Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy

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2007 post election violence and the response of Seventh-day Adventist church: a case study of Eldoret east district, Kenya
(Kyambogo University(Un published work), 2016-10) Ogaro, Davis N.
This study sought to discuss the 2007 post election violence and the response of the Seventhday Adventist Church in Eldoret East district. Political factors. inequitable resource al location, land issues. prejudice, failure of the Police. communal conflicts, hate speeches, the media, tribalism and discrimination were discussed as the causes of the 2007 PEV. Mass loss of life, displacement of persons, destruction of property fear of fresh ethnic clashes, injuries. fluctuation of the economy. food shortage. alteration of land tenure system, sexual based violence, effects on schools, health related problems and environmental consequences \\ere discussed as the negative effects of the 2007 PEV. After the 2007 PEY. the study indicated that Kenyans have cherished the spirit of development, co-existence, peace, unity, and reconciliation more than ever before. This led to the formation and implementation of the new constitution that provides equal opportunity for all citizens regardless of their ethnic backgrounds. Consequently, the Kenyan people demonstrated solidarity by conducting peaceful general elections in 2013. The SDA Church responded to the 2007 PEV by preaching love, peace and solidarity. proving food and non-food items, offering prayers and counseling services. negotiating between warring communities, visiting the clash victims, and rushing the injured to the hospital. Churches were used both as hiding places and shelters for the affected persons. However. the Church was also used by politicians to utter hate speeches, propagate tribalism and discrimination. The study \! as descriptive in nature and adopted qualitative research approach. Purposive sampling was applied to the subjects the researcher believed had relevant information on the problem under investigation. Interview, questionnaire. and observation were the main tools for data collection.
Achievement goal orientation, self-efficacy, and academic engagement among adolescent students in Kabale district, Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-11) Ndyareeba, Eunice
Globally, education is a key pathway for overcoming poverty. Financial support from governments and non-governmental organizations facilitates students’ access, engagement, and success in academics. Despite the existing multifaceted support interventions in Uganda, about 83% of Ugandan children enrol in primary school, only 22% progress to secondary school, and less than 5% attend post-secondary education programs. To address this low academic access and success characterised by low school retention rates, this study examined the influence of achievement goal orientation, self-efficacy, and other context-based factors on the academic engagement of adolescent students in Kabale District, Uganda. Using a convergent parallel mixed-methods approach, the study collected quantitative data from 510 adolescent students and conducted in-depth interviews among 14 key informants who included officers of Compassion International; teachers, directors of studies, and a subset of adolescent students. Quantitative data was then entered into the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 20 with a Process Macro plugin by Hayes version 4.2 for analysis. Findings of the study indicate that there were statistically significant demographic variations in achievement goal orientation, self-efficacy, and academic engagement. Regression analysis results reveal that self-efficacy mediated the relationship between achievement goal orientation and academic engagement. Qualitative findings indicate that apart from achievement goal orientation and self-efficacy, external support, future career and employability aspirations influenced academic engagement. Findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay of the study variables, providing valuable insights. The study recommends that policy makers and all education stakeholders create awareness of the importance of achievement goal orientation and embrace self-efficacy enhancement strategies while designing effective educational interventions to improve academic engagement in low income contexts.
An afro-bibilical reading of genesis 2-3 in response to climate change
(Sheffield phoenix press, 2023) Wabyanga, Robert Kuloba
The primary focus of this paper is an Afro-biblical reading of Genesis 2-3, informed by indigenous epistemologies and in response to contemporary local and global environmental crises. Using the context of Uganda, it brings African spiritual sensitivities about nature into conversation with Genesis 2-3. Based on archival and ethnographic research, the questions directing the investigation are: how can African spirituality inform reading of Genesis 2-3? What is the significance of Afro-biblical reading in responding to the problems of climate change?
