The proliferation of poverty in sub-Saharan Africa is manifest in the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The United Nations commitment to global poverty alleviation is to work in partnership to achieve the MDGs. The role of religious organizations in humanitarian services in the developing world is prevalent; therefore as partners in development, their role in HIV/AIDS prevention is important to achieving the MDGs. Using qualitative methodology, this dissertation applies a case study design looking at prevention approaches of churches in Nairobi, Kenya to explain how and why partners are influencing efforts to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS. The sample was generated from the National AIDS Control Council database of all registered faith-based organizations stakeholders in Kenya. Data was collected through observation, interviews and existing documents.

To understand the phenomenon of the missionary movement in the twenty-first century and why the role of faith based organizations is significant to achieving the MDGs, this study draws a parallel analysis to previous research on why and how missionary work, Christianity and ideological perspectives influenced development in Africa. From a sociological perspective, this dissertation explains how intersecting concepts in religion, social justice, human rights and culture is impacting development. It contributes to the gap in discourse in missionary work and sociology.

As the recipient of a merit graduate assistantship, Oduor has taught a general education course titled Views from the Third World and worked with professors in the Sociology Department at American University as a teaching assistant for courses in: Economic Development and Social Change, Women in the Third World, and Social Policy Research.

Oduor has keen interest in photography, enjoys cycling, and playing chess. She is from Kenya, East Africa.