The Role of Mosques in serving the Community: A Case Study of Jamia Mosque, Nairobi

Abstract

This research aims to examine the social role played by the Jamia Mosque in Nairobi, serving as a model for a multi-functional religious institution whose impact extends beyond worship to encompass education, counseling, and social welfare. The study highlights the mosque's significance as a center for religious education, a hub for social networking, and a platform for community solidarity, in addition to its role in promoting Islamic values and fostering a cohesive society.

The research focuses on analyzing the services provided by the mosque, such as Quran memorization circles, awareness lectures, social assistance, and its role in resolving family disputes, alongside the impact of these activities on community members. Furthermore, the study addresses the challenges that hinder the achievement of the desired impact of these services, such as limited resources or a shortage of qualified personnel.

The researcher adopted a descriptive-historical approach by documenting the establishment and evolution of the mosque over time, as well as describing and analyzing its ongoing activities. This was achieved through data collection from field interviews and documentary sources. The study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the mosque's development, evaluate its responsiveness to community needs, and propose strategies to enhance its societal role.

Overall, the study seeks to emphasize the importance of activating the comprehensive role of mosques in community service, and fostering integration between the functions of worship and social service, thereby ensuring the continuity of their pivotal role in the lives of Muslims.