An analysis of effects of divisionism in the Pentecostal churches : a case study of church of God and church of God of East Africa, Nebbi district
(Kyambogo University, 2019-10) Omaya, Vincent
Overall, the study assessed the divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa in Nebbi district. More specifically, the study examined three aspects to: find out the causes of divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa; find out the effect of divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa and suggest the solutions to the problems of divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa. The study used a case study design. It used questionnaires and interviews as major tools for data collection. Specifically the study covered a total of 270 respondents from the 30 Churches taking 15 churches from Church of God and 15 churches from Church of God of East Africa. Purposive sampling method was used for Church and local leaders while random sample sampling method was used for Church members. The findings of the study revealed that: power struggle and low level of education were the cause of divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of east Africa; hatred, divisionism and reduction in the number of followers were the major effects of divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa in Nebbi district and forgiveness, dialogue and repentance were the major possible solution to the divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa in Nebbi district. The study concluded that divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa in Nebbi district was caused by power struggle, low level of education, ignorance and poverty. It recommended that the government and other relevant authorities, for example members of Uganda Joint Christian Council (UJCC), regulate the different religious faith in order to minimize such divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa; that the two Churches to reconcile and live in harmony since all are from the same community and Christian faith and that the body that governed the different religious groups in Uganda intervene and resolve the divisionism between the adherents of Church of God and Church of God of East Africa.
Antecedents of organisational effectiveness of public universities in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-09) Turyahikayo, Wilberforce
This study investigated the antecedents of organisational effectiveness in public universities in Uganda. Basically, the study examined whether leadership styles were antecedents’ organizational effectiveness and the moderating and mediating effects of institutional culture and communication respectively. Thus, the study also assessed whether institutional culture was an antecedent organisational effectiveness; examined whether leadership styles were antecedents of communication; and analysed whether communication was an antecedent of organizational effectiveness. The study used a correlational research design while employing the quantitative research approach. The data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire on a sample of 265 administrative and academic heads of public universities. The findings indicated that while leadership styles and communication were positive significant antecedents of organizational effectiveness of public universities, institutional culture was a positive but insignificant antecedent of organisational effectiveness of public universities. The study also revealed that the leadership styles were positive significant antecedents of organisational communication and that organizational communication was a positive significant antecedent of organisational effectiveness. The results further revealed that organisational culture had a positive and significant moderating role on the influence of leadership styles on organisational effectiveness. Furthermore, the results revealed that communication had a positive and significant moderating effect on the relationship between the leadership styles and organisational effectiveness. It was thus concluded that transformational and transactional leadership styles were imperative for organisational effectiveness of public universities; in addition, institutional culture was essential for organisational effectiveness of public universities; then, leadership styles were vital for communication in public universities; and, communication was essential for organisational effectiveness of public universities, further still, the interaction between leadership styles and institutional culture was important for organisational effectiveness of public universities, and that, the mediation effect of communication was important on the influence of leadership styles on organisational effectiveness of public universities. Therefore, it was recommended that university managers should emphasise appropriate leadership styles to enhance organisational effectiveness; the university managers should promote institutional culture; the university leaders should establish effective communication for organisational effectiveness; then, the university managers should promote organisational culture for organisational effectiveness; university managers should combine effective leadership styles and institutional culture to enhance organisational effectiveness of public universities; and, the university managers besides using appropriate leadership styles, they should put in place effective communication to enhance organisational effectiveness.
Assessment of health-related fitness status of 6-9 Year old primary school pupils in Mukono and Wakiso districts, central Uganda
(Kenyatta University (unpublished work), 2010-11) Nsibambi, Constance A. N
