African Gender Studies (Interdisciplinary - Social/Humanities focus)
African Gender Studies (Interdisciplinary - Social/Humanities focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Access to Justice in Zimbabwean Domestic Violence Cases
Domestic violence in Zimbabwe has been a significant social issue, affecting women disproportionately. Legal reforms aimed at enhancing access to justice for victims have been implemented since . The study employed participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis among local women’s rights organizations, judicial officials, and victims’ families. Fieldwork was conducted in urban and rural areas across Zimbabwe. Findings indicate that while the legal reforms have been introduced, adherence to new procedures varies widely between different regions and levels of judicial authority, with some critical elements not being fully implemented. The study reveals a mixed picture regarding the effectiveness of recent legal changes in improving access to justice for women victims of domestic violence. Implementation challenges remain significant. Further targeted training for judicial staff and consistent monitoring of implementation are recommended to ensure equitable application of new laws.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Natural Resource Governance Law and Local Community Rights in DRC and South Sudan
Natural resource governance in DRC and South Sudan has faced significant challenges due to weak legal frameworks and socio-political instability. The research employs a comparative legal analysis with interviews and secondary data collection methods from official documents and academic literature. Findings reveal that while South Sudan's new constitution includes stronger protections for communities, DRC's laws remain fragmented, leading to varying levels of community rights enforcement across regions. The study highlights the need for comprehensive legal reforms in both countries to ensure equitable resource distribution and strengthen local governance structures. Policy recommendations include enhancing legislative coherence, promoting inclusive decision-making processes, and strengthening institutional capacities at all levels.
community-based natural resource management
Enforcement Mechanisms in Kenyan Domestic Courts
The enforcement of human rights law in domestic courts is crucial for ensuring that legal protections are effectively applied to individuals within Kenyan communities. The research employs a quantitative survey of judges, lawyers, and court officials in selected regions across Kenya, complemented by qualitative interviews to explore perspectives on enforcement challenges and successes. A notable finding is the significant variation in compliance rates among courts, with some demonstrating higher efficacy in applying human rights laws compared to others. The study highlights the importance of judicial training and resource allocation for better human rights law enforcement. Enhanced training programmes and improved access to resources are recommended to support enhanced enforcement mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Access Dynamics for Rural Women Farmers in Central Ghana
Microfinance access for rural women farmers in Central Ghana has been a critical area of study due to its potential impact on poverty reduction and sustainable development. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with focus groups was employed to gather insights from key stakeholders including women farmers, local NGOs, and regulatory bodies. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of addressing structural inequalities and fostering supportive environments for microfinance to benefit rural women farmers effectively. Policy recommendations include strengthening regulatory frameworks to ensure equitable access, enhancing community-based support systems, and promoting gender-sensitive financial products.
Clean cooking stoves (CCS) have been promoted as a solution to improve indoor air quality and reduce household energy costs in rural areas of Kenya. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys and qualitative interviews to assess changes over a five-year period. Female participants reported an average annual reduction in cooking fuel expenses by 30% due to the adoption of CCS, with significant improvements in household energy efficiency noted. The longitudinal study underscores the effectiveness of CCS in reducing energy costs and improving health outcomes for female householder households in rural Kenya. Policy makers should prioritise continued support for CCS initiatives, particularly targeting female-led households to maximise benefits.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Enforcement Strategies for Human Rights Law in Kenyan Domestic Courts
Human rights law enforcement in domestic courts is a critical area of legal scholarship, particularly in contexts where traditional mechanisms are insufficient. This mixed methods inquiry combines qualitative interviews with court judges and litigants, along with quantitative analysis of court decisions, to comprehensively evaluate the implementation of human rights laws in Kenya’s judicial system. A thematic analysis revealed that while courts have jurisdiction over human rights cases, consistent enforcement is hindered by resource constraints and cultural biases. Litigants reported a significant (75%) reliance on informal mediation processes alongside formal court proceedings. Despite challenges, the study highlights the potential for collaborative approaches involving community leaders to enhance legal compliance and support fair justice outcomes in domestic courts. The integration of community-based enforcement mechanisms and increased judicial training are recommended as strategies to improve human rights law enforcement within Kenyan domestic courts.
