantity of its natural I believe that in this turmoil, the Church already plays a preponderant role in the environmental crisis as the moral, spiritual teacher and conscience of society. This fits well with DRC where more than half of the population are Christians. I find the Christian approach to environmental ethics very inspiring. It comes across as the best remedy to the suffering we are causing to the earth and to ourselves. Christian ethics on the environment does not only concern the relationships between humans with humans but also humans with creation and humans with God. It says that the root of the problem is interior (selfishness) expressed through the human irrational exploitation of creation forgetting that the human being is part of it. It is this spirit of selfishness and consumerism which destroys and kills our world today. Thomas Berry, viewing that people have become so selfish in excess in the way they relate with the environment; he suggests a “new cosmology in order to value the beauty of nature” This is a good and wise suggestion because once humans destroy the ecosystem, the web of life in creation, everything starts falling apart. Therefore we cause global warming which manifests itself in many different ways like drought, desertification, erosion, extinction of species, air and water pollution, etc. This ‘Copernican revolution’ in the environment crisis grew fast, especially in the domain of science and technology around 1960s; it was initiated a long time ago by E. H. Haeckel 4 in 1873. Many solutions as well have been suggested with regard to the environmental crisis from the secular world and the Christian world as well. From my part, I am going to show how a Christian approach to environmental ethics is essential and important to restore peace and harmony between humans and non-humans. Pope Benedict XVI in his message for the World Day of Peace of January 2010 chose the title ‘If you want to Cultivate Peace, Protect Creation’. This theme shows that the relevance and necessity of harmony between human and creation and between humans and the Creator is fundamental for our survival. In his conference on new cosmology, Joseph Mitchell quoted Thomas Berry stating that ‘to destroy creation is to destroy humanity’. Therefore, it is of our interest to take care of creation and play our role of co-creators created in the image and likeness of God; to be more responsible for the creation which God himself found good after having created it (Gn. 1:1-25). Sean McDonagh confirms the previous idea saying that if the present trends continue, by the turn of century we will face an environmental catastrophe as irreversible as any nuclear holocaust.
The Catholic Church’s Evangelization and the Contemporary Challenges of Family Life in Nairobi
(Tangaza University College, 2012-06) Kientga, Joseph
The thesis aimed at understanding the Catholic Church’s evangelization and the contemporary challenges of family life in Nairobi. The research was carried out in Nairobi in Saint Theresa parish in Eastleigh and in Our Lady Queen of Peace parish in South B, among the middle and lower socio-economic classes from different ethnic communities. The study explored people’s understanding of evangelization today with regards to family life, the traditional understanding of family life, the contemporary challenges affecting many families in Nairobi and the way in which the Catholic Church is addressing these contemporary challenges in her mission of evangelization. The study pointed out that with the modern and urban lifestyle of Nairobi, the African family which is the basic cell of the society is undergoing rapid flux in its structure, size and values. The traditional African family life characterized by its big size in term of wives and children, its togetherness, unity, solidarity, generosity, hospitality is seriously challenged by modernity and urban lifestyle. Many families are, therefore, facing contemporary challenges such as poverty, economic constraints, unemployment, abuse of alcohol, unfaithfulness, HIV and AIDS and domestic conflicts often leading to divorce and separation. Evangelization was, therefore, understood not only as the preaching of the Good News of Jesus Christ in the Church or the mass conversion of people to Christianity, but the whole process of making the Gospel alive in people’s daily life. Furthermore, it is bringing love, hope, justice, peace and reconciliation in families. In other words, it is the living and witnessing of the Kingdom of God in daily life and in the family. Since Vatican II held in 1962-1965, the Catholic Church of Africa and especially in Nairobi has shown considerable pastoral concern towards the families. The conclusions and recommendations on marriage and family life from many Synods and plenary assemblies are still to be implemented. Furthermore, the study pointed out the Catholic Church’s pastoral approach to family life is predominantly based on the Western understanding of the nuclear family and therefore does not address adequately the contemporary challenges facing the families in Nairobi. The study concluded that despite the modern and urban lifestyle which has affected both individuals and their families, resulting individualism, family breakdown, HIV and AIDS, street children, criminality, immorality and deviant behaviours, most Nairobi residents still value their lineal family. Family life is still highly valued as communal and integral including not only the nuclear family which lives in Nairobi but also the relatives back in the rural areas, the ancestors and the yet-to-be-born. So, it is in this communal framework that all the issues, joys, difficulties and challenges related to family life should be dealt