African Trade Policy and Economics (Economics/Political Science/Law
African Trade Policy and Economics (Economics/Political Science/Law is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Minimum Wage Policy and Employment Effects in Low-Income African Countries
This article examines Minimum Wage Policy and Employment Effects in Low-Income African Countries: Policy Implications for Fragile States with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia within the field of Political Science. 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.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Credit and Over-Indebtedness in East African Mobile Money Markets
This article examines Digital Credit and Over-Indebtedness in East African Mobile Money Markets: Accountability, Transparency, and Reform with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Political Science. 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.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Unemployment and Political Instability in Sub-Saharan Africa
This article examines Youth Unemployment and Political Instability in Sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence and Policy: Lessons for Sub-Saharan Africa with a focused emphasis on Comoros within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a mixed methods 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.
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines The Political Economy of Corruption: Grand Corruption, Bureaucratic Corruption, and Reform: An Empirical Investigation with a focused emphasis on Benin within the field of Political Science. 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) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Political Economy of Financial Regulation
This article examines The Political Economy of Financial Regulation: Regulatory Capture and Systemic Risk: Institutional Dimensions and Reform Pathways with a focused emphasis on Equatorial Guinea within the field of Political Science. 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.
Housing Markets and Urban Inequality in East African Cities
This article examines Housing Markets and Urban Inequality in East African Cities: A Critical Examination with a focused emphasis on Senegal within the field of Political Science. 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.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Distributive Effects of Resource Revenues in Africa
This article examines The Distributive Effects of Resource Revenues in Africa: Oil Windfalls and Welfare Outcomes: Theoretical Framework and Empirical Analysis with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a policy brief 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 Energy Subsidies in Sub-Saharan Africa: Fiscal Cost, Distributional Impact, and Reform: Towards a Research Agenda with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a book review 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/
Mobile Money and Financial Inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa
This article examines Mobile Money and Financial Inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa: Beyond M-Pesa: Challenges and Opportunities in the 2020s with a focused emphasis on Libya within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a conference 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.
This article examines Digital Credit and Over-Indebtedness in East African Mobile Money Markets: Digital Transformation and Emerging Challenges with a focused emphasis on Tunisia within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a policy brief 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.
Social Protection and Agricultural Investment
This article examines Social Protection and Agricultural Investment: Cash Transfers and Farm Productivity Linkages: The Role of Civil Society with a focused emphasis on South Africa within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a policy brief 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 Energy Subsidies in Sub-Saharan Africa: Fiscal Cost, Distributional Impact, and Reform: Towards a Research Agenda with a focused emphasis on Algeria within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a comparative 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.
Migrant Labour Policies and Rural Livelihoods in Kenya's North Rift Valley
This study examines migrant labour policies in Kenya's North Rift Valley and their impact on rural livelihoods, particularly focusing on economic gains and gender dynamics. A qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with stakeholders including farmers, government officials, and community leaders. Focus groups were also used for deeper insights into gender roles and economic activities in migrant labour-dependent areas. Findings indicate that while some policies have led to modest increases in agricultural productivity (up to 20% in certain regions), these gains are not uniform across all communities, with disparities observed between men's and women's incomes. Gender dynamics reveal that despite policy intentions to promote equal participation, traditional gender roles often limit women’s involvement in labour-intensive activities. While migrant labour policies have shown promise in boosting rural economies, they require more targeted interventions to address existing gender-based inequalities and ensure sustainable development outcomes. Recommendations include strengthening policy frameworks to enhance inclusivity by promoting skills training for both genders and encouraging community-led initiatives that empower women economically. Additionally, regular evaluations should be conducted to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Sector Dynamics Within Mali’s Urban Jurisdictions
Informal sector activities are prevalent in urban areas of Mali, but their legal status is often uncertain. A qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and document analysis to understand the perceptions and practices of individuals operating in the informal sector. In one city district, approximately 70% of businesses operate informally despite legal regulations aimed at formalizing them. The findings highlight significant gaps between statutory laws and actual operational practices within the urban informal economy in Mali. Policy recommendations include enhancing enforcement mechanisms for existing laws and incorporating more flexible approaches that recognise the realities of the urban informal sector.
The study explores how legal research in Somalia impacts policy implementation. An ethnographic approach was employed, involving participant observation and semi-structured interviews with legal professionals and policymakers in Somalia. Law enforcement agencies reported a significant challenge in implementing new regulations due to the lack of coordination between different branches of government. The findings highlight the need for improved inter-agency cooperation to enhance policy effectiveness. Enhanced collaboration and communication channels should be established among various governmental bodies to streamline policy implementation.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Intellectual Property Law and Technology Transfer in Senegalese Universities
Intellectual property (IP) law in African universities is crucial for fostering innovation and technology transfer. In Senegal, university research has significant potential to contribute to national development, but legal frameworks often fail to support these efforts effectively. A structured online survey was conducted among university faculty members, focusing on their experiences with IP-related laws and practices. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics to highlight trends and patterns. The majority of respondents reported difficulties accessing necessary legal documents and inadequate support from universities in navigating IP regulations. This has led to underutilization of available technology transfer mechanisms. Current IP law implementation significantly hinders effective technology transfer within Senegalese universities, necessitating comprehensive reforms to align with international best practices. Senegalese policymakers should prioritise the development and enforcement of clear, accessible, and user-friendly IP laws. Universities need to integrate training programmes on intellectual property rights into their curricula.