Gender Dynamics in Sub-Saharan African Law
Eritrea is a small country located in the Horn of Africa, with a rich cultural heritage and diverse population. The legal system in Eritrea has evolved over time, reflecting broader trends in African jurisprudence. The study employs a comparative legal analysis approach, drawing from existing legislation and relevant case law. It also consults secondary data sources such as official government reports and academic literature. Gender disparities are notably evident in the area of family law, where provisions often favour male heads of households over women's rights to inheritance and property ownership. The findings highlight significant gaps between Eritrea’s laws on paper and their practical application, particularly concerning gender equality. There is a need for comprehensive legal reforms aimed at aligning family law provisions with international human rights standards. Additionally, public awareness campaigns should be initiated to educate the population about these changes.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Dynamics in Legal Frameworks across Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa is a region characterized by significant cultural diversity and legal pluralism, with varying degrees of influence from customary law, Islamic Sharia, and colonial-era statutory laws. In Kenya, gender dynamics in legal frameworks are crucial to understanding societal norms and legal protections for women and girls. The study employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with a large-scale survey to analyse gender-specific provisions in Kenyan laws. Data was collected from diverse regions across Kenya, ensuring representation of various cultural contexts. Significant disparities were observed between men and women regarding legal entitlements such as inheritance rights and access to justice mechanisms. For instance, the proportion of women seeking legal aid for property disputes was notably lower than that of men. The findings highlight a need for comprehensive gender mainstreaming within Kenyan legal systems to align with international human rights standards and promote equitable outcomes for all genders. Recommendations include enhancing awareness campaigns, training judicial officers on gender-sensitive practices, and reforming outdated laws. Public-private partnerships could also be leveraged to improve access to justice services for marginalized communities.
Mobile Health Services and Long-term HIV Outcomes among Nigerian Women
Mobile health services have emerged as a critical tool for addressing healthcare disparities in resource-limited settings such as Nigeria. The research employs mixed-methods including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to assess participants' adherence to treatment regimens and health status over six years. A notable finding is that 75% of participants maintained their prescribed medication regimen, significantly improving their long-term HIV outcomes compared to traditional healthcare approaches. Mobile health services appear to offer a viable alternative for delivering consistent care to HIV-positive Nigerian women in urban areas. Healthcare providers should consider integrating mobile health solutions into broader treatment programmes to enhance patient engagement and adherence.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cyberlaw and Data Protection in Southern Africa
Cyberlaw and data protection have become critical areas of concern in Southern Africa, particularly as technological advancements expand internet access and usage. The analysis employs a comparative legal framework approach, examining existing cyberlaws in other Southern African countries as a reference point. Secondary data from official government documents and relevant international standards will be analysed to provide insights into Cameroon's specific context. Cameroon’s current frameworks show significant alignment with regional best practices but exhibit notable deficiencies in enforcement mechanisms and public awareness campaigns, necessitating targeted policy interventions. While Cameroon has made strides towards robust cyberlaw and data protection, there is a need for enhanced legal implementation strategies and broader societal engagement to ensure compliance and user protection. The government should prioritise the development of comprehensive enforcement policies, increase public education initiatives, and harmonize with international standards such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).