with especially by the Catholic Church’s Family Ministry. The thesis, therefore recommended a profound inculturation of the sacrament of marriage in such a way that the lineal families of the two parties involved in marriage and the Small Christian Community (SCC) will have an active participation in preparing the young couples for marriage. The lineal families and the SCC, through their guidance, advice, spiritual and material support will have the responsibility to journey with them in their joys and challenges. In addition to the establishment of competent Family Ministry with qualified pastoral agents in the parishes of Nairobi, the study also recommended that it is necessary to have a Youth Ministry which will journey with the youth in their search for intellectual, moral, emotional, psychological and spiritual fulfilment. With the high rise of Domestic conflicts and family breakdowns, the study argues that it is urgent that the Catholic Church in Nairobi especially the clergy, the religious and all the lay pastoral agents make the contemporary challenges of family a pastoral priority. This will save the precious social and religious institution from crumbling and will make it a real “domestic Church”.
Challenges Facing Urban Refugees in Running Small Scale Businesses: A Case of Great Lakes Refugees in Nairobi County
(Tangaza University College, 2017) Maina, Charles Githua
The main objective of this research was to study the challenges facing the urban Great Lakes Refugees doing small scale businesses in Nairobi County - Kenya. The study examined whether the great lakes refugees had legal documents, whether they were able to access finance for small scale businesses, whether they faced security issues while trading in Nairobi County and whether they had capacity to access the market for their products. The study attempted to explain how the urban great lakes refugees acquired and faced the challenges in search of livelihood. A situational analysis was carried out as the background for the formulation of the research problem and a systematic review of literature was conducted to establish the theoretical and conceptual framework. The study methodology used was a combination of both qualitative and quantitative research design. Population of urban great lakes refugees was 468 and those doing small scale businesses were 197. Purposive sampling was used to select 60 respondents to fill the questionnaires, where later four Focused Groups Discussions (FDGs) comprising ten members each were carried out for the verification and complementarity of the questionnaires responses. The data analysis was done using descriptive statistics while inferential statistics were used to draw conclusions from the collected data and presented using pie charts, bar graphs, frequency tables and percentages. This was done through Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) and Ms Excel. The found that very view urban great lakes refugees had proper legal documents to allow them live and work in Nairobi County, thus living majority of them hidden “illegally” in the public fabric. They involved themselves with all manner of small scale businesses for livelihood. These businesses had no legal permits since they were not registered with the relevant County authorities. They also faced great challenges in accessing finances/loans for start-ups or for growth of their businesses. Majority had received small amount of cash from TUSA only once, which was insufficient and had no capacity to acquire more due to repayment challenges or lack of collateral for the same. They had no capacity to acquire finance from government institutions. On the other hand, those who were venturing into businesses had high challenges on book keeping skills for they lacked financial and management skills. Great lakes refugees living in Nairobi (City) County, faced numerous security issues. These included arrests by police officers, harassment, intimidation, threats, sexual abuse, assaults, thefts and tribal conflicts. They were arrested, harassed and beaten by security agents and money was demanded from them. They faced the similar security challenges from the local citizens. These challenges were attributed to lack or delays in issuing refugee status legal documentations. Closure of Department of Refugee Affairs and fear of deportations blocked majority of refugees from seeking registration or renewal of their documents. The great lakes refugees in small scale businesses faced a challenge to accessing the market and depending with the kinds of products they traded, they took between one to thirty days in selling away their products. Refugees in the urban centres in Nairobi County faced societal challenges too. These included language barriers, lack of formal education, ethnic differences from fellow refugees. They lacked sufficient knowledge or awareness of refugee Acts or policies that facilitated their rights as human persons and therefore the society took advantage of this over them. The study also attempted to analyse the relationship faith and experiences in order to understand how faith, wisdom, experience, traditions and general knowledge kept the refugees moving on with life. The study ended by proposing participatory action – oriented plan and strategies based on short and long term plans. These included meetings, seminars/training workshops, language training, small group’s kitty, creating networks/alliances/collaboration/partnership, lobbying and advocacy, visibility campaigns, co-operative formations, budgeting/fundraising, on- going research, monitoring and evaluation and finally integration programme. All these are aimed to achieve Social Transformation for urban refugees in Nairobi County.
