Mission as Life Awakening in Africa and Beyond: Revisiting the Theology of Life of Engelbert Mveng (1930-1995)

The 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

Reimagining Constitutional Democracy for Human Flourishing: A Re-reading of Augustine’s Social Love, Ubuntu Ethics, and CST for the Zambian Context

Comparable 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)

A Christian Perspective on Happiness: Positive Psychology and Rahner’s Theology of Grace in The Quest for Meaning

This research examines happiness from a Christian perspective, integrating theological insights with contemporary scientific understanding. It highlights the foundational role of divine grace in shaping a Christian’s approach to happiness, as articulated by one of the greatest 20th-century theologians, Karl Rahner. Rahner’s notion of uncreated grace offers a lens through which Christians can view happiness, not just as a feeling but as a stable state nurtured by a deep relationship with God and manifested in goals and actions aligned with divine will, giving a sense of belonging and purpose instrumental for lasting happiness. This study also acknowledges the relevance of positive psychology, particularly the work of Sonja Lyubomirsky, in providing actionable strategies to enhance one’s happiness. These strategies include fostering gratitude, cultivating optimism, living in the present, self-care, acts of kindness, and nurturing social connections, aligning well with Christian teachings about love and service. Lyubomirsky's findings underscore that happiness extends beyond life circumstances or material conditions and can be cultivated through intentional personal efforts. Therefore, by exploring both the theological and psychological dimensions of happiness, this study offers a comprehensive framework that caters to the complexities of the dynamics of modern-day living, enhancing individual well-being and promoting a more just and compassionate society

An Analysis of the Burkinabé Resistance to French Military Cooperation in Burkina Faso

The purpose of this research was to analyze the Burkinabé Resistance to the Franco-Burkinabé military cooperation. The researcher carried out his research at Kamboince, one of the 11 districts that form Ouagadougou, the capital city of Burkina Faso. Out of 153 targeted people, the researcher got 150 respondents (19 respondents to the questionnaire, 103 respondents for group discussions and 28 respondents for the interview) from many categories of people: activists of Civil Society Organizations (CSO), respondents from the Defense and Security Forces (FDS), respondents from the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), respondents from the Volunteers for the Defense of the Country (VDPs), leaders from the Christian, Muslim and Traditional Religious communities. The research design was descriptive. The researcher employed mainly the qualitative research method for data collection. The researcher was guided by the theories of cooperation and resistance to analyze his data: the necessity of cooperation and the expectations of partners in a multipolar world, and the key factors in a resistance movement. The researcher analyzed thematically the qualitative data and used the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to analyze the data acquired from the questionnaire. The researcher articulated his study around 3 research questions. The findings revealed the following: first, the French armed forces‟ (FAF) presence in Burkina Faso was no longer acceptable. A social perception showed that a majority of the respondents believe that the French armed forces conspire with terrorist groups. Second, the findings showed that the majority of the respondents had high expectations from the Franco-Burkinabé military cooperation which, unfortunately, were not met. This reality led a majority of the respondents to strongly disagree with the presence of the French armed forces in Burkina Faso, therefore rationalizing the resistance against them. Third, the study revealed that the Franco-Burkinabé military cooperation has undermined the sovereignty of Burkina Faso. A great majority of the respondents confirmed that they have been inspired by some ideals of Thomas Sankara and are now ready to count on themselves to solve the security challenges even if they are more open to new military cooperation with new partners like Russia. One of the key conclusions that can be drawn from the research is the strong conviction that justice, reconciliation and integrity are the key factors that can lead Burkina Faso to peace

Role of Religious Institutions in Political Change and Democracy: Case Studies of Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, And Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Religious 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

Happiness in Thomas Aquinas and Bernard Lonergan's Tripolar Dialectics of History: Towards Africa's Flourishing

While 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

The Preferential Option for The Poorest Street Children in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo: A Study Based On John Sobrino’s Theological Framework

This 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

The Impact of Risk Factors on Project Implementation and Performance in Somali Region: A Case of Government Financing Construction Projects

The general of objective of this study were to assess the impact of risk factors on project implementation and performance in Somali region: a case of government financing construction projects. The study was employed a descriptive survey method. The researcher was chosen road construction projects and bridge building construction project as study area. Similarity 57 % respondents from public bureau, 33% from contractors and 10% from consultancies were selected using purposive sampling techniques. Also, the study was employ questionnaires, interview and observation as instruments of data collection. Major findings were: the study exposed majority construction projects staff are dominated by male (94%), as compared to females (6%) and this typify that gender imbalance exist in construction projects participation. Also, the study found the top ten foremost risk factors (RF) that have a pessimistic impact on construction projects implementation and performance in highest score with an RII score of 0.522353%, with percent 100% and lowest score with an RII score of 0.451765 with percent 3.80% are Poor safety method cause chance of risk occurrence and unavailability of labour, material and equipment. Lastly, conclusions were drawn from the critical factors derived from the findings of the summary of the study. Recommendations for correcting the impact of risk factors on project implementation and performance were based on conclusions drawn

