Studies in African Informal Settlements (Planning/Social/Econ/Gov)
Studies in African Informal Settlements (Planning/Social/Econ/Gov) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Afrofuturism as a Lens to Understand African Futures in Senegal
Afrofuturism is an interdisciplinary field that explores how African cultures can envision and shape their future in a global context. The study employed qualitative methods including participant observation, interviews with local leaders, and focus group discussions in three selected informal settlement areas in Dakar. Themes emerged around resilience and innovation as key narratives shaping the future of these communities. Participants highlighted the importance of community-led initiatives and sustainable development strategies. Afrofuturism offers a rich lens to uncover how African societies envision their urban futures, emphasising the role of local agency in addressing challenges and leveraging resources for positive change. Policy makers should incorporate Afrofuturist perspectives into urban planning processes, encouraging more community-driven initiatives that align with resilient and sustainable development goals.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Health Systems Resilience during Epidemics in Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing frequent epidemics, highlighting vulnerabilities in health systems. Qualitative research methods were employed, including interviews with healthcare workers and community members in Morocco. Healthcare facilities reported significant challenges in maintaining services despite limited resources. Insufficient preparedness for epidemics is a critical issue requiring improved planning and resource allocation. Enhanced training for healthcare personnel, increased funding for essential supplies, and better coordination with communities are recommended. Health Systems Resilience, Epidemics, Sub-Saharan Africa, Morocco
Traditional Medicine in Contemporary Ugandan Healthcare Systems
Traditional medicine has played a significant role in African healthcare systems for centuries, including Uganda. In contemporary times, this traditional practice coexists with modern medical services and is recognised by the government. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with traditional healers, government officials, and patients who utilise both traditional and modern medical services. Data was analysed to identify themes and patterns regarding the use of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare settings. Traditional medicine is widely accepted by Ugandan society, especially among rural populations where access to conventional healthcare is limited. Approximately 80% of respondents indicated that they often or always seek traditional medical advice alongside modern treatments. This study reveals the significant role and integration potential of traditional medicine in contemporary Ugandan healthcare systems, underscoring its importance for public health policy and service delivery strategies. Government policies should support the development and regulation of traditional medicine sectors to ensure safety and efficacy, while also promoting their appropriate use alongside modern medical practices.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Women Entrepreneurs in Kenyan Informal Markets
Women entrepreneurs in Kenyan informal markets have faced significant challenges over the past decade, including limited access to financing and legal recognition. The analysis employs qualitative data collection methods supplemented by secondary research from government databases, market surveys, and interviews with entrepreneurs and policymakers. Women entrepreneurs reported an increase in sales volume of 20% and improved business management skills after participating in training programmes funded by the Kenyan Government. Policy interventions have had a positive impact on women's entrepreneurial ventures, though challenges remain related to access to capital and legal recognition. Further investment should be directed towards enhancing financial literacy programmes and simplifying business registration processes for women entrepreneurs.
Mobile Banking Adoption and Economic Empowerment among Youth Entrepreneurs in Lagos
Mobile banking services have gained popularity in urban areas of Africa, including Lagos, Nigeria, where informal settlements are prevalent and entrepreneurial activities thrive among youth populations. A comprehensive literature review will be conducted to identify key theories, models, and existing studies relevant to mobile banking adoption and youth entrepreneurship in informal settlements. This theoretical framework provides a solid foundation for future empirical research on mobile banking and economic empowerment, emphasising the importance of understanding socio-economic context in urban settings. Future studies should consider integrating qualitative data to better understand individual experiences and challenges related to mobile banking adoption.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Inclusion Dynamics in Rural Burkina Faso
Digital inclusion in rural communities of Burkina Faso remains a significant challenge, exacerbated by limited access to digital technologies and infrastructure. This study employs semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with community members in selected rural areas of Burkina Faso. A notable finding was a 40% disparity in internet access between those with basic digital skills (25%) and those without any skills at all (65%). The study highlights the critical role of community-led initiatives in bridging the Digital Divide, particularly focusing on youth engagement. Public-private partnerships should be encouraged to invest in digital literacy programmes targeting rural populations.
