African-Christian-Muslim dialogue on hospitality: A Case study of Somali refugees at the Dadaab refugee complex in Kenya

Abstract

This paper demonstrates that African-Christian-Muslim dialogue, anchored on hospitality offers a suitable framework for restoring the dignity of Somali refugees at the Dadaab Refugee Camp. It highlights the plight of the Somali refugees and explores theological bases for remedying based on African-Christian-Muslim teachings. This study primarily uses Cardinal Cardijn’s “See, Judge, and Act” of Catholic social analysis. The main challenges that the refugees face include poor shelter, inadequate food supply, poor educational standards, and recurrent threats of deportation by the Kenyan government. Above all, it highlights that Christian and Muslim humanitarian organizations play leading roles in caring for the refugees. Ultimately, it shows that theological reflections on the ministries of Jesus and prophet Muhammad provide narratives for rallying Christians and Muslims to be more magnanimous in caring for the Somali refugees.