Andrew R . Mukaria - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Andrew R . Mukaria

Research paper thumbnail of Christianity and African Spirituality: An Analysis and Evaluation of the Struggle between Christianity and Traditional Doctors in Igembe-Kenya

Research paper thumbnail of Police Brutality in Kenya: is it “utumishi kwa wote ama utumishi kwa wanasiasa” (service to all or to politicians)?

This research explores cases of police brutality in Kenya during the election period. It explores... more This research explores cases of police brutality in Kenya during the election period. It explores cases of police brutality in post-police reform period from 2010-2018. The study is done qualitatively, through content analysis, mainly a review of newspaper and articles detailing cases of police brutality in Kenya. These data are analysed thematically in regard to the research question. The findings of the research in relation to the research question found that the police brutality is still happening in Kenya, mostly during the elections period. The study further found that there is an ingrained culture of police brutality, which is influenced by historical, contemporary social-cultural and structural dimensions. I concluded the study with implications of the findings, with respect to the theory and the research. Further, the study offers suggestion to the reform policies within the context and adherence to the constitution. The suggestion offers two approaches, from below and from above. The approaches suggest; establishing grassroots policing, encourage community policing, reviewing the police recruitment, reviewing the police training curriculum, expanding financial and manpower support to the Independent Policing Oversight Kenya (IPOA), lay down proper parameter which will totally separate Police from executive authorities, and addressing the socioeconomic status of the police officers

Research paper thumbnail of Child Friendly Environments in Norway and the Kenyan Contexts

Jumuga Journal of Education, Oral Studies, and Human Sciences (JJEOSHS), 2021

The article explores the experiences of children within Norway and the Kenyan contexts. The main ... more The article explores the experiences of children within Norway and the Kenyan contexts. The main aim is to explore how a child-friendly context inspires honest behaviours. What ignited the interests in this comparative area is the study on 'civic honesty around the globe.' The article employs different techniques such as narratives analysis, observation, interview, and literature analysis so as to address the question under consideration. The findings presentthe subtle meaning of honesty from the Kenyan context and does not prepare children for honesty. Lastly, the article has made recommendations on the approaches that will ingrain the culture of honesty that is ideally inculcated in child friendly environments. Such comparative analysis will inform the future discourses, especially in the Kenyan context where Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) is taking shape.

Research paper thumbnail of Western colonialism: the genesis of the degradation of nature

Academia Letters, 2021

Introduction In this paper, I argue that Western culture is the genesis of sub-Saharan Africa con... more Introduction In this paper, I argue that Western culture is the genesis of sub-Saharan Africa contemporary massive degradation of nature. I discuss this because, before sub-Saharan Africa encountered Western culture, most indigenous African communities advocated for a coexistence between human beings and nature (Mukaria, 2021). Mukaria cites Ameru of Kenya, who had a solid ecological consciousness, and considered nature sacred (Mukaria, 2021). Furthermore, Jomo Kenyatta, in his book Facing Mount Kenya, the tribal life of the Gikuyu, explored the indigenous lifestyle of the Gikuyu people of Kenya before colonialism and how after colonialism, the natural world became viewed as a tool for exploitation (Kenyatta, 1965). Methodologically, this is a short and provocative article, per the requirements of the academia letters. The article is written using narratives and existing written sources. The main aim and goal of the article are to continue in the ongoing environmental and ecological discourses, mostly revisiting some of the unspoken and concealed indigenous knowledge of the sub-Saharan Africa context. The article acknowledges and contributes to some of the existing work, like Ecological Imperialism: The Biological Expansion of Europe, 900-1900 by Alfred W. Crosby, War, and Nature: Fighting Humans and Insects with Chemicals from World War I to Silent Spring by Edmund Russell, Salient Spring by Racheal Carson, and How Europe underdeveloped Africa, by Walter Rodney, to name but a few. European Expansion; slavery and colonialism Medieval Europe was largely self-contained, though Europe too experienced warfare, slavery and colonialism (Barker, 2019). Scholars have argued that it was the crusade (1096-99), which opened the way for the Europeans to interact and exploit other communities. The crusade generated a competitive atmosphere between Christian Europe and Islam near East and

Research paper thumbnail of THE EMERGENCE OF 20 TH CENTURY ECO-THEOLOGY, ITS MAIN FIGURES, AND KEY CONTRIBUTIONS

Andrew Ratanya Mukaria, 2021

The study explores the concept of eco-theology and its development in the 20th century. It also p... more The study explores the concept of eco-theology and its development in the 20th century. It also presents some of the key figures associated with eco-theological development and their contributions. The article is developed from a doctoral study defence lecture done on June 12, 2018, at MF-Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society. The article revisits some of the experiences of the researcher during a field study in Kenya.