Adolescent Smoking Hesitation Among Secondary School Teachers
This study examines adolescent smoking hesitation among secondary school teachers in Cape Town, South Africa, focusing on tobacco control policies implemented between and . Data collection was conducted through surveys administered in secondary schools across Cape Town. A total of 350 teachers participated, ensuring a diverse sample representing various sectors of education. Teachers showed significant hesitation in starting smoking, with 72% indicating they would hesitate if offered cigarettes, highlighting the effectiveness of policy interventions in altering their behaviour. The findings underscore the importance of ongoing tobacco control policies to maintain teacher-led health initiatives aimed at adolescent populations. Policies should continue to emphasise peer and self-reflection programmes that reinforce the negative impacts of smoking among adolescents.
Geographic Terms: South African Methodological: Qualitative Research Theoretical: Social Norms Theory Conceptual: Cultural Competence Policy Analysis: Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Hesitation Studies: Adolescent Hesitation Behaviour Public Health: Smoking Prevention Strategies
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Role of Community Health Workers in Tuberculosis Diagnostics and Treatment
Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a critical role in tuberculosis diagnostics and treatment in rural areas of Uganda. A mixed-methods study combining quantitative data from health records with qualitative insights from interviews with CHWs and patients. Data collection spans two years across three rural districts. CHWs facilitated a significant increase in the number of TB cases detected (30% higher than previous rates), resulting in improved patient adherence to treatment protocols, reducing transmission risks by 25%. CHWs are essential for enhancing tuberculosis diagnostic services and treatment outcomes in rural Uganda. Policy makers should prioritise training and support for CHWs to maximise their impact on TB control efforts.
Corporate Compliance under Nigerian Environmental Law Enforcement Practices
Nigeria faces significant environmental challenges due to lax enforcement of its environmental laws, leading to widespread corporate non-compliance and pollution. An in-depth qualitative study involving participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis among a sample of corporate entities across Nigeria's oil sector and urban areas. Corporate actors often engage in strategic non-compliance, adjusting their operations to avoid detection or mitigate costs, particularly in the presence of weak law enforcement mechanisms. The study reveals complex dynamics between corporate interests and environmental regulations, highlighting the need for improved regulatory frameworks and compliance incentives. Nigerian policymakers should enhance environmental laws' enforceability through stricter penalties and more transparent monitoring processes to encourage corporate accountability.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Legal aid clinics have emerged as a critical component in ensuring access to justice for marginalized populations, particularly those living with HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Theoretical synthesis will be employed, integrating existing empirical studies on access to justice in South Africa with theoretical insights from jurisprudence and social policy. This theoretical framework underscores the importance of integrating legal advocacy into healthcare systems as a means to address systemic barriers faced by HIV+ individuals. Policy makers should consider mandating or incentivizing the inclusion of legal aid clinics within existing health care infrastructures. Healthcare providers should be trained on how to identify and refer patients in need of legal assistance.
Legal Aid Clinics and Domestic Violence Survivors
Legal aid clinics play a crucial role in providing legal support to domestic violence survivors, although their effectiveness remains under-researched. A comparative study involving interviews with survivors and analysis of clinic records from to . Survivors reported a significant decrease (50%) in their average wait time for legal aid after participating in clinics, leading to quicker resolution of cases. Legal Aid Clinics are effective in reducing the duration of domestic violence cases by facilitating timely access to legal support. Expand clinic availability and integrate them into existing social services to enhance survivor outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theorising Pre-Trial Detention Reform within the Ugandan Criminal Justice System
Pre-trial detention in Uganda's criminal justice system is a significant issue that contributes to prolonged incarceration and inefficiencies. Theoretical approaches will be employed to analyse existing practices and propose new mechanisms for reform based on international best practices and legal frameworks. The theoretical framework developed will provide a basis for policy makers to consider the feasibility of these reforms and their potential impact on the system's efficiency. Recommendations include integrating data-driven decision-making processes into pre-trial detention procedures and training judicial officers and law enforcement personnel in effective case management techniques.
Urban slums in Ghana often face significant barriers to accessing legal justice, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women and children. The study employed semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 30 residents from different urban slum areas in Ghana. Interviews were conducted between January and June . Findings revealed that the main barriers to legal access included high costs associated with court fees, lack of awareness about available legal aid services, and inadequate enforcement mechanisms for court orders. The study highlights significant disparities in legal access within urban slums, particularly affecting vulnerable groups. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to improve access to justice. Recommendations include increasing financial support for legal aid services, enhancing awareness campaigns about available resources, and strengthening enforcement mechanisms for court orders.
