African Economic Review is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Adoption Dynamics and Outcomes of Climate-Smart Agriculture Techniques in Maize Farming Communities of Western Kenya
Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) techniques have emerged as promising solutions to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in maize farming communities of Western Kenya under changing climatic conditions. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining household surveys with focus group discussions. Data from 150 randomly selected households were analysed using econometric methods to determine the impact of CSA on farm income and environmental sustainability. Findings indicate that while approximately 45% of farmers adopted at least one CSA practice, there was a significant variation in outcomes across different practices (e.g., improved crop varieties led to a 20% increase in maize yields). The study highlights the importance of tailored interventions and supportive policies for maximising benefits from CSA adoption among maize farming communities. Farmers should be encouraged to adopt multiple CSA practices, while policymakers need to implement targeted subsidies and extension services to facilitate wider uptake and sustainability of these practices in the region.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Traditional Governance Structures and Modern Democracy in Southern Africa
Southern Africa has a complex interplay between traditional governance structures and modern democratic processes, with Tanzania serving as a case study due to its diverse cultural landscape and recent democratization efforts. This comparative analysis employs qualitative research methods, including interviews with local leaders, focus group discussions, and document reviews from government archives and civil society organizations to understand traditional governance practices within a democratic framework. The findings indicate that while traditional councils maintain significant influence over local decision-making processes, they often struggle to align their actions with the principles of modern democracy. This results in mixed outcomes regarding political stability and citizen engagement. Traditional governance structures continue to play a pivotal role in shaping democratic practices in Tanzania, but their effectiveness varies significantly depending on how well they adapt to contemporary democratic norms. Future research should focus on identifying mechanisms for better integration. Policy recommendations include fostering greater dialogue between traditional leaders and elected officials to ensure more harmonious coexistence of traditional governance structures with modern democracy. Additionally, training programmes aimed at enhancing leadership skills could improve the efficacy of local councils in a democratic context. Traditional Governance, Modern Democracy, Southern Africa, Tanzania
Conservation Farming Practices Among Yoruba Farmers in Southwest Nigeria
Conservation farming practices are crucial for sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria's diverse agro-ecological zones, including the Yoruba-dominated Southwest region. The study employed a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews with selected farmers in Southwest Nigeria, focusing on their perceptions and experiences with conservation farming techniques. Farmers reported significant interest in soil conservation methods such as mulching and crop rotation, indicating a willingness to adopt these practices despite challenges like limited access to inputs and knowledge gaps. While there is enthusiasm for conservation farming among Yoruba farmers, barriers such as inadequate support from extension services remain key obstacles to widespread adoption. Policy recommendations include strengthening farmer training programmes and providing incentives for adopting soil conservation practices.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urbanization and Social Welfare Provision in Informal Settlements of Guinea
Urbanization in Guinea’s informal settlements is a critical issue affecting social welfare provision. An action research approach involving qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and community surveys among residents of urban slums in Guinea. Community members reported a significant increase (50%) in welfare service utilization after the implementation of basic infrastructure improvements. Urbanization necessitates targeted social welfare reforms to address disparities within informal settlements. Implement community-led governance structures and integrate local resources for sustainable welfare services delivery.
Sustainability and Economic Growth Impacts of Community-Based Forest Management Programmes in Tanzania
Community-based forest management (CBFM) programmes in Tanzania have emerged as a significant policy intervention aimed at restoring degraded lands and promoting sustainable land use practices. This study employs a comprehensive literature review approach to synthesize existing theories and empirical evidence related to CBCM programmes in African contexts. This article contributes to the existing literature on CBCM programmes by providing a robust theoretical foundation for understanding their multifaceted impacts and offering insights into policy design. Policy makers should consider integrating elements of social protection, such as cash transfer schemes, alongside CBCM initiatives to enhance long-term sustainability and economic benefits.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Health Clinics in Malaria Prevention
Malaria remains a significant public health issue in rural Mozambique communities, where access to healthcare services is limited. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including qualitative interviews with community members, quantitative surveys, and observational assessments. The MHCs significantly reduced malaria cases by 40% among surveyed households over the study period. Mobile health clinics were found to be an effective tool in enhancing malaria prevention strategies in rural Mozambique communities. Further implementation and integration of mobile health clinics into existing healthcare infrastructure is recommended for broader impact.
Digital disparities persist in rural African communities, particularly in Ethiopia where access to digital technologies remains uneven. Qualitative research methods were employed, including interviews with local stakeholders and community surveys. Rural communities in Ethiopia predominantly lack internet infrastructure, with only 20% of households having access to stable broadband connections. The digital divide significantly hinders economic development and social inclusion in rural areas of Ethiopia. Investment in rural telecommunications infrastructure is crucial for bridging the digital gap.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Literacy and Entrepreneurship Success among Senegalese Youth in Guinea
Digital literacy has become increasingly important for young entrepreneurs in contemporary economies. In Guinea, where digital access is uneven and entrepreneurial opportunities are growing, understanding its role in youth success is crucial. A mixed methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews was employed. The survey assessed digital skills and entrepreneurial success, while interviews explored contextual factors. Senegalese youth entrepreneurs demonstrated higher levels of digital literacy (75%) compared to their peers in Senegal, with a notable proportion (40%) indicating digital skills as critical for their business growth. The findings suggest that enhancing digital literacy could significantly boost entrepreneurship success among young entrepreneurs in Guinea. Policies should focus on improving digital access and training programmes tailored to the needs of Senegalese youth operating in Guinea.
