African Rural Economics (Economics/Agri/Geography crossover)
African Rural Economics (Economics/Agri/Geography crossover) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
This article examines Capital Flight from Africa: Magnitude, Causes, and Policy Responses: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on Nigeria within the field of Business. It is structured as a working paper that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Food Systems Transformation and Nutrition Transitions in Urban Africa
This article examines Food Systems Transformation and Nutrition Transitions in Urban Africa: Towards Sustainable Development Goals with a focused emphasis on Republic of Congo within the field of Business. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Sharing Economy and Informal Sector in African Urban Contexts
This article examines The Sharing Economy and Informal Sector in African Urban Contexts: Power, Agency, and Structural Change with a focused emphasis on Uganda within the field of Business. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Development Finance Institution Support for Small and Medium Enterprise in Africa
This article examines Development Finance Institution Support for Small and Medium Enterprise in Africa: Perspectives from Eastern Africa with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Business. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Trade Facilitation and Non-Tariff Barriers in the East African Community
This article examines Trade Facilitation and Non-Tariff Barriers in the East African Community: Rural and Urban Dimensions with a focused emphasis on Burundi within the field of Business. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Humanitarian Aid and Development Aid: Bridging the Gap in Fragile Contexts: Institutional Capacity and Political Will with a focused emphasis on Republic of Congo within the field of Business. It is structured as a ethnographic study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines The Gig Economy in African Cities: Platform Work, Labour Rights, and Regulatory Challenges: Theoretical Framework and Empirical Analysis with a focused emphasis on Ghana within the field of Business. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
The Resource Curse and Institutional Quality
This article examines The Resource Curse and Institutional Quality: Does Governance Mediate Natural Resource Effects: An Empirical Investigation with a focused emphasis on Tanzania within the field of Business. It is structured as a working paper that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Population Growth and Economic Development in Sub-Saharan Africa
This article examines Population Growth and Economic Development in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Empirical Investigation with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia within the field of Business. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
South Sudan's Trade with Sudan and Uganda
This article examines South Sudan's Trade with Sudan and Uganda: Patterns, Constraints, and Development Potential with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of Business. It is structured as a policy analysis article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Foreign Investment Screening and National Security in African States
This article examines Foreign Investment Screening and National Security in African States: Fiscal Dimensions and Revenue Implications with a focused emphasis on Tanzania within the field of Business. It is structured as a action research study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Trade Facilitation and Non-Tariff Barriers in the East African Community: Rural and Urban Dimensions with a focused emphasis on São Tomé and Príncipe within the field of Business. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Humanitarian Aid and Development Aid: Bridging the Gap in Fragile Contexts: Institutional Capacity and Political Will with a focused emphasis on South Africa within the field of Business. It is structured as a theoretical framework article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines The East African Power Pool: Regional Energy Integration and Cross-Border Electricity Trade: Policy Implications for Fragile States with a focused emphasis on Uganda within the field of Business. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Trade Facilitation Agreements and Border Crossing Efficiency in East Africa
This article examines Trade Facilitation Agreements and Border Crossing Efficiency in East Africa: Implications for Regional Integration with a focused emphasis on Namibia within the field of Business. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
The Political Economy of Economic Reform
This article examines The Political Economy of Economic Reform: Technocrats, Politics, and Policy Change in Africa: A Feminist Political Economy Approach with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Business. It is structured as a ethnographic study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Pastoral Livelihoods and Labour Organisation in East Africa: Perspectives from Eastern Africa
This comparative study examines the evolving nature of pastoral livelihoods and labour organisation in Tanzania, focusing on the divergent pathways of sedentarisation and market-oriented pastoralism. Drawing on primary data from contrasting agro-pastoral and pastoral communities, the analysis investigates how labour allocation, household decision-making, and cooperative structures adapt to pressures of climate variability, land tenure changes, and market integration. The findings reveal a spectrum of strategies, from labour-intensive diversification to specialised livestock enterprises, each presenting distinct trade-offs for economic resilience and social cohesion. The study concludes that policy interventions must account for this heterogeneity to effectively support sustainable pastoral economies in eastern Africa.
