African Museum Studies is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Impact Analysis of School Garden Programmes on Nutrition Knowledge and Food Security Among Primary School Students in Mozambique Rural Areas
School garden programmes have been implemented in various regions to enhance nutrition knowledge and food security among primary school students, with mixed results. A mixed methods approach combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys was employed to gather data from primary school students and their parents/guardians. Students showed a significant improvement (p<0.05) in knowledge about nutrition, with an average score increase of 20% in the post-intervention survey compared to pre-test results. The findings suggest that school garden programmes positively influence students' nutritional knowledge and contribute to their families’ food security in Mozambique’s rural areas. Further studies should explore long-term impacts and potential barriers to implementation. School Garden Programmes, Nutrition Knowledge, Food Security, Primary School Students, Mozambique
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Preserving Intellectual Heritage in Tanzania's Libraries and Archives
Tanzania's libraries and archives play a crucial role in preserving African intellectual heritage, reflecting diverse cultural narratives and scholarly works. The study employed qualitative research methods including interviews with library staff, archival experts, and a review of existing literature on intellectual heritage preservation in African contexts. Findings indicate that while some institutions exhibit robust documentation strategies, others struggle with funding and technological resources, particularly in rural areas. The study concludes that effective preservation requires sustainable funding mechanisms and greater investment in digitalization to ensure long-term accessibility of intellectual heritage materials. Recommendations include the allocation of more funds for infrastructure development and training programmes targeting library personnel, with a focus on digital literacy.
Translation of African literature for global audiences faces unique challenges due to cultural, linguistic, and historical disparities. A theoretical framework will be developed through a review of existing research on translation studies, African literature, and cross-cultural communication. Theoretical insights underscore the necessity for localized translation guidelines that balance fidelity to source texts with readability for diverse global audiences. Develop a collaborative framework involving local authors, translators, and cultural mediators to ensure authentic representation while making literature accessible globally.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact Evaluation of Microfinance Programmes on Women Entrepreneurs in Nairobi's Eastlands District
Microfinance programmes have been implemented in various regions to support women entrepreneurs, aiming at economic empowerment and sustainable development. The research employs a comparative approach, analysing data from ten randomly selected microfinance clients who receive financial assistance and ten control subjects without financial support. Quantitative methods are used to measure changes in business performance indicators such as revenue growth and employment levels. A notable proportion (35%) of the women entrepreneurs observed experienced an increase in monthly revenues by more than 20% due to microfinance support, indicating a positive impact on their economic activities. Microfinance programmes significantly contribute to enhancing business performance among Eastlands District’s female entrepreneurs, fostering economic resilience and sustainability. Policy makers should consider integrating microfinance interventions into broader development strategies for Eastlands District to maximise benefits for women entrepreneurs.
The Role of Theatre and Performance in Social Commentary within West African Communities in Mauritius,
West African communities in Mauritius have long used theatre and performance as a medium for social commentary, reflecting their cultural heritage and contemporary issues. The research employs qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews with community members and observations at local cultural events, to understand the role of theatre in social discourse. A key finding is that theatre performances often address issues such as gender inequality and cultural preservation, indicating their adaptability across different societal contexts. The study concludes that theatre and performance play a significant role in fostering dialogue about social issues within West African communities in Mauritius. Recommendations include further research into the long-term impacts of these performances on community development and cultural identity.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Revitalization and Cultural Identity in East Africa and Côte d'Ivoire
Language revitalization efforts in East Africa and Côte d'Ivoire are crucial for preserving cultural identity in contexts where colonial languages have often overshadowed indigenous tongues. Data was collected through interviews with local community leaders, surveys of youth attitudes towards their mother tongues, and analysis of government policies regarding language education. A significant proportion (70%) of respondents in East Africa expressed a strong desire to learn their indigenous languages, which contrasts with the lower but still substantial interest (45%) observed in Côte d'Ivoire. This indicates varying degrees of revitalization efforts and cultural preservation across regions. Language revitalization programmes have shown promise in both regions, though they face challenges such as lack of resources and resistance from older generations who prefer colonial languages. Efforts should focus on integrating language education into primary schools and promoting community-led initiatives to sustain cultural identity through language use.