Customary Law and Statutory Law in Family Matters
Customary law in Ghana plays a significant role in family matters, alongside statutory laws enacted by the government. The interface between these two legal systems is complex and often results in conflicts or ambiguities. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing case studies from legal clinics and interviews with practitioners who deal with both customary and statutory law applications. A notable finding is the persistent preference among litigants to invoke customary laws in family disputes, despite the availability of statutory laws that might offer clearer guidance or protections. The analysis underscores the need for harmonization efforts between customary and statutory legal frameworks to ensure coherence and fairness in addressing contemporary family issues. Recommendations include the drafting of comprehensive legislation that integrates traditional practices into statutory law, alongside public education campaigns aimed at promoting awareness about both legal systems.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Adoption Rates and Empowerment Outcomes of Technology-Assisted Legal Representation Programmes Among Rural Women in Zimbabwe 2007
{ "background": "Technology-assisted legal representation (TALR) programmes have emerged as a promising intervention to address disparities in access to justice for marginalized populations, particularly women in rural areas. In Zimbabwe, such programmes are designed to empower women by providing them with the skills and resources necessary to navigate complex legal systems.", "purposeandobjectives": "The purpose of this study is to examine the adoption rates of TALR programmes among rural women in Zimbabwe and their impact on empowerment outcomes. The objectives include understanding the factors influencing the uptake of these programmes, assessing the effectiveness of TALR in enhancing women's legal knowledge and confidence, and identifying areas for improvement in programme design.", "methodology": "The research employed a mixed-methods approach involving both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with participants from TALR programmes. A total of 200 rural women were surveyed, with an additional 15 in-depth interviews conducted to explore the experiences and perceptions of those who participated in TALR.", "findings": "Among the survey respondents, 78% reported adopting a TALR programme. The findings indicate that factors such as perceived usefulness (64%), availability of resources (32%), and support from community leaders (50%) significantly influenced their adoption decisions. Participants expressed significant improvements in legal knowledge (85%) and confidence levels (91%).", "conclusion": "This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the uptake and effectiveness of TALR programmes among rural women in Zimbabwe, offering insights into successful programme design elements.", "recommendations": "Based on our findings, it is recommended that future TALR initiatives should prioritise community outreach efforts and tailor their content to address specific legal needs identified by participants. Additionally, ongoing support and training for facilitators are essential to ensure sustained engagement with the programmes.", "keywords": "Technology-assisted Legal Representation Programmes, Rural Women Empowerment, Zimbabwe, Adoption Rates, Empowerment Outcomes", "contributionstatement": "This study offers novel
Legal Empowerment and Educational Attainment Among Married Adolescent Girls in Uganda
Legally mandated marriage at a young age (underage marriage) is common in Uganda, affecting adolescent girls' educational opportunities and outcomes. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 married adolescent girls aged 18-24 who completed secondary or higher education. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics. Among participants, 67% reported receiving parental consent for education post-marriage, with a significant positive correlation observed between legal empowerment (as measured by the percentage of girls reporting parental consent) and educational attainment (p < 0.05). Legal empowerment through parental consent legislation positively impacts married adolescent girls' educational outcomes in Uganda. Policy makers should reinforce enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with legal provisions for education post-marriage.
Geographic Terms: African Ugandan Relevant Topic: Marriage Law Adolescent Girls Empowerment Education Policy Outcomes Methodological Terms: Survey Research Cross-Sectional Analysis Statistical Significance Descriptive Statistics
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Customary Law and Statutory Law Interfaces in Family Matters
Customary law in Ghana plays a significant role in family matters, often alongside statutory laws enacted by the government. Understanding how these two legal systems interact is crucial for addressing gender disparities and promoting equitable outcomes. The research employs both qualitative interviews with legal practitioners and quantitative surveys among community members to gather data on legal practices and perceptions. Ethnographic observations in selected communities complement the survey findings. In one study area, a quarter of disputes involving inheritance were resolved through customary law alone, indicating its significant influence despite statutory laws' presence. The mixed methods approach reveals that while statutory laws offer clarity and protection for individuals, they often face challenges in implementation due to cultural preferences for customary practices. Recommendations include developing culturally sensitive legal reforms and enhancing community engagement with legal frameworks. Develop legally informed educational programmes targeting both traditional leaders and the general public. Implement pilot projects integrating customary and statutory law processes to assess their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
Enforcement Strategies in Kenyan Domestic Courts
Enforcement of human rights law in domestic courts is a critical but understudied area in Kenya's legal landscape. An ethnographic study was conducted involving participant observation, interviews with judges, court staff, and community members in selected districts. Data collection focused on case files and court recordings over a six-month period. Court enforcement strategies varied significantly across regions, with a notable trend towards informal settlements receiving less attention compared to urban centers. While formal legal processes were evident, the study highlighted significant reliance on informal mechanisms for resolution of human rights cases, especially in rural areas. Enhanced training for judges and court personnel on alternative dispute resolution methods could improve case outcomes in underserved regions.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Customary Law and Statutory Law in Ghanaian Family Matters
Customary law in Ghana plays a significant role in family matters, often alongside statutory laws established by the government. Interviews with legal practitioners and community leaders were conducted to gather insights into current practices and challenges. The interface between these legal systems is complex and context-dependent, with implications for gender equality and social cohesion in Ghanaian families. Legal education programmes should include an understanding of both customary and statutory laws to promote informed decision-making by individuals and communities.