Research paper thumbnail of Healing through Nature. A Lesson from the traditional Ameru culture in Kenya.

Academia Letters, 2021

The contemporary known cry in most parts of Meru and the entire Kenya nation is how rivers and sp... more The contemporary known cry in most parts of Meru and the entire Kenya nation is how rivers and springs are drying. Everyone, including school-going kids, understands the main factor contributing to this. The limited rains and reduced water relate to the loss of biodiversity, forest cover, and loss of the catchment areas. I have realized that most Meru people know of the causes of ecological degradation, but the challenge is the preservation and meeting their 'need' or 'greed.' There is also a lifestyle change, away from the traditional indigenous knowledge. This has contributed to a lack of viewing the forests as a sacred place of contemplation and healing. Additionally, forests are considered and understood in commercial terms, leading to further exploitation and escalating the suffering. I write this paper as a reflective narrative. How nature sacred meaning in the traditional Ameru culture brought healing in the society. The Ameru life lesson, how they interacted with nature, how they treated their living using nature, and how nature served as the resting place for their dead, is an integral part of how nature brought healing. It offered physical, psychological and spiritual healing. Their approaches might help us to see how nature is part of our healing; a recognition of our interconnectedness. There is no scientific claim to supports that their action brought healing, however, nature and spirituality generated hope and connected the dead with the living. Forested areas were part of their integral spirituality, an 'heaven' for their ancestors, who were watching over them. Defining the Ameru and their spirituality before Christianity Ameru is a Bantu group of people currently living on Mount Kenya's and Nyambene slopes in the present Meru County, Tharaka Nithi County and minorities in the surrounding counties (Isiolo, Embu, Laikipia Counties). The group comprises the subtribes, Igembe, Tigania, Imenti, Mwimbi, Miutini, Igoji, Muthambi, Chuka and Tharaka. Despite the sub-tribes,

Research paper thumbnail of Child Friendly Environments in Norway and the Kenyan Contexts: A Comparative Analysis

The article explores the experiences of children within Norway and the Kenyan contexts. The main ... more The article explores the experiences of children within Norway and the Kenyan contexts. The main aim is to explore how a child-friendly context inspires honest behaviours. What ignited the interests in this comparative area is the study on 'civic honesty around the globe.' The article employs different techniques such as narratives analysis, observation, interview, and literature analysis so as to address the question under consideration. The findings present the subtle meaning of honesty from the Kenyan context and does not prepare children for honesty. Lastly, the article has made recommendations on the approaches that will ingrain the culture of honesty that is ideally inculcated in child friendly environments. Such comparative analysis will inform the future discourses, especially in the Kenyan context where Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) is taking shape.

Research paper thumbnail of Towards Subjectivity A Paradigm Shift to “Identity” in Sub-Saharan Context

This article examines the ambiguity facing contemporary sub-Saharan African society. It explores ... more This article examines the ambiguity facing contemporary sub-Saharan African society. It explores the traditional Africa community, which had values embedded but that are now disintegrating. Communities have turned into primarily one symbols of identification and refuge without adding many values and meaning. Some individuals (as I sight from a context I understand—Kenya) have held their communities for their own personal and selfish gains, mostly for politics and when accused of corruption. On political, social, religious, and ecological matters, and in terms of a societal way forward, this article explores individuality within the community.

Research paper thumbnail of The Traditional Understanding of Grief Among Ameru in Kenya: A Diakonia Perspective

Jumuga Journal, 2019

AbstractThe main objective of this article is to explore the Ameru indigenous ways of overcoming ... more AbstractThe main objective of this article is to explore the Ameru indigenous ways of overcoming death and grief. Death and grief have always been the most challenging thing throughout the history of human beings, and even within contemporary society. The Ameru culture provided room, space and meaning of death and life after death to both the dead and to the living. The culture was an integral part of Ameru, especially on matters of death and grief. The culture provided values found to be helpful to the well-being of the Ameru people, in a holistic way especially in the period of grief and bereavement. The article explores these meaning and how they can be relevant to the contemporary society, which ethos are guided by the Church. Today, the church plays the central role in overcoming grief and bereavement. In meaning-making, there is a need for contextualization. Contextualization is an attempt to present the gospel in culturally relevant ways. For this reason, this article tries to explore some of the Ameruways of overcoming grief and how this can be relevant to the contemporary Church diakonia work and counselling of grief.