The Evolution of Philosophical Thought in Post-Colonial Ghana
Post-colonial Ghana has seen a resurgence of interest in African philosophy, which seeks to understand and articulate the philosophical perspectives that emerged from the continent's historical experiences with colonialism. The research employs a qualitative approach, analysing primary sources such as published works, academic journals, and interviews with prominent scholars. Content analysis is employed to interpret the evolution of philosophical ideas across different periods. Notable themes include critiques of colonialism, discussions on cultural identity, and reflections on modernization. Interviews reveal significant shifts in how Ghanaian philosophers engage with African traditions versus Western influences. The study reveals a dynamic landscape where traditional philosophies are reinterpreted within contemporary contexts, reflecting the complex interplay between past experiences and present challenges. Further research could explore specific philosophical movements or schools of thought in greater depth, as well as their impact on social and political issues in Ghana.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Innovative Pedagogical Methods in Math Education
In Burundi, rural schools face significant challenges in providing equitable access to quality mathematics education. Qualitative data were collected through classroom observations, interviews with teachers and students, and document analysis from ten randomly selected schools across Burundi’s rural districts. Classroom discussions revealed an average increase of 20% in student participation rates and a notable shift towards more interactive teaching approaches compared to traditional methods. Innovative pedagogical strategies significantly enhanced student engagement and teacher adaptation, warranting further implementation across the country’s educational landscape. Burundi policymakers should prioritise integrating these innovative methods into national curricula and provide ongoing professional development for educators.
Empowering Rural Women in Madagascar Through Financial Inclusion Programmes
Rural women in Madagascar face significant economic challenges, particularly in accessing formal financial services which can empower them economically. The study employs a combination of qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and quantitative surveys to assess the efficacy of these programmes over a period from to . Savings groups demonstrated significant contributions in enhancing women's financial literacy and collective savings, with an average increase of £10 per participant in monthly savings compared to pre-programme levels. Entrepreneurial ventures led to the creation of small businesses, generating income for participants and their families. Financial inclusion programmes such as savings groups and entrepreneurial ventures are effective in empowering rural women economically in Madagascar. Government and non-governmental organizations should continue to support these programmes with additional resources tailored to local contexts.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Analysis of Regional Economic Blocs in African States
Regional economic blocs in Africa have been a subject of interest for policy analysts due to their potential impact on intra-regional trade and development. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing existing literature and data from various sources to provide insights into regional integration efforts in Africa. Findings indicate that while some blocs have seen increased intra-regional trade, others face significant challenges such as political instability and uneven economic development. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of a balanced approach to regional integration policies for sustainable development in African states. Recommendations include fostering greater cooperation among blocs, addressing internal governance issues, and promoting equitable resource distribution strategies.
Afrofuturism and Its Potential in Shaping African Futures
Afrofuturism is an interdisciplinary field that explores how African cultures can shape future narratives and technologies. No empirical results are presented; this is an interpretive commentary based on existing literature and theoretical frameworks. Afrofuturism offers a promising framework for envisioning and engaging with future African realities through culturally grounded approaches to technological innovation and social change. Policy makers should consider integrating Afrofuturist principles into development strategies, while scholars should continue research on the intersection of culture and technology in Africa.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Waste Valorization Technologies in Livestock Waste Management
Waste valorization technologies have been proposed as a sustainable solution for managing livestock waste in rural areas of Ethiopia. However, their effectiveness varies across different settings. A comparative analysis was conducted using data collected from farmers and waste management sites. Qualitative interviews and field observations were employed to gather detailed insights into technology implementation and community perceptions. Waste valorization technologies showed significant reductions in methane emissions, with a notable decrease of up to 50% in one village compared to conventional methods. Farmers reported high satisfaction levels, indicating a strong willingness to adopt these technologies. The findings suggest that waste valorization can be an effective strategy for improving livestock waste management in rural Ethiopia when tailored to local conditions and needs. Policy makers should consider supporting the adoption of waste valorization technologies through incentives and capacity building programmes. Further research is needed to validate these results across more villages.
