African Textile Studies (Humanities/Arts focus)
African Textile Studies (Humanities/Arts focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Eco-Friendly Textile Dyeing Processes in Southern Malawi Communities
Southern Malawi communities are facing environmental challenges due to traditional textile dyeing practices that contribute significantly to water pollution. A participatory action research approach was employed involving interviews, focus groups, and baseline surveys to gather data from 100 participants across five districts. Data analysis used thematic content analysis for qualitative insights. Eco-friendly dyeing processes were adopted by 75% of respondents, with a notable preference for natural dyes over synthetic ones, indicating community-led environmental stewardship trends. The research underscores the potential of cultural engagement in promoting sustainable textile practices that reduce pollution without compromising traditional skills or economic viability. Promote public-private partnerships to fund training and resources for eco-friendly dyeing processes, alongside community education programmes focused on sustainability goals. Eco-Friendly Textile Dyeing, Southern Malawi Communities, Pollution Reduction, Cultural Sustainability
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage is underpinned by its vibrant intellectual tradition, encompassing literature, art, and philosophy. Libraries and archives play a critical role in preserving this heritage for future generations. A qualitative approach was employed, involving interviews with librarians and archivists, as well as a review of existing policies and practices related to the preservation of cultural materials. Interviews revealed that while there is a general awareness of the importance of preserving Ethiopian intellectual heritage, implementation challenges such as inadequate funding and personnel shortages are prevalent. The findings underscore the need for increased support from both governmental and non-governmental bodies to ensure libraries and archives in Ethiopia can effectively carry out their preservation roles. Recommendations include increasing financial allocations towards library and archive sectors, enhancing training programmes for staff, and fostering collaborations between institutions.
Challenges and Opportunities in Digital Journalism
The media landscape in Kenya has seen significant transformation with the advent of digital journalism. This shift has both opened new avenues for content dissemination and created challenges related to misinformation and regulatory oversight. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing existing literature, government reports, and interviews with industry experts to provide an in-depth understanding of the digital journalism landscape. The analysis focuses on the role of digital technologies in shaping media content and audience engagement. A notable finding is that while digital platforms have significantly increased access to news for a broader audience, they have also facilitated the rapid spread of misinformation, necessitating robust regulatory frameworks to address this issue. Digital journalism in Kenya presents a complex environment where innovation and regulation must coexist. To capitalize on the benefits of digital media without compromising journalistic integrity, stakeholders need to collaborate closely with policymakers to establish guidelines that promote ethical standards and accountability. Recommendations include developing comprehensive regulatory policies for online content, enhancing cybersecurity measures for journalists, and fostering public trust through transparent communication practices. These steps are crucial for ensuring that the benefits of digital journalism can be realised sustainably.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Preserving Digital Threads in Zimbabwean Contexts
Digital cultural heritage preservation in Zimbabwean contexts faces unique challenges due to resource limitations such as inadequate infrastructure and funding. A qualitative approach was employed, involving interviews with community leaders, cultural heritage specialists, and technology experts in Zimbabwe. A thematic analysis of collected data provided insights into preservation strategies and their feasibility. Interviews revealed a strong desire among communities to preserve traditional textile designs but highlighted the significant challenges including limited access to digital resources and technical expertise. The study concluded that collaborative efforts between local communities, cultural institutions, and technology providers are essential for successful preservation. Innovative use of low-cost technologies emerged as a key solution. Recommendations include establishing community-based digital archives, training programmes in traditional textile techniques, and public-private partnerships to secure funding and resources. Digital Cultural Heritage, Zimbabwe, Preservation Strategies, Community Involvement
Preserving Intellectual Heritage in Central African Republic
Central African Republic (CAR) is a country rich in cultural heritage, including historical and contemporary intellectual works. A survey research approach was employed to gather data from key stakeholders such as librarians, archivists, and educators. Findings indicate a significant proportion (85%) of surveyed institutions reported challenges related to funding and staff training in maintaining their collections. The study highlights the urgent need for increased investment and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the preservation efforts of CAR’s intellectual heritage. Recommendation 1: Increase public awareness campaigns about the importance of preserving African intellectual heritage. Recommendation 2: Seek international partnerships for resource sharing and training programmes.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Solar Pump Innovations and Community Well-being in Off-Grid Senegalese Villages,
Solar pump innovations have been pivotal in addressing water access challenges in off-grid Senegalese villages, aligning with broader global efforts to improve rural livelihoods through sustainable technology solutions. A comparative case-study approach was employed, involving field observations, interviews, and data collection from multiple off-grid communities that have adopted solar pumps for water access. Statistical analysis of collected data was conducted to analyse the impact on well-being indicators such as health, education, and economic activities. Solar pump installations in selected Senegalese villages demonstrated a significant increase (35%) in reliable water supply compared to traditional methods, with community satisfaction levels reaching an average of 82% across evaluated sites. These pumps also showed substantial energy efficiency gains, reducing operational costs by up to 40%. The study concludes that solar pump innovations have markedly improved the well-being of Senegalese communities, particularly in terms of water access and cost savings. Given the positive outcomes observed, further implementation of solar pumps is recommended as a viable solution for enhancing off-grid rural water access. Additionally, policy frameworks should be developed to support such initiatives and ensure equitable access across different regions.
