African Diaspora Cultural Studies (Humanities/Social)
African Diaspora Cultural Studies (Humanities/Social) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Community-Driven Waste Management Initiatives in Accra's Slums
Community-driven waste management initiatives are gaining traction globally as a sustainable approach to addressing urban environmental challenges, particularly in resource-scarce settings like Accra's slums. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from focus group discussions among slum residents. Recycling participation rates were notably higher (65%) among women compared to men (40%), suggesting gender-specific factors influencing engagement. Focus groups highlighted the importance of community-led clean-up events and education campaigns in fostering recycling habits. Community-driven waste management initiatives show promise for improving environmental health, though they require tailored strategies to engage all demographic segments effectively. Local governments should prioritise inclusive planning that includes women's perspectives and innovative financing mechanisms to sustain these programmes long-term.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Religious Syncretism and Cultural Adaptation Among African Diasporas in Eswatini
{ "background": "Religious syncretism refers to the blending of different religious beliefs and practices within a community, often through cultural adaptation mechanisms. In the context of African diasporas in Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), understanding how these communities integrate diverse religious traditions is crucial for comprehending contemporary cultural dynamics.", "purposeandobjectives": "The study aims to explore the extent and nature of religious syncretism among African diaspora populations in Eswatini, with a particular focus on cultural adaptation strategies employed. Objectives include identifying key religious practices, assessing inter-religious dialogue, and evaluating social cohesion within these communities.", "methodology": "A mixed-methods approach is adopted for this study, incorporating both qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to gather comprehensive data. Semi-structured interviews are conducted with community leaders and members, while structured questionnaires are administered among a representative sample of the diaspora population in Eswatini.", "findings": "Findings suggest that approximately 40% of respondents reported engaging in syncretic religious practices, integrating elements from Christianity, African traditional religions, and indigenous healing rituals. Social cohesion was positively correlated with higher levels of inter-religious dialogue and mutual respect among community members.", "conclusion": "The study reveals significant instances of cultural adaptation through religious syncretism, which plays a vital role in shaping the social fabric of diaspora communities in Eswatini. These findings contribute to our understanding of how diverse religious beliefs coexist and influence social cohesion within these populations.", "recommendations": "Recommendations for future research include longitudinal studies examining changes over time and comparative analyses with other African diasporas globally. Policy recommendations suggest fostering inter-religious dialogue, promoting cultural literacy programmes, and supporting community-led initiatives that enhance mutual understanding and respect.", "keywords": "Religion, Cultural Adaptation, Syncretism, Diaspora Studies, Eswatini", "contribution_statement": "This study introduces a novel mixed-methods framework to explore religious syncretism in
Translating African Literature across Kenyan Borders
Translating African literature across borders is a complex process that involves not only linguistic translation but also cultural adaptation to ensure meaningful reception by diverse audiences. The research methodology involves an analysis of existing translation projects from Africa, with particular emphasis on those originating from or targeted towards Kenya. Qualitative data is collected through interviews with translators, literature reviews, and case study analyses. A significant challenge identified was the need for translators to maintain cultural authenticity while also ensuring that translated works are accessible to a global audience, which often requires reinterpreting certain idiomatic expressions and literary devices in new contexts. This comparative study underscores the importance of context-specific approaches in translation projects, highlighting the necessity of balancing fidelity to original texts with adaptability for different target audiences. Translators should be encouraged to engage more deeply with both source and target cultures to foster a nuanced understanding that enriches the translated text. Additionally, there is a need for training programmes that equip translators with tools necessary for effective cross-cultural communication in literature translation.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Food Security Strategies in Vulnerable Communities
Food crises frequently affect vulnerable communities in Cameroon, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to enhance food security. The study utilised both qualitative interviews (n=50) and quantitative surveys (n=200) conducted in rural and peri-urban areas of Cameroon during the period from May to October . Data were analysed using thematic analysis for qualitative data and descriptive statistics for quantitative data. A notable theme emerged regarding community-led initiatives, with over 60% of respondents reporting successful outcomes from such efforts in addressing food insecurity. The study underscores the efficacy of community-based strategies in augmenting food security among vulnerable populations. Future research should explore scalability and replication of these interventions. Government agencies are encouraged to integrate community-led initiatives into national food security policies, fostering sustainable solutions for future crises.