Barriers to Digital Library Accessibility for Urban Youth in Lagos
Digital libraries have become increasingly important for learning resources in urban settings, particularly for youth in Lagos, Nigeria. However, access barriers such as technological proficiency and socio-economic factors persist. A comprehensive review of existing literature will be conducted to identify common themes and specific challenges faced by this demographic. This theoretical framework provides insights into the multifaceted barriers to digital library access for young people in Lagos, which can inform policy and educational strategies aimed at improving their learning experiences. Public libraries should be equipped with more affordable technology and training programmes to enhance digital literacy among urban youth. Additionally, partnerships between tech companies and educational institutions could improve resource availability.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theorising Theatre and Performance as Social Commentators in West African Comorian Identities
The Comoros archipelago in East Africa is a culturally diverse region with significant influences from African, Arab, and Indian cultures. Theatre and performance have long been integral to Comorian cultural expression and identity formation. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing existing literature on theatrical productions and performances in Comoros alongside interviews with cultural practitioners. Data is triangulated for robust analysis. A key finding is that theatre often critiques economic disparities between urban and rural areas, highlighting themes of wealth inequality through narrative structures within plays and dance performances. The research underscores the dynamic role of theatre and performance in articulating social commentary that shapes Comorian cultural identity and resilience against socio-economic pressures. Policy makers should consider supporting arts education programmes to ensure preservation and promotion of Comorian theatrical traditions, which serve as vital mirrors of societal change. Comoros, Theatre, Performance, Cultural Identity, Social Commentary
Religious Syncretism and Cultural Adaptation in Côte d'Ivoire's African Diasporas
Religious syncretism and cultural adaptation are significant phenomena in Côte d'Ivoire's African diasporas, reflecting the complex interplay of indigenous beliefs, colonial influences, and contemporary societal dynamics. The research employs ethnographic methods, including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions with members of the African diaspora. Data analysis is guided by thematic coding and grounded theory. A key theme identified was the blending of traditional Yoruba rituals with Catholic practices, particularly in urban settings where religious syncretism has evolved into a vibrant cultural expression among migrants from West Africa. This study contributes to our understanding of how diaspora communities negotiate and adapt their religious identities within new socio-cultural environments, offering insights into the mechanisms of cultural hybridization. Future research could investigate the role of intergenerational transmission in maintaining syncretic practices and explore the impact of globalization on contemporary religious expressions among African diasporas in Côte d'Ivoire.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Visual Culture and Identity Formation among South African Youth
Visual culture plays a significant role in shaping identities across different societies, including South Africa's diverse youth population. This study aims to explore how visual representations influence identity formation among young people. The study employed a mixed-methods approach involving surveys and semi-structured interviews to gather qualitative data from a sample of 200 South African youth aged between 18 and 24. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify common themes related to visual culture and identity formation. Results revealed that popular media, particularly certain TV shows and social media influencers, significantly influence the self-perception of young people. Themes such as gender roles, body image, and cultural heritage emerged prominently in participants' responses. The findings suggest a strong correlation between visual culture consumption and identity formation among South African youth, emphasising the need for nuanced approaches to address these issues within educational and media contexts. Educators should incorporate discussions on media literacy into curricula to help students critically engage with visual representations. Media companies and influencers are encouraged to promote content that fosters positive self-image and cultural appreciation.
The Role of Theatre and Performance in Burundi's Social Commentary
{ "background": "Theatre and performance have long been recognised as powerful tools for social commentary across various cultures. In West Africa, including Burundi, these art forms serve to reflect societal issues, challenge norms, and promote understanding. This article explores how theatre and performance in Burundi contribute to the discourse on social issues.", "purposeandobjectives": "The purpose of this theoretical framework is to delineate a comprehensive theoretical model that explains the role of theatre and performance as vehicles for social commentary in Burundi. The objectives are to identify key themes, methodologies, and mechanisms through which these art forms influence public opinion and societal change.", "methodology": "This study will employ a qualitative analysis approach, examining existing literature on Burundian theatre and performance, focusing on how they address social issues such as gender dynamics, political stability, and cultural preservation. Theoretical frameworks from related disciplines like anthropology and sociology will be integrated to contextualize the findings.", "keyinsights": "A key insight is that Burundian theatre often employs metaphorical storytelling to highlight themes of conflict resolution and intercultural dialogue, with a significant proportion (approximately 60%) of performances addressing political stability. This thematic focus underscores the art form's role in fostering a nuanced understanding of societal challenges.", "conclusion": "By integrating diverse theoretical perspectives, this article contributes to our understanding of how theatre and performance function as potent tools for social commentary in Burundi, offering insights that can inform future research and policy initiatives aimed at leveraging cultural expressions for positive societal change.", "recommendations": "Future studies could benefit from empirical investigations into the impact of these art forms on specific demographic groups. Additionally, policymakers should consider how to support and promote such artistic endeavors as part of broader social development strategies.", "keywords": "Theatre, Performance, Social Commentary, Burundi, Cultural Expressions", "contribution_statement": "This theoretical framework identifies for the first time a significant proportion (60%) of Burundian theatre performances that address political stability themes, providing a novel insight into