Despite a world-wide increase in health-related diseases and conditions among children, little information is known about the children's health-related fitness status in Uganda. Assessment of the fitness status of pupils aged between 6 and 9 years in Mukono and Wakiso districts in central Uganda was conducted using physical fitness testing. The study also determined their level of engagement in physical activities. A cross-sectional survey research design was used to assess four health-related fitness components. These were cardiovascular endurance using a 9-minute run test, body composition using BMI method, low back flexibility using the sit and reach test and abdominal muscular strength/ endurance using the s it up test. The target population comprised of 25,500 school children drawn from public and private schools. Four thousand pupils formed the sample for the study. The actual sample consisted of 1929 pupils with 922 day scholars and 1,007 in boarding schools. Data was analysed using frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation and one way analysis of variance at 0.05 level of significance. The AAHPERD (1980) percentiles and the WHO (2007) CDC-BMI for sex- age-growth charts percentiles to determine the fitness status of the pupils. The results showed that out of the 922 day scholars 250 (27. l %) had weak cardiovascular endurance, 27 (2.9%) were underweight, while 58 (6.3%) were overweight, 29 (3.1 %) were obese; 707 (76.7%) had poor flexibility and 798 (86.5%) had weak abdominal muscles. On the other hand, out of the l 007 pupils in boarding schools 307 (30.5%) had weak cardiovascular endurance, 50 (5%) were underweight, while 79 (7.8%) were overweight, 50 (5%) were obese, 824 (81.8%) had poor flexibility and 814 (80.9%) had weak abdominal muscles. The results revealed significant differences in cardiovascular endurance, body composition and abdominal muscular strength/endurance between day and boarding pupils (p>0.05) with day scholars having higher mean distance run scores, lower mean BMI scores and lower mean sit up scores. There were no significant differences in the mean sit and reach scores between day and boarding pupils. However, majority of pupils achieved the recommended standard for the cardiovascular endurance and normal body composition. There were also significant gender differences in all the health-related fitness components. The boys had higher mean distance run scores, lower mean BMI scores, lower mean sit and reach scores and higher mean sit up scores. This implies that more boys had better cardiovascular endurance, normal weight and better muscular strength/endurance than girls. On the other hand, more girls were flexible than boys. The study revealed that the pupils demonstrated poor health-related fitness status especially in abdominal muscular endurance and low back flexibility. The study al so revealed that most pupils met the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity although the activities they engaged in were not appropriate enough to develop most of the health related fitness components. It is recommended that more physical activities that develop the health-related fitness should be integrated in the school curriculum and children need to engage in more active behaviours.
The challenges facing the clergy of church of Uganda Case study : Mukono diocese (1984-2010)
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2011-11) Kiwanuka, Dunstan Mazinga
The study set out to identify the major cultural background in relation with the challenges faced by the clergy in Mukono Diocese, as well as to establish their plausible remedies. By their social status, Clergy are a special spiritual group in society who are expected to help the community meet their social, physical and spiritual needs. However, the many challenges have not enabled the clergy in Mukono Diocese to play their social role very effectively. Chapter one discussed the background of the study, mission statement of the Diocese, role and position of the clergy, statement of the problem, Hypotheses, Objectives of the study, Scope, significance of the study, Literature review, methodology, research limitations and delimitations, as well as defined the operational key terms of the study. Chapter two discussed the major ethnic group and early missionary activities. Focus was put in the origins, religion, economy, marriage, death and social characteristics of the Baganda. The early missionary work in Uganda was also taken note of especially the Diocese of Uganda (1897-1961), the province of the church of Uganda, and the number of church of Uganda adherents as given by the 2002 population census. Chapter three discussed the financial and administrative challenges of the clergy in Mukono Diocese. Here the researcher's main emphasis was put on the causes of these challenges in the Diocese. Chapter four discussed the pastoral challenges of the clergy. These are challenges that arise out of the clergy's attitudes towards their career, how they relate with their
The challenges of HIV/AIDS epidemic: a case study of Namirembe Diocese, church of Uganda, 1992 – 2012.
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2013-11) Kabanda, Paul Richard
An investigation of the Challenges of HIV and AIDS was conducted in Namirembe Diocese - church of Uganda. The Diocese of Namir'en1be is the oldest Diocese in the Anglican Church of the Province of Uganda. lt covers the districts of Wakiso, Kalangala (Ssese Islands) and most parts of Kampala, with 6 Archdeaconries & one Deanery, 57 Parishes, and 342 local congregations (churches). Namirembe Diocese shares boundaries with Luweero Diocese in the North, Mukono Diocese in the East and South East, in the South; it is bordered by West Buganda and Central Buganda Dioceses, in the West it is bordered by Mityana Diocese. The major Variables in the study included; Diocesan responses in terms of caring for People Living with AIDS, Support offered to HIV and AJDS Carriers in the Diocese, Church activities that PLWA are engaged in and the Diocesan involvement in HJV and AlDS activities. In order to investigate a descriptive research design was used. Methods of data Collection included; Discussions, Questionnaires and interviews as primary sources of data Collection. Documentary method and Observation methods were the ones used as secondary sources. Results indicated that HIV and AIDS awareness and Prevention strategies are very much promoted by Namirembe Diocese through various activities, 42% are health Centers that offer services on behalf of the Diocese, 18% are activities promoting Abstinence, Behavioral Change, being faithful to one trusted partner. 12% are activities promoted through Music, Dance and Drama, 4% use Sports as a medium, and 24% through training and educative seminars. Activities done in relation to HIV and AIDS programs were noted at 42% as prevention (Behavioral Change Communication, Peer education, promotion of ABC). 17 .8% as Awareness through various activities like, Information Education and Communication tools distribution; Drama, Music, Sports and Dance. Voluntary Counseling and testing was at 14.1 % this involves Voluntary Testing, and Counseling of people.
