African Multidisciplinary Journal of Research https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr St. Paul’s University en-US African Multidisciplinary Journal of Research 2518-2986 Anglican Clergy-Laity Pension Scheme: Investment Opportunity for Uganda Christian University to Walk the Dream – ‘A Centre of Excellence in the Heart of Africa’ https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/385 <p><em>Social security pension scheme, a mercantile investment approach to accumulate funds to meet the financial needs of people in their old age is a phenomenon that has been in existence since days ancient. Accordingly, this scholarly article examines the trends of social security pension schemes since precolonial Uganda. Centrally, the article examines the pivotal role Uganda Christian University can play to influence Clergy and Laity in the Anglican church of Uganda to save funds for their old age life survival and how the academic institution can utilize the accumulated savings to influence academic institution programmes expansion and financial sustainability. In order to attain insights on how the Ugandan society has been supported to engage in old age savings, haphazard sampling, participant observation, and historical analysis approaches were relied on. Study findings indicate that during precolonial Uganda, traditional social security mechanisms were the vibrant means through which the vulnerable groups of society were communally offered support. When the British took over, statutory social service pension schemes, parallel to those in Europe, were introduced. Since then, European transplanted old age savings schemes benefit only Ugandans enrolled in the formal and private employment sectors. For the majority workforce in the informal employment sector, although dotted social investment groups have formularised their voluntary savings schemes, there are no clear legislated systems that hold them accountable to save funds regularly to cater for their old age financial needs. Hence, in the Anglican church of Uganda fraternity, it has been brought to light that, if Uganda Christian University leadership, takes on Clergy-laity pension scheme management, then:&nbsp; a) the vision of the Anglican Church of Uganda – ‘A Faster Growing Sustainable Christ-Cantered Church,’ will be tangible, and b) the academic institution will be at the cutting edge dream walk – ‘A Centre of Excellence in the Heart of Africa’.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </em></p> Samson Musana I. Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 1 22 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.385 An Analysis of Christian Content Creators’ Influence on Ugandan Christian Youth from the Christian Spirituality Perspective https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/386 <p><em>This article examines the influence of Christian content creators (CCCs) on the spirituality of Ugandan youth. The research explores how CCCs influence identity construction and spirituality within a non-Western developing culture. The study focuses on CCCs’ online presence on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to gain insights into their strategies for attracting and engaging individuals, particularly the youth, in the digital space. It investigates how CCCs present themselves online, construct their identity, and influence youth spirituality. This influence is evident through their self-descriptions, positive and negative influences, and the question of authenticity. By challenging the perspectives and convictions of their followers, CCCs actively shape their online identity and attract like-minded individuals, thereby fostering para-social relationships.</em></p> Esther Okiror Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 23 41 Effectiveness of Existing Ecumenical Efforts in Promoting Unity and Collaboration among Churches in Ondo State, Nigeria https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/387 <p><em>The quest for Christian unity in Nigeria’s multi-denominational landscape has prompted various ecumenical initiatives. This study evaluates the effectiveness of existing ecumenical efforts in promoting unity and collaboration among churches in Ondo State, Nigeria. A qualitative research design was adopted, involving 60 respondents drawn from diverse Christian denominations through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected via questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, and were analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that while ecumenical bodies such as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) have made some impacts like organizing joint services and advocacy on common social issues, significant divisions still persist. Many church leaders and members acknowledge doctrinal differences, competition for congregants, and lack of awareness of ecumenical principles as key barriers to unity. Nonetheless, respondents also report positive experiences in interdenominational events and suggest that regular joint prayer meetings, shared community projects, and improved dialogue can strengthen cooperation. The study concludes that existing ecumenical efforts have had modest success in fostering collaboration, but their impact is limited by theological and socio-cultural challenges. Strengthening ecumenical education, inclusive leadership, and grassroots engagement (especially of youth and women) emerge as crucial steps to enhance unity. These insights carry implications for church leaders aiming to present a unified Christian witness and for policymakers and theologians seeking to bolster social cohesion.