THE CHURCH AS A CATALYST FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF ECWA KADUNA SOUTH DCC'S IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Keywords:
Church Development; Sustainable Development; ECWA Kaduna South; Social Capital Theory; Community Empowerment.Abstract
This study investigates the role of the Church as a catalyst for sustainable development using ECWA Kaduna South DCC as a case study. The research is driven by the growing need for faith-based organizations to support government efforts in addressing socio-economic challenges in Nigerian communities. The main objective of the study is to examine how ECWA Kaduna South DCC’s programmes contribute to education, economic empowerment, health, and social welfare in Kaduna State. The study adopts a qualitative research method that relies on data gathered from library books, internet sources, relevant journals, and documented church activities. The Social Capital Theory serves as the theoretical framework, emphasizing how networks, community trust, and collective action strengthen development outcomes. Findings reveal that ECWA Kaduna South DCC has initiated notable developmental activities such as scholarship schemes, vocational training, skill acquisition programs, and health outreach services, all of which positively influence community well-being. However, challenges including limited financial resources, insecurity, and weak institutional collaboration restrict the full execution of these programmes. The study concludes that the Church plays an essential role in advancing sustainable development, especially in areas where government interventions are insufficient. It recommends stronger church-government partnerships, improved donor engagement, enhanced monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and the expansion of current programmes to reach more vulnerable populations, thereby increasing the developmental impact of ECWA Kaduna South DCC in Kaduna State. NigeriaReferences
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