Research paper thumbnail of Theological ambiguities: A challenge to a constructive ecotheology in Africa.

This paper is written following an evaluation of the church role towards ecological crisis that i... more This paper is written following an evaluation of the church role towards ecological crisis that is happening at the Mau forest complex in Kenya. The place of the church in Kenya, and Africa is central, and the church theology still plays a normative role. Mau forest complex is a very important ecological feature in Kenya, and a major catchment area. As much as this very vital ecological feature and a major catchment area is experiencing degradation, churches in Kenya have remained aloof silent, and if anything is happening, it is not something tangible in comparison to the actions taken by the churches in Kenya towards other socio-economic and political issues in Kenya. It is within this understanding therefore that this paper is written to evaluate the reason behind this silence.

Drafts by Andrew R . Mukaria

Research paper thumbnail of The Social and Spiritual Aspects of Khat Among the Ameru People of Kenya

This essay delves into the social and spiritual significance of Khat (Mîraa) among the Ameru peop... more This essay delves into the social and spiritual significance of Khat (Mîraa) among the Ameru people in Kenya's central highlands, particularly focusing on the Iembe and Tiania subgroups. Historically cultivated for centuries, Mîraa is deeply woven into the Ameru's cultural fabric, influencing social interactions, traditional ceremonies, and conflict resolution. Socially, Mîraa fosters communal bonding through gatherings and discussions, while spiritually, it is used in rituals to connect with ancestral spirits and seek blessings. The modern era has seen Mîraa transition into a significant economic activity, albeit with challenges such as health concerns and international scrutiny. Despite these issues, Mîraa remains integral to the Ameru's cultural and spiritual identity. Efforts are ongoing to balance traditional practices with contemporary health considerations and economic sustainability, aiming to preserve this cultural heritage amidst evolving societal dynamics.

Research paper thumbnail of Norsk Stave Churches in Facilitating the Contextualization of the Gospel in Norway

2023

This study embarks on a journey to explore the multifaceted contributions of these stave churches... more This study embarks on a journey to explore the multifaceted contributions of these stave churches in the dissemination of the Christian message within Norwegian society. By meticulously examining their architectural integration, utilization as visual pedagogical tools, facilitation of cultural continuity, fostering of community engagement, and adaptation for liturgical purposes, we unveil the profound impact these churches have had in embedding the Christian faith at the core of Norwegian culture. They stand as religious sanctuaries and as instruments of cultural preservation and spiritual continuity, firmly establishing them as an integral part of Norway's historical and spiritual narrative.

Research paper thumbnail of Racism and Christian mission in Africa in the 19th-20th century. A book review of, 'A Synopsis of Racism in the African Christian Mission of 19th and 20th Centuries', 2020, author, Andrew Ratanya Mukaria

Andrew Ratanya Mukaria, 2023

The 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by European imperialism and colonialism across Afri... more The 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by European imperialism and colonialism across Africa. Christian missions played a significant role in colonization, which involved imposing European culture and values on African societies. Christian missionaries were motivated by a desire to spread Christianity, but their activities often contributed to the marginalization and oppression of African people. Racism was a pervasive feature of African Christian missions during this period. This is an essay reviewing a book that explores the nature of racism in African Christian missions of the 19th and 20th centuries, examining its causes, manifestations, and impacts.

Research paper thumbnail of Ignored But Not Forgotten: The Role and Place of African Porters in the African Christian Mission of the 19th and 20th Centuries

This article explorers the role and contributions of the missionary porters in the African Christ... more This article explorers the role and contributions of the missionary porters in the African Christian mission in the 19th and 20th centuries. The study is part of uplifting the voices of the margins. By exploring the role and place of missionary porters in the African Christian mission southern Sahara, the study acknowledges those negligible contributions that are usually overlooked. In contrast, such is a crucial part of Christianity in today's Africa.

