African Resilience Studies (Social, Ecological - Interdisciplinary)
African Resilience Studies (Social, Ecological - Interdisciplinary) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Youth entrepreneurship in urban slums of Cameroon faces significant challenges due to limited resources and social support networks. Qualitative data collection methods including participant interviews and focus group discussions were employed to understand the experiences and perspectives of workshop participants. A notable theme emerged regarding the significant proportion (45%) of businesses that achieved profitability within two years post-workshop, driven by mentorship support and networking opportunities provided. The study highlights the importance of tailored support programmes in fostering youth entrepreneurship success in urban slums. Policy makers should prioritise funding for mentoring services and community engagement initiatives to enhance workshop outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Network Strengthening Efforts in Maternal Care Networks
This study examines the effectiveness of network strengthening efforts among Health Extension Workers (HEWs) in maternal care networks within rural villages of Gambia. A participatory action research approach was employed, involving qualitative interviews and observations conducted by the HEWs themselves. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) to understand their experiences and perspectives. HEWs reported significant challenges in maintaining consistent communication and coordination across different villages, with over 60% of respondents indicating difficulties in scheduling appointments due to varying village schedules. The analysis highlights the importance of developing standardised communication protocols and enhancing HEW training on effective network management strategies to improve service delivery outcomes. Recommendations include establishing a central database for appointment scheduling, organising regular training sessions focusing on networking skills, and promoting community health committees as intermediaries in village coordination.
Eco-Friendly Packaging Innovations for Smallholder Cocoa Producers in Ivory Coast
In Ivory Coast, smallholder cocoa producers face significant challenges in accessing markets due to environmental degradation and lack of sustainable practices. The region's cocoa industry is under threat from deforestation and water scarcity, which not only affect the environment but also reduce the quality and quantity of cocoa produced. The study employed participatory workshops and surveys among cocoa farmers, industry experts, and consumers to gather insights into preferred packaging options and market preferences. A pilot project was conducted in a Botswana region with similar climatic conditions to test the efficacy of proposed solutions. Preliminary results indicate that eco-friendly packaging significantly extends product shelf life by up to 30% compared to conventional methods, which is crucial for small-scale producers who often face issues related to post-harvest spoilage. Consumer acceptance was high, with over 85% of participants expressing willingness to pay a premium for sustainably packaged cocoa products. The findings suggest that integrating eco-friendly packaging into the Ivory Coast's cocoa supply chain could not only mitigate environmental degradation but also improve economic performance by increasing product shelf life and consumer loyalty. Immediate implementation of eco-friendly packaging solutions in Ivory Coast is recommended, alongside further research to explore long-term sustainability impacts. Establishing partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, and private sector entities can accelerate the adoption process. Eco-Friendly Packaging, Smallholder Cocoa Producers, Market Access, Economic Outcomes
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Participatory Learning Materials Design for Educational Quality Improvement in Kenyan Primary Schools
Educational quality improvement in Kenyan primary schools is a critical area of focus due to the significant disparities in access and learning outcomes. Theoretical development will be employed using qualitative methodologies such as literature review, expert consultation, and scenario analysis to inform the design of effective learning materials. The theoretical framework will provide educators and policymakers with guidelines on how to create and implement effective learning materials that meet local needs while improving teaching practices. Recommendations include integrating teacher training programmes into the design process, fostering a culture of innovation among teachers, and utilising technology for material development.
Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK)
Telemedicine and Mental Health Accessibility in Urban Nigerian Communities
Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool in enhancing healthcare accessibility, particularly for mental health services. Urban Nigerian communities face significant barriers to accessing traditional healthcare due to geographical and financial constraints. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining in-depth interviews, focus groups, and observational assessments. Data collection took place across three major cities in Nigeria, with a sample size of 200 participants representing diverse socio-economic backgrounds. A notable trend observed was the significant increase in user engagement rates from 35% at baseline to 60% after two years, indicating improved accessibility and acceptability of telemedicine services for mental health care in urban settings. Telemedicine has emerged as a viable solution for enhancing mental healthcare accessibility in urban Nigerian communities, demonstrating the potential for digital health solutions to bridge geographical gaps and improve service delivery. Policy makers should prioritise funding for telemedicine infrastructure development and support community-based initiatives that foster user engagement and education on these services.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cape Verde's urban spaces are a rich tapestry of history, culture, and contemporary challenges, reflecting its unique position as an archipelagic nation with modern aspirations. A literary analysis approach is employed, focusing on recent works that depict Cape Verde's urban environments. The analysis considers linguistic elements, thematic content, and stylistic choices to interpret these narratives. The findings reveal a consistent theme of shadowed urban spaces juxtaposed with utopian visions in the literature, reflecting both historical legacies and modern aspirations for socioeconomic improvement. These literary works contribute significantly to understanding Cape Verdean urban dynamics through nuanced portrayals that highlight the complexities of development amidst socio-economic challenges. Policy makers can benefit from these insights by incorporating a more holistic approach in their planning strategies, recognising the interplay between historical context and contemporary aspirations for sustainable urban development.
Urban Imaginaries in Contemporary Algerian Literature
Urbanization in Algeria has accelerated significantly over recent decades, leading to complex social and environmental challenges. Contemporary Algerian literature offers a nuanced reflection on these urban experiences. The analysis will draw from qualitative textual criticism, examining specific literary works that reflect diverse aspects of urban life in Algeria. Comparative thematic analysis across different authors will be employed to identify commonalities and differences in urban representation. Specific themes such as the struggle for cultural preservation coexist with narratives on identity formation among urban migrants, highlighting the multifaceted nature of Algerian urban experiences. The literary works reveal a spectrum of responses to urbanization, from resilience and adaptation to challenges posed by rapid change. This diversity underscores the need for inclusive policies that recognise both the benefits and constraints of urban growth. Policymakers should consider incorporating elements of cultural preservation into urban planning strategies, alongside initiatives aimed at supporting migrants and fostering social cohesion in rapidly evolving cities.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital cultural heritage in Ethiopia faces unique challenges due to resource limitations such as funding, infrastructure, and human expertise. A participatory approach involving local communities, cultural institutions, and technology experts to identify needs and propose solutions. This perspective piece outlines a tailored strategy for digital cultural heritage preservation that balances cost-effectiveness with effectiveness. Invest in community-led initiatives to foster ownership and sustainability of digital preservation projects. Utilise existing infrastructures and local expertise to reduce costs.
Adaptive Landscapes for Livelihood Security in the Lake Victoria Region of Uganda
The Lake Victoria region of Uganda faces challenges such as soil erosion, water pollution, and declining fish populations due to overfishing. These issues threaten livelihood security for local communities. Qualitative data were collected from interviews with project stakeholders, focus group discussions, and document reviews. Data analysis involved thematic coding to identify patterns and themes related to project outcomes and community engagement. ALRP has demonstrated a significant improvement in soil fertility and water quality, which have positively influenced agricultural productivity by up to 20% among participating households, contributing to more stable livelihoods. The ALRP successfully fosters adaptive landscapes that integrate ecological restoration with socio-economic development strategies, providing a replicable model for other regions facing similar challenges. Policy makers should prioritise integrated ecosystem management and community participation in future projects. Local communities need to be engaged in planning and decision-making processes to ensure long-term sustainability. Lake Victoria region, Adaptive Landscapes Restoration Project (ALRP), livelihood security, soil fertility, water quality
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban Youth Nutrition Education in Lagos
Urban youth in Lagos face unique challenges related to nutrition, education, and health outcomes. A longitudinal study design was employed with qualitative data collection methods including interviews and focus groups to evaluate changes in dietary habits and nutritional knowledge. Urban youth participating in the nutrition education programme showed notable improvements in their dietary intake and nutritional knowledge, contributing positively to overall health outcomes. Further research should explore scalability of successful interventions and potential integration into broader public health strategies.