Innovative Textile Design Curriculum for Rural Youth in the Eastern Cape
This Policy Brief focuses on an innovative textile design curriculum implemented for rural youth in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys and focus group discussions among participants from various schools in the region. Students showed a significant interest (85%) in traditional crafts integration into their curriculum, with over half reporting enhanced confidence in design and entrepreneurship skills. The findings suggest that integrating traditional textile designs can significantly boost young people's skill sets and entrepreneurial aspirations. Policy makers should support further development of such curricula to foster cultural preservation while enhancing vocational skills among rural youth.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Fashion Design Curriculum Effectiveness for Secondary School Students in South African Townships, 2009
This study examines the effectiveness of a sustainable fashion design curriculum implemented in secondary schools within South African townships. The curriculum aims to educate students on eco-friendly materials and practices, aligning with growing global concerns about environmental sustainability. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating pre- and post-curriculum surveys, focus group discussions with students, and teacher interviews to gather comprehensive data on curriculum effectiveness. Students showed significant interest in the sustainability aspects of fashion design (82% reported being more aware of environmental issues), though some struggled with practical application due to limited resources. Teacher feedback highlighted a need for more hands-on learning materials. The curriculum effectively raised students' awareness about sustainable fashion, but challenges remain in translating theory into practice. Enhanced teacher training is recommended alongside the provision of additional eco-friendly materials and tools to improve practical engagement with the curriculum.
Oral Traditions as Historical Sources in Southern African Communities
Oral traditions play a significant role in documenting historical narratives within Southern African communities, particularly in South Africa, where they are often passed down through generations via storytelling and song. The methodology combines ethnographic fieldwork with structured interviews, focus groups, and archival research to gather data on oral traditions. Quantitative analysis will use thematic coding and statistical methods to measure consistency and variation in the content across communities. Findings indicate a strong correlation between the age of participants and the depth of their knowledge about historical events as recounted through oral traditions, suggesting that older generations are more knowledgeable sources for historical accuracy. This mixed-methods study highlights the importance of integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches to understand the reliability of oral traditions as historical records. The findings underscore the need for further research to validate these sources in academic contexts. Recommendations include developing standardised protocols for collecting and analysing oral tradition data, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration between historians, anthropologists, and linguists, and fostering community engagement in documentation efforts.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Intermittent Photovoltaic Solar Power and Livestock Health in Rural Ethiopian Dairy Farms
Intermittent photovoltaic solar power (PVSP) has been increasingly adopted in rural areas of Ethiopia to address energy shortages and promote sustainable development. In the context of dairy farming, PVSP can potentially improve livestock health through better lighting conditions and reduced reliance on traditional diesel generators. The analysis will employ a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from farm records with qualitative interviews conducted among farmers. The study will focus on three regions within Ethiopia to ensure geographical diversity. A preliminary survey indicated that farms equipped with PVSP experienced a 10% increase in milk production compared to those without, suggesting improved lighting conditions may enhance animal productivity. The findings suggest that integrating intermittent photovoltaic solar power into dairy farming practices could lead to significant improvements in livestock health and economic outcomes for farmers in rural Ethiopia. Policymakers should consider incentivizing the adoption of PVSP systems by providing subsidies or tax breaks, particularly in regions with high levels of poverty and limited access to energy. Additionally, training programmes on sustainable farming practices that incorporate renewable energy could be beneficial.
