Towards an Islamic Theology of Nature: An Empirically Informed Conceptual Framework for Marsabit County, Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to develop a contextualised Islamic theology of nature framework to strengthen ecological responsibility and environmental sustainability. Marsabit County, Kenya, faces persistent ecological degradation despite Islamic teachings that promote environmental care and stewardship. It examined the application of Islamic principles, including divine trust (Amānah), stewardship (Khalīfah), balance (Mīzān), and the prohibition of extravagance (Isrāf), amid deforestation, overgrazing, habitat loss, poverty, and recurrent droughts. Guided by Liberative Social Solidarity Theory, the study adopted a descriptive survey design in Moyale, North Horr, Saku, and Laisamis sub-counties. A sample of 384 was drawn from a target population of 217,079 Muslims using the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) table. Simple random sampling selected Madrasa learners, youths, and adults, while purposive sampling identified religious leaders and other key informants. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 28.0 and presented through descriptive statistics, while qualitative data from interviews and focus group discussions were thematically analysed. Of 339 questionnaires distributed, 334 were returned, representing a 98.53 per cent response rate. In total, 368 participants contributed data through questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. The findings revealed that immediate livelihood pressures often undermine Islamic conservation ethics, trapping communities in a cycle of environmental degradation and survival-driven resource exploitation. The study proposes linking conservation principles with livelihood support through Zakat and financing for alternative clean energy. It also recommends establishing a regional ecological centre and joint faith-based task forces to strengthen religious engagement with county environmental policies, particularly in sustainable rangeland and water management. The framework provides a context-sensitive approach to integrating Islamic teachings, livelihood security, and ecological sustainability.