Socio-Economic Empowerment Programmes Among Female Smallholder Farmers in The Gambia
Socio-economic empowerment programmes have been implemented to improve the livelihoods of female smallholder farmers in The Gambia, with a focus on enhancing agricultural productivity and income stability. A mixed-method approach was employed, including surveys, interviews with programme participants and stakeholders, and qualitative assessments of project implementation effectiveness. In Year One, there was a notable increase in average crop yield by 15% compared to baseline data, while Year Two saw a steady improvement in income levels among participating farmers, increasing by approximately 20 percent. The findings suggest that consistent support and tailored interventions are crucial for sustained socio-economic improvements among female smallholder farmers in The Gambia. Further research should explore the long-term impacts of these programmes on community resilience and sustainability. Policy recommendations include scaling up successful initiatives and addressing structural barriers to participation. Female Farmers, Smallholders, Socio-Economic Empowerment, Agricultural Development, Programme Outcomes
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Preserving Digital Cultural Heritage in Resource-Limited Environments
Digital cultural heritage in resource-limited environments faces unique challenges due to limited access to technology and digital infrastructure. Cape Verde provides a context where traditional preservation methods may not be sufficient, necessitating innovative strategies for safeguarding its rich cultural legacy. The study employs a combination of qualitative interviews with local stakeholders and quantitative surveys among the target population. A participatory action research approach is utilised to ensure that findings are actionable and relevant to the community's needs. Findings indicate that there is a significant interest in digital preservation among cultural heritage practitioners, but concerns about cost and technical expertise remain prevalent. The mixed-methods framework has successfully bridged qualitative insights with quantitative data, providing a comprehensive understanding of the barriers and opportunities for preserving digital cultural heritage in Cape Verde. Recommendations include developing community-led training programmes to enhance local capacity and establishing partnerships between stakeholders to facilitate resource sharing and knowledge exchange.
Eco-Friendly Livestock Management Practices in Northern Ethiopian Villages
This study examines the adoption rates of eco-friendly livestock management practices among Northern Ethiopian villages. Data was collected through surveys conducted in , with a sample size of 350 households across 20 randomly selected villages. A significant proportion (64%) of respondents adopted at least one eco-friendly practice, with poultry rearing showing the highest adoption rate among livestock species. Eco-friendly practices contribute positively to rural livelihoods and environmental sustainability but require policy support for wider uptake. Government initiatives should focus on providing training and financial incentives to promote these practices more widely.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Translating African literature for global audiences is a critical yet complex endeavor that involves navigating cultural and linguistic boundaries. The analysis draws upon secondary data from official government documents and academic literature related to Lesotho’s cultural policies and literary export initiatives. A notable challenge identified was the high cost of hiring professional translators, which often led to suboptimal translations that failed to capture the nuances of the original text. Despite these challenges, Lesotho has implemented various strategies such as training programmes for local translators and leveraging international funding opportunities to enhance the quality of translated works. Future policy should prioritise investment in translation technology and foster collaboration between local universities and cultural institutions to improve the export process.
Training Community Health Workers in Mozambique
Leprosy remains a significant public health issue in Mozambique despite previous efforts to eradicate it through centralized healthcare services. A comparative study design was employed, involving pre- and post-training assessments on CHW performance metrics and patient outcomes compared to a control group using standard healthcare services. CHWs showed an improvement in identifying leprosy cases by 25% over the three years, with a notable rise in early diagnosis of skin lesions among patients. Training CHWs significantly enhanced leprosy detection and treatment efficiency compared to conventional methods. Continued support for CHW training programmes should be prioritised as an effective strategy for ongoing leprosy control efforts. Leprosy, Community Health Workers, Mozambique, Training Programmes
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Media Influence on Urban Ghanaian Communication Patterns
Social media has become an integral part of daily life in urban Ghana, influencing various aspects of communication patterns. A survey was conducted with a sample size of 300 participants from different socio-economic backgrounds in urban Ghana, utilising an online questionnaire designed to assess current communication habits and preferences. The findings indicate that social media usage has significantly increased among the surveyed population, particularly Instagram (85%) and WhatsApp (92%), with a notable shift towards visual content sharing over traditional text-based communications. Social media is transforming urban Ghanaians' communication patterns, emphasising its role in facilitating connectivity and information dissemination across diverse social groups. Future research should consider longitudinal studies to monitor changes in communication habits over time and the impact of emerging social media platforms on older demographics.
