JHIA Africa Thesis Bank
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Youth Digital Activism in Countering Tribalism in Kenyan Political Space: A Case Study of Kibra, Nairobi-Kenya
No full textIn Kenya, tribalism is deeply embedded in its political space and it remains a significant challenge as it often fuels division, discrimination, and electoral violence. The recent technological advances particularly in social media has significantly given birth to digital activism among the youth. In Kenya, young people are using digital platforms to advocate for unity and inclusivity as opposed to the division brought about by tribalism in the country’s political space. This study examined youth digital activism in countering tribalism within the Kenyan political space, specifically focusing on efforts in Kibra, Nairobi, an area that has for long been associated with a history of tribal political conflicts. The study examined how digital activism shaped perceptions about tribalism and contributes towards peacebuilding. Using mixed-methods, this research combined qualitative techniques, such as interviews and focus group discussions, with quantitative tools, including surveys to collect comprehensive data. The findings examined how youth digital activism could counter political tribalism and promote sustainable peace in Kibra. The study significantly contributed to the scholarly field of peace studies and conflict resolution, and will guide policymakers, civil society, and peacebuilders in using digital platforms to cultivate unity and cultural diversity
Children Rights and Free Public Primary Education in Kenya: A Case Study of Ongata Rongai Ward in Kajiado County
No full textEducation is the 4th Sustainable Development Goal. The goal stipulates that by 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes. Though Kenya has introduced free primary education, many learners have not been able to benefit from this opportunity. Following the human rights theory, the researcher sought to explain how children’s rights in Ongata Rongai ward have been violated because only one public school is available. Data was collected using quantitative and qualitative research methodology. A questionnaire was administered to 61 respondents and complimented with 10 key informant interviews. Respondents were from the four primary schools that were selected to participate in this study. Two of the primary schools were private, while two were public. The findings revealed that the current public schools are overcrowded and that learning resources like desks are not enough. The infrastructure within public schools needs renovation as well as new classrooms and sanitation facilities. The public primary schools in the study are very far from each other, and students must walk long distances to reach them. The learning environment is not conducive for the learners because of overcrowding, which also over stretches the resources and teachers. These challenges violate the rights of these young learners, to learn in an environment with the required resources and thus get an education that enables them to fulfil their potential. Despite these challenges, sponsors have stepped in to provide water storage, learning materials and renovation of sanitation facilities. The study concluded that additional public primary schools are needed in Ongata Rongai ward, and they should be equipped with enough learning resources including teachers. The findings benefit the Ministry of Education, parents and governments officials to note the urgent need for more public primary schools in Ongata Rongai ward. Children rights organizations and the donor community will be able to strengthen dialogue and advocacy on free primary education. The academia benefited through knowledge expansion on free primary education
Contested Ownership: Examining Property Rights Governance and Conflict in Artisanal Small-Scale Mining Communities in Nyatike Sub-County, Migori, Kenya.
No full textThe purpose of this study was to examine how contested ownership and governance of property rights contribute to conflicts in Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) communities in Nyatike sub-county in Migori, Kenya. To achieve this, this study explored the legal ambiguities that fuel tensions and assess the extent to which governance systems, both formal and informal, can mitigate disputes. Guided by property rights theory and resource conflict theory, the study was structured around four key objectives. The first objective sought to identify the types of property rights that exist within ASM communities, the second sought to investigate the main governance issues contributing to disputes over ownership and access, the third sought to assess the socio-economic and communal impacts of contested property rights, and the fourth investigated the policy and regulatory frameworks that can promote conflict resolution and strengthen ASM governance. Adopting an exploratory research design, the study utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect and analyse data. The researcher used purposive, convenient