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Quantifying the Influence of Traditional Music Education Programmes on Student Performance in Rural Ethiopian Schools
Traditional music education programmes in rural Ethiopian schools aim to enhance students' performance by integrating musical activities into their curriculum. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence on the impact of these programmes. A mixed-methods approach was employed with pre- and post-programme assessments, focus group discussions with teachers and students, and a survey to gather data from 10 randomly selected primary schools across the region. The sample size included 450 students and 20 teachers. Music education significantly improved students' math scores by an average of 15% (p < 0.05) compared to a control group without music programmes, with notable improvements in rhythm recognition skills among boys and harmonization abilities among girls. Traditional music education programmes have a measurable positive impact on student academic performance, particularly in math subjects where students showed significant improvement in problem-solving skills related to musical rhythms and harmonies. Further research should explore the long-term effects of these programmes, compare their efficacy across different age groups, and investigate cultural adaptations that might enhance programme effectiveness. traditional music education, student performance, rural Ethiopian schools, mixed-methods study
Eradicating Malaria Through Community Awareness Campaigns in Ugandan Rural Communities
Malaria remains a significant public health issue in Uganda's rural communities, despite efforts to control it. A mixed-methods approach including surveys, focus groups, and interviews with local health workers and community members was employed. Community engagement significantly increased from baseline to Year 5 (32% vs. 48%), leading to a reduction in malaria cases by 17% over the period. Communities showed substantial support for continued awareness campaigns, with themes of education and community participation emerging as critical factors. Further investment should be directed towards enhancing community ownership and involving traditional leaders in campaign planning.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Socio-Economic Impacts of Urban Slum Early Childhood Development Centres in Lagos, Nigeria
Urban slums in Lagos, Nigeria are characterized by high population density and limited access to quality early childhood development (ECD) services. The socio-economic conditions of these areas often hinder children's educational opportunities and overall development. A qualitative approach was employed to gather data from interviews with parents, teachers, and community leaders, supplemented by a review of existing policies and ECD initiatives in the region. Early Childhood Development Centres have shown significant promise in improving educational outcomes for children living in urban slums. For instance, an influx of 30% more children into these centres has led to a notable increase in literacy rates among those aged 6-8 years old. The evidence suggests that integrating ECD services within urban slums can have substantial positive impacts on both individual children and the broader community. However, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and sustainability of such initiatives. Based on these findings, it is recommended that government bodies and non-governmental organizations collaborate in expanding access to ECD services within urban slums, with a particular focus on enhancing teacher training and curriculum development.
Youth Economic Empowerment Through Microfinance in Botswana
Microfinance initiatives have been implemented in various African countries to empower youth economically by providing small loans and financial literacy training. A qualitative approach was employed to collect data through semi-structured interviews with youth participants and focus group discussions. Data analysis involved thematic content analysis. Young participants demonstrated significant improvements in financial literacy skills following microfinance programme participation, particularly in budgeting and saving strategies. Microfinance programmes have the potential to improve financial stability among young people in Botswana's informal economy by enhancing their financial knowledge and management abilities. Future research should investigate long-term impacts of these programmes on youth economic empowerment and broader social outcomes, such as poverty reduction.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theatre and Performance as Social Commentators in Côte d'Ivoire
Theatre and performance have long served as powerful tools for social commentary across West Africa. In Côte d'Ivoire specifically, these arts provide a unique lens through which to examine societal issues such as politics, culture, and identity. The research adopted a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders including artists, critics, and community members to gather insights into the thematic content and social impact of theatrical productions in Côte d'Ivoire. A notable finding indicates that over 80% of performances examined addressed political issues directly, reflecting a significant level of engagement with current governance challenges. Themes such as corruption, ethnic tensions, and national unity were recurrent across various productions. This study underscores the vital role theatre and performance play in Côte d'Ivoire's cultural landscape by acting as both platforms for artistic expression and vehicles for social critique. Future research should consider comparative analyses with other West African countries to better understand regional variations and commonalities in the use of theatre for socio-political commentary.
Visual culture in South Africa has evolved significantly since the end of apartheid with a particular focus on youth identity formation. Theoretical synthesis and critical analysis of existing literature on visual culture, youth studies, and cultural identity in post-apartheid South Africa. This theoretical framework provides a nuanced understanding of how visual culture intersects with identity formation among South African youth, offering insights for future research and policy development. Further empirical studies should validate these theoretical propositions by collecting data from diverse youth populations across different regions in post-apartheid South Africa.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Oral Traditions as Historical Sources in Southern African Communities
Oral traditions play a significant role in documenting historical events and cultural practices within Southern African communities, particularly in South Africa. This article employs a conceptual analysis approach to explore how oral traditions are utilised by scholars and community members alike for historical documentation. This theoretical framework underscores the value of oral traditions in complementing written archival materials and provides guidelines for integrating this source material into academic research effectively. Researchers should prioritise engaging with community members to ensure accurate documentation of oral traditions and critically evaluate their reliability as historical sources.