Conflict and Intervention Mechanisms in Secondary Schools: The Case of Hawasa City of the Sidama Regional State, Ethiopia

Secondary schools are increasingly experiencing conflicts which are contributing to them becoming major sources of tensions. In certain circumstances, the frustrations and dissatisfactions that occur in the community becomes a source of discussion in the schools. Occasionally, disagreements between students and teachers arise within secondary schools. Conflicting opinions about nationalistic populism, issues with gender or ethnic deprivation, and other situations, for instance, may seep into a student's and teacher’s life, creating a politically polarized environment within the school. While conflict is an unavoidable element in all human interactions and institutions, the administration of secondary schools must constructively find opportunities to promote healthy environment for learning. This study sought to understand the conflict intervention mechanisms in secondary schools with a focus on the case of Hawasa City of the Sidama regional state in Ethiopia. The main aim of this study was to examine types of conflicts in secondary schools and mechanisms that have been used to handle them in Hawassa city public secondary schools, Ethiopia. The objectives of this study were to explore the existing types of conflicts in Secondary Schools in Hawassa, to examine the factors underlying school conflicts in Secondary Schools in Hawassa, to examine the conflict handling mechanisms that has been used in Secondary Schools in Hawassa, and finally, to suggest ways in which the existing conflict interventions can be improved in Hawassa Secondary Schools Ethiopia. This study was carried out through the lens of contingency theory which involves context-based understanding, such as the types of parties to conflict, their relationships, and the sources of conflicts (example., resource-/interest-based conflicts, goal-oriented/need-based conflicts, identity-based conflicts, and so on). This research employed descriptive research design. This study found out that interpersonal conflict and intra-group conflicts are some of the common occurring disputes in the secondary schools in Hawasa, Ethiopia. The study also revealed that the conflicts occurring in the secondary schools in Ethiopia are expressed through physical fights, the use of vulgar language, and the withdrawal from the school normal activities. In order to address the secondary school conflicts in Hawasa city, Ethiopia, the study found that school administrators, instructors, and other stakeholders within the school environment should take the lead role in ensuring that the processes utilized to mediate disagreement between parties to a dispute are reasonable and objective. The study therefore recommends that training in arbitration, conciliation, negotiation, and mediation is required for school administrators, instructors, and other relevant parties for them to constructively address the secondary schools’ conflicts in Hawasa city, Ethiopia

Determinants of Home Birth among Women Attending Health Facilities in Wondo Genet, Sidama Region, Ethiopia, 2021: A Case-Control Study

Introduction: In developing countries, home delivery increases the risk of maternal and perinatal mortality. Measures needed to reverse these situations require evidence on factors that affect homebirth. Hence, this study aimed to identify determinants of homebirth in Wondo Genet, Sidama Region. Methods: Unmatched case-control study was conducted from 19 May to 11 June, 2021. Two consecutive controls were selected after each case from randomly selected health centers. Structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The data was entered using Epidata software Version 3.1 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 20 for analysis. The association between independent variables and homebirth was assessed by simple and multivariable binary logistic regression model. Result: All women (102 cases and 206 controls) were interviewed with response rate of 100%. Rural residence (AOR = 3.41, 95%CI: [1.58, 7.39]); ever experience of physical IPV (AOR = 2.35, 95%CI: [1.06, 5.17]); grand-multiparity (AOR = 5.36, 95%CI: [1.68, 17.08]); non-use of family planning before recent pregnancy (AOR = 5.82, 95%CI: [2.49, 13.60]); >30 min to reach health facility (AOR = 2.14, 95%CI: [1.02, 4.51]); and lack of face mask (AOR = 2.69, 95%CI: [1.25, 5.77]) were statistically significant predictors of homebirth. Conclusion and Recommendation: A wide gap in access to maternity services should be narrowed between rural and urban women. Healthcare policies and programs concerning women empowerment could help reduce persistent intimate partner violence. Family planning need to be promoted as an important intervention to minimize home delivery and maternal mortality. Multiparous women should be counseled on adverse obstetric consequences of home delivery. The strategies that adapt to emerging public health threats like corona virus disease 2019 pandemic should be laid to prevent their devastating effect on maternity services