Books by Andrew R . Mukaria

Research paper thumbnail of BEYOND THE PULPIT

978-9914-37-083-6, 2024

The words of Chuck Swindoll—"There’s no greater relief than being in the center of God’s will"—ca... more The words of Chuck Swindoll—"There’s no greater relief than being in the center of God’s will"—capture the essence of living a life of purpose and faith. To be in alignment with God's will is to experience a profound peace and clarity that transcends the complexities of life. In this booklet, we are
invited into the life of Jakubu Mukaria M’imaria, a man who exemplifies this very truth. His story is one of resilience, faith, and an unwavering dedication to the Methodist Church in Kenya. Mukaria’s journey as a lay preacher spans more than five decades. His commitment to ministry, set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving cultural and religious landscape, is nothing short of remarkable. From the early days of grappling with the tensions between traditional Meru culture and Christianity to becoming a spiritual beacon for his community, Mukaria’s life is a testament to the power of faith to transform lives. This work is a reflection of a personal spiritual journey as well as the Methodist Church's growth in the Nyambene region of Kenya. As you read, may you find inspiration in Mukaria’s legacy, a story that resonates deeply with anyone seeking to serve God and the community faithfully.

Research paper thumbnail of A Synopsis of Racism in the African Christian Mission of 19th and 20th Centuries

Dayanka Publishers Limited , 2020

This book does not condemn or blame any European person but instead understands the world from it... more This book does not condemn or blame any European person but instead understands the world from its past misdeeds, lest we forget. After all, ‘history is the backbone of society, and we cannot hide the past no matter how painful it is. Although there were ‘bad intentions’ to the mission drive of the 19th and 20th Centuries, we also experienced positive achievements. Sometimes, blessings can come out of the worst situations or encounters. Such missionary activities, coupled with imperialism, are the cause of the global union.’ The world is a global family, even with all the differences and inequalities still visible under globalization. Yet, racism, like white supremacy, was a theme surrounding the 19th and 20th-century European mission to Africa.

Perhaps it is good to understand that no other continent has suffered due to racism due to Eurocentrism and imperialism as Africa did. Africa lost its culture, people, and resources. The continent and its people have stagnated for decades, even after years of assuming self-rule (own leadership) in most sectors of society. The reason behind it is that its structures were eroded, and those introduced served one purpose; to satisfy and justify imperialism and its core to ‘civilizing mission.’ Cases of Rwanda and Burundi genocide are historical seeds of hatred planted by explorers such as Speke’s Hamitic theory. The imperialism past of the Democratic Republic of Congo holds a symbol of rape and cruelty despite its vast resources.

Nevertheless, we cannot blame everything that contemporary Africa is suffering from on Imperialism and Eurocentrism. The current crop of leaders must take the blame too. Most have seen debts accumulate. The mismanagement of the economies and embezzlement of the resources only replicates the colonial past. The fact is that most do not invest in people but themselves. The majority lack basics in education, health care, and improvement of knowledge, skills, and technology. They have left Africa to further exploit in the hands of neo-imperialism in terms of globalization, capitalism, cultural imperialism and conditional aid. These bring little to no gain in Africa, and instead, escalate the suffering.

This book unearths the legacy of the ‘racism mission’ and colonialism, a terrible part of Africa history. It is a legacy of dehumanization, wars, and human suffering. If we ignore such history, we might forget and likely, repeat it.

Research paper thumbnail of A Religion with Gaps?

Evangel Publishing House, 2022

The challenges facing contemporary Îembe Christianity are similar to those that the young Greco-R... more The challenges facing contemporary Îembe Christianity are similar to those that the young Greco-Roman Christians faced. For the Greco-Roman, the challenge was trying to appropriate the gospel in an understandable and authentic way for the locals as far as Christianity was concerned. In Îembe, the church has to try to integrate some cultural values within Christianity so that the Îembe would view it as an Îembe religion and as part of the
universal religion instead of a foreign one.

This book mainly focuses on the Îembe community, a sub-group of the Meru tribe in Kenya. It centres on understanding how Îembe spirituality has been a challenge to Christianity, especially as far as healing, health and wholeness, calamities, and witchcraft are concerned. It is also in this perspective that the office of traditional healers is studied. To reach an
understanding, integration and interpretation, the author presents views and perspectives from the local context.

Andrew presents a missiological Christological view with Jesus as Muwe par excellence. This is an aspect whereby Jesus takes the central position as a healer in the Îembe community. If restoration and healing are God’s activities, with an eschatological impact, then God is the healer, and the church is an element of the Missio Dei. Healing is, therefore, a missio ecclesiae activity. The church in Christ has taken the central stage as Muwe par excellence, a principle that churches in Îembe should dwell on, teach and practice.

