Obstacles to the Spread of Islamic Da'wah and Ways to Address Them: A Case Study in Mombasa County

Abstract

This study examines the obstacles to the spread of Islamic da‘wah and the means of addressing them through a case study of Mombasa County, Kenya, in light of the region’s religious and cultural diversity and the social and economic challenges that directly affect the effectiveness of da‘wah activities. The study is grounded in a scholarly framework that affirms Islamic da‘wah as a fundamental pillar for preserving religious identity and fostering social cohesion; however, in contemporary reality it faces a range of obstacles that limit its impact and reach. The research problem is articulated through the central question: What are the most significant obstacles to the spread of Islamic da‘wah in Mombasa County, and what are the appropriate means to address them in light of the local context and the objectives of Islamic law (maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah)? The study aims to provide a rigorous scholarly diagnosis of these obstacles, clarify their intellectual, social, and institutional causes, and propose practical solutions that contribute to developing da‘wah discourse and enhancing its impact within society. The significance of the study lies in its contribution to bridging a scholarly gap in applied da‘wah studies in East Africa, while offering a realistic framework that can benefit da‘wah institutions and religious policymakers. Methodologically, the study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach supported by a case study to analyze the phenomenon within its social and cultural context, drawing on interviews and field sources where appropriate. The study reaches several key findings, most notably: inadequate scholarly and professional training among some preachers, a lack of coordination among da‘wah institutions, and negative influences related to racial discrimination and deviant sects, in addition to challenges posed by Christian missionary activity, globalization, and foreign policy. The study recommends strengthening the scholarly and professional training of preachers, unifying da‘wah efforts, utilizing modern media, and linking da‘wah discourse to people’s lived realities and needs, in a manner that fulfills the objectives of Islamic da‘wah in guidance and reform.