Christian Understanding of Jesus Christ In Relation To the Mission of the Church Towards Muslims
(Tangaza University College, 2014) Jigeesh Baby, Benjamin
Encounters between people of different religions are part and parcel of the socio-religious context in the world today which is inevitable in any society. The experience that I acquired gave me a deep desire to promote interreligious dialogue among people of different religions, especially in the field of Christian – Muslim relations. Undoubtedly we can say that it is God who inspires one to engage in dialogue through encounter for one finds one’s origin in God. It is said that, “At all times and in every race, anyone who fears God and does what is right has been acceptable to him. He has, however, willed to make men holy and save them, not as individuals without any bond or link between them, but rather to make them into a people who might acknowledge him and serve him in holiness. He therefore chose the Israelites to be his own people and established a covenant with them. He gradually instructed this people…All these things, however, happened as a preparation for and figure of that new and perfect covenant which was to be ratified in Christ…the New Covenant in his blood; he called together a race made up of Jews and Gentiles which would be one, not according to the flesh, but in the Spirit” (Cf. CCC,741). In fact, it is so evident that Jesus had a couple of encounters with gentiles in his public ministry. And those encounters did not just happen by chance but were well planned in the salvific mission for all humanity. These encounters are well immersed into the mission of Jesus including all humanity, regardless of religions, traditions, tribes and gender. Obviously, Jesus had a great concern towards gentiles and the encounters he had created a new dimension of relationship between Jesus and those gentiles. This led eventually to a total transformation. Today the Church is called to carry out the same mission of Jesus Christ towards other religions, especially, with Muslimswith the same spirit of Jesus; a mission that considers encounter as an inevitable element and a threshold to open up dialogue with Muslims as far as the mission of the Church is concerned. It is only through encounter and dialogue that the Church can create a better relationship with Muslims. Jesus in the gospel seemed to have created a good relationship with Gentiles. The encounters he had with them eventually led him to engage in dialogue. Therefore, the aspect of encounter and dialogue isthe principal foundation for evangelization as far as the mission of the Church is concerned towards Muslims. In this long essay, we would like to make a comparative study between the encounters and dialogues of Jesus that are found in John’s Gospel and the encounter and dialogue mission of theChurch today towards Muslim. To see how the encounter of Jesus influenced the mission of Church today towards other religions, especially Muslims, and shaped the perception of the Church by Muslims as far the missionof the Church is concerned. Having had enough encounter and dialogue experience with my Muslims friends during my two years of pastoral period in Northern Ghana, I am prompted to write this long essay on this theme based on that experience in my life. This long essay has helped me to prepare to live an authentic missionary life in relationship with Muslims everywhere in the world, as foreseen by our founder Cardinal Charles Lavigerie and later redefined by the Society of Missionaries of Africa. I am confident that this effort will surely bare sufficient fruits in order to enrich my understanding of relationship with Muslim. And we are sure that this work will enlighten all those who are interested in this area.