Research paper thumbnail of Christianity and African Spirituality: An Analysis and Evaluation of the Struggle between Christianity and Traditional Doctors in Igembe-Kenya

Research paper thumbnail of Police Brutality in Kenya: is it “utumishi kwa wote ama utumishi kwa wanasiasa” (service to all or to politicians)?

This research explores cases of police brutality in Kenya during the election period. It explores... more This research explores cases of police brutality in Kenya during the election period. It explores cases of police brutality in post-police reform period from 2010-2018. The study is done qualitatively, through content analysis, mainly a review of newspaper and articles detailing cases of police brutality in Kenya. These data are analysed thematically in regard to the research question. The findings of the research in relation to the research question found that the police brutality is still happening in Kenya, mostly during the elections period. The study further found that there is an ingrained culture of police brutality, which is influenced by historical, contemporary social-cultural and structural dimensions. I concluded the study with implications of the findings, with respect to the theory and the research. Further, the study offers suggestion to the reform policies within the context and adherence to the constitution. The suggestion offers two approaches, from below and from above. The approaches suggest; establishing grassroots policing, encourage community policing, reviewing the police recruitment, reviewing the police training curriculum, expanding financial and manpower support to the Independent Policing Oversight Kenya (IPOA), lay down proper parameter which will totally separate Police from executive authorities, and addressing the socioeconomic status of the police officers

Research paper thumbnail of Child Friendly Environments in Norway and the Kenyan Contexts

Jumuga Journal of Education, Oral Studies, and Human Sciences (JJEOSHS), 2021

The article explores the experiences of children within Norway and the Kenyan contexts. The main ... more The article explores the experiences of children within Norway and the Kenyan contexts. The main aim is to explore how a child-friendly context inspires honest behaviours. What ignited the interests in this comparative area is the study on 'civic honesty around the globe.' The article employs different techniques such as narratives analysis, observation, interview, and literature analysis so as to address the question under consideration. The findings presentthe subtle meaning of honesty from the Kenyan context and does not prepare children for honesty. Lastly, the article has made recommendations on the approaches that will ingrain the culture of honesty that is ideally inculcated in child friendly environments. Such comparative analysis will inform the future discourses, especially in the Kenyan context where Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) is taking shape.

Research paper thumbnail of Western colonialism: the genesis of the degradation of nature

Academia Letters, 2021

Introduction In this paper, I argue that Western culture is the genesis of sub-Saharan Africa con... more Introduction In this paper, I argue that Western culture is the genesis of sub-Saharan Africa contemporary massive degradation of nature. I discuss this because, before sub-Saharan Africa encountered Western culture, most indigenous African communities advocated for a coexistence between human beings and nature (Mukaria, 2021). Mukaria cites Ameru of Kenya, who had a solid ecological consciousness, and considered nature sacred (Mukaria, 2021). Furthermore, Jomo Kenyatta, in his book Facing Mount Kenya, the tribal life of the Gikuyu, explored the indigenous lifestyle of the Gikuyu people of Kenya before colonialism and how after colonialism, the natural world became viewed as a tool for exploitation (Kenyatta, 1965). Methodologically, this is a short and provocative article, per the requirements of the academia letters. The article is written using narratives and existing written sources. The main aim and goal of the article are to continue in the ongoing environmental and ecological discourses, mostly revisiting some of the unspoken and concealed indigenous knowledge of the sub-Saharan Africa context. The article acknowledges and contributes to some of the existing work, like Ecological Imperialism: The Biological Expansion of Europe, 900-1900 by Alfred W. Crosby, War, and Nature: Fighting Humans and Insects with Chemicals from World War I to Silent Spring by Edmund Russell, Salient Spring by Racheal Carson, and How Europe underdeveloped Africa, by Walter Rodney, to name but a few. European Expansion; slavery and colonialism Medieval Europe was largely self-contained, though Europe too experienced warfare, slavery and colonialism (Barker, 2019). Scholars have argued that it was the crusade (1096-99), which opened the way for the Europeans to interact and exploit other communities. The crusade generated a competitive atmosphere between Christian Europe and Islam near East and

Research paper thumbnail of THE EMERGENCE OF 20 TH CENTURY ECO-THEOLOGY, ITS MAIN FIGURES, AND KEY CONTRIBUTIONS

Andrew Ratanya Mukaria, 2021

The study explores the concept of eco-theology and its development in the 20th century. It also p... more The study explores the concept of eco-theology and its development in the 20th century. It also presents some of the key figures associated with eco-theological development and their contributions. The article is developed from a doctoral study defence lecture done on June 12, 2018, at MF-Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society. The article revisits some of the experiences of the researcher during a field study in Kenya.