Educational Technology Integration in South African Primary Schools
Educational technology (EdTech) integration in South African primary schools has been a focus of research due to its potential to enhance learning outcomes and bridge educational inequalities. The study employed a mixed-methods approach involving quantitative data collection through surveys and qualitative insights from interviews. Schools were selected based on geographical distribution to ensure diversity in sample representation. A notable finding revealed that while initial access was broadly available, consistent usage patterns varied significantly between schools, with some showing persistent engagement over the two-year period. The study highlights disparities in EdTech integration effectiveness across different regions of South Africa and underscores the need for targeted interventions to promote sustained technological use in classrooms. Policy recommendations include prioritising equitable access to EdTech resources, implementing ongoing professional development for teachers, and fostering collaborative learning environments that leverage digital tools effectively. South African primary schools, educational technology integration, usage patterns, success rates
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Religious Syncretism and Cultural Adaptation in African Diasporas of Rwanda
Religious syncretism refers to the blending of different religious practices in a community, often occurring as a result of cultural adaptation and migration. The study employs qualitative methods including interviews with Rwandan immigrants, historical analysis, and ethnographic observations to understand the interplay between religion and culture in this context. The integration of indigenous practices into Christian worship spaces is particularly evident, indicating a dynamic process of religious adaptation that preserves cultural heritage while accommodating new environments. Policy makers should consider the role of syncretic religious practices in fostering social cohesion within diaspora communities and support initiatives that recognise and celebrate these hybrid traditions.
Comparative Analysis of Creation Myths Across Ethiopian Cultures
Creation myths are a fundamental aspect of Ethiopian cultures, reflecting deep-rooted beliefs about the origins and nature of the universe. A qualitative content analysis approach will be employed to examine texts from various cultures in Ethiopia, including Amharic, Oromo, Tigrinya, and Somali traditions. The study reveals a predominance of water as a motif across all examined creation myths, indicating a significant thematic convergence among the cultural groups studied. This research contributes to the understanding of Ethiopian cultural diversity by highlighting recurring themes in creation narratives. Future studies could explore the historical and geographical influences on these creation myths within Ethiopia's diverse regions. Creation Myths, Ethiopian Cultures, Comparative Analysis
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Psychological Support Models in Refugee Camps
The review focuses on a book that examines psychological support models implemented in Sudanese refugee camps within Kenya's context. No empirical results are presented; instead, the review synthesizes existing literature on psychological support interventions for refugees in similar settings. The analysis highlights a significant proportion—over 70%—of participants reported improved mental health after receiving psychological support. While the models showed promise, further research is needed to validate their long-term efficacy and scalability. Future studies should explore culturally specific adaptations of these models and evaluate their impact on broader community well-being.
Decolonizing African Art History in Burkina Faso
Decolonizing African art history involves re-evaluating existing narratives through a critical lens that addresses historical and contemporary power imbalances. This study employs ethnographic research methods alongside critical theoretical approaches to analyse art practices and historical records from multiple cultural sites. A significant proportion (45%) of traditional artworks feature motifs that challenge colonial representations, indicating a growing awareness among local artists. Decolonizing African art history in Burkina Faso requires integrating indigenous knowledge systems with academic research to foster equitable representation and understanding. Policy recommendations include funding for interdisciplinary arts programmes, training for educators on decolonial methodologies, and public engagement initiatives that highlight diverse artistic contributions.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital cultural heritage in resource-limited environments faces unique challenges due to inadequate infrastructure and funding. Tanzania exemplifies these conditions with its burgeoning digital collections but constrained resources. A comprehensive literature review was conducted alongside stakeholder consultations to understand the current state and future potential of digital preservation efforts in Tanzania. The analysis reveals that while there is an increasing number of digitized cultural materials, the majority of these are stored in isolated servers with low bandwidth, leading to data accessibility issues for users outside urban areas. Despite limited resources, there is significant potential for digital preservation if strategic investments and collaborative partnerships can be established. Policy recommendations include funding for infrastructure improvements, fostering public-private sector collaborations, and developing training programmes for local communities in digital preservation best practices.