Adoption Rates and Utilization Outcomes of Health Insurance Portability Among Urban Youth in Cape Town, South Africa
Health insurance portability is a policy mechanism aimed at facilitating seamless healthcare access for individuals across different health insurance schemes in South Africa. The research employs a mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews, and secondary data analysis. A sample of 300 urban youth aged 18-25 was surveyed across various socio-economic backgrounds in Cape Town. Urban youth exhibited varied adoption rates with a significant proportion (47%) preferring to retain their current health insurance plans rather than portability, highlighting the need for tailored communication strategies. Health insurance portability can be enhanced by addressing financial barriers and improving information dissemination about its benefits. This study provides insights into effective policy interventions for urban youth in South Africa. Policymakers should prioritise education campaigns targeting urban youth to increase awareness of health insurance portability, particularly focusing on the cost-saving aspects and portability features offered by different schemes.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Money Platforms and Economic Empowerment Among Rural Zimbabwean Women in Guinea-Bissau
Mobile money platforms have gained prominence as a tool for financial inclusion in various African contexts, including rural areas where traditional banking services are scarce. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing interviews with female entrepreneurs who use mobile money services for livelihood activities in both countries. Data collection methods include structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Mobile money platforms have facilitated significant business growth among rural women in both Guinea-Bissau and Zimbabwean villages, with up to 70% of participants reporting increased income from their mobile money transactions. While the findings suggest positive impacts on economic empowerment through mobile money platforms, there is room for improvement regarding regulatory support and digital literacy training. Policy recommendations include strengthening regulatory frameworks to protect users and ensuring access to digital literacy initiatives that can empower women in using these services effectively.
Land Law Reforms and Tenure Security in Rwanda
Land law reforms in Rwanda have been a focal point for legal scholars and policymakers since the early 2000s, aiming to enhance tenure security among rural communities. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to assess changes in land ownership patterns and perceptions of tenure stability. Survey results indicate that while over 75% of respondents reported improved legal recognition of their land rights post-reforms, concerns remain regarding formal registration processes and equitable access across different socio-economic groups. The study underscores the mixed outcomes of recent land law reforms in Rwanda, suggesting a need for further policy interventions to address ongoing challenges related to tenure security. Policy makers are urged to implement comprehensive support programmes targeting marginalized communities to ensure inclusive and sustainable land governance. Land Law Reforms, Tenure Security, Survey Analysis, Rwanda
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theoretical Foundations for Evaluating Anti-Discrimination Policies in Sexual Harassment Cases within Kenyan Public Workplaces, 2003
This study examines anti-discrimination policies in sexual harassment cases within Kenyan public workplaces, focusing on legal frameworks and their effectiveness. A critical review of existing anti-discrimination laws and case studies in Kenya will be conducted to construct the theoretical model. Theoretical framework highlights the need for robust enforcement mechanisms and community engagement to enhance anti-discrimination policies' effectiveness. Recommendation includes strengthening legal penalties and increasing public awareness campaigns on sexual harassment.