Policy Implications in Arts and Humanities Research
Uganda's arts and humanities sector is a significant part of its cultural and social fabric, yet research on policy implications in this area remains limited. A mixed methods approach involving qualitative interviews with stakeholders and quantitative surveys among artists, academics, and policymakers was employed. Findings indicate a significant underfunding in arts and humanities sectors (35% of respondents reported budgets below $10,000), which hinders innovation and quality output. The study highlights the urgent need for increased government investment to support these fields and foster sustainable development through policy interventions. Specific recommendations include increasing public funding, establishing arts councils, and implementing mentorship programmes for emerging artists.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Eco-Friendly Weaving Practices Among Maternal Health Workers in Tigray Region, Ethiopia
Maternal health workers in Tigray Region, Ethiopia face significant challenges in their daily work environments, including limited access to healthcare facilities and resources. These workers often rely on traditional weaving practices as a means of income generation. A mixed-method approach was employed, including a survey of 120 respondents from nine selected maternal health centers. Data on the types and quantities of materials used were collected using structured questionnaires supplemented by semi-structured interviews for in-depth insights into participants' experiences and challenges. The findings reveal that 75% of respondents use locally sourced, organic fibers in their weaving processes, significantly reducing reliance on imported synthetic textiles. This practice not only supports local economies but also enhances the workers' environmental awareness and knowledge. Eco-friendly traditional weaving among maternal health workers is a promising strategy for sustainable livelihoods and community development. The findings highlight the need for further research to scale up these practices across other regions in Ethiopia. Policy makers should consider promoting eco-friendly weaving initiatives as part of their healthcare programmes, alongside providing access to training and market support to sustain these practices.
Gamification Techniques in Innovating Science Curriculum Design for Remote Ethiopian Schools
Gamification techniques have been identified as a promising approach to enhance educational engagement in remote settings, particularly for subjects like science where traditional teaching methods may not be effective. A survey was conducted among teachers and students from various remote Ethiopian schools, focusing on their perceptions of existing curricula and preferences regarding gamified teaching methods. The survey revealed that a majority of respondents preferred interactive games and quizzes over traditional lectures, indicating a strong interest in gamification. However, there is a need for more culturally relevant content to enhance engagement. While gamification shows promise as an innovative pedagogical tool, it requires further customization to align with local educational contexts and student needs. Curriculum designers should focus on developing locally relevant game scenarios that incorporate traditional science concepts. Schools should also invest in training teachers on how to effectively integrate gamified methods into their teaching practices. gamification, curriculum design, remote education, Ethiopian schools, science education
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African philosophy has emerged as a significant field within global intellectual traditions, offering unique insights into ethical and moral frameworks that resonate with contemporary debates in ethics. The analysis will draw upon existing literature from both traditional African philosophy studies and contemporary Western ethical theories, emphasising comparative insights between these discourses. African philosophy offers a nuanced perspective that complements existing global ethical frameworks by integrating cultural specificity with universal ethical principles. Encouraging further interdisciplinary research that bridges African philosophy and contemporary ethics could lead to more inclusive and culturally sensitive approaches to ethical discussions globally.
Oral Traditions in Southern African Communities of Senegal
Oral traditions play a significant role in preserving historical narratives within Southern African communities, particularly in Senegal where oral storytelling is an integral part of cultural heritage. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilising in-depth interviews and ethnographic observations among Senegalese community members. Data analysis involves thematic coding to identify recurring themes and patterns within oral traditions. A key finding is the prevalence of traditional narratives that often address ancestral history, religious beliefs, and social norms, with approximately half of the respondents citing these as central elements in their oral tradition. Oral traditions not only reflect but also shape the cultural identity and values of Senegalese communities. This study underscores the importance of preserving these narratives for educational and heritage purposes. Further research should focus on documenting and archiving existing oral traditions to ensure they are accessible to future generations, while also integrating digital platforms to reach wider audiences.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Segmentation in Urban Food Waste Management Programmes
Urban food waste management programmes in Cape Town have faced challenges in addressing gender disparities within their implementation and outcomes. Qualitative research methods were used to collect data through interviews with programme participants and stakeholders, as well as document review. Gender segmentation was observed to be predominantly applied in collection and processing phases, with women often participating more significantly in sorting waste compared to men. The findings highlight the importance of gender-sensitive approaches in urban food waste management programmes for achieving equitable outcomes. Programmes should incorporate targeted training for both genders on waste segregation techniques and ensure that leadership roles are equally distributed among all genders. Urban Food Waste, Gender Segmentation, Cape Town, Social Impact Assessments
Informal Sector Dynamics in Ethiopian Urban Arts and Humanities Landscape,
Informal sector dynamics are increasingly recognised as crucial in urban areas of Africa, particularly in Ethiopia where traditional arts and humanities sectors coexist with modern economic activities. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews and observations in selected urban areas, supplemented by secondary data analysis from government reports and academic journals. A notable theme emerged regarding the resilience of traditional arts practices despite economic pressures, with approximately 60% of artisans maintaining their businesses over a decade due to local demand and community support. The study highlights the importance of fostering policies that recognise and support informal sector dynamics within urban arts and humanities sectors, particularly in Ethiopia’s diverse cultural context. Policy recommendations include encouraging government investments in infrastructure for artisans, promoting education on traditional arts techniques, and supporting market access to enhance sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Challenges and Opportunities of Digital Journalism in Kenya
Digital journalism has emerged as a significant force in shaping public opinion and information dissemination in Kenya. However, challenges such as regulatory gaps and economic sustainability persist. A mixed-methods approach combining semi-structured interviews with a survey was employed. The sample includes 30 senior journalists and 500 participants representing diverse sectors of society. The analysis reveals that while digital platforms have expanded the reach of journalistic content, economic pressures are leading to increased reliance on external funding sources among media outlets. This study underscores the need for clearer regulatory frameworks to support digital journalism and highlights the importance of sustainable business models in this sector. Policy makers should prioritise developing supportive policies for digital media, while media organizations must explore diversified revenue streams to maintain their operations.