Research paper thumbnail of Healing through Nature. A Lesson from the traditional Ameru culture in Kenya.

Academia Letters, 2021

The contemporary known cry in most parts of Meru and the entire Kenya nation is how rivers and sp... more The contemporary known cry in most parts of Meru and the entire Kenya nation is how rivers and springs are drying. Everyone, including school-going kids, understands the main factor contributing to this. The limited rains and reduced water relate to the loss of biodiversity, forest cover, and loss of the catchment areas. I have realized that most Meru people know of the causes of ecological degradation, but the challenge is the preservation and meeting their 'need' or 'greed.' There is also a lifestyle change, away from the traditional indigenous knowledge. This has contributed to a lack of viewing the forests as a sacred place of contemplation and healing. Additionally, forests are considered and understood in commercial terms, leading to further exploitation and escalating the suffering. I write this paper as a reflective narrative. How nature sacred meaning in the traditional Ameru culture brought healing in the society. The Ameru life lesson, how they interacted with nature, how they treated their living using nature, and how nature served as the resting place for their dead, is an integral part of how nature brought healing. It offered physical, psychological and spiritual healing. Their approaches might help us to see how nature is part of our healing; a recognition of our interconnectedness. There is no scientific claim to supports that their action brought healing, however, nature and spirituality generated hope and connected the dead with the living. Forested areas were part of their integral spirituality, an 'heaven' for their ancestors, who were watching over them. Defining the Ameru and their spirituality before Christianity Ameru is a Bantu group of people currently living on Mount Kenya's and Nyambene slopes in the present Meru County, Tharaka Nithi County and minorities in the surrounding counties (Isiolo, Embu, Laikipia Counties). The group comprises the subtribes, Igembe, Tigania, Imenti, Mwimbi, Miutini, Igoji, Muthambi, Chuka and Tharaka. Despite the sub-tribes,

Research paper thumbnail of Child Friendly Environments in Norway and the Kenyan Contexts: A Comparative Analysis

The article explores the experiences of children within Norway and the Kenyan contexts. The main ... more The article explores the experiences of children within Norway and the Kenyan contexts. The main aim is to explore how a child-friendly context inspires honest behaviours. What ignited the interests in this comparative area is the study on 'civic honesty around the globe.' The article employs different techniques such as narratives analysis, observation, interview, and literature analysis so as to address the question under consideration. The findings present the subtle meaning of honesty from the Kenyan context and does not prepare children for honesty. Lastly, the article has made recommendations on the approaches that will ingrain the culture of honesty that is ideally inculcated in child friendly environments. Such comparative analysis will inform the future discourses, especially in the Kenyan context where Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) is taking shape.

Research paper thumbnail of Towards Subjectivity A Paradigm Shift to “Identity” in Sub-Saharan Context

This article examines the ambiguity facing contemporary sub-Saharan African society. It explores ... more This article examines the ambiguity facing contemporary sub-Saharan African society. It explores the traditional Africa community, which had values embedded but that are now disintegrating. Communities have turned into primarily one symbols of identification and refuge without adding many values and meaning. Some individuals (as I sight from a context I understand—Kenya) have held their communities for their own personal and selfish gains, mostly for politics and when accused of corruption. On political, social, religious, and ecological matters, and in terms of a societal way forward, this article explores individuality within the community.

Research paper thumbnail of The Traditional Understanding of Grief Among Ameru in Kenya: A Diakonia Perspective

Jumuga Journal, 2019

AbstractThe main objective of this article is to explore the Ameru indigenous ways of overcoming ... more AbstractThe main objective of this article is to explore the Ameru indigenous ways of overcoming death and grief. Death and grief have always been the most challenging thing throughout the history of human beings, and even within contemporary society. The Ameru culture provided room, space and meaning of death and life after death to both the dead and to the living. The culture was an integral part of Ameru, especially on matters of death and grief. The culture provided values found to be helpful to the well-being of the Ameru people, in a holistic way especially in the period of grief and bereavement. The article explores these meaning and how they can be relevant to the contemporary society, which ethos are guided by the Church. Today, the church plays the central role in overcoming grief and bereavement. In meaning-making, there is a need for contextualization. Contextualization is an attempt to present the gospel in culturally relevant ways. For this reason, this article tries to explore some of the Ameruways of overcoming grief and how this can be relevant to the contemporary Church diakonia work and counselling of grief.