</em></p> Oladapo Akintaju V. Julius K. Kithinji Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 42 63 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.387 Availability Bias and Investment Decisions of Selected Small and Medium Enterprises in Nairobi County https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/388 <p><em>Behavioral biases, especially availability bias, are recognized for their influence on decision-making. As a result, its effect on small and medium enterprises should be quantified given its influence. This study aimed at assessing the influence of availability bias on the investment decisions of selected small and medium-sized businesses in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was grounded on Heuristics Theory and </em><em>Behavioral Portfolio Theory</em><em>. Based on positivist philosophy, employed a cross-sectional and survey research design. A sample of 426 was drawn from 18,872 small and medium enterprises registered with the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority</em> <em>using a proportionate stratified random sampling technique. From the trade and service enterprises, selected managers or proprietors were targeted as respondents. Descriptive statics and inferential statistics were used to analyze data collected from 372 respondents. Pearson correlation analysis results indicted a strong positive relationship between availability bias and investment decisions, evidenced by a coefficient r = 0.964 and a p-value of 0.000 &lt; 0.05 indicating a strong positive correlation which was statistically significant. Regression analysis results on the influence of availability bias on investment decisions indicated a statistically significant positive effect (β = 0.158, p = 0.798) which accounted for 92.9% of the variation in those decisions. It was concluded that availability bias was eminent among the respondents and its direct influence on investment decisions was significant, although other behavioral biases or contextual elements may have a more significant influence. From the results, it is recommended that small and medium enterprises implement organized decision-making frameworks and offer training to reduce dependence on readily accessible information.</em></p> Edna Maina Chepngeno Dennis Nyamasege Cornelius Kurere Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 64 83 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.388 Gender Politics and Deconstruction in the Light of the Polemics of Ephesians 5:21-33 in Koro Christian Community of Nasarawa State https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/389 <p><em>This research explores into the dynamics of cultural hegemony within Koro communities in Nasarawa, Nigeria, particularly focusing on marital relationships. The study draws inspiration from Ephesians 5:21-33, a biblical passage often cited to establish traditional gender roles in marriage. However, rather than reinforcing existing norms, this research utilizes Ephesians 5:21-33 as a starting point to deconstruct cultural hegemony within Koro couples. The research employs deconstruction and ethnography method to critically analysis the cultural hegemony and misinterpretation of Ephesians 5:21-33. By engaging with couples, and religious authorities, the study aims to unravel the layers of cultural expectations and power imbalances embedded in marital relationships. It seeks to understand how these dynamics impact the daily lives of Koro couples and how Ephesians 5:21-33 can be reinterpreted to promote equity and mutual respect within the marital context. Through the deconstruction of cultural hegemony, this research aims to foster a dialogue that challenges ingrained norms and encourages a more egalitarian understanding of marital relationships among Koro couples. It explores the potential for Ephesians 5:21-33 to be a catalyst for transformative change within the cultural and religious fabric of the Koro community in Nasarawa. The findings of this research contribute not only to the academic discourse surrounding cultural hegemony and biblical interpretation but also provide practical insights for community leaders and religious authorities seeking to promote gender equity within Koro marriages. By re-examining the intersections of culture, religion, and marital dynamics, this study aspires to contribute to the on-going efforts to create more inclusive and equitable communities within the diverse cultural landscape of Nasarawa, Nigeria.</em></p> Mose Iliya Ogidis Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 84 103 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.389 Green Procurement and Responsiveness of Large-Scale Manufacturing Firms in Nairobi City County, Kenya https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/402 <p>Over the past decade, the manufacturing sector has undergone rapid growth, contributing <br>significantly to environmental degradation through increased effluent emissions. These <br>developments have heightened concerns about public health and environmental sustainability. <br>Despite the recognized importance of sustainability, initiatives such as green procurement <br>remain underutilized in mainstream supply chain management. This study investigates the <br>impact of green procurement on the responsiveness of large-scale manufacturing firms in <br>Nairobi City County, Kenya, with a focus on the chemical and metal manufacturing sectors. <br>The study specifically aimed to assess the effects of supplier assessment, reverse logistics, lean <br>supply chains, and electronic procurement on firm responsiveness. Grounded in the <br>Transaction Cost Economics (TCE) theory and the Resource-Based Theory (RBT), the <br>research employed a descriptive design to explore green procurement practices among <br>registered manufacturing firms in Nairobi. The