Translating African voices into global contexts presents unique challenges for cultural preservation and dissemination. An interdisciplinary approach combining literary analysis, sociolinguistic studies, and qualitative interviews with translators and scholars to explore challenges and successful strategies. A significant theme emerged regarding the preservation of Mozambican idioms and cultural nuances in translations, necessitating innovative translation techniques to maintain authenticity. The reviewed book highlights the importance of culturally sensitive translation methods for bridging linguistic gaps between Africa and global readership. Encourage further research into best practices for translating African literature contexts that include sociocultural considerations and audience engagement strategies.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Institutions and Female Business Owners
Microfinance institutions (MFIs) have emerged as a significant tool for financial inclusion in developing countries, particularly targeting female entrepreneurs who often face barriers to accessing traditional banking services. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining both qualitative semi-structured interviews (n=30) with quantitative surveys (n=200). Data collection took place in across selected districts within the Coast Province. Findings indicate that MFIs have significantly increased access to formal financial services among female business owners, particularly those who are economically marginalized. However, challenges such as high-interest rates and limited collateral requirements persist. The study highlights the potential of MFIs in enhancing financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs but underscores the need for regulatory frameworks that address existing barriers. Policy recommendations include the implementation of stricter interest rate caps by regulators and the provision of more supportive collateral options for female business owners.
Digital Literacy Training for Secondary School Teachers in Northern Ghana
Digital literacy skills are essential for secondary school teachers in Northern Ghana to effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices and prepare students for the digital age. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including pre- and post-training assessments, teacher interviews, lesson plan reviews, and student engagement surveys to measure changes in teaching practices and student outcomes. Teachers reported an increase of 40% in their confidence levels with digital tools after the training, particularly in using multimedia resources. There was a notable improvement in students' technological skills by 35% as measured through pre- and post-training assessments. The digital literacy training programme significantly enhanced teachers' pedagogical approaches and student engagement with technology, indicating positive outcomes on both teacher efficacy and student learning outcomes. Ongoing support should be provided to sustain the benefits of the training, including access to resources and professional development opportunities for teachers.
Geographic Terms: 1. Sub-Saharan 2. Northern Ghana Methodological Terms: 3. Mixed-methods 4. Quantitative Analysis Theoretical Concepts: 5. Critical Pedagogy 6. Technological Mediation Academic 1. Sub-Saharan 2. Mixed-methods 3. Technological Mediation
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Ethical Dilemmas in Archaeological Excavations and Repatriation
Archaeological excavations in Egypt have long been characterized by ethical dilemmas surrounding the repatriation of artifacts to their cultural origins. The study employs a qualitative approach, drawing on interviews with archaeologists, museum curators, and indigenous communities involved in repatriation processes. A key theme identified is the tension between the economic benefits of tourism versus the ethical obligation to return artifacts back to their place of origin. This was evident in discussions where participants highlighted the symbolic value of these objects for local communities. The analysis reveals that while archaeological practices have made strides towards repatriation, significant challenges remain in reconciling economic interests with cultural rights and responsibilities. It is recommended that policies be developed to balance economic benefits with ethical considerations, ensuring that the return of artifacts aligns with both local community values and international legal frameworks.
Decolonizing Art Histories in Côte d'Ivoire
Art history in Côte d'Ivoire has traditionally been Eurocentric, with a focus on European and Western art forms. This has marginalized local artistic traditions and perspectives. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating ethnographic research with archival analysis of local art practices and contemporary exhibitions in Ivorian cities. A significant proportion (34%) of artworks exhibited in major Ivorian galleries are by artists who were previously unrecognized in official art histories. This highlights the need for more inclusive art narratives. Decolonizing Côte d'Ivoire's art history requires a reevaluation of existing methodologies and a greater recognition of local artistic traditions and practices. Future research should prioritise collaboration between scholars, artists, and community leaders to ensure that decolonization efforts are grounded in lived experiences.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Music as a Political Expression in Transitions
Music has long served as a powerful medium for political expression globally. In Africa’s diverse cultural landscape, Zambia exemplifies how music can be both a reflection and catalyst of socio-political changes during transitions. The research adopts a survey approach, utilising both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Interviews with musicians, policymakers, and community leaders were conducted to gather insights into the political implications of music in Zambian contexts. Participant observation was also employed to capture real-time interactions between artists and their audiences. Music has emerged as a significant tool for articulating political dissent and solidarity across various socio-political groups in Zambia, particularly during times of economic hardship and policy reforms. This study contributes to the understanding of how music can serve as a vehicle for both resistance and advocacy in transitional settings, highlighting its potential role in fostering social cohesion and democratic engagement. Public policy should consider integrating musical initiatives into civic education programmes to enhance political literacy and community engagement. Future research could explore longitudinal studies to track long-term impacts of politically engaged music on socio-political landscapes.