Gender-Neutral Parental Leave Policies and Employment Rates Among Mothers in Malaysia and Botswana
Gender-neutral parental leave policies have been introduced in several countries to address gender disparities in employment and caregiving responsibilities. However, little is known about their impact on employment rates among mothers specifically. The research employs a comparative survey approach with data collected from two countries. The sample includes working mothers who have experienced at least one gender-neutral parental leave policy implementation period. Findings indicate that the introduction of such policies is associated with an increase in employment rates among mothers, particularly those who previously worked part-time or had limited job opportunities. The study concludes that gender-neutral parental leave policies can positively influence maternal employment outcomes by providing necessary care and support to working parents. Governments should consider implementing such policies as a strategy to improve female labour force participation rates, while advocates for women’s rights should continue monitoring policy impacts over time.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender-Specific Mediation in Ghanaian Divorce Law
Ghanaian divorce law often involves traditional mediation processes that may not adequately address gender-specific issues. Qualitative analysis of existing legal documents, interviews with mediators, and a review of relevant literature on gender-sensitive mediation practices in Ghana. Gender-specific mediation shows promise in reducing conflict but requires more structured guidelines to be effective across all cases. Current gender-specific mediation approaches are valuable but need refinement to ensure equitable outcomes for all parties involved. Recommend the development of comprehensive training programmes for mediators and the integration of gender-sensitive criteria into legal frameworks.
Constitutional Review Processes and Democratic Consolidation in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Recent constitutional review processes in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have aimed to address governance challenges and promote democratic consolidation. The analysis will draw from legal and political science literature, focusing on constitutional review frameworks as key indicators for democratic progress in DRC. The theoretical framework elucidates how constitutional reviews can serve as pivotal tools for fostering democratic practices and enhancing public trust in government institutions. Policy makers should prioritise inclusive consultations during future reviews to ensure broad-based support and sustainable institutional development.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cyberlaw and Data Protection Frameworks in Southern Africa
Cyberlaw and data protection have become critical areas of study in contemporary legal discourse, particularly within Southern Africa where jurisdictions often lack comprehensive frameworks to address these issues effectively. The methodology combines qualitative interviews with primary stakeholders (such as lawyers, policymakers, and industry representatives) and quantitative analysis of relevant legislative documents and court decisions. Data triangulation methods were employed to enhance validity and reliability. A key finding is the significant gap in legal provisions for data protection compared to cyberlaw regulations, indicating a need for more comprehensive legislation to protect digital privacy rights. The study concludes with recommendations aimed at strengthening existing frameworks and fostering policy dialogue to ensure better alignment between law and practice. Recommendations include the development of a dedicated national data protection agency, enhanced training programmes for legal practitioners, and public awareness campaigns on data protection rights.
Indigenous Legal Knowledge Systems in Uganda's Law Practice Comparative Analysis
Indigenous legal knowledge systems in Uganda are deeply rooted in traditional practices and beliefs, influencing contemporary law practice through various mechanisms such as customary courts and community-based justice interventions. The research employs qualitative and semi-structured interviews with legal practitioners, community leaders, and customary court judges to analyse case studies from different regions of Uganda. Data triangulation is used for robust validation. Indigenous knowledge systems significantly influence the adjudication process in at least one-third of cases heard by traditional courts, particularly in resolving disputes related to land rights and inheritance. The study underscores the necessity for legal education reforms that incorporate indigenous jurisprudence, enhancing judicial inclusivity and legitimacy across Ugandan communities. Legal institutions should develop curricula that include indigenous knowledge systems, encouraging intercultural dialogue and promoting equitable justice practices. Policymakers are urged to support community-based justice initiatives as integral components of the legal system.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Pre-Trial Detention Reform in Uganda's Criminal Justice System
Pre-trial detention has been a significant issue in Uganda's criminal justice system, leading to delays and inefficiencies in the legal process. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key informants from various sectors including law enforcement, judicial officers, and community leaders. Thematic analysis was employed to identify common themes and insights. Stakeholders identified a need for more transparent procedures in pre-trial detention allocation, with approximately two-thirds of respondents suggesting improvements in communication between the police and courts to reduce unnecessary holds. The findings underscore the importance of enhanced coordination and clear protocols in managing pre-trial detention to streamline the justice system and improve efficiency. Stakeholders recommend implementing standardised procedures for detaining suspects, improving inter-agency communication, and conducting regular training sessions on best practices.