African Architectural History Review (Humanities focus)
African Architectural History Review (Humanities focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Decolonizing African Art History in Kenya
The field of African architectural history in Kenya has traditionally been dominated by Eurocentric perspectives that have marginalized indigenous narratives and methodologies. The proposed methodology involves engaging with underrepresented communities through oral histories, traditional knowledge systems, and contemporary artistic practices as primary sources of data. By integrating these new methodologies and perspectives, African art history can be more accurately represented and understood, leading to a richer and more comprehensive understanding of the region’s cultural heritage. It is recommended that scholars adopt a collaborative research model with local communities, ensure equitable representation in academic publications, and critically evaluate existing historiographies for bias.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Media's Influence on Urban Ghanaian Communication Patterns
Urban Ghana is experiencing rapid urbanization, leading to increased social media usage among its residents. The impact of social media on communication patterns has been observed but lacks systematic research. An action research study was conducted, utilising surveys and focus group discussions to gather data from urban residents across various socio-economic backgrounds in Accra. Social media usage showed a significant increase (76%) among respondents compared to traditional communication methods. Themes identified included the preference for instant messaging over phone calls (82%). The study highlights the growing importance of social media in urban Ghanaian communication, necessitating further research into its long-term effects. Future studies should explore intergenerational differences and potential negative impacts of excessive social media use on traditional communication. Urban Ghana, Social Media, Communication Patterns, Action Research
Gambian Perspectives on Afro-Linguistics and African Language Structures
Gambia is a country in West Africa where Afro-Linguistics has been applied to study African language structures. The analysis is based on existing scholarly works that have explored the application of Afro-Linguistics to African language structures, particularly those published in recent years. Gambian perspectives enrich our understanding of Afro-Linguistics by emphasising specific language groups that are underrepresented in broader African linguistic studies. Further research should aim to include more diverse linguistic samples, particularly from minority language communities within Gambia’s complex cultural fabric.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Analysis of Creation Myths in Selected African Cultures of South Africa
Creation myths are essential narratives in African cultures that explain the origins of the universe, society, and individual beings. South Africa’s diverse cultural landscape provides a rich context for exploring these mythologies. The research methodology involves extensive literature review, oral history interviews, and cultural documentation. The sample includes traditional Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele creation myths, representing different geographical regions of South Africa. A notable theme emerging from the analysis is the recurring depiction of water as a fundamental component in creation stories across cultures, emphasising its symbolic importance in each culture's cosmology. The comparative study reveals significant thematic and structural similarities among South African creation myths, indicating shared cultural narratives despite geographical and linguistic diversity. Further research should incorporate multimedia elements to enhance the understanding of these mythologies and explore their relevance in contemporary contexts such as environmental sustainability education.
Mali's African Philosophy in Global Ethical Debates
Mali is a country in West Africa known for its rich cultural heritage, including philosophical thought that has influenced global ethical debates. The study employs a qualitative approach to analyse primary texts from historical and modern philosophical works in Mali, alongside secondary sources that discuss these contributions. Themes of justice, community, and environmental stewardship emerge as prominent in both traditional Malian philosophy and contemporary global ethical discourse. African philosophy offers valuable insights into addressing current ethical challenges, particularly concerning social cohesion and ecological sustainability. Further research should focus on integrating these philosophical perspectives more explicitly into Mali’s educational curricula and public policy frameworks.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Egyptian archaeology has long wrestled with ethical dilemmas regarding sovereignty over ancient sites and artifacts. A review of existing laws, international agreements, and case studies from recent years is employed to analyse the current landscape of archaeology and repatriation in Egypt. Recent legal reforms have underscored a proactive stance towards repatriating artifacts based on their cultural significance and historical provenance, particularly for items with strong ties to Egyptian heritage. While progress has been made, challenges remain in balancing national interests against global standards of ethical conduct. Enhanced collaboration between Egypt and international bodies is recommended to ensure equitable and culturally sensitive repatriation processes.
Hybrid Pedagogical Models for Teaching Coding Concepts in Sub-Saharan Africa
Coding education is increasingly important in primary school curricula worldwide. However, its implementation in Sub-Saharan Africa faces unique challenges due to cultural and pedagogical differences. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including pre- and post-tests with coding assessments, teacher interviews, and student surveys. A sample of 120 primary school students from four randomly selected schools was used. The hybrid model significantly improved student understanding of basic coding concepts compared to traditional teaching methods (p < 0.05). Hybrid pedagogical models, combining digital resources with hands-on activities, appear promising for enhancing coding education in Sub-Saharan Africa. Further research should explore scalability and sustainability of these hybrid models across different regions and contexts.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Preserving Digital Cultural Heritage in Resource-Limited Environments
Digital cultural heritage in Uganda faces unique challenges due to resource limitations such as low internet connectivity and limited digital literacy among local communities. An iterative process involving consultations with stakeholders, community workshops, and the implementation of technology solutions tailored to Ugandan conditions. The use of low-cost, locally available hardware such as Raspberry Pi devices proved effective for hosting digital archives in areas with poor internet connectivity. This study demonstrated that local engagement is crucial for successful preservation efforts and highlighted the importance of adaptability in technology choices to suit resource-limited settings. Recommendation to prioritise community involvement, use cost-effective hardware, and continuously evaluate digital preservation practices in Uganda.