Christian Witness as a Tool for Evangelisation amidst Religious Plurality
(2016) Kabuya Ntumba, Daniel
One of the successes of Vatican II was that of exciting awareness on the changes that occur in the modern world. The changes affect every area of human life. Realities such as technology, modernity, communication, and religious pluralism make people close to one another. The world has become a global village. People are no longer “isolated” from one another as they were some few years before. This marks a new epoch in the history of the world. Due to these changes, we observe an unbelieving tendency in the modern man. This unbelieving tendency engages man into circumstances where he forgets completely his primordial vocation that is love. On the one hand, we witness to realities of religious wars, violence, and religious hostility in which some Christians act contrary to the law of love: “You must love the Lord with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbour as yourself” (Mk 12:30-31; Lk 10:27). On the other hand, others misuse religions to justify their actions against others. What can we say about religious pluralism? Today, none dares to deny the phenomenon of globalisation. enhances the possibility of a community-world. We do not need to travel to China or to India to meet Hinduism, Buddhism, or Judaism. Rather, we live with them and share the neighbourhood together. In fact, we are the next-door neighbours to people of other faiths. Moreover, migration, technology, and even travel contribute largely to the knowledge of various cultures and beliefs. Due to neighbourhood, some people find it difficult to practice freely their faith. In countries such as Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, and India, Christians feel “persecuted” and “denied” of their right of religious freedom. Again, some states do not give way to “religious tolerance”. This gives rise to tendency to embrace fundamentalism and secularization. To that, we add modernisation that offers new values and meanings to man. As noted in Gaudium et Spes, the modern change brings much worries and anxieties to man: “Torn by a welter of anxieties he is compelled to choose between them and repudiate some among them. Worse still, feeble and sinful as he is, he often does the very thing he hates and does not do what he wants” (GS, 10). This situation compels the researcher to assess the divine commission that says, “Go, therefore, make disciples of all nations; baptise them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to observe all the commands I gave you. And look, I am with you always; yes, to the end of time” (Mt. 28:19-20). To assess the divine commission is to scrutinize Christian witness effectiveness within the modern world. Christians are invited to reflect upon the methods and ways used in the fulfilment of the command of the Lord. The fulfilment of the divine command is a matter of witness. Christian witness does not consist of proclamation through words only. It is beyond that. Christian witness is rather a combination of words and actions. This means that Christians are instruments through which God brings salvation to people: “Go, for this man is my chosen instrument to bring my name to Gentiles and kings and before the people of Israel” (Acts 9:15). We realise that Christian witness uses more the person of the preacher as God’s ways to reach out to people. Thus, to evangelize 3 3 2 and its today is to establish correspondence between words and actions. It is only in this way that Christians may identify themselves as Disciples of Christ: “It is by your love for one another, that everyone will recognise you as my disciples” (Jn 13:35). In this sense, Christian witness becomes effective for evangelisation. The effectiveness of Christian witness lies in reflecting the person of Christ in one’s life. Paul states that, “I have been crucified with Christ, and yet I am alive; yet it is no longer I, but Christ living in me” (Gal. 2:20). Having explored some of the changes of the modern world, the researcher intends to propose Christian witness as a powerful tool for evangelisation. This entails that Christians must not engage themselves in a wrestling with the unbelieving world as far as evangelisation is concerned. Rather, they are called to witness to the person of Jesus through both words and actions and surrender the outcome to God. They are called to, as Barth says, “let God be God”.