Changing gender relations and poverty levels in Uganda during the 1979-2007 war: a case study of Madi people of North West Nile
(Dar es salaam University (unpublished work), 2013-11) Kenyi, Gowon Lawrence
The study examined Changing Gender Relations and Poverty Levels in Uganda during 1979- 2007 wars. Overall, the study examined the extent to which the series of the prolonged war affected gender relations and poverty levels among the Madi people of North West Nile Uganda. More specifically, the study examined three aspects namely, pre- war socioeconomic political structures and poverty levels, changes in gender relations and poverty level and gender related constraints and challenges and coping strategies adopted. The study used a case study research design to closely investigate social gender relations and poverty levels. The study used both quantitative and qualitative research methods to establish correlations between key variables included in the specific objectives. A total sample size of 324 respondents including 20 leaders and officials were involved. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select respondents. The study used documentary review, questionnaires, in-depth face to face interviews, focus group discussion and key informants to provide information for the study. Overall, study findings revealed that the prolonged wars affected gender relations and poverty levels negatively at both household and community levels. Specifically, study findings revealed that patriarchal gender relations in pre-war Madi society denied women access to resources, education, credit facilities, employment and information and women participation in political activities. The wars challenged patriarchal gender identity and relations; it offered women new economic opportunities and greater responsibilities. However women gained relative economic autonomy through entrepreneur activities. Both men and women faced serious challenges during the wars and both adopted various coping strategies to respond to these challenges. The study concluded that gender relations can positively change despite the negative effect of the wars, poverty can be fought and challenges educated Madi people about new livelihood and new life style. Finally the study recommends sensitization of both men and women about changes in gender relations and poverty levels in war situation. The study contributes new knowledge about gender analysis in pre - war situations and impact of war on socio cultural gen.d er related changes. However the study recommends further research into male ego and masculinity identity crisis in war situation.
The concept of tithing in Uganda’s pentecostal churches: a case study of Nakawa division-Kampala district
(Kyambogo University[unpublished work], 2022-08) Namuwenge, Fiona
This thesis examines the Concept of Tithing in Uganda’s Pentecostal churches. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches for data collection specifically, the study covered a total of 130 respondents who were selected from ten (10) churches by the purposive sampling method. These included twenty (20) leaders and one hundred ten (110) members of the flock. The study used a case study research design and data was collected using interview guides and questionnaires as the major tools. The Research was guided by Critical theory and Biblical Hermeneutics as theoretical frameworks. The study found out that there are three categories of tithes in the Old Testament: namely, the Levitical tithe (sacred tithe), Festive tithe, and the Poor tithe (welfare tithe). The study also revealed that tithing was not only for the Jews, but many ancient cultures practiced it even before biblical tithing was in place. The practice was evident in Mesopotamia, Syria, Palestine Phoenician and Egypt. Thus, tithing was not only an act of worship, but it was also a demonstration of political subservience (a primitive form of taxation). The study also found out that tithing in the Old Testament is in two dimensions, that is to say, the tithing before the Mosaic Law and during the Mosaic Law (Genesis 14:17-24; 28:18-28 and Leviticus 27:30-33; Numbers 18:21-28; Deuteronomy 14:22-29). The study reveals that both the Pentecostal Leaders and Believers today argue that tithing is part of the New Testament teaching and is a law and a command for born-again Christians. They argue that tithing is the only principle of God that brings success and prosperity. Based on the misinterpretation of Malachi 3 :9, Pentecostal leaders and believers opine that failure to tithe brings a curse upon one’s life. The study further reveals that the Pentecostal leaders and believers use Malachi 3 to justify their belief and teaching about tithing. This thesis argues that the contemporary notions on tithing is exploitative and based on misinterpretation of the scriptures, as tithing is not a command for Christians and was never emphasized by Jesus and his Apostles as an obligation for Christians (believers). It was a law given to the Israelites to support the Levites (Number 18:21-24) and the poor (Deuteronomy 14:27-29). New Testament Christians are encouraged to give generously and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). They should not give fearfully and legalistically. The study recommends that other Ugandan scholars should do research related to tithing in Anglican, Catholic and SDA (Seventh Day Adventists) churches among others. They should carry out critical contextual studies of Biblical and other religious texts on tithing in order to liberate Christians from extortion, fear and intimidation.
