Impact Of Religiosity On Income Growth In Two Church Communities In Mwanza City, Tanzania

ABSTRACT

Religiosity has both positive and negative influences on income growth in believer‟s communities. For that reason, it is important to create awareness to the society about the influence of religious practices on income growth. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of religiosity on income growth in Africa Inland Church Tanzania AIC (T) and Glory Church communities in Mwanza City. Specifically, the study had four major objectives: Firstly, to examine church systems which have some outcomes on the income of AIC (T) and Glory Church members. Secondly, to determine the level of religiosity in AIC (T) and Glory Church as it relates to resource utilization in a historical perspective. Thirdly, to evaluate how religiosity influences income growth of believers in AIC (T) and Glory Church communities. Finally, to identify religious beliefs, values and ethics which are compatible to income growth. A cross-sectional research design was used in this study. Purposive sampling and stratified sampling were used to select 120 respondents for interviews. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data. Secondary data were collected from city reports, profiles, pamphlets, constitutions and Kwa Neema FM 98.2. Moreover, life history interviews were conducted. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences software was used for data analysis. It is evident that the church depends on believers‟ contribution to promote several systems designed to sustain its existence. Believers deposit their incomes through offerings and tithes to support church financial requirements. Believers perceived themselves that they are committed to participate on performing religious practices. They dedicate their resources to fulfil these activities and sometimes they over contribute.