Copyright (c) 2026 African Rural Economics (Economics/Agri/Geography crossover)
The Impact of AfCFTA on Southern African Supply Chains in Ghana
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to create a single market for goods and services within Africa by eliminating tariffs and other trade barriers, thereby boosting regional integration and economic growth. The study employs a qualitative research approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with key industry stakeholders including government officials, business leaders, and supply chain managers from various sectors. Data collection was conducted through online surveys and focus group discussions to gather detailed insights into market dynamics post-AfCFTA implementation. There is evidence of increased collaboration between Ghanaian firms and their counterparts in neighboring countries, with a notable shift towards deeper integration in the cocoa supply chain where Ghana has seen an 18% increase in exports to West African nations as a result of reduced trade barriers. The findings suggest that while AfCFTA has facilitated greater participation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in regional markets, there are challenges such as uneven implementation across member states and resistance from established players who fear losing market share. To maximise the benefits of AfCFTA for Ghana’s economy, it is recommended that policy makers strengthen regulatory frameworks to ensure fair competition and facilitate smoother cross-border transactions. Additionally, support programmes should be developed to assist SMEs in navigating these new trade opportunities.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Catalytic Financing Mechanisms in Women Farmers' Cooperatives
This study examines catalytic financing mechanisms aimed at enhancing savings mobilization among women farmers in cooperative settings within rural Zimbabwe. The study employs a mixed methods approach, integrating quantitative data from loan repayment records and qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews with cooperative members and management. Savings mobilization through catalytic financing mechanisms increased by 40% in the first year of implementation, significantly improving overall financial stability and resilience within cooperatives. Catalytic financing mechanisms are effective tools for enhancing savings and loan repayment rates among women farmers in Zimbabwean cooperative settings. Government and non-governmental organizations should consider replicating these mechanisms to support sustainable agricultural development, particularly targeting rural areas with limited financial resources. catalytic financing, women farmers, cooperatives, savings mobilization, loan repayment rates
Microfinance Institutions and Women Entrepreneurs in Ethiopian Rural Economies
Microfinance institutions (MFIs) have been implemented in various rural economies to support small-scale entrepreneurs, particularly women. However, their effectiveness and impact on female-led businesses are not well understood. The study employed a participatory action research approach involving qualitative data collection through semi-structured interviews with 50 female entrepreneurs and focus group discussions with community leaders. Data analysis was conducted using thematic content analysis to identify common themes and patterns. MFIs in Ethiopia have demonstrated significant support for women's entrepreneurship, particularly in sectors like agriculture and small-scale manufacturing. Women reported increased access to finance, improved business management skills, and enhanced market access through MFIs' training programmes. This study highlights the positive impact of MFIs on female-led businesses in Ethiopian rural areas, underscoring their role in promoting economic empowerment among women entrepreneurs. MFIs should continue to tailor support services specifically for women entrepreneurs, emphasising gender-specific challenges and opportunities. Enhanced collaboration with local government and community organizations is recommended to ensure sustainable impact.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Ugandan agribusiness is a significant sector in the country's economy, contributing to food security and rural livelihoods. However, policy landscapes within this sector are complex and often influenced by local dynamics. The research employs qualitative methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to gather data from key stakeholders in the Ugandan agribusiness sector. Local farmers reported a 20% increase in crop yields due to the implementation of new irrigation systems supported by government policies. Policies in Uganda’s agribusiness sector are often poorly aligned with local realities, leading to mixed outcomes. This study highlights the importance of integrating context-specific knowledge into policy formulation. Policy makers should prioritise stakeholder engagement and incorporate empirical evidence from field studies when designing agricultural policies.
Technological Integration in Precision Farming
Precision farming integrates advanced technologies such as GPS-guided tractors, remote sensing, and data analytics to optimise crop yields and reduce environmental impact. The study employed a mixed-methods approach including interviews with farmers and analysis of satellite imagery data from the region. Precision farming techniques increased maize yield by an average of 15% compared to traditional methods, highlighting the significant impact of technological integration on productivity. Technological advancements in precision agriculture have substantial positive effects on land productivity in Northwest Ethiopia's agricultural landscape. Government and development agencies should invest more in training farmers for technology adoption and infrastructure support to maximise benefits from these innovations. Precision Farming, Land Productivity, Northwest Ethiopia, Agricultural Technology
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Empowerment Programmes and Entrepreneurial Growth in Northern Rwanda
Youth empowerment programmes in Rwanda aim to support local entrepreneurship and economic development. Northern Rwanda has seen growth initiatives targeting young entrepreneurs, though their effectiveness on business growth and access to finance remains underexplored. A quantitative survey approach was employed with a sample size of 150 small-scale enterprises across four districts. Data were collected through structured questionnaires addressing business growth metrics and access to finance. Businesses in the study reported an average annual revenue increase of 23% following participation in youth empowerment programmes, indicating positive effects on economic performance. Youth empowerment programmes appear effective in fostering entrepreneurial activities and enhancing financial resources among small businesses in northern Rwanda. Future research should focus on identifying key factors for sustained growth. Policy makers could consider expanding access to finance opportunities alongside youth empowerment programmes to support long-term business sustainability. youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, access to finance, Northern Rwanda
The Informal Sector in Mali's Urban Context
The informal sector plays a crucial role in urban economies across Africa, including Mali’s growing cities where traditional formal structures often falter. A comprehensive analysis of scholarly articles, focusing on empirical studies and theoretical frameworks that have explored the economic activities, regulatory environments, and social impacts of the informal sector in Malian urban areas. The review identifies a significant proportion (30%) of urban employment within Mali's cities as being engaged in informal sectors, particularly in services and small-scale enterprises. This highlights the resilience and adaptability of these economic activities despite regulatory challenges. The reviewed literature underscores the need for inclusive policies that support rather than stigmatize informal sector actors, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of their contributions to urban economies. Policy recommendations include fostering entrepreneurship through targeted training programmes and improving access to finance and markets for informal sector entrepreneurs in Mali’s cities. Informal Sector, Urban Economy, Mali, Entrepreneurship, Policy Recommendations
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Agriculture Training Workshops and Crop Yield Improvements in Northern Ghanaian Farming Villages,
Digital agriculture has gained increasing attention as a means to enhance agricultural productivity in developing countries. Northern Ghana is an area where digital technologies have been introduced to improve farming practices and outcomes. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with farmers who participated in the workshops and focus group discussions. The data collection was conducted by trained researchers to ensure reliability and validity. The findings suggest that digital agriculture training workshops played a significant role in improving crop yields, particularly among participants who adopted recommended farming practices based on workshop content. Digital agriculture training workshops have demonstrated potential for enhancing agricultural productivity in northern Ghanaian villages. However, further research is needed to assess long-term sustainability and wider impact. Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of digital agriculture training and explore how these workshops can be integrated into existing farmer support systems.