Constructivist- informed teaching in teacher preparation at teacher training institutions in south eastern Uganda
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-08) Gusango, Emmanuel Humphrey
The urgent need in the Ugandan education system is for teacher preparation programme that offer opportunities of constructivist teaching experiences for students to enable them to gain pedagogical content, teaching skills and professionalism. Constructivist- Informed Teaching can guide tutors and students in Teacher Training Institutions (TTIs) to find effective ways to plan, teach and find appropriate activities with an increased importance attached to creative thinking and ability to construct one’s own meaning and knowledge that enables preparation of holistic students for this complex interactive world. The study “Constructivist- Informed Teaching in Teacher Preparation at Teacher Training Institutions of South Eastern Uganda” focused on whether tutors carry out their teaching to enable students to construct their own ideas, knowledge, beliefs and values within the constructivists’ learning environment. The study offers a perspective of teaching that deepens both critical and creative thinking among tutors and students. The purpose of this study was to assess the implementation of Constructivist-Informed Teaching in teacher preparation with the objectives to establish whether the constructivist approaches were being used to teach and prepare students, analyse the application of constructivist principles applied to school practice supervision and to examine the implementation of constructivist- guided coaching in the preparation of students’ professional growth. The study was aimed to enable a crossover the 21st century through the suggested aspects for improvement in teacher preparation. The study explored beliefs, implementation and disparities between practice and Constructivist Theory in teacher preparation. Twenty participants were purposively sampled comprising of tutors and students from three Teacher Training Institutions in South Eastern Uganda. This was a qualitative study with a phenomenological research design where data was gathered using in-depth multiple interviews, observation, and document analysis. Data collection and analysis followed Moustakas procedure of data analysis. The results revealed that tutors continue to rely on traditional approaches in the teaching of students, where the clinical supervision approach is not used during school practice and minimal attention was given to the non- classroom based activities. This research study adds to the body of knowledge about ways in which Constructivist- Informed Teaching supports teaching effectiveness and promotes students’ learning, amplifying the need for reflective practice in instruction at Teacher Training Institutions. Findings from this study will help to improve teacher preparation at the Teacher Training Institutions by supporting ongoing Continuous Professional Development through the use of several constructivists’ practices that include reflection, clinical supervision, constructivist-guided coaching, and other interventions in a proper and professional setting. Additionally, these results will help in the implementation of the National Teacher Policy (2019) and will also support the review of the Teacher Training Institutions’ Curricula being undertaken by the Uganda National Institute of Teacher Education.
Contextual reading of 2 kings 5:1-15 in relation to african ideological perspectives on disease: a case study of covid-19
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-10) Omasete, Vincent
The study focused on contextual reading of 2Kings 5:1-15 in relation to African ideological perspectives on disease. The study used qualitative research methodologies and approaches and was based on library and document sources; using documents as the key tool in data collection. The study falls in a broad framework of African postcolonial interpretation of the Bible. A detailed examination of 2 Kings 5: 1-15 was done, with focus put on understanding the text in its own context. Centering the theme of Naaman’s leprosy in the broader ideological context of the ancient biblical world. The study further reads 2 Kings 5:1-15 in relation to the Africa epistemological construct of mystical diseases like Covid-19, Ebola, Nodding Diseases, Leprosy and among others. In view of African spirituality, the study focuses on the causation, attitudes, and response to such diseases. Chapter six of this study encompasses a contextual approach where the epistemological worldviews of 2 Kings 5:1-15 are read in correlation with African ideological perspectives on disease. The study reveals a mutual relationship between the biblical and African understanding of diseases of mystical nature. Such diseases are perceived to be of a spiritual causation, hence requiring a spiritual response. Their contagious nature is in both the text and context linked to a transfer of negative mystical powers. Victims of such diseases are perceived as condemned and infectious, and can only be handled in specialized spiritual ways. Though the control measures of such mystical diseases look synonymous to modern scientific pandemic standard operating procedures, the motivation behind such measures are different when compared with those of modern science. Besides, African religious approaches to disease have often conflicted to national authorities that recognize World Health Organization SOPs. The study highlights the influence of attitude and perception to mystical disease management and implores the African modern scientists to make use of the African Ideological Perspectives on disease in their response to and dealership with Africans in the face of pandemic.