and snowballing sampling techniques to reach out to 125 respondents. The data collected was coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 23 and Microsoft excel. The findings are presented in the form of tables, charts and graphs, verbatim and discussions that are supported with literature. The research findings revealed that contested property rights in Nyatike Sub-County are driven by weak governance, corruption, and overlapping institutional roles, which perpetuate mistrust, conflict, and fragile livelihoods in the ASM sector. To address property rights governance and conflict in Nyatike Sub-County, the study suggests locally grounded, inclusive, and accountable policy frameworks that balance formal regulations with community-driven governance systems to foster stability, equity, and sustainable resource management
“Women’s Traditional Secret Societies and Peacebuilding: A Case Study of the North West Region of Cameroon”
No full textThis study examines the role of Women’s Traditional Secret Societies (WTSS) in peacebuilding in the North West Region of Cameroon during the ongoing Anglophone Crisis (CAC). Historically, groups such as Takembeng, Anlo, and Fwibwen exercised significant influence in conflict resolution, moral regulation, and social cohesion through ritual protest, spiritual authority, and collective action. Despite this legacy, they have been marginalized in present-day responses to the CAC, which prioritizes militarized and elite-driven interventions. The research explores why these societies have been unable to exert the same influence in the current crisis and how their resources might be harnessed for sustainable peace. Adopting a descriptive qualitative case study approach, data were collected over one month through interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation in Nkwen, Kom, and Babanki. Thematic analysis revealed that WTSS historically functioned as peacebuilders, counsellors, mobilisers, troubleshooters, and social life animators, but their effectiveness has been curtailed by fear, modernization, religious opposition, and male dominance. Nonetheless, they retain strong desires for peace, readiness for empowerment, and potential for partnership. These findings underscore the need to revitalize and integrate WTSS into formal peacebuilding frameworks. The study benefits policymakers, NGOs, peace practitioners, and scholars by highlighting culturally rooted approaches crucial for sustainable peace in Cameroon
Globalization and Refugee Identity: The Impact of Digital Technology on Belonging among Refugee Youths in Dagoretti, Nairobi.
No full textThere is insufficient documented evidence on refugee perspectives and lived experiences as they integrate with host communities, given the fluid nature of identity formation in a globalized world and the growing refugee phenomenon. This thesis research is an exploration of the impact of digital technology on belonging among refugee youths in Dagoretti, Nairobi, through the voices of the refugee youth themselves. The study employed qualitative and minimal quantitative research methods, including reviewing of case studies, interviews and focus group discussions to capture diverse experiences of urban refugees in Dagoretti, Nairobi County, Kenya. The thesis found that digital technology plays a role in refugee youth identity formation, directly or indirectly through sharing with the host community. Therefore by analyzing the versatile negotiating abilities of the refugees, the thesis is able to contribute to the discourse on the complexity of identity formation. The findings provide valuable insights for governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community organizations to better support refugees in affirming their identity while adapting to their new environments, add to the documented information on refugee youth voices, and has shared recommendations on possible entry points for projects to support integration of refugees with the use of technology in urban areas
Role of Religious Institutions in Political Change and Democracy: Case Studies of Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, And Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
No full textReligious institutions play a significant role in shaping the political landscapes of various African nations, including Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These countries, each marked by its unique historical, socio-economic, and political context, have experienced diverse struggles for political change and democratization over the years. The role of religious institutions in these processes has garnered attention and scholarly inquiry within the respective nations. In many African nations, they represent not only religious centres but also formidable platforms for the dissemination of socio-political ideologies, civic engagement, and the advocacy of human rights. This literature review seeks to unravel the complex interplay between religious institutions, political change, and the evolution of democratic ideals in these East and Central African nations.
