Effectiveness of University Christian Unions in Promoting Environmental Stewardship: A Case of Select CUs under FOCUS Kenya

Abstract

Amid the growing global and local environmental crises, the faith sector, particularly Christian youth in Africa, has a vital role to play in promoting environmental stewardship. Christian Unions under FOCUS Kenya serve as a critical platform for mobilizing and equipping Christian youth, particularly students, for transformative leadership and faith-driven impact through discipleship, mentorship, and community engagement. This study examines the effectiveness of university Christian Unions (CUs) in promoting environmental stewardship among students in Kenya. It assesses the effectiveness of CU-led initiatives in fostering environmental stewardship by exploring the perceptions and attitudes of Christian students towards creation care and the potential contours of a student-centered eco-theology. The study employs a mixed-methods approach to the research, and data were gathered from respondents by having them fill out digitally administered questionnaires. To ensure the study is theologically grounded, a Pastoral Circle was used to reflect on the findings. Findings indicate that while the CUs are engaged in environmental stewardship, their efforts are only moderately effective, as evidenced by a low frequency, low turnout, and a lack of variety in strategies. Apathy and lack of concern were identified as the key barriers to students’ engagement in creation care. The study also revealed that theological misconceptions about the fate of the earth, the role of humanity, and gospel priorities are the leading obstacles to environmental stewardship among Christian youth. The study concludes that there is a need for more training, awareness, and funding in university Christian Unions towards creation care. Additionally, a student-centered theological proposition for environmental stewardship needs to build on the popular theological arguments while also developing a strong case for less popular ones, such as environmental justice.