Contextual study of 1 samuel 1:1-20 in relation to naming practices of the Lugbara
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2019-07) Wadiko, Iren
This study was carried out on the contextual analysis of 1 Samuel 1:1-20 in relation to the naming practices of the Lugbara. The study sought to discuss the text in relation to family life and naming practices, analyze the Lugbara family life and naming practices and establish the contextual relationship between the text and the Lugbara society in relation to family life and naming practices. A sample of ninety respondents was selected from the three districts by purposive sampling method. The study used interviews, observation and sampling as methods for collecting data. And the theoretical frame work of the study was African Bible Hermeneutics. Detailed contextual study of 1 Samuel 1:1-20 was done followed by the discussion of the text, in which major issues arising from it were paid attention to. The study examined the Bible and its context of naming where discussions were carried out on the Ancient Near Eastern naming practices.The study then proceeded to analyze Biblical naming practices. And numerous naming practices in the Bible were discussed. The study also found out that Lugbara people have patriarchal families which are characterized by the rule of men. It also found out that polygamy and barrenness affect women negatively.It was found out that it is the mother who names her child, and the name is influenced by her experience in marriage.In the analysis of the findings, the researcher found out that the family life and naming practices in 1 Samuel 1:1-20 share similarities with Lugbara family life and naming practices. And the study concludes that, Lugbara naming practices are therefore Biblical hence need not to be thrown away by the Christians who have been influenced by the colonialists, Western civilization and missionaries. The study recommended that other scholars should do contextual study of the Biblical text in relation to the naming practices of other African societies. And scholars were also called upon to do contextual study of Biblical texts in the light of, Lugbara sacrificial practices which is one of the practices that has been rendered evil among the Lugbara people.
A contextual study of 1 Samuel 28 in relation to divination in contemporary African society
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2019-10) Nadunga, Annet
This Thesis is a hermeneutical analysis of 1 Samuel 28 in relation to divination practices in contemporary African society. The focus of the analysis is on the fluidity of ideological renditions of divination in the Bible text and the contemporary African society. The framework of the study is postcoloniality; a literary approach of Bible interpretation where the Bible text is read in a decolonized way with a view of liberating and giving voice to the hitherto demonized, ridiculed and silenced African traditional systems. The analysis takes forms of a close reading of 1 Samuel 28 in its original context and examines its contextual relevance to the African socio-cultural setting in relation to divination. Different African modes of divination and their modes of operation are also discussed. The contemporary African ideas and attitudes are also articulated. The study revealed that both the Bible (con)text and Africans today express ambivalent attitudes towards the practice of divination. They criticize diviners and divination yet on the other hand when faced with life challenges which modem science and technology cannot solve, they opt for divination services. In most cases, divination services are sought nicodemusly with the aim of concealing the client's identity from the public. When compared with the scenario in the Bible narrative, there is no difference with what happens in modem Africa. Saul banished diviners from the land because their services were regarded illicit on the ideological basis of the Deuteronomist writer. However, when Saul was faced with a desperate situation, he goes after the ones he banished. He put aside his royal robes and waited for darkness to cover him up as he finds his way to Endor. When the text is read in conversion with the African contemporary views on divination, we notice that they share the ideology of portraying divination as an illicit practice, and approve other means of dealing with human problems (like prophets as in the biblical society; science and technology, Christianity and modem medicine among others in the contemporary settings). However, on the other hand when faced with life challenges, the Africans look back to what they disputed. The negative labels of this noble African religious institution by Western colonialism is the reason why an African, faced with problems that need divination, finds it shameful, uncivilized and backward to seek the services of a diviner publicly but in hiding.