Research paper thumbnail of Theological ambiguities: A challenge to a constructive ecotheology in Africa.

This paper is written following an evaluation of the church role towards ecological crisis that i... more This paper is written following an evaluation of the church role towards ecological crisis that is happening at the Mau forest complex in Kenya. The place of the church in Kenya, and Africa is central, and the church theology still plays a normative role. Mau forest complex is a very important ecological feature in Kenya, and a major catchment area. As much as this very vital ecological feature and a major catchment area is experiencing degradation, churches in Kenya have remained aloof silent, and if anything is happening, it is not something tangible in comparison to the actions taken by the churches in Kenya towards other socio-economic and political issues in Kenya. It is within this understanding therefore that this paper is written to evaluate the reason behind this silence.

Research paper thumbnail of The Social and Spiritual Aspects of Khat Among the Ameru People of Kenya

This essay delves into the social and spiritual significance of Khat (Mîraa) among the Ameru peop... more This essay delves into the social and spiritual significance of Khat (Mîraa) among the Ameru people in Kenya's central highlands, particularly focusing on the Iembe and Tiania subgroups. Historically cultivated for centuries, Mîraa is deeply woven into the Ameru's cultural fabric, influencing social interactions, traditional ceremonies, and conflict resolution. Socially, Mîraa fosters communal bonding through gatherings and discussions, while spiritually, it is used in rituals to connect with ancestral spirits and seek blessings. The modern era has seen Mîraa transition into a significant economic activity, albeit with challenges such as health concerns and international scrutiny. Despite these issues, Mîraa remains integral to the Ameru's cultural and spiritual identity. Efforts are ongoing to balance traditional practices with contemporary health considerations and economic sustainability, aiming to preserve this cultural heritage amidst evolving societal dynamics.

Research paper thumbnail of Norsk Stave Churches in Facilitating the Contextualization of the Gospel in Norway

2023

This study embarks on a journey to explore the multifaceted contributions of these stave churches... more This study embarks on a journey to explore the multifaceted contributions of these stave churches in the dissemination of the Christian message within Norwegian society. By meticulously examining their architectural integration, utilization as visual pedagogical tools, facilitation of cultural continuity, fostering of community engagement, and adaptation for liturgical purposes, we unveil the profound impact these churches have had in embedding the Christian faith at the core of Norwegian culture. They stand as religious sanctuaries and as instruments of cultural preservation and spiritual continuity, firmly establishing them as an integral part of Norway's historical and spiritual narrative.

Research paper thumbnail of Racism and Christian mission in Africa in the 19th-20th century. A book review of, 'A Synopsis of Racism in the African Christian Mission of 19th and 20th Centuries', 2020, author, Andrew Ratanya Mukaria

Andrew Ratanya Mukaria, 2023

The 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by European imperialism and colonialism across Afri... more The 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by European imperialism and colonialism across Africa. Christian missions played a significant role in colonization, which involved imposing European culture and values on African societies. Christian missionaries were motivated by a desire to spread Christianity, but their activities often contributed to the marginalization and oppression of African people. Racism was a pervasive feature of African Christian missions during this period. This is an essay reviewing a book that explores the nature of racism in African Christian missions of the 19th and 20th centuries, examining its causes, manifestations, and impacts.

Research paper thumbnail of Ignored But Not Forgotten: The Role and Place of African Porters in the African Christian Mission of the 19th and 20th Centuries

This article explorers the role and contributions of the missionary porters in the African Christ... more This article explorers the role and contributions of the missionary porters in the African Christian mission in the 19th and 20th centuries. The study is part of uplifting the voices of the margins. By exploring the role and place of missionary porters in the African Christian mission southern Sahara, the study acknowledges those negligible contributions that are usually overlooked. In contrast, such is a crucial part of Christianity in today's Africa.