Gender Disparities in Financial Services Access among Smallholder Farmers in Northern Nigeria
Gender disparities in access to financial services persist among smallholder farmers in northern Nigeria, highlighting a critical area for policy intervention. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from focus group discussions and interviews was employed to analyse the socio-economic context of smallholder farming communities in northern Nigeria. Findings indicate a significant gender gap in access to formal financial services, with women being less likely to use savings accounts or credit facilities compared to men. This pattern has shown slight improvement over time but remains substantial. The longitudinal study reveals persistent gender disparities that require targeted policy interventions focused on improving financial literacy and infrastructure accessibility for female farmers. Recommendation 1: Implementing women-focused financial education programmes in rural areas to enhance their understanding of available financial services. Recommendation 2: Enhancing access to digital financial services by providing affordable mobile banking solutions tailored for smallholder farmers.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Adoption Dynamics of Organic Fertilizers among Smallholder Women Farmers in Northern Cameroon
Organic fertilizers play a crucial role in enhancing soil fertility among smallholder farmers worldwide, particularly in resource-poor settings such as Northern Cameroon. However, their adoption remains uneven across different social and economic groups. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including household surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews. Data were collected from 200 randomly selected households across four regions in Northern Cameroon. During the study period, there was a significant increase (p<0.05) in the proportion of women farmers using organic fertilizers, with a notable trend towards higher adoption rates among younger and more educated participants. The findings suggest that socio-economic factors significantly influence the adoption dynamics of organic fertilizers among smallholder women farmers in Northern Cameroon. Policy makers should consider targeted interventions to increase access to organic fertilizer inputs, particularly for younger, more educated women farmers who exhibit higher adoption rates.
Climate Change Adaptation Strategies in Fishing Communities of Angola
Climate change poses significant challenges to fishing communities in Angola, affecting their livelihoods and food security. A qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with local fishermen and community leaders to gather insights into their coping mechanisms and challenges. Fishermen reported a shift towards more sustainable fishing practices, such as selective harvesting of certain fish species. A proportion (60%) of respondents adopted these strategies, indicating a growing awareness but limited adoption due to economic constraints. Findings suggest that while there is recognition among fishermen about the need for adaptation, practical implementation remains hindered by resource limitations and lack of support from government agencies. Support programmes should focus on providing training in sustainable fishing techniques and financial assistance to promote adoption of these practices.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Economic Transitions among Migrant Communities in Accra, Ghana,
This ethnographic study examines economic transitions among migrant communities in Accra, Ghana. Qualitative research methods, including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups were employed to gather insights from the migrant community. Migrant households experienced significant income disparities, with a notable proportion of individuals moving into higher-paying jobs over the study period. The findings highlight challenges and opportunities faced by migrants in integrating economically within their host society. Policy recommendations focus on enhancing job training programmes to match migrant workers' skill levels with available employment opportunities.
Developing Digital Literacy Programmes in Primary Schools
This study examines the development of digital literacy programmes for primary school teachers in South Sudan, focusing on the challenges and successes encountered during their implementation. A qualitative study was conducted, involving semi-structured interviews with a sample of primary school teachers from South Sudan. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify common themes related to digital literacy education. Teachers reported significant improvement in their ability to use technology effectively for teaching and learning purposes, particularly in areas such as integrating multimedia resources into lesson plans (60%) and utilising educational apps (58%). The study concludes that while initial challenges were encountered, the digital literacy programmes have had a positive impact on teachers' professional development and students' academic performance. Recommendations include further training for teachers in advanced technology use and greater support from educational authorities to ensure consistent implementation of digital literacy initiatives.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Historical Foundations of Governance Challenges in Senegal,
This paper examines historical factors that have shaped governance challenges in Senegal over a decade. Historical analysis of governmental records, legal documents, and scholarly literature is employed to trace the roots of current governance challenges in Senegal during the specified timeframe. A notable finding is the significant influence of colonial-era administrative structures on present-day bureaucratic inefficiencies and corruption. The historical context reveals a complex interplay between colonial legacy, economic development, and political instability as primary drivers of governance challenges in Senegal. Policy recommendations include strengthening institutional reforms to address the structural issues stemming from colonial-era administrative foundations.
Language Policy and Education Outcomes in Multilingual Namibia
Namibia is a multilingual nation where multiple indigenous languages coexist alongside English as an official language of government and education. The study employs mixed methods including quantitative surveys to gauge student performance metrics and qualitative interviews to explore policy perceptions among educators and parents. Data collection spans across urban and rural areas. Findings indicate that students taught in their mother tongue exhibit higher academic achievement, with a statistically significant average grade point improvement of 0.4 points compared to English-only instruction. The mixed methods approach reveals nuanced insights into the efficacy of language policies on educational success, underscoring the importance of bilingual education for Namibia's diverse linguistic landscape. Policy recommendations include prioritising mother-tongue-based curricula in under-resourced schools and fostering intercultural dialogue to support multilingual learning environments.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theoretical Foundations of Community Vegetable Gardens in Promoting Urban Food Security in Accra, Ghana
Community vegetable gardens in Accra, Ghana have emerged as a significant strategy for addressing urban food insecurity. The study will employ qualitative and interpretive methods to analyse existing literature and case studies of vegetable garden initiatives in Accra. The theoretical framework underscores the potential for community-led agricultural projects to enhance urban food security and resilience. Government policies should support community vegetable gardens through infrastructure development and financial incentives.