Collaboration between the Ordained and the Laity for Effective Administration of Apostles of Jesus Shrine-Karen
(2017) Jeketule Soko, Jacob
This section presents the information to the understanding of the entire research. It includes the background of the study, statement of the problem, objectives of the research and research questions, the justification of the study, the scope and significance of the study, justification of the research, and delimitation of the study. According to the leading scholars Lovell and Batten, collaboration is working with the people, not working for them and has its origins in the world of developmental studies, community work and non-directive ministry 1 . On the other hand, ministry derives its meaning from “diakonia” a Greek word implying to serve. Thus collaborative ministry in the church refers to a fundamental desire to work together in responding to each ones vocation of being at the service of each other and putting our giftedness and charisms to the growth of mission entrusted to us by Christ. 2 This response to being in communion with each other is rooted in the one baptism we receive as Christians and therefore a response to the call of working together to express our unity in the one God and with the one mission of Christ handed on to the church. Collaboration between the Laity and the ordained is a necessity in the church in a sense that it brings together the ordained pastors and the laity to realize their responsibility of responding to their call of sharing in the mission of Christ. This is affirmed by the Second Vatican Council in her document Lumen Gentium (LG) that emphasizes that all faithful form one body of Christ (the church) and the different gifts and charisms of each member are connected with those of others and strengthened by a common sharing(Cf. LG 13).The Council further asserted that there is “diversity of ministry but unity of mission (Cf. AA 2)” in the church hence the need for working in collaboration in the different apostolates we are called to serve in the church as the mission and goal is one and for Christ. The VII Ordinary General Synod of Bishops (1987) acknowledges the fact that lay active participation in the church is initiated by the holy spirit who continues to renew the youthfulness of the church by inspiring her members to aspire for holiness through collaboration between the laity and the ordained, active participation in liturgy, catechesis and in all other apostolate groups within the church 3 . In the subsequent post- synod exaltation ‘Christifideles Laici (1988)’, Pope John Paul II asserts that collaboration of all faithful exists in the spiritual order where all are called to bring the message of Christ and his grace to all as well as in the temporal order where all are called to permeate and perfect the spiritual reality with the evangelical spirit. This assertion challenges the reluctance of the ordained in sharing responsibilities pertaining to the Laity while at the same time calls the laity into active participation and collaboration in the administration of their Church.
Comparing Two Models of the Catholic Church: Scc Model Of Church and Apostolic Association Model of Church.
(Tangaza University College, 2012) Mdawida, Armogast
The church is always faced with difficulties but has to keep focusing at its mission of proclaiming the Good News about the kingdom of God. In order for her to remain relevant, there is a need to re examine the tools which she uses to render services. It is in the context of these reflections that the AMECEA Bishops had to look for a suitable model of church which ought to respond very effectively to the complex situation. After the Second Vatican Council, two models of church in Africa have been visible namely SCC model of church and apostolic association model of church. However in 1973 the Bishops within the AMECEA region preferred the SCC model of church and since 1976 have adopted SCCs as the key pastoral priority in evangelization. The researcher will elaborate the bishop’s position and how they have been championing the progress in different conference. At the same time the active participation of priests, religious men and women plus the lay faithful will be discussed. On the other hand the importance of apostolic association will be sighted. At the end the researcher will give a theological reflection and suggest on the future plans.
The Contribution of Indigenous Economic knowledge and Practices to Social Transformation
(Tangaza University College, 2019-06) Sergon Jelagat, Pascalia
The study engages the Endorois ethnic group from Sinende Location of Baringo County in Kenya to examine African indigenous economic knowledge practices to Social Transformation. It incorporates systems, practices and values, and their contribution to maintaining social well-being and economic equity. Further, it attempts to show that negative elements of the neo-liberal capitalist model such as individualism, greed and ecological destruction can be re-balanced by the adoption of African indigenous economic practices and values. In doing so, the study seeks to demonstrate how displacing indigenous economic practices and values affect the community. Linking indigenous economic knowledge, practices, and values to social transformation, the study seeks to establish that both share similar approaches to achieving an egalitarian community. The study adopted an ethnographic approach. Capability Approach theory, and the Balanced-Growth theory, together with the Kalenjin philosophy of maat supported the study. Data were gathered through observation and participation in the community’s activities, events and ceremonies, one-to-one in-depth interviews (IDIs) with key informants and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with Endorois Councils of Elders. The participants, during this fields work, were purposively selected with help from community’s influencers from Lake Bogoria and Sinende areas of Endorois community. The selection of participants focused on those who were considered knowledgeable in culture and history of the Endorois. The findings of the study show that indigenous economic practices and values of the Endorois accords every member of the community a ‘universal right’ to procure wealth while prohibiting the destruction of nature’s resources. The findings also point out that abandonment of African indigenous economic system and adoption of neo-liberal economic model could be key amongst causes of social, economic and ecological crises experienced in Africa and particularly by Endorois community. The findings further propose that re-engaging Endorois indigenous economic practices and values can pave the way for social transformation and reduce individualism, economic inequality, and destruction of natural resources.

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