Reconstructing the Traditional Roles of Contemporary Muslim Mothers in Kenya

Abstract

There is a constant struggle for women who aspire to be good Muslim mothers at the same time have a positive impact on their society as professionals. These women do acknowledge and understand their unique position in the upbringing of children and prioritise motherhood responsibility over their other ambitions in life. There are those who prioritise their education and career over motherhood and others believe that Muslim women are not ideally supposed to be working outside the house. The Muslim society is experiencing all types of impurities ranging from drug addiction, corruption, homosexuality, lesbianism, alcoholism, homicides, and mass poverty to destitution. Could this be as a result of Muslim women going out to work and delegating their responsibility at home? Or how can they make the best out of their position at home as mothers and outside as professionals to help change society? In what ways can they balance and get out of their stereotypical roles and contribute positively to the wellbeing of the whole society? This article will discuss motherhood institutions from the daily experiences of mothers; homestay, working, older, and the modern generation. It will also try to find out whether they can balance being a mother and a career person and what impact this will have on Muslim society