The Dialectic of Jitegemea: Liberation, Burden, and the Quest for Sustainable Ministry in Kenyan Presbyterianism

Abstract

This mixed-methods study critically examines the implications of the Jitegemea (self-reliance) philosophy on clergy sustainability within the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA), with a specific focus on the Milimani South Presbytery. Initially articulated by Rev. John Gatu in 1972 as a postcolonial vision of ecclesial autonomy and economic empowerment, Jitegemea has evolved into a complex institutional paradigm. While intended as a liberative theology, its implementation often produces structural strain and vocational precarity. Quantitative data from 98 respondents revealed a moderate but statistically non-significant correlation between adherence to Jitegemea and perceived clergy sustainability (r = .312, p = .098; β = –.365, p = .126). In contrast, institutional support showed a strong, statistically significant correlation (r = .892, p = .001) and regression coefficient (β = .996, p = .003), indicating its centrality in sustaining pulpit ministry. Qualitative interviews (n = 20) corroborated these findings, highlighting three systemic burdens, financial precarity, administrative overload, and psychological distress, as well as widespread concern over post-retirement insecurity. However, 31% of participants also reported successful local adaptations of Jitegemea through shared governance, entrepreneurial ministry, and pastoral care systems. Guided by Self-Reliance Theory, Ethical Leadership Theory, and Human Development Theory, the study affirms that sustainable ministry is not achieved through ideology alone, but through enabling institutional structures. The research concludes that Jitegemea must be reimagined as a structurally embedded praxis, requiring reforms in pastoral care, vocational formation, and retirement planning. These findings contribute to contemporary African ecclesiology by reframing sustainability as a theological and systemic imperative rooted in justice, dignity, and structural care.