Syncretic Identities in Diaspora Guinea-Bissau
This review examines a book that explores religious syncretism and cultural adaptation among diaspora communities in Guinea-Bissau. The author employs ethnographic research methods to gather data from interviews with participants in Guinea-Bissau’s diaspora communities. Key themes emerged regarding the syncretic blending of traditional Guinean beliefs with Christian practices, particularly Catholicism and Protestantism, influencing daily life and social interactions. The book highlights how religious adaptations facilitate cultural integration within a multicultural society where multiple ethnic groups coexist. Future research could focus on the long-term effects of these syncretic identities on community cohesion and national identity formation in Guinea-Bissau.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theatrical dialogues play a significant role in social commentary across Africa. An ethnographic study employing participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to understand the dynamics of theatrical practice within communities and institutions. Theatrical performances often mirrored socio-political issues such as inequality and xenophobia, with themes recurring in over half of the plays studied. The findings suggest that theatre provides a platform for marginalized voices to be heard and for broader societal conversations about social justice. Further research should examine how global influences impact local theatrical practices and their effectiveness in fostering community engagement.
Community Forest Management in Eastern Uganda
Community forest management initiatives in Eastern Uganda have been implemented to address wildlife conservation challenges. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including interviews with local stakeholders and ecological assessments. Local communities generally perceive the forest management positively but highlight issues related to resource allocation and governance inefficiencies. The findings suggest that while community involvement is crucial for conservation efforts, effective implementation requires addressing structural challenges in governance and resource distribution. Enhance transparency in decision-making processes and strengthen local governance structures to better integrate community needs into management strategies.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Libraries and Archives in São Tomé and Príncipe
São Tomé and Príncipe is an archipelago nation in the Gulf of Guinea where libraries and archives play a critical role in preserving African intellectual heritage, reflecting unique cultural and historical contexts. The study employs a qualitative approach to analyse existing records, conduct interviews with key stakeholders, and review relevant literature on library and archival management practices in the region. A notable finding is that São Tomé and Príncipe's libraries and archives face significant financial constraints which limit their ability to maintain and digitize historical documents effectively. Approximately 30% of the country’s archives are at risk due to inadequate preservation measures, highlighting a critical need for funding and support. The findings underscore the importance of collaborative efforts between governmental bodies, non-profit organizations, and international partners in ensuring sustainable preservation practices within São Tomé and Príncipe's cultural institutions. Recommendations include securing additional financial resources, implementing comprehensive digitization projects, and fostering regional partnerships to strengthen archival management skills and awareness.
Decolonizing Art History in Moroccan Contexts
Decolonization in African art history has emerged as a critical discourse aimed at challenging Eurocentric frameworks and repositioning indigenous knowledge systems within the field of arts and humanities. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with primary sources such as archival materials and contemporary artworks. A thematic analysis will be used to interpret the data. Initial findings suggest that Moroccan artists are increasingly incorporating traditional motifs and techniques into their work, reflecting broader societal shifts towards cultural revival and heritage preservation. Interviews reveal a growing interest in reclaiming local art history from colonial narratives. This study contributes to the decolonization of African art histories by providing empirical evidence on contemporary artistic practices that reflect indigenous knowledge systems and resist Eurocentric paradigms. Further research should focus on long-term impact assessments, developing educational curricula centred around decolonized Moroccan art history, and engaging with local communities to validate these narratives.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Impact Evaluation of School-Based HIV/AIDS Prevention Programmes in Ugandan Primary Schools
School-based HIV/AIDS prevention programmes have been implemented in Ugandan primary schools with varying degrees of success. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews was used to gather data from both students and teachers in selected schools across Uganda. The survey results indicated a significant increase (p < .05) of 20% in students' knowledge about HIV/AIDS compared to baseline levels, suggesting that the programmes are effective in enhancing educational outcomes. While the programmes showed promising initial success, further refinement is needed to address specific challenges such as teacher adherence and student engagement. Policy makers should consider integrating existing school curriculums with these prevention programmes to maximise impact. Additionally, professional development for teachers on HIV/AIDS topics should be prioritised.
