Climate change and the United Church of Zambia: an indigenous African theological response.

Abstract

This thesis purpose is to explore the need for an appropriate indigenous response to climate change within the United Church of Zambia (UCZ). The thesis argument is that the UCZ's inadequate response to climate change is due to the absence of a suitable African theological approach. Therefore by determining an appropriate African theological response, the thesis seeks to address the impact of climate change on communities, including the UCZ, in Zambia. It also aims at identifying African resources that can be drawn upon to mitigate climate change and advocates for a more holistic approach that considers social, economic, and environmental factors. In order to achieve these goals, the study utilizes a qualitative method, involving observations, and analysis of textual or visual data. The findings highlighted are that, the UCZ has insufficient response to climate change and the thesis recommends the enhancing of knowledge, understanding of climate change and indigenous knowledge among church leaders. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the urgency of responding to climate change within faith-based communities and underscores the critical role of theology in influencing positive action towards a sustainable future.