THE ROLE OF BUSINESSWOMEN IN PROMOTING CHRISTIAN-MUSLIM RELATIONS: A CASE STUDY OF EASTLEIGH ‘GARISSA LODGE’-NAIROBI COUNTY AND MAUA TOWN-MERU COUNTY

Abstract

This dissertation is about the challenges of Christian and Muslim businesswomen in promoting Christian-Muslim Relations. The study is informed by the research which was carried out in ‘Garissa lodge’ Eastleigh in Nairobi County and Maua town in Meru County. This being a social study, it employed qualitative methods of descriptive case study methodology, using the narratives of women to analyze challenges they face and how this contribute to Christian-Muslim dialogue. The study used snowball sampling method to get the respondents who their life-stories were analyzed in this study with reference to challenges and role that business women play in Christian-Muslim relations. The research techniques of collecting data were in-depth interviews and participatory-observation. This method helped in getting the common challenges that included cultural, economic and religious. The unique challenges include the understanding of the way religion has both negative and positive impact on women. Because of the interaction between these women there is a dialogue between these women which can act as a basis for further dialogue. The aim of the study was to understand the challenges faced by businesswomen and their role in promoting Christian-Muslim Relation. The research found that these businesswomen in the business have contributed indirectly to the dialogue in the society. The research provides important information about the local conditions that should not be taken for granted, but rather builds into the design of community collaboration and interaction. The involvement of local people and especially women at all levels of Christian-Muslim relations is equally important.