study population consisted of 490 procurement <br>staff, from which a sample of 220 respondents was selected using proportionate stratified <br>random sampling, guided by Yamane’s formula. Data was gathered through structured <br>questionnaires, then cleaned, coded, and analysed using both descriptive and inferential <br>statistical techniques. The results revealed that firms prioritize sustainable procurement by <br>selecting suppliers that provide environmentally friendly and reusable products, thereby <br>reducing waste and pollution. Additionally, findings showed that reverse logistics and lean <br>supply chain practices positively influence responsiveness, while electronic procurement <br>presented integration challenges that limited its effectiveness. The study concludes that <br>sustainable procurement practices are essential for enhancing firm responsiveness and <br>environmental responsibility. It recommends that manufacturing firms strengthen supplier <br>assessment processes, expand waste management and recycling efforts, and adopt lean <br>manufacturing principles. Furthermore, the National Environment Management Authority <br>(NEMA) is encouraged to support digitalization of procurement systems, establish monitoring <br>frameworks for environmental impact, and incentivize firms to adopt green technologies in <br>their e-procurement strategies.</p> John Kiruma Kagondu Mary Karei Kibuine Rosina Mutisya Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-01 2025-07-01 10 1 104 130 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.402 Perception of Teachers on the Use of Hidden Curriculum in Classroom Management to Meet the Psychosocial Needs of Learners in Middle Primary School in Migwani, Kitui County, Kenya https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/391 <p><em>T</em><em>he purpose of this study was to investigate the perception of teachers on the use of hidden curriculum in classroom management to meet the psychosocial needs of learners in middle primary school in Migwani, Kitui county, Kenya</em>. <em>Formal curriculum broadly aligns with organized, institutionalized learning models such as learning seen in schools, whilst informal learning describes the everyday learning that people experience throughout their lives, and which can go easily unrecognized. The hidden curriculum is widely acknowledged as a blend of both formal and informal educational elements, deriving its unique characteristics from their interaction. A non-formal curriculum can work alongside the formal curriculum and can possess some characteristics of formal systems, such as following institutionalized frameworks, policies and outlined rules which help to teach ethics and morals to the students. This study used</em><em> Stratified and purposive sampling to select the sample for the study. The sample comprised of 116 class teachers of class 4 and 5. The target population was 473 teachers in 63 public primary schools in Migwani sub-county. Data was collected by use of class teacher perception questionnaire. The reliability coefficient of the instruments was accepted at 0.89 using Cronbach alpha coefficient. The objective of the study was to assess class teacher management skills in the classroom context to meet psychosocial needs of learners. </em><em>Factors such as: Teachers positive attitude, teachers’ perception of learner’s psychological needs, and teacher’s professional ethics, were found out to influence ways in which psychological needs of learners were met in a class. </em><em>The study recommended that there is need for class teachers to </em><em>Clearly articulate classroom norms, behaviors, and expectations to ensure all students understand the implicit aspects of the learning environment. Finally, the study saw it fitting </em><em>for teachers to implement structured class meetings which can provide a platform for students to express their thoughts and concerns, fostering a sense of community and belonging. This approach will not only address immediate psychosocial needs but also equips students with essential life skills.</em></p> Tina Mueni Vundi Mworia Wamutitu Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 131 149 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.391 Priesthood & Remuneration: A Digital Age Challenge for the Anglican Church of Uganda to Skill Clergy to attain Financial Sufficiency https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/392 <p><em>The scholarly article examined the extent the Anglican Church of Uganda's priests were being remunerated and skilled to attain household financial sufficiency. To investigate the thesis concern, </em><em>historical analysis methodology was relied on. Study results revealed that</em> <em>sustainable and adequate remuneration of clergy are serious puzzles that Church of Uganda leadership is struggling to solve. </em><em>Rural-based clergy are working under harsh conditions. Some workplace residential houses have leaking roofs and the sanitary facilities are horrible. At grass root levels, sustainable income generating projects that would boost the remuneration needs of clergy are not visible. Even when agriculture is practiced by clergy, many lack the practical skills to engage in value added farming that would yield bumper returns and fetch substantial household incomes. Year in and out, clergy wallow in economic poverty worse than the flock they pastor. Many of them are financially incapacitated to support their children to access quality education and to acquire vocational skills. Big numbers of clergy retire from active pastoral services without having built simple houses at their ancestral homes.