Abstract

MBAO, Ronald. The involvement of people with disabilities in church matters in relation to gender equality in Tanzania: A case of Mbeya City. STJ [online]. 2020, vol.6, n.1, pp.141-162. ISSN 2413-9467.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17570/stj.2020.v6n1.a09.

Involvement of people with disabilities in church activities, ranging from ordinary worship to resuming leadership positions, poses a great challenge to the African church. While African governments have put in place policies (Acts) regarding the involvement of people with disability in national economic development activities, findings in this paper revealed that the scenario in the church was different. This paper unfolds the real state of affairs in the church as far as involvement of people with disabilities is concerned. Even so, it appears there is a step taken that ushers in hopes for the fully-fledged engagement of the church in the near future. As a way forward, the paper appeals to the government authorities to direct and monitor the construction of church buildings to conform to inclusive standards, and that the churches should put in place policies regarding people with disabilities.

Keywords : disability; gender; equality; involvement; church.

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