E-Learning Platforms as Frameworks for Vocational Skill Development and Job Placement in South African Mining Communities
E-learning platforms have become integral in contemporary education systems worldwide, offering flexible learning opportunities that can be particularly beneficial for non-traditional learners such as those in informal settlements or mining communities with limited access to traditional educational resources. The analysis will draw from existing literature and theoretical frameworks related to e-learning, vocational training, and community development in mining contexts. No empirical data collection or statistical analysis is proposed. The theoretical framework establishes e-learning as a promising avenue for addressing educational disparities and improving workforce skills in South African mining communities, suggesting its potential to significantly enhance employability outcomes. Investment in robust e-learning infrastructure and continuous professional development of educators is recommended to maximise the benefits of these platforms. Additionally, partnerships between industry stakeholders and educational institutions should be fostered to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Empowerment Programmes and Women's Livelihoods in Nairobi Slums
Microfinance programmes have been implemented in various informal settlements globally to address financial instability and promote economic empowerment. The analysis will draw from existing literature and theories related to gender, finance, and urban development in African contexts. The theoretical framework highlights the need for tailored interventions that consider socio-economic dynamics and community engagement. Policy makers should prioritise inclusive financing mechanisms and integrate gender-sensitive strategies to maximise programme impact in Nairobi slums. Microfinance, empowerment programmes, women's livelihoods, Nairobi slums, financial stability, education access
Theoretical Foundations of Land Reform and Socio-Economic Dynamics in Post-colonial East Africa
This article explores the theoretical foundations of land reform in post-colonial East Africa, with a specific focus on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), drawing from existing literature and debates. This article employs a review of existing literature and theoretical frameworks without empirical data collection or analysis. This theoretical framework underscores the importance of understanding historical contexts and current policies to foster sustainable development in post-colonial African settings. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies that incorporate empirical data to validate theoretical insights. Policy makers could benefit from integrating these findings into land reform strategies designed for equitable socio-economic outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Evaluation of Education Reform Programmes on Primary School Literacy Rates in Eastern African Countries
Literacy rates in primary schools across Eastern African countries have shown inconsistent performance over time. A comparative analysis was conducted using data from three consecutive years (-) in selected primary schools across Uganda. Data collection included student performance assessments and teacher feedback surveys. Significant improvements were observed in reading comprehension scores, with a 15% increase in the proportion of students achieving literacy benchmarks compared to baseline levels. The education reform programmes implemented in Uganda have had positive effects on primary school literacy rates. However, challenges remain in ensuring sustained improvement and addressing disparities across different regions. Further research should explore long-term impacts and identify best practices for sustaining educational reforms. Continuous professional development for teachers is also recommended to enhance teaching methods.
Religious Pluralism and Inter-Faith Dynamics in West African Societies of Rwanda,
This study examines religious pluralism and inter-faith dynamics in West African societies of Rwanda, focusing on the period -. Qualitative interviews with community leaders, focus group discussions with local residents, and secondary data analysis were employed to explore inter-faith relations and their impact on societal stability. A key finding is that religious diversity often leads to constructive dialogue rather than conflict, particularly when mediated by respected community elders. This theme was evident in 60% of the interview responses. Inter-faith initiatives can foster mutual respect and understanding among different religious groups, contributing positively to social cohesion and policy-making processes. Policy makers should encourage inter-faith dialogue programmes and support community-led reconciliation efforts. This could include funding for community-based conflict resolution mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Pan-Africanism has been a significant force in African politics since the mid-20th century. Central Africa, including the Central African Republic (CAR), is an area where Pan-Africanist ideals have intersected with local realities and challenges. Theoretical synthesis will be employed, drawing on existing literature from African Studies, including scholarly articles, policy documents, and historical analyses of Pan-Africanism in CAR. The theoretical framework will be constructed through a systematic review of these sources. A theoretical framework for understanding contemporary Pan-Africanism in CAR has been developed, highlighting both the unifying and divisive elements of these movements. This framework can serve as a foundation for further empirical research and policy development. Policy makers should consider promoting inclusive economic growth strategies that respect traditional values while also aligning with modern governance principles, potentially integrating Pan-Africanist ideals into national policies to foster unity and stability.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have brought about significant changes in data governance practices across African societies. In Senegal, there is a growing interest and application of AI technologies, particularly in urban planning and social services. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with government officials, community leaders, and AI developers with quantitative surveys among residents of selected urban areas in Senegal. Data analysis includes thematic content analysis and statistical testing to identify patterns and trends related to governance practices and public perception. Findings indicate that while there is a significant adoption of AI technologies for urban planning, data privacy concerns are prevalent. A notable proportion (35%) of residents surveyed expressed concerns about their personal information being used by AI systems in decision-making processes. The study concludes that current governance frameworks lack comprehensive ethical guidelines and mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of AI technologies for urban development in Senegal. Recommendations include developing a national data protection policy, enhancing public participation through inclusive consultation processes, and training government officials on best practices in AI ethics. The integration of these measures could significantly improve governance outcomes in the context of AI applications.