&nbsp; Hearteningly, job security measures that guarantee old age pension survival of clergy are none existent. Currently, retired clergy are isolated, and rejected. Many are suffering from old age-associated infirmities. Even when there exist church policies that regulate the remuneration of clergy in a parish setting, the policies have never undergone contextual incarnation to address the changing remuneration needs of African clergy. To solve the puzzle, it is recommended that the Church of Uganda Provincial Assembly needs to craft a sustainable income generation plan to support clergy to acquire multiple stewardship professional skills. Clergy with specialized skills, can innovate and manage church enterprises that would attract revenues. In addition, if religious bodies interface with government, then, clergy remuneration policy can be crafted that would greatly benefit Pastors. </em></p> Samson Musana I Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 150 173 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.392 Fostering Agro-Industrial Growth in Kiambu County: A Bottom-Up Approach to Industrialization and Economic Transformation https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/393 <p><em>This study investigated the economic viability, infrastructure readiness, and employment potential of County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPs) in Kiambu County, Kenya, within the framework of agglomeration economies theory. This theory posits that clustering related industries in a common location leads to reduced transaction costs, shared infrastructure, and enhanced innovation all essential for accelerating agro-industrialization. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative techniques to offer a comprehensive analysis of CAIPs as a vehicle for economic transformation under Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The target population included county government officials, agro-processors, farmer cooperatives, local community leaders, and development partners. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select 40 participants who had direct involvement or interest in the planning and implementation of CAIPs. Data were collected through field visits, structured stakeholder interviews, infrastructure assessments, and a review of policy documents and feasibility studies. Quantitative findings revealed that infrastructure readiness remains a key challenge, with road networks, electricity, and water supply receiving an average score of 2.6 out of 5 across surveyed sites. Employment projections indicated the potential creation of approximately 4,500 jobs both direct and indirect across high-value agricultural value chains such as coffee, tea, avocado, banana, dairy, and vegetables. These value chains were identified as having significant potential for value addition through agro-processing. The study concludes that while CAIPs have strong potential to stimulate rural industrialization and increase farmer incomes, their success hinges on strategic investment in infrastructure, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement. Key policy recommendations include strengthening public-private partnerships, streamlining land acquisition processes, and enhancing access to financing. These findings provide a practical roadmap for optimizing the implementation of CAIPs, contributing to sustainable economic transformation in Kiambu County and serving as a model for replication in other regions.</em></p> Julius Kahuthia Wanjiru Karanja Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 174 196 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.393 The Role of Early Supplier Involvement on Performance of Agricultural Projects of Tana and Athi River Development Authority, Kenya https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/394 <p><em>Early supplier involvement is a strategy adopted by buyers in order to forge close relationships for purpose of surviving stiff competition emanating from heighted pressure of globalization, technological advancement and social changes that gradually diminish firm’s market share. This phenomenon motivated the study that was conducted</em><em> at Tana and Athi River Development Authority (TARDA)which is associated with production of hydroelectric power as well as water resource management along the seven forks dam and Athi basin but also involve itself in additional income generating activities. These activities are not among their core business and therefor require </em><em>early supplier involvement </em><em>is because of complex ecosystem. Among TARDA stakeholders are their suppliers who have a key role in the entire supply chains of farming activities and early supplier involvement (ESI) is critical in delivering the objective of the authority. This motivated the study which investigated on the relationship between early supplier involvement and performance of agricultural projects of TARDA. The</em><em> study was guided by the following general objectives; to determine</em><em> the relationship between early supplier selection and performance. </em><em>Descriptive and cross-sectional research designs were applied in determining the relationship between independent and dependent variables. The target population was 90 employees of the authority constituting the senior management, departmental managers, supervisors and store clerks. The data collection instrument was structured questionnaire and data analysis consisting of descriptive analysis such as percentages, means, standard deviation and frequencies. To predict the relationship of independent and dependent variables, a regression model was used in order to determine the extent to which early supplier involvement explains the performance of TARDA. The results found that supplier selection and supplier relationship management </em><em>enhance the business stability of agricultural projects of TARDA</em><em>. Predictive analysis showed that supplier relationship management had a significant positive relationship on performance.