Utilising Open-Source GIS Mapping Tools for Rural Livelihood Support Programmes in Cape Town, South Africa
Open-source Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping tools have become increasingly popular in supporting rural livelihoods by identifying areas with potential for development and targeting specific groups such as youth facing unemployment. The research methodology employed a mixed-methods approach including semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. Data collection was conducted through field visits and online surveys targeting stakeholders involved in the rural development projects. Findings indicate that Open-source GIS tools significantly enhanced targeted interventions by clearly identifying geographical areas with high youth unemployment rates and facilitating better resource allocation for support programmes. The study concludes that Open-Source GIS mapping tools are effective in supporting rural livelihoods, particularly in targeting youth unemployment. These tools provide a clear framework for assessing the success of development initiatives. Future research should explore the scalability and replicability of these findings across other regions with similar challenges to ensure broad application and impact. Open-source GIS, Rural Livelihood Support, Youth Unemployment Mitigation, Cape Town, South Africa
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Business Strategies in Ghanaian Rural Areas
Ghana is a West African country with significant rural areas where sustainable development strategies are essential for economic growth and environmental conservation. A mixed-method approach combining literature review, expert interviews, and case study analysis to synthesize existing knowledge and identify gaps for further research. The rural economy of Ghana predominantly relies on agriculture, with approximately 70% of the population engaged in farming activities, highlighting the sector's importance as a backbone of the economy. Businesses operating in these sectors can adopt sustainable practices to enhance profitability and contribute positively to local communities and ecosystems. Implement policies that support eco-friendly agricultural practices, promote tourism development while minimising environmental impact, and foster innovation in agribusiness to ensure long-term sustainability.
Gender Dynamics in Ethiopian Business Enterprises
Gender dynamics in business enterprises have been a topic of interest in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Ethiopia where traditional gender roles often intersect with economic activities. However, empirical studies on this subject are limited and fragmented, necessitating a comprehensive exploration. A mixed-methods study combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews will be employed. Data collection will encompass both large-scale questionnaires targeting a diverse sample of businesses and in-depth interviews focusing on key stakeholders such as business owners and employees. Initial findings suggest that while women entrepreneurs report facing significant challenges, including access to capital and networks, they also demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation strategies. For instance, 30% of female respondents reported developing unique business models to overcome traditional obstacles. The study concludes with a nuanced understanding of gender dynamics in Ethiopian businesses, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for gender equality. Policy recommendations include fostering supportive environments for women entrepreneurs through targeted interventions such as skill-building programmes and financial aid. Additionally, promoting inclusive business practices that value diverse perspectives is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking and Financial Inclusion in Rural Kenya
Mobile banking has emerged as a critical tool for financial inclusion in rural areas worldwide, offering access to formal financial services where traditional banking is often absent or underdeveloped. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with community members, microfinance institution staff, and government officials to gather insights into the impact of mobile banking services in rural settings. Mobile banking adoption was found to have significantly increased financial inclusion among rural Kenyans, particularly among women who previously had limited access to formal financial systems. A notable theme emerged regarding improved savings habits and reduced reliance on informal credit markets. This study underscores the effectiveness of mobile banking in bridging the gap between urban and rural financial services, contributing to broader economic empowerment initiatives in Kenya. Policy makers should consider promoting policies that facilitate greater access to mobile banking services for underserved rural populations. Microfinance institutions can leverage these findings to enhance their outreach strategies.
Comparative Business Practices in Central African Republic
Central African Republic (CAR) is a landlocked country in Central Africa, characterized by significant economic challenges and political instability. The agricultural sector remains crucial but faces numerous constraints such as low productivity, limited access to markets, and insufficient infrastructure. Qualitative research was employed to collect data from interviews conducted with local farmers, traders, and government officials. Data analysis involved thematic coding and comparison across different regions within CAR. Findings indicate that despite the prevalence of small-scale farming, there is a notable diversity in business practices among regions, influenced by factors such as climate, market access, and community networks. The study reveals significant regional variations in business strategies and their effectiveness, highlighting the need for tailored agricultural support programmes to address local specificities. Recommendation for policymakers includes targeted interventions that consider regional differences and promote sustainable agricultural practices with improved market linkages.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/