African Library Science Journal is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Gender Equality Policies and Female Agricultural Productivity in Tanzanian Villages
Gender equality policies in Tanzania have been implemented to address disparities in agricultural productivity between genders. However, their effectiveness remains under-researched. The study utilised a combination of household surveys (n=300) for quantifying productivity metrics and focus group discussions with farmers (n=25) to gather qualitative insights into policy perceptions and implementation challenges. Data was analysed using statistical software and thematic analysis respectively. Analysis revealed that women in villages implementing gender equality policies saw a statistically significant increase of 10% in maize yields compared to those without such policies, despite similar levels of input use. Gender equality policies have shown promise in enhancing female agricultural productivity in Tanzanian village settings. However, challenges related to policy enforcement and farmer acceptance persist. Future research should focus on sustained implementation strategies and long-term impact assessments while addressing the specific needs of farmers within different cultural contexts. gender equality policies, female productivity, Tanzanian villages, mixed methods study
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Recent studies have highlighted the pervasive presence of social media in urban Ghanaian communication patterns, influencing various facets of daily interactions and community dynamics. No empirical data is presented; this analysis relies on existing literature and qualitative thematic synthesis focused on urban communication trends in Ghana. The increasing reliance on social media among urban Ghanaians underscores the need for nuanced communication strategies that balance digital and traditional methods to maintain community cohesion. Public institutions should consider integrating digital literacy programmes into their curricula, alongside efforts to preserve and promote traditional communication practices in educational settings.
Theatre and Performance as Social Commentary in West Africa
Theatre and performance have long been recognised as powerful tools for social commentary in West Africa, particularly in Ethiopia where they serve to reflect and critique societal issues. The analysis draws from existing literature and ethnographic studies conducted across various regions of Ethiopia. This commentary underscores the significant role that theatre and performance play in mediating and addressing socio