</em><em> The study suggested enhancement of </em><em>supplier selection</em><em> and</em><em> supplier relationship management strategies in TARDA so</em><em> as&nbsp; </em><em>improve on</em> <em>performance of agricultural projects</em><em>. </em><em>T</em><em>he study recommends future studies</em><em> using</em> <em>other</em><em>l research design </em><em>to establish early supplier involvement on performance of agricultural projects </em><em>of TARDA.</em></p> David Koech Jack Gumboh Mary Karei Kibuine Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 197 221 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.394 The Haya Ethic Community Understanding of Healing: Christal-Societal Perspectives https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/395 <p style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><em>This article explores the concept of healing among the Haya people of northwestern Tanzania by analyzing how traditional beliefs and Christianity have historically intersected and evolved. Drawing on a library-based qualitative research approach, the study examines existing ethnographic literature, theological texts, historical accounts, and scholarly analyses to understand how healing is conceptualized within Haya society. In this context, healing is viewed holistically, encompassing physical recovery and emotional, spiritual, and communal well-being. The research investigates the historical foundations of indigenous healing practices such as the invocation of ancestral spirits, the use of herbal medicine, and ritual-based therapies alongside the transformative influence of Christianity introduced during the colonial period. By synthesizing insights from secondary sources, the study reveals a dynamic and hybrid healing model in which prayer, faith-based interventions, and biomedical practices coexist with traditional methods. Despite occasional theological and cultural tensions, many Haya individuals continue to navigate both healing paradigms pragmatically, drawing on their respective strengths to promote personal and communal wellness. This study contributes to broader conversations on religion, culture, and health in Africa, offering valuable perspectives for health professionals, theologians, and policymakers seeking to engage with contextually grounded and culturally sensitive approaches to healing</em>.</p> Simon Jackson Buberwa John Njoroge Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 222 244 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.395 The Role of Ecumenism Towards Interfaith Dialogue in Christian-Muslim Social-Cohesion Initiatives in Benin Republic https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/396 <p><em>Benin Republic is characterized by a rich tapestry of religious diversity, predominantly comprising Christians and Muslims. Despite the generally peaceful coexistence of these communities, underlying tensions</em> <em>arises from socio-economic disparities, political dynamics, and cultural misunderstandings.</em> <em>This study seeks to determine the role of ecumenism towards interfaith dialogue in Christian-Muslim Social-Cohesion initiatives in Benin Republic. It explores the role of ecumenism in fostering interfaith dialogue between Christians and Muslims in Benin Republic, emphasizing social cohesion initiatives. The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing interviews with local religious leaders involved in ecumenical initiatives. It highlights the historical context, current challenges, and potential pathways for enhancing collaboration between these two religious communities. By analyzing existing literatures and case studies, this paper aims to provide insights into effective strategies for promoting peace and understanding through ecumenical efforts. The role of ecumenism extends beyond mere dialogue; it actively promotes social cohesion by addressing root causes of conflict through collaborative action. The interplay between ecumenism and interfaith dialogue is particularly significant in Benin’s context.&nbsp; </em><em>&nbsp;</em><em>In Benin, interfaith initiatives often emerge from ecumenical efforts that seek to address common societal challenges such as poverty, education, and health care. Through joint community service projects, educational programs, and public discussions on shared values such as peace and justice, these initiatives help dismantle stereotypes and build trust among diverse religious groups. By leveraging shared values inherent within Christianity and Islam, ecumenical movements can create platforms for meaningful engagement between these two faiths. Such interactions foster trust and reduce prejudice while addressing common societal challenges.</em></p> Deo H. Avalla Ohimbè Jubilate John N. Njoroge Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 245 265 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.396 Primary School Education, Curriculum Africanisation, and Community Engagements of Teachers in the Process of Poverty Alleviation in Uganda https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/397 <p><em>The article stipulates the unseen yet useful remedies that can be utilised by primary schools to alleviate economic poverty in Uganda. The paper examines </em><em>the trend of primary school education and the extent the curriculum is Africanised to</em><em> engage pupils and their parents in staged progressive household income-generating projects aimed at uplifting the economic standards of households. </em><em>In Uganda, the Church Missionary Society established several schools and imported a European-based education curriculum.