While the role of religious institutions in politics is not unique to this region, the dynamics and outcomes differ significantly from one country to another. Understanding the intricate roles religious institutions play in these diverse contexts is paramount in shedding light on the broader dynamics of political transformation in Africa. Through a thorough examination of existing literature, this review aims to provide insights into the contextual analysis of the aforementioned countries, which covers the socio-economic and political situations in the selected countries and challenges related to political change and democratization. The review assesses strategies employed by various faith actors, including political parties, civil society organizations, and international entities, in shaping political transitions. With a focus on religious institutions, we also analyse their specific roles, strategies, and impact on political change. This review will explore the values guiding these interventions, encompassing universal religious tenets and regional expressions. Ultimately, we will conclude with practical recommendations for harnessing the constructive influence of religious institutions in promoting political change and democracy in Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo
Mission as Life Awakening in Africa and Beyond: Revisiting the Theology of Life of Engelbert Mveng (1930-1995)
No full textThe Study aims to reimagine the Christian Mission in sub-Saharan Africa through the lens of Engelbert Mveng's Theology of Life. Faced with deplorable conditions and threats to life in sub-Saharan Africa, the study navigates between critical analysis, comparative theology, constructive theology and imperative analyses of Mveng's artistic works to develop a new way of doing mission. it shapes what could be labelled Mission as Life Awakening, which seeks to break with life diminishing narratives, structures, and mortal spaces and reconstruct new arenas where life can be nurtured and affirmed spiritually and actively in all dimensions
Happiness in Thomas Aquinas and Bernard Lonergan's Tripolar Dialectics of History: Towards Africa's Flourishing
No full textWhile exercising ministry in my home country, Cameroun, I have lived the negative effects of the internal confusion that can sometimes bedevil human life and the external chaos that can envelop society because of war. The case in point which I consider throughout this thesis is that of James Fonyuy, who experienced the death of his parents and family members. The Savage hostility in my country and many other African countries has clearly revealed to me the troubling dichotomy between faith professed and faith lived
Reimagining Constitutional Democracy for Human Flourishing: A Re-reading of Augustine’s Social Love, Ubuntu Ethics, and CST for the Zambian Context
No full textComparable to the person battered and left for dead and lying by the roadside, the poor in Zambia epitomized by the story of Regina Mukuka Nyirenda, a former civil servant, attest to the socioeconomic, political, and gender injustice ordinary suffer despite Zambia being a constitutional democracy and a Christian nation since 1991. Although, in theory, it ascribes to the dignity and rights of everyone without discriminating, the liberalist human rights regime (framework) underlying Zambia’s constitutional laws since colonialism promotes the flourishing of the elite neoliberalist class while perpetuating socioeconomic, political, and gender injustice. Conversely, it undermines the thriving of the victims of injustice and marginalizes them from substantive democratic political decision-making for their flourishing, the common good, and democratic polity. This dissertation seeks to promote social justice in solidarity with Zambia’s anawim using Augustine’s social love operational in the two cities in dialogue with mutual solidarity (ukwikatana) according to Ubuntu philosophy (ubwananyina) in the light of CTS’s call to social action on behalf of the poor using the paradigm of seeing, judging, and acting according to the signs of the times. I encapsulate the synergy of these three prisms in the African Ubuntu aphorism: “Your pain is my pain; my wealth is your wealth; your salvation is my salvation,” or what I express in short, Ubuntu solidarity for equal flourishing. Zambia’s democracy should promote democratic rights and social justice to be genuine. The Constitution must not only be shaped by the thin, rational, liberalist human rights tradition but also by the thick, communitarian one. It should be ethical and relevant to the people’s cultural context, aspirations, and experiences. Through a contextualized theology, the local Roman Catholic Church must participate actively in democratic polity by promoting civic education and shared action using cultural values for the message to be impactful: ubwananyina (familyhood) and ukwikatana (mutual solidarity)
The Preferential Option for The Poorest Street Children in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo: A Study Based On John Sobrino’s Theological Framework
No full textThis thesis explores child poverty in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), within the Preferential Option for the Poor (POP) context. The POP, a core principle of Catholic Social Teaching, emphasizes the obligation to position the needs of society's marginalized and impoverished at the forefront of moral and ethical considerations. The study, grounded in the theological framework of John Sobrino, delves into the plight of Kinshasa's street children, a direct manifestation of prolonged material poverty. It investigates the underlying causes, the multifaceted nature of poverty, and its implications on children's well-being and survival. The thesis examines the role of the Catholic Church in poverty alleviation, peacebuilding, and social justice within the DRC, focusing on the Centre Monseigneur Munzihirwa (CMM), a Jesuit social center for reintegrating street children into their families. It critically analyzes the impact and challenges of initiatives aimed at reducing child poverty, calling for a transformation beyond charity towards a spiritual and systemic alteration of the children's circumstances. The study also applies Emmanuel Katongole's paradigms for understanding Christianity's social role in Africa, advocating for a new imagination for street children in Kinshasa. This work concludes by arguing that true solidarity necessitates addressing the children's immediate needs and challenging the systemic inequalities perpetuating their marginalization. Furthermore, it suggests empowering them to become agents of liberation in a more just society. The research employs an interdisciplinary approach incorporating theological, ethical, sociological, and practical aspects. It contributes to social justice by promoting the principles of justice, love, and compassion advocated by Catholic Social Teaching, providing actionable insights for organizations working with street children in Kinshasa. Furthermore, it aligns with global goals of poverty eradication and promoting every child's right to a dignified life