Comparative Economic Blocs in African Regional Governance
African regional governance faces challenges in economic integration due to diverse socio-economic conditions across countries. Qualitative comparative analysis of existing literature on Nigerian involvement in regional economic organizations (REOs). Nigeria is a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), contributing to sub-regional trade but faces logistical hurdles due to varying levels of development among member states. Enhanced cross-border infrastructure and policy harmonization are essential for improving economic bloc effectiveness in Nigeria. Develop a coordinated strategy for regional logistics, facilitate intergovernmental dialogues on regulatory reforms, and leverage digital platforms for trade facilitation.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Evolution of African Philosophical Discourse in Post-Colonial Egypt
This study explores the evolution of African philosophical discourse in post-colonial Egypt through the lens of informal settlements. This qualitative study employs semi-structured interviews with key informants from various stakeholders involved in urban planning and policy-making in post-colonial Egypt, focusing on informal settlement areas. Data collection also included document analysis of relevant government reports and academic literature. Themes emerging from the data suggest a significant influence of African philosophical thought, particularly existentialism and critical theory, on local governance strategies for informal settlements. Philosophical discourse has shaped community development priorities by emphasising issues such as social justice, environmental sustainability, and participatory decision-making processes. The findings indicate that while philosophical ideas have provided theoretical frameworks and ethical foundations for policy formulation in post-colonial Egypt, their practical implementation remains limited due to resource constraints and bureaucratic resistance. Recommendations include the need for more comprehensive integration of philosophical insights into urban planning practices and greater emphasis on community engagement mechanisms within governance strategies for informal settlements.
Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation of Rainwater Harvesting Systems in Kenyan Village Communities,
Rainwater harvesting systems have been proposed as a sustainable solution for water supply in informal settlements of Kenya. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys, interviews, and financial analyses to assess system performance and community acceptance. The study found that while the initial setup cost for rainwater harvesting systems was high, they provided significant water savings in arid regions, reducing reliance on unreliable external sources by up to 50%. Despite higher upfront costs, the long-term benefits of reduced operational expenses and improved hygiene outcomes outweighed these initial investments. Communities should be encouraged to adopt rainwater harvesting systems through targeted subsidies and public education campaigns.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Climate Resilience Training Programmes and Crop Yield Stability in Mozambique的小农培训与作物产量稳定性：莫桑比克的理论框架研究
Climate resilience training programmes for smallholder farmers in Mozambique have been implemented to enhance agricultural productivity and reduce vulnerability to climate-related shocks. Not applicable as no empirical results are provided. Theoretical analysis will explore various aspects including programme design, farmer participation patterns, and outcomes in terms of climate resilience and crop yield stability. This theoretical framework article provides foundational insights into the effectiveness of climate resilience training programmes for smallholder farmers in Mozambique, offering a structured approach for further research and policy development to enhance agricultural sustainability. Further empirical studies should be conducted to validate these findings, with recommendations for policymakers including increased funding for training initiatives and support for implementing best practices identified during this analysis.
Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and Innovation Hubs in East Africa
Entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs have become critical components in fostering economic growth and job creation across various regions, including East Africa. These systems support entrepreneurs by providing resources, networks, and infrastructure necessary for sustainable business development. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with semi-structured questionnaires designed to gather insights from entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry experts in Tunisia. Data analysis involves thematic coding and cross-regional comparisons. A significant proportion (70%) of surveyed entrepreneurs reported receiving support services through innovation hubs, highlighting the importance of these structures in facilitating access to resources such as funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The findings underscore the potential of entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs to drive regional economic development. However, there is room for improvement in terms of policy alignment and resource allocation across different regions. Policymakers should prioritise the integration of existing support structures into a more cohesive ecosystem framework that caters specifically to East African informal settlement areas. This would enhance their effectiveness and impact.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Pan-Africanism has gained renewed interest in African studies with a focus on contemporary challenges and opportunities within specific national contexts. This study employs a multidisciplinary approach incorporating literature review, historical analyses, and thematic synthesis to explore the dynamics of Pan-Africanism in Burundi. While Pan-Africanism offers promising avenues for socio-economic development, it also poses challenges related to cultural preservation and state cohesion. Future research should focus on enhancing the inclusivity of Pan-Africanist policies to ensure equitable benefits across diverse ethnic groups in Burundi.