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.
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.
Transitional Justice and Peacebuilding in Sierra Leone
Transitional justice mechanisms have been employed in Sierra Leone as a means to address past human rights abuses and promote peacebuilding. A qualitative approach was adopted using secondary data sources including legislative documents, international reports, and expert interviews to evaluate the current state of transitional justice in Sierra Leone. The legal framework includes specific provisions on reparations, criminal accountability, and truth-telling. However, implementation remains limited due to resource constraints and political instability. While significant strides have been made, ongoing challenges necessitate a more robust institutional support system to ensure the effective application of transitional justice mechanisms in Sierra Leone. Enhanced governmental funding for transitional justice programmes, strengthened national institutions responsible for implementing these measures, and improved coordination between local communities and government agencies are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Justice and Legal Empowerment in Rural Egypt
Gender justice and legal empowerment are critical for advancing women's rights in rural areas of Egypt where traditional practices often impede gender equality. Qualitative research methods were employed including semi-structured interviews with 50 women from diverse regions of Egypt. Focus group discussions and documentary analysis supplemented the data collection process. Women reported significant improvements in legal awareness (82%) and access to justice services (76%), though challenges remain in enforcing legal rights and addressing discriminatory practices. While progress has been made, persistent barriers such as cultural norms and limited enforcement mechanisms continue to hinder full realization of women's legal empowerment in rural Egypt. Policy interventions should focus on enhancing judicial capacity and community engagement towards inclusive legal reforms. Women’s groups and local leaders must be empowered for sustained advocacy in this sector.
Urban slums in Ethiopia present a unique challenge for access to justice due to limited legal infrastructure and social services. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis of legal aid records from two selected urban slum areas in Addis Ababa. Women were significantly less likely to use formal justice mechanisms (20% vs. 35%, p<0.01) compared to men, highlighting gender disparities in access to justice. The study underscores the need for targeted legal reforms and community-based legal education programmes to improve access to justice for vulnerable urban slum residents. Policy recommendations include increasing funding for women's legal aid services and developing culturally sensitive legal awareness campaigns.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Informal Sector and the Legal Landscape in Urban Tanzania
The Urban Informal Sector in Tanzania is a significant but under-researched area of economic activity, contributing substantially to urban employment and livelihoods. A qualitative approach was employed, drawing on secondary data from Tanzanian government reports, academic literature, and interviews with key stakeholders. The analysis reveals that despite legal restrictions, the Urban Informal Sector continues to grow at a rate of approximately 5% annually due to economic necessity and regulatory gaps. Policy recommendations include enhancing enforcement mechanisms for existing laws and exploring incentives for formalization within the sector. Enhance enforcement of existing labour and trade regulations, and consider targeted subsidies or other incentives for small businesses to transition into the formal economy.
Cyberlaw and Data Protection Dynamics in Eswatini’s Legal Frameworks
Cyberlaw and data protection have become critical areas of legal governance in contemporary societies, particularly as they intersect with digital economies. The analysis employs a comparative legal framework approach, synthesizing existing literature on international best practices and Eswatini’s legislative records. Eswatini's current cyberlaw and data protection frameworks exhibit notable gaps in alignment with regional standards, particularly regarding privacy rights and enforcement mechanisms. The identified inadequacies suggest a need for comprehensive legal reforms to harmonize national laws with international best practices. Policy recommendations include strengthening privacy legislation, enhancing data breach notification procedures, and improving judicial oversight in cybercrime cases.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Resource Extraction and Human Rights in Senegal
Resource extraction projects in Senegal have been a significant part of the country's economic development strategy since the late 1970s. A mixed-method approach combining legal analysis and stakeholder interviews was employed to evaluate compliance with Senegal's national laws and international human rights standards. Interviews revealed that 40% of respondents experienced violations related to land rights, which were inadequately addressed by existing legal frameworks. The governance framework for resource extraction in Senegal is insufficient to protect the rights of affected communities. Improvements are necessary to ensure compliance with both national and international standards. Senegalese authorities should strengthen enforcement mechanisms, enhance transparency in project approvals, and provide more comprehensive legal support for victims of human rights abuses.