Gender-Specific Access to Livestock Insurance Programmes and Economic Security Among Small Ranchers in Kenya's Semi-Arid Lands,
This study examines gender-specific access to livestock insurance programmes for small ranchers in Kenya's semi-arid lands, focusing on economic security levels and adoption rates. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with 50 male and female ranchers from various ethnic backgrounds across the region. Data revealed that women's participation in livestock insurance programmes was significantly lower than men’s (32% vs. 68%), despite their often greater reliance on herd income for household needs, highlighting gendered access issues. Findings underscore the need to tailor insurance schemes with targeted interventions aimed at increasing female engagement and thereby enhancing economic security in rural communities. Recommendations include developing culturally sensitive communication strategies and integrating gender-sensitive metrics into programme design to improve uptake and effectiveness.
Geographic Terms: Semi-Arid Lands Methodological Terms: Qualitative Research Theoretical Concepts: Gender Studies Economic Security Analysis
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community Workshops on Climate Change Adaptation Measures for Coastal Fishermen in Mozambique
Community workshops have been identified as a promising method for disseminating climate change adaptation measures to vulnerable populations in coastal communities. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to assess participants' engagement and effectiveness of adapted practices. Implementation rates for the recommended adaptation measures varied significantly across different fishing groups, with a notable proportion (45%) showing consistent use over six months. The findings suggest that tailored education and support are crucial for effective climate change adaptation among Mozambique's coastal fishermen. Future research should focus on scaling up successful models through targeted community outreach programmes and financial incentives.
Adoption Dynamics of Agroforestry Practices Among Urban Youth in Dakar, Senegal,
This study examines the adoption of agroforestry practices among urban youth in Dakar, Senegal, focusing on their motivations and impacts over a three-year period. The study employed qualitative research methods, including semi-structured interviews and focus groups with urban youth in Dakar. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify common themes and patterns. Urban youth showed significant interest in agroforestry practices, particularly those related to urban agriculture and eco-friendly living. The proportion of young people who adopted these practices was found to be around 45% over the three years. The study concludes that while there is growing interest among urban youth in adopting agroforestry practices, more community involvement and educational outreach are needed to enhance adoption rates. Recommendations include developing targeted educational programmes on sustainable living for urban youth and fostering greater collaboration between local communities and environmental organizations.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Access and Utilization Evaluation of Traditional Herbal Medicine Programmes Among Women in Northern Ethiopia
Traditional herbal medicine programmes have been implemented in various regions of northern Ethiopia to address healthcare needs, particularly for women who may face barriers accessing modern health services. A qualitative research design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with CHWs and focus group discussions with beneficiaries. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that while 85% of participants reported easy access to herbal medicine, only 40% used the services regularly due to cost and effectiveness concerns. CHW performance in promoting traditional herbal medicine was generally positive but hindered by financial constraints and skepticism about efficacy compared to modern healthcare. Investment should be made in training CHWs on effective communication and marketing strategies, alongside reducing costs for herbal medicines to improve utilization rates.
Digital preservation of cultural heritage in resource-limited environments poses unique challenges, particularly in contexts where infrastructure and funding are scarce. The study employs a comparative analysis of existing preservation practices, including interviews with stakeholders, archival research, and field observations. Data is analysed using thematic coding. A key finding is the significant disparity between digital preservation efforts in urban versus rural areas, with only 30% of heritage sites receiving adequate technological support in remote regions. Effective strategies for digital preservation include leveraging community engagement and local resources to overcome resource constraints. Recommendations focus on capacity building and policy advocacy. Investment should be prioritised in training local technicians and establishing collaborative networks across different sectors. Policy reforms are needed to integrate digital preservation into national heritage initiatives.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Media's Influence on Urban Ghanaian Communication Dynamics
Social media platforms have become integral in modern communication dynamics across Africa, significantly influencing urban social interactions and cultural expressions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a quantitative survey of 500 urban residents in Accra, supplemented by qualitative interviews with tech-savvy users to understand the nuances of social media's role in Ghanaian society. The survey revealed that 82% of respondents reported using social media for daily communication, primarily through platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook. However, concerns about privacy and misinformation were prevalent among users. Social media has profoundly affected urban Ghanaians' communication patterns, facilitating rapid information exchange but also presenting challenges related to digital literacy and trust in online sources. Educational initiatives should be developed to enhance digital literacy and promote responsible social media use, especially among younger generations. Policies addressing data privacy and combating misinformation are also recommended.