African Ethical Foundations in Global Debates
African philosophy has historically contributed to global ethical debates through its unique ontological frameworks, which explore the nature of existence and morality. The approach will be an ontological analysis, examining how African ethical thought addresses fundamental questions about reality and morality from indigenous perspectives. This framework underscores the importance of integrating diverse philosophical traditions in contemporary ethical discussions to foster a more inclusive understanding of morality. Scholars should consider incorporating African ontological perspectives into their research methods when addressing issues of global ethics, particularly in contexts such as Kenya.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Ethics and Repatriation in Egyptian Archaeology
This study examines the ethical considerations surrounding archaeological excavations in Egypt from an African perspective. Archaeological literature reviews and interviews with scholars, museum curators, and international organizations were conducted to gather data for a comparative study. The findings highlight significant disparities in the implementation of ethical guidelines across different African countries regarding repatriation requests from Egypt. This study concludes that while there is increasing awareness of ethical standards, uniform adherence remains challenging due to varying national policies and cultural sensitivities. Recommendations include fostering regional dialogues on ethical practices in archaeology and advocating for more consistent international guidelines.
African Contextual Music Therapy Framework for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Johannesburg, South Africa
Music therapy has shown promise in improving various developmental issues, including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). In Johannesburg, South Africa, there is a need for culturally and contextually tailored interventions to address specific needs. The study will employ qualitative data collection methods, including semi-structured interviews and focus groups, to gather insights from families, therapists, and educators who have participated in music therapy sessions. The theoretical framework will be structured based on these findings. The theoretical framework developed provides a robust foundation for future music therapy practices tailored to African contexts. It highlights the need for culturally sensitive interventions that consider socio-economic factors and community dynamics. Future research should focus on replicating these findings across different communities, with particular attention given to evaluating long-term impacts and sustainability of such interventions.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Structure of Afro-Linguistics in South Africa
Afro-Linguistics is a subfield of linguistics that focuses on the study of African languages and their structures. The research employed qualitative interviews with experts in the field to gather insights into recent developments and challenges. A consistent theme identified was the increasing emphasis on comparative studies between African languages and their cross-cultural influences. There is a growing recognition of the importance of Afro-Linguistics as an academic discipline, particularly within South Africa’s diverse linguistic environment. Further interdisciplinary collaborations with fields such as anthropology and cultural studies are recommended to enrich Afro-Linguistic research.
Gender Portraiture in Ugandan African Film
Ugandan African film production has seen a surge in recent years, with films often addressing socio-cultural issues. However, the representation of gender roles within these narratives is not well-documented. We conducted an ethnographic analysis of a selection of recent Ugandan African films, employing content analysis to identify and categorize gender-related themes and stereotypes present in the narratives. A notable finding was the disproportionate representation of male characters as leaders or decision-makers over female counterparts in various storylines. This pattern suggests a societal expectation for men to take on more public roles. The analysis reveals persistent gender biases within Ugandan filmography, highlighting the need for greater diversity and balanced storytelling to reflect contemporary social realities. Filmmakers should be encouraged to adopt a more inclusive approach in their narratives to better represent diverse gender dynamics and reduce potential stereotypes. African Film, Gender Representation, Ethnographic Study, Ugandan Cinema
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African filmic representations have garnered significant attention in recent years, particularly regarding gender dynamics within African societies. However, there is a dearth of comprehensive studies that integrate both qualitative and quantitative methodologies to explore these issues. The study employs a mixed methods approach, integrating qualitative interviews with film critics and quantitative surveys among viewers to gather data on gender representation in Nigerian films from the past decade. Ethnographic fieldwork includes participant observation at film festivals and theater screenings. The findings reveal that female characters are often relegated to supporting roles, with a proportion of less than 40% holding lead or pivotal roles in mainstream productions. This trend is consistent across all genres studied. This study underscores the need for more balanced and diverse gender representation in Nigerian cinema to reflect contemporary societal values and improve audience engagement. Policy makers should advocate for increased funding towards films with balanced gender portrayals, while film industry stakeholders are encouraged to develop mentorship programmes that promote female directors and writers.