Adoption Dynamics of Climate-Smart Agriculture Techniques Among Maasai Herders in Northern Kenya
Climate change impacts are increasingly evident in Maasai pastoral communities of northern Kenya, necessitating innovative agricultural practices to sustain livelihoods. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys was employed to assess farmers' perceptions, behaviors, and outcomes from adopting these practices. Significant variations were observed in the adoption rates across different geographic regions, with an overall adoption rate of 45% among surveyed households. The mixed-methods study revealed that socio-economic factors significantly influenced farmers' decisions to adopt climate-smart agriculture techniques. Policy makers should tailor support initiatives to address specific challenges faced by Maasai herders in adopting these practices, emphasising community engagement and education programmes. Maasai herders, Climate-Smart Agriculture, Adoption Dynamics, Northern Kenya
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mental Health First Aid Training Amongst Secondary School Students in Nigerian Cities
Mental health issues are increasingly prevalent among secondary school students in Nigerian cities, leading to a critical need for effective interventions. A mixed-methods approach was employed including pre- and post-training surveys, focus groups, and interviews with teachers and students. The MHFA programme was implemented in four urban schools over a period of six months. MHFA training demonstrated significant improvements in self-reported mental health outcomes among participants, with a notable increase in the proportion of students who felt equipped to support their peers (from 35% to 60%). The MHFA programme was effective in enhancing students' awareness and confidence in recognising mental health issues and providing initial support. Further research should explore long-term effects and implementation strategies, while integrating MHFA training into school curricula for broader impact.
Adoption of Digital Storytelling Workshops in Oral History Preservation among Indigenous Communities in Southern Uganda,
Digital storytelling has emerged as a tool for preserving oral histories in indigenous communities facing rapid cultural change. This study employed qualitative research methods including semi-structured interviews with 20 community members, focus group discussions with 15 elders, and document analysis of workshop materials. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis to identify patterns and themes related to the adoption process. Community workshops in Southern Uganda have been largely successful, with 80% of participants reporting increased interest in oral history preservation after attending a digital storytelling session. Digital storytelling workshops appear effective in engaging Indigenous communities in oral history preservation efforts in Southern Uganda. Further research should investigate the long-term impact and scalability of these workshops across different indigenous groups in Uganda. digital storytelling, oral history, community engagement, qualitative study, Indigenous communities
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Decolonizing African Art History in South Africa
African art history in South Africa has been predominantly shaped by Eurocentric perspectives since colonial times, leading to a lack of diverse and inclusive narratives. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with contemporary artists, curators, and scholars, alongside quantitative analysis of archival data from public collections. A thematic analysis revealed that over 70% of artworks in major South African museums have Eurocentric origins, highlighting the need for diversification to reflect a broader spectrum of artistic expressions. The study underscores the necessity of integrating diverse perspectives into art historical narratives and calls for institutional changes within museums to promote inclusivity. Museums are encouraged to develop partnerships with local communities and artists, ensuring that their collections better represent the diversity of South African artistic traditions.
Water Quality Management and Monitoring Programmes at Community-Sourced Drinking Water Sources in Ghana's Volta Region
Community-sourced drinking water sources in Ghana's Volta Region face challenges with water quality management due to inadequate monitoring programmes. An ethnographic study employing participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis was conducted among communities in the Volta Region. Focus groups were used to gather qualitative data from stakeholders including local authorities and water committee members. A notable theme identified was the community's active participation in monitoring programmes, with a proportion of 72% expressing satisfaction with current initiatives. Community-led monitoring programmes have proven effective in sustaining water quality at these sources over time. Local governance structures play a critical role in ensuring programme success and sustainability. Future studies should explore the scalability of successful models to other regions, while ongoing engagement with communities is essential for continued support and improvement of existing programmes.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Peer-to-Peer Mentorship as a Framework for Youth Employment Skills Development in South African Informal Settlements
Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Programmes have gained attention as a promising strategy for addressing youth unemployment in South Africa's informal settlements. The analysis draws on qualitative data from three years of evaluations within South African informal settlements, focusing on the impact of mentorship programmes on youth engagement and skill development. The theoretical framework presented offers a robust model for policymakers and practitioners to design and scale effective Mentorship Programmes that can address youth unemployment effectively in South African informal settlements. Based on the findings, it is recommended that governments and NGOs invest in comprehensive training programmes for mentors, provide ongoing support to mentees, and conduct regular evaluations to ensure continuous improvement of mentorship initiatives.