Decolonizing African Art History in Morocco
{ "background": "Decolonizing African art history in Morocco involves re-evaluating existing narratives that often privilege European influences and exclude indigenous contributions. This shift necessitates a more comprehensive understanding of Moroccan artistic traditions, their interconnections with broader African contexts, and the role of local communities.", "purposeandobjectives": "This survey research aims to explore new methodologies for decolonizing art history in Morocco by integrating diverse perspectives, including oral histories, material culture studies, and community engagement. The objectives are to identify underrepresented artists and traditions, analyse their significance within Moroccan cultural landscapes, and propose methods for more inclusive teaching and scholarly approaches.", "methodology": "The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining archival research with ethnographic fieldwork in Morocco. Interviews with local artists, historical site visits, and participatory observation are used to gather data on contemporary artistic practices and their historical roots. A thematic analysis of these data will be conducted to identify recurring themes and methodologies.", "findings": "A significant proportion (45%) of the interviewees highlighted the importance of oral traditions in their art-making processes, indicating a need for more comprehensive documentation of such practices. The methodology employed has revealed diverse artistic expressions that challenge traditional Eurocentric categorizations.", "conclusion": "The research confirms the necessity of decolonizing art history in Morocco by incorporating indigenous voices and practices into academic discourse. This approach not only enriches understanding but also fosters greater appreciation for Moroccan cultural heritage among both local communities and international audiences.", "recommendations": "Recommendations include integrating oral histories, material culture studies, and community engagement methodologies into art history curricula at all levels of education in Morocco. Additionally, the establishment of collaborative platforms between academic institutions and local artists could facilitate more inclusive research and teaching practices.", "keywords": "Decolonizing African Art History, Methodologies for Inclusion, Oral Traditions, Material Culture Studies, Community Engagement", "contribution_statement": "This study introduces a novel methodological framework that prioritizes indigenous voices in art history scholarship, providing
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainability Indices in Community-Based Forest Management Initiatives
Sustainability indices have become increasingly important tools for assessing the effectiveness of community-based forest management initiatives in various regions, including Uganda’s diverse and ecologically significant landscapes. Theoretical analysis will be employed, drawing from existing literature on sustainability indices in forestry management and participatory approaches in community development. The framework will integrate qualitative insights with quantitative data where available to provide a comprehensive theoretical model. The theoretical framework aims to provide a structured method for evaluating these indices in real-world applications, facilitating more effective environmental conservation efforts through community engagement. Policy makers should integrate the proposed sustainability indices into monitoring systems to ensure that forest management initiatives align with broader conservation goals and community welfare. This will require collaboration between governmental bodies, local communities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Sustainability Indices, Community-Based Forest Management, Environmental Conservation, Uganda, Participatory Approaches
Translating African Literature in Senegal
Translating African literature from Senegal presents unique challenges due to linguistic diversity and cultural specificity. A qualitative study involving interviews with translators and critical analysis of translated works from Senegal. Translators reported difficulties in maintaining cultural nuances and local idioms while adhering to formal English prose guidelines. Strategies developed by translators include using glossaries, seeking feedback from native speakers, and adopting a flexible translation approach that respects the original text's spirit rather than its letter. Translation training programmes should incorporate cultural sensitivity workshops and provide access to linguistic resources tailored for African languages.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Implementing Adolescent Reproductive Health Programmes in Nigerian Cities
Adolescent reproductive health (ARH) programmes in Nigeria have been implemented to improve knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to sexual health among young people. The study employed a longitudinal qualitative approach using participant observation, interviews, and focus group discussions in urban settings across Nigeria. Data collection occurred over three years, capturing pre-, mid-, and post-programme phases. During the follow-up phase, participants demonstrated significant improvement in knowledge about contraception methods (increased from 40% to 75%) and reduced intentions for early sexual activity (decreased by 25%). ARH programmes have successfully enhanced adolescent reproductive health literacy over time. Continued support is recommended to sustain these positive changes, particularly in marginalized communities where access remains limited.
Theatre and Performance as Social Commentators in West African Contexts
This article explores the role of theatre and performance as social commentators in West African contexts, with a specific focus on Morocco. Not applicable This theoretical framework highlights the multifaceted role of theatre in Morocco's cultural landscape, emphasising its capacity to influence public discourse and advocate for societal change. Further research should include comparative studies on different regions within Morocco as well as international examples to broaden our understanding of this phenomenon.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender-Specific Nutrition Initiatives for Adolescent Girls in Zimbabwean Urban Areas
Adolescent girls in Zimbabwean urban areas face significant nutritional challenges due to poverty, cultural norms, and limited access to nutritious food. A mixed-methods survey approach was employed, including questionnaires, focus groups, and interviews with adolescents, parents, educators, and programme administrators. Data were collected from October to December . Programme participants reported a significant increase in daily fruit consumption (from 1 serving per week to an average of 4 servings per day) compared to non-participants, indicating improved nutritional intake. The gender-specific nutrition initiatives have been well-received and adopted by the target audience, with positive impacts on health and dietary habits among adolescent girls in urban areas. Further research should explore long-term sustainability strategies and potential scaling of these successful programmes to other regions. nutrition initiatives, adolescent girls, gender-specific programming, urban settings, Zimbabwe