Religion and Development: The Redeemed Gospel Church and the Fight against HIV and AIDS in Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the role of the Redeemed Gospel Church (RGC) in the fight against HIV and AIDS in Kenya. The RGC was relevant in this study due to its strong belief in healing and its active involvement in development projects in Kenya. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were used for data collection. The qualitative data was processed through coding and critical analyses while the quantitative data was analysed through descriptive statistics in which the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analyses. Data presentation was done by use of frequencies and percentages. The study found that the RGC plays a role in the fight against HIV and AIDS in Kenya. This is evidenced by the programs established by the Church to alleviate suffering brought about by HIV and AIDS among its members and the community in general. The researcher recommends that religious organizations be actively involved in the fight against HIV/Aids because they are better placed to deal with challenges posed by HIV and AIDS among other social maladies. The study aims at forming a basis for a forum to enlighten the public of the risks of keeping quiet about HIV and AIDS. The study provides information which is useful in launching a campaign towards creating awareness of the importance of Church involvement in the fight against AIDS. The findings may be useful to the clergy and other religious leaders in their fight against HIV and AIDS. The study would also directly benefit the church members and church leaders by employing the study’s recommendations to come up with programs that facilitate HIV and AIDS awareness and counseling. The study findings can be used by future researchers as reference materials. Keywords: HIV/Aids, Religion (Church), Development