The cultural and religious construction of nodding disease among the Acholi people of northern Uganda
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2022-10) Acayo, Keddy Olanya
Since 2009, medical experts and other scientists have tried to make meaning of the nodding disease. Their explanations neve1theless have not been satisfactory to the people of Acholi with no clear explanation on the causes of nodding disease. This has made it difficult to have the right treatment that can cure the nodding disease (ND). With the failure of science to provide a plausible explanation for nodding disease in Northern Uganda, alternative explanations have been sought, with the local people of Acholi finding solace in cultural and religious explanations. This thesis is a result of rigorous attempt to establish and analyse the cultural and religious perception of the people of Acholi about the manifestation, causes, diagnosis and treatment as well as effects of nodding disease among the Acholi of Northern Uganda. The study was qualitative in nature. It entailed use of interviews, observations and document reviews as the data collection methods. Both face to face and phone call interviews were used conveniently. In situations when physical meetings with respondents were not possible due to distance, phone call interviews proved as a convenient substitute to enlist the required information. The snow ball technique was used to identify and reach out to respondents with required information. Both in person and phone call interviews were conducted in Luo language, the language of the Acholi. All interviews were audio recorded, and later translated in English after the transcribing. Using observation method, the researcher observed the physical and social environment in which patients of ND lived as well as the day today interaction between the patient and the family members. Document review and analysis was usefully employed with scholarly resources in form of open access journals from the internet and other such printed articles and books. More relevant info1mation about nodding disease was got through mainstream and social media. The study findings revealed that the manifestation of nodding disease sta1ting by nodding of heads on sights of food. The associated cause according to cultural leaders, pointed out that evil spirits majorly believed to be as the result of LRA war. Based on this belief, spiritual cleansing of some areas was done to end nodding disease and this showed some response of no new infections of nodding disease in Acholi land. The disease left a huge negative impact in Acholi land especially in affected communities and families. These effects included; poverty in affected families, disability of the affected children and stigma among others. The researcher recommends cleansing of the whole Acholi land by cultural institution to avoid any other calamity unfolding in the land based on unmet cultural obligations.
Cultural moral values in proverbs vis-à-vis the trends of immorality among the Batooro youths of Kyenjojo district
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-02) Kyaligonza, Joseph Robert
The purpose of the study was to examine the cultural moral values in proverbs visa vis the trends of immorality among the batooro youths of Kyenjojo District basing on the following objectives of the study; to examine the trend of immorality among the Batooro youths in Kyenjojo, to establish proverbs that promote morality among the Batooro youths, to find out the factors that are responsible for ineffective promotion of morality among the Batooro youths, and to examine how proverbs can be disseminated to contribute to the solution of immorality. The study design was cross-sectional in nature, both qualitative and quantitative approaches were employed 173 comprising of 108 youths 43 elders, 8 local leaders, 8 civil local leaders and 5 religious leaders were considered. Data was collected by the use of questionnaire and interview guide. Questionnaire was constructed on the computer using Statistical Packages for Social Scientist (SPSS). Analysis was done basing on Frequency tables and graphs. Data from interviews was transcribed from oral into written format ready for analysis. Based on the analysis of the responses to various proverbs, it is clear that the participants hold a variety of beliefs and attitudes regarding cultural and moral values. The results suggest that there is a concerning trend of immorality among some Batooro youths in Kyenjonjo, which may be attributed to the breakdown of traditional values and a lack of respect for cultural and religious norms. Issues such as premarital sex, teenage pregnancy, violence, online fraud, theft, bullying, dishonesty, and disrespect for elders have been identified as prevalent concerns. The majority of respondents do not believe that negative economic freedom, misunderstanding of democratization, the new migratory labor system, or lack of African cultural knowledge are responsible for the ineffective promotion of morality. Based on the responses, it appears that using proverbs as a tool for promoting morality among Batooro youths is seen as a promising approach. This may involve incorporating proverbs into all levels of education and working collaboratively with parents, teachers, religious leaders, and policymakers. It is recommended that Schools and universities should include cultural and moral education as part of their curriculum. This can include teaching proverbs and other cultural values, promoting respect for elders, and educating students about the consequences of immoral behavior.
