An Analysis of Islamic Teachings on Environmental Conservation in Marsabit County, Kenya

Abstract

This study analysed Islamic teachings on environmental conservation and their interpretation among Muslims in Marsabit County, Kenya. Environmental challenges, including deforestation, overgrazing, soil erosion, vegetation loss, and water scarcity, threaten biodiversity and pastoral livelihoods. The study adopted a descriptive survey design covering Moyale, North Horr, Saku, and Laisamis Sub-Counties. A sample of 384 was selected from a target population of 217,079 Muslims using the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) sampling table. Simple random sampling selected community members, while purposive sampling identified religious leaders. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 28.0 and descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Of 339 questionnaires distributed, 334 (98.53%) were returned. Additionally, 10 key informants were interviewed, and 24 participants participated in focus group discussions, bringing the total to 368 participants. Guided by Liberative Social Solidarity Theory, the study found substantial awareness of Islamic environmental principles. Specifically, 95.3 per cent of youths recognised human stewardship (Khalīfah), all youth respondents (100%) affirmed ecological balance (Mīzān), and 91.7 per cent of Madrasa children understood Islamic water conservation teachings. Furthermore, 94.9 per cent of men and women supported additional Islamic environmental education. However, 21.0 per cent of youths did not affirm the Islamic prohibition against wastefulness (Isrāf). The findings identified stewardship (Khalīfah), trusteeship (Amānah), ecological balance (Mīzān), and responsible resource use as central Islamic environmental principles. The study recommends strengthening environmental education in Madrasa schools, incorporating conservation messages into Friday sermons, and promoting community participation in water conservation, tree planting, and sustainable waste management.