Eco-friendly housing innovations have emerged as a critical area of research in response to climate change impacts on coastal communities in Ghana. No empirical data will be presented. Theoretical models and literature review methods are employed to explore potential solutions for enhancing energy efficiency in coastal dwellings. This theoretical framework provides foundational insights into the implementation of eco-friendly housing projects in coastal Ghana, emphasising the importance of sustainable development strategies for resilience. Local governments should prioritise inclusive planning processes that integrate eco-friendly design elements into new construction and renovation projects to promote energy efficiency and community well-being.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Water Conservation Techniques in Zimbabwean Rural Communities
This study examines water conservation techniques in Zimbabwean rural communities, focusing on their impact on soil degradation prevention over a three-year period compared to similar efforts in Mali. A comparative case study approach was employed, analysing primary data collected from interviews with farmers and analysis of existing literature on soil conservation practices. In Zimbabwean communities, the adoption of mulching showed a significant reduction (25%) in soil erosion compared to Mali where no such technique was implemented. This suggests that mulching could be an effective soil protection measure in similar contexts. The study highlights the importance of adopting proven water conservation techniques for sustainable land management and underscores the need for further research into local adaptation strategies. Local governments should promote the adoption of proven water conservation methods such as mulching to mitigate soil degradation. Future research should focus on identifying additional effective practices in different climatic conditions. Soil Degradation, Water Conservation Techniques, Small-Scale Irrigators, Zimbabwe, Mali
Comparative Analysis of Creation Myths Across Burundi's Cultural Traditions
Creation myths play a significant role in understanding cultural traditions across Africa, providing insights into beliefs about origins and creation narratives. A survey research approach was employed, gathering data from multiple sources including oral history accounts, literature reviews, and interviews with cultural experts in different regions of Burundi. Contradictory themes emerged regarding creation, such as the primacy of water or fire in cosmogony across various traditions. This diversity highlights the complexity and regional specificity of Burundian cultural narratives. This study reveals that Burundi's creation myths are not uniform but exhibit distinct characteristics influenced by local environmental conditions and social structures. Further research should explore how these myths interact with contemporary societal values and environmental challenges in Burundi. Burundi, Creation Myths, Cultural Traditions, Environmental Influence
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Assessing Renewable Energy Microfinance Solutions in Ethiopian Rural Farmers
Renewable energy microfinance solutions have emerged as a promising approach to increase access to sustainable energy in rural areas of Ethiopia. The study employed a mixed-methods approach involving surveys and interviews among 150 randomly selected rural farmers across five regions of Ethiopia. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. A significant proportion (78%) of respondents reported improved economic stability due to reduced energy costs, with solar power systems being the most popular solution (62%). The study underscores the need for further tailored microfinance solutions that address specific farmer needs and financial constraints. Policy makers should prioritise designing renewable energy microfinance programmes specifically targeting rural farmers in Ethiopia to maximise economic benefits.
Social media has become an integral part of daily life in urban areas across Ghana, influencing various aspects of communication and social interactions. An extensive literature review was conducted to analyse existing studies on social media usage in Ghanaian cities, synthesizing key findings from qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. A notable trend observed is the increased reliance on Instagram for news updates among young urban dwellers, with over 70% of users reporting regular use for accessing information. The review underscores the transformative impact of social media on communication dynamics in Ghanaian cities, highlighting its role as a primary source of information and community interaction platforms. Future research should explore the long-term effects of social media on interpersonal relationships and cultural identity formation among urban Ghanaians. social media, communication patterns, urban Ghana, technology impact
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender-Based Violence in Kenyan Rural Schools
Gender-based violence (GBV) in Kenyan rural schools is a significant issue affecting students' education and well-being. Focus groups were conducted with female students, teachers, and community members to assess the effectiveness of GBV interventions. A notable theme emerged regarding the lack of confidentiality among students when reporting incidents, leading to a 30% increase in underreporting compared to previous years. Intervention programmes need enhanced confidentiality measures to address and reduce reported GBV instances effectively. Schools should implement anonymous reporting mechanisms and provide confidential support services for victims of GBV.