Suburbia Relevant Topic: Legal Pluralism
Community Justice Systems Methodological Terms: Qualitative Research
Ethnography Theoretical Concepts: Critical Legal Studies
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Intersection of Customary and Statutory Law in Family Matters
Ghana's legal system incorporates both customary and statutory laws for resolving family matters, creating a complex interplay between these two systems. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews (n=30) and quantitative survey data (n=500) to analyse perceptions of judges and litigants regarding the application of customary versus statutory laws in family cases. Interviews revealed that judges often struggle with reconciling customary practices with statutory law, particularly in matters involving inheritance and child custody. Survey results showed a significant proportion (42%) of respondents believed customary laws should be applied more frequently than statutory ones in all areas. The mixed-methods study highlights the challenges faced by Ghanaian judges in balancing customary and statutory laws, with substantial support for greater incorporation of customary practices into court decisions. Policy recommendations include advocating for legislative reforms to mandate a stronger role for customary law in family courts, alongside judicial training programmes focused on reconciling these legal systems.
Moroccan Informal Economy Workers’ Rights Under Labour Law
Morocco's informal economy workers face significant legal challenges in terms of their rights under existing labour laws. A critical textual analysis was conducted on relevant Moroccan labour legislation combined with secondary data from official government sources and academic literature. Despite efforts by Moroccan authorities to address these issues, significant legal gaps persist, necessitating a more robust implementation strategy and possibly legislative reforms. The government should strengthen enforcement mechanisms for labour laws, prioritise training for law enforcers on informal economy-specific rights, and consider expanding social protection coverage to include workers in the informal sector.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Maternal Insurance and Neonatal Mortality Rates in Rwandan Villages, 2006 Context
Maternal health insurance programmes have been introduced in various parts of Africa to reduce maternal mortality rates and improve neonatal outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was employed involving both quantitative data analysis from surveys and qualitative interviews to gather insights into the implementation of maternal health insurance schemes and their effects on neonatal mortality rates in Rwandan villages. The findings suggest a reduction in neonatal mortality rates by approximately 20% among children born to women who were insured through community-based programmes, highlighting the potential benefits of such interventions. Community-based maternal health insurance programmes can play a significant role in reducing neonatal mortality rates in Rwandan villages. Further research is recommended to explore long-term impacts and scalability. Policy makers should consider expanding access to community-based maternal health insurance schemes as part of broader efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes. Maternal Insurance, Neonatal Mortality Rates, Rwanda Villages, Community-Based Programmes
Natural Resource Governance Law and Local Community Rights in DRC and Liberia
DRC and Liberia are resource-rich countries facing challenges in natural resource governance that affect local communities' rights. The study employs comparative legal analysis to assess the effectiveness of national legislation addressing resource extraction and its implications for affected communities in both countries. Both countries exhibit significant disparities in how natural resources are managed, with DRC generally having weaker legal protections for local communities compared to Liberia. The Liberian system includes more comprehensive community consultation mechanisms that have led to better socio-economic outcomes for impacted populations. Legal frameworks significantly influence the relationship between resource extraction and local community rights. Comprehensive community engagement is a key factor in achieving equitable benefits from natural resources. Governments should adopt or enhance legal provisions that prioritise community rights alongside resource exploitation, particularly in DRC where such protections are currently lacking.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban Slum Vulnerability and Access to Justice Framework
Urban slums in Nigeria are characterized by high levels of vulnerability due to factors such as poverty, lack of access to basic services and infrastructure, and social exclusion. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, integrating qualitative interviews with urban slum dwellers and quantitative analysis of existing legal frameworks. The theoretical framework identifies key areas where legal reforms are needed, including improving access to legal aid and enhancing judicial capacity within urban slums. Policy recommendations include establishing dedicated legal clinics in urban slums, training judges on slum-specific issues, and integrating community-based dispute resolution mechanisms.
The Impact of IP Rights on Tanzanian SME Innovation Dynamics in 2004 Context
This Perspective Piece explores the impact of intellectual property rights (IPR) on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Tanzania's innovation dynamics during a specific historical context. No empirical results are provided; instead, this piece synthesizes available literature and theoretical models to understand the effects of IPR on SMEs in Tanzania in . While the legal environment for SMEs improved, actual uptake varied widely due to resource constraints and market dynamics. Future studies should consider these contextual factors more deeply. Policy makers should focus on enhancing access to finance and technology for SMEs, alongside strengthening IPR protection mechanisms to maximise innovation benefits.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Land Tenure Security and Women's Livelihoods in Kenya's Rift Valley
Land tenure security in Kenya's Rift Valley is a critical issue affecting women’s livelihoods. Women often face challenges in accessing and managing land due to legal uncertainties and customary practices. Qualitative research methods were employed, including in-depth interviews with local community leaders and women farmers, as well as document reviews of relevant legal frameworks. Women reported significant challenges related to land inheritance, leading to a decline in agricultural productivity. For instance, one-third of respondents experienced issues securing their family's ancestral lands due to unclear legal boundaries. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive reform in land tenure laws to enhance women’s security and economic stability. Policy makers should prioritise drafting clear and accessible land rights legislation that addresses gender-specific challenges. Additionally, enforcement mechanisms must be strengthened to ensure compliance.