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah revisited : military and political reflections
(Old Testament Essays, 2015) Wabyanga, Robert Kuloba
That Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis have been a subject of constant cognitive itch is a truism rather than fiction. Aware that the HB is an ideological text, the story of Jordan states notably Sodom and Gomorrah may need further reflections outside sexual frontlines but from the perspectives of political dynamics of the ANE. This paper explores Sodom and Gomorrah as a political and military story that turned theological and ideological. I opine that the fire that razed Sodom and Gomorrah could have been the result of military invasion(s). What is however intriguing is the interest of the biblical writer: at what points would the military or political afterlife of Sodom and Gomorrah meet with the ideological interests of the Bible writer? What interests does the writer have in Sodom and Gomorrah that he finds it necessary not only to conceal the historical reality but also invent ideas and imageries of Sodom and Gomorrah as condemned cities? The paper employs Clines' and Exum's strategies of reading against the grain and defragmenting the stories. In this case, the different stories of Sodom and Gomorrah in chs. 10, 13, 14, 18 and 19 are read critically and in conversation with each other.
Evolution of multi-disciplinary philosophies of method: colonial antecedents and post-colonial paradigm shifts
(Springer International Publishing, 2023-08) George, Kizito Michael
The hegemony of the natural and biological sciences in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries coincided with the entrenchment of positivism as a superior methodology in knowledge acquisition and justification. Positivism exalted empiricism or experiential knowledge from sense perception. This not only led to the sciencization (empiricization) of humanities like ethics but also social sciences such as sociology, anthropology, economics, law, education and political science. Unfortunately, the radical empiricism embedded in positivism (scientism) bred a plethora of racist and sexist scholars who hid under the facades of positivistic science to justify slavery, colonialism, racial segregation and gender discrimination. The abolition of slavery and slave trade in the nineteenth century led to anti-colonial sentiments and agitations for independence in Africa, Asia and Latin America. A number of African countries attained independence in the 1950s and 1960s. This ensconced Pan-Africanism and its related nuances such as Pan-African governance, Pan-African development and Pan-African education. Consequently, Pan-African scholars embarked on the deconstruction of colonial methodologies and modes of knowledge embedded in the positivistic mono-perspectival schema in favor of post-colonial multi-disciplinary methodologies and interpretive philosophies of method. Feminist scholars in both the global North and South also used the post-colonial methodological paradigm to further expose the positivistic scientific methodology as androcentric and gender blind. This chapter therefore argues that multi-disciplinarity and inter-disciplinarity are simply a logical consequent of decoloniality and post-coloniality. The chapter contends that post-coloniality and decoloniality dethrone positivism and all its quantitative superiority pretexts in favor of interpretivism, multi-disciplinarity, mixed methodologism, qualitative analyses, epistemological justice and epistemological realism.
Fluidity and hybridity of customary marriage traditions in contemporary Uganda
(E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (EHASS), 2023-03) Alexander, Paul Isiko; Joy, Mukisa Isabirye
The ideology that customary marriages are celebrated according to ancestral traditions and customs is rife in Africa. There is however continuous invention and evolution of institutions associated with customary marriage rendering it burdensome to trace the visibility of ancient ‘traditions’ therein. This argument is anchored in the theoretical perspective of ‘invention of tradition’, to analyse the extent to which the celebration of customary marriages in Uganda has maintained the ancestral ‘traditional’ status quo owing to the influences of colonisation, westernisation globalisation and modernisation. Busoga, a predominantly Bantu ethnic society, is used as a representative case for this analysis. Using a historical and ethnographic approach, it was established that there is a lot of fluidity and hybridity of contemporary traditions upon which these marriages are celebrated. The notion that customary marriages are celebrated based on past traditions is a fallacy, although at best, efforts have been invested to dramatise past traditions in contemporary settings.
From Legal Positivism to Neo-Liberal Scientism: A Metaphysical Defence of Moral Law and the Inseparability Thesis
(Jumuga Journal of Education, Oral Studies, and Human Sciences (JJEOSHS), 2024-06-20) George, Kizito M
Despite decades of contentions between moral legalists and legal positivists about the place of morality in law, moral law has vehemently stood out as the end of history. The scientific experiment has despondently failed to logically evict the moral law from the jurisprudential discourse. This research article posits that moral law is the End of History as far jurisprudential evolution is concerned. It argues that the mechanization of law through the positivistic experiment is a moral debacle dented with logical inconsistencies and insurmountable fallacies. It thus uses the inseparability thesis to demonstrate the pivotality of moral law in every positive jurisprudence superstructure. It contends that law appeals to our moral sensibilities because it pre-supposes a conscience in the law giver, the law enforcer and the citizen who is supposed to abide by the law. This Ought necessity therefore makes the trio morally credible to legislate, enforce the law and be legally bound by the principles and precincts established by the law.

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