Engaging indigenous community in development: The case of an informal Quaker movement in Kenya

Abstract

In a society that is composed of both secular and religious groups, religious activities or presence often cause tension. A study of religious activities in Kenya shows the church viewed as a force for development on one hand and as detrimental to development on the other. A more tolerant society requires re-examination of religious activities from different contextual perspectives. This study explores an informal Quaker movement`s engagement with the Maasai community in community development. The findings of the study suggest that religious groups are organic hence they adapt to environmental changes that characterize their ecology. Organizational adaptation to the environment is a process in which organizations transact values with the society based on mutual interests and benefits. To effect value transaction, they employ techniques available within their environment in order to thrive against forces that tend to disadvantage them or threaten their existence.