</em><em> Since then, the Europeanised type of education has never been contextualised into African learning approaches, and this has made it hard for teachers, who are accorded respect in the African culture as elders, to engage with local communities to alleviate economic poverty in Uganda. </em><em>In reality, the aims of education since colonial days have undergone several revisions, but staged education curriculum developers in Uganda have never incorporated African indigenous knowledge yardstick indicators that ensure that teachers play their communal roles as: incubators, initiators, nurturers, examiners, and promoters of European-Africanised community poverty alleviation programmes. In fact, from the inception of the colonial governance up to date, </em><em>several </em><em>poverty eradication programmes have been implemented in Uganda, but to the dismay, most of them collapsed without realising the anticipated goals.</em><em> Astonishingly, primary schools that are expected to be centres of demonstration innovations have no crafted projects geared at empowering young people with income-generating skills that can be mirrored in their homes. Yet when young people are empowered by their teachers to engage in practical subjects, they are mostly to work devotedly on simple income-generating projects. The number of young people dropping out of schools and the poor national academic performances, registered every year, tell it that the Ugandan poverty alleviation education curriculum is not African. Something bitter, disguised, and foreign is being forced down the throats of Ugandan intellectual knowledge seekers.</em></p> Ann Nabukenya Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 266 288 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.397 Romans 12: 1-2 Vis-à-vis God’s Mission: Revitalizing Church’s Participation and Stimulating Transformation https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/399 <p>The object of God’s mission, to which the church is called to participate, is to redeem, reconcile <br>and transform humanity and their world. However, disunity and ethnic tension in Rome houses <br>churches could have impeded her participation. Furthermore, negative ethnicity, ethnic hostility, <br>ethnic profiling and corruption in Africa seem to have silently and steadily networked to deny <br>humanity a place to feel at home, serve, and be served as well as to lead. Yet through missional <br>hermeneutical reading of Romans 12: 1-2, the text can be applied so as to revitalize <br>participation and stimulate transformation of the African church. Besides, the church can be <br>inspired to use the text as an instruction manual for lifelong reformation. Additionally, varied <br>denominations can be inspired to jointly participate in God’s mission without exalting <br>themselves and always making sober judgements not based on gender, class, status or ethnic <br>bias</p> Kabiro wa Gatumu Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 289 309 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.399 Out of the Box: Rethinking Africa’s Security https://journals1.spu.ac.ke/index.php/amjr/article/view/401 <p>Africa’s enduring security challenges have for decades been approached through militarized <br>strategies inherited from colonial administration approaches that often suppress conflict <br>momentarily but fail to address the deep structural, socio-economic, and political roots of <br>violence. This article contends that such heavy reliance on force has entrenched what Johan <br>Galtung terms “negative peace”: a fragile calm maintained through coercion rather than genuine <br>reconciliation and justice. In contrast, the study advocates for a transformative security paradigm <br>anchored in Galtung’s theory of Positive Peace, which highlights the need for social justice, <br>inclusive governance, and equitable development as foundational pillars of sustainable peace. <br>Drawing on recent case studies from Kenya, Nigeria, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the <br>Congo, the paper demonstrates that militarization not only fails to resolve grievances but often <br>exacerbates them, deepening societal divisions and feeding cycles of retribution. Furthermore, the <br>analysis emphasizes the rising influence of Africa’s Generation Z, whose digital activism has <br>proven to be a powerful tool for civic mobilization, nonviolent resistance, and exposing the <br>limitations of outdated security models. From the #EndSARS movement in Nigeria to youth-led <br>protests against unpopular policies in Kenya, young people are demanding new forms of <br>accountability and participatory governance that reject brute force in favour of dialogue and <br>peaceful action. Importantly, it argues that integrating peace education into the school curricula, <br>revitalizing traditional community mediation mechanisms, and empowering local voices are <br>essential steps toward building resilient, people-centered security structures. Moreover, it calls <br>for policymakers, civil society, and international partners to shift resources away from excessive <br>militarization and toward social investments that address inequality and economic <br>disenfranchisement. Ultimately, the study proposes that Africa’s security future depends on an <br>out-of-the-box approach that blends theoretical insight with practical community-led solutions,<br>forging a path where peace is not simply the absence of war, but the active presence of justice, <br>opportunity, and hope for all.</p> Divina Gekonge Copyright (c) 2025 2025-07-21 2025-07-21 10 1 330 345 10.71064/spu.amjr.10.1.2025.401