Research paper thumbnail of BEYOND THE PULPIT

978-9914-37-083-6, 2024

The words of Chuck Swindoll—"There’s no greater relief than being in the center of God’s will"—ca... more The words of Chuck Swindoll—"There’s no greater relief than being in the center of God’s will"—capture the essence of living a life of purpose and faith. To be in alignment with God's will is to experience a profound peace and clarity that transcends the complexities of life. In this booklet, we are
invited into the life of Jakubu Mukaria M’imaria, a man who exemplifies this very truth. His story is one of resilience, faith, and an unwavering dedication to the Methodist Church in Kenya. Mukaria’s journey as a lay preacher spans more than five decades. His commitment to ministry, set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving cultural and religious landscape, is nothing short of remarkable. From the early days of grappling with the tensions between traditional Meru culture and Christianity to becoming a spiritual beacon for his community, Mukaria’s life is a testament to the power of faith to transform lives. This work is a reflection of a personal spiritual journey as well as the Methodist Church's growth in the Nyambene region of Kenya. As you read, may you find inspiration in Mukaria’s legacy, a story that resonates deeply with anyone seeking to serve God and the community faithfully.

Research paper thumbnail of A Synopsis of Racism in the African Christian Mission of 19th and 20th Centuries

Dayanka Publishers Limited , 2020

This book does not condemn or blame any European person but instead understands the world from it... more This book does not condemn or blame any European person but instead understands the world from its past misdeeds, lest we forget. After all, ‘history is the backbone of society, and we cannot hide the past no matter how painful it is. Although there were ‘bad intentions’ to the mission drive of the 19th and 20th Centuries, we also experienced positive achievements. Sometimes, blessings can come out of the worst situations or encounters. Such missionary activities, coupled with imperialism, are the cause of the global union.’ The world is a global family, even with all the differences and inequalities still visible under globalization. Yet, racism, like white supremacy, was a theme surrounding the 19th and 20th-century European mission to Africa.

Perhaps it is good to understand that no other continent has suffered due to racism due to Eurocentrism and imperialism as Africa did. Africa lost its culture, people, and resources. The continent and its people have stagnated for decades, even after years of assuming self-rule (own leadership) in most sectors of society. The reason behind it is that its structures were eroded, and those introduced served one purpose; to satisfy and justify imperialism and its core to ‘civilizing mission.’ Cases of Rwanda and Burundi genocide are historical seeds of hatred planted by explorers such as Speke’s Hamitic theory. The imperialism past of the Democratic Republic of Congo holds a symbol of rape and cruelty despite its vast resources.

Nevertheless, we cannot blame everything that contemporary Africa is suffering from on Imperialism and Eurocentrism. The current crop of leaders must take the blame too. Most have seen debts accumulate. The mismanagement of the economies and embezzlement of the resources only replicates the colonial past. The fact is that most do not invest in people but themselves. The majority lack basics in education, health care, and improvement of knowledge, skills, and technology. They have left Africa to further exploit in the hands of neo-imperialism in terms of globalization, capitalism, cultural imperialism and conditional aid. These bring little to no gain in Africa, and instead, escalate the suffering.

This book unearths the legacy of the ‘racism mission’ and colonialism, a terrible part of Africa history. It is a legacy of dehumanization, wars, and human suffering. If we ignore such history, we might forget and likely, repeat it.

Research paper thumbnail of A Religion with Gaps?

Evangel Publishing House, 2022

The challenges facing contemporary Îembe Christianity are similar to those that the young Greco-R... more The challenges facing contemporary Îembe Christianity are similar to those that the young Greco-Roman Christians faced. For the Greco-Roman, the challenge was trying to appropriate the gospel in an understandable and authentic way for the locals as far as Christianity was concerned. In Îembe, the church has to try to integrate some cultural values within Christianity so that the Îembe would view it as an Îembe religion and as part of the
universal religion instead of a foreign one.

This book mainly focuses on the Îembe community, a sub-group of the Meru tribe in Kenya. It centres on understanding how Îembe spirituality has been a challenge to Christianity, especially as far as healing, health and wholeness, calamities, and witchcraft are concerned. It is also in this perspective that the office of traditional healers is studied. To reach an
understanding, integration and interpretation, the author presents views and perspectives from the local context.

Andrew presents a missiological Christological view with Jesus as Muwe par excellence. This is an aspect whereby Jesus takes the central position as a healer in the Îembe community. If restoration and healing are God’s activities, with an eschatological impact, then God is the healer, and the church is an element of the Missio Dei. Healing is, therefore, a missio ecclesiae activity. The church in Christ has taken the central stage as Muwe par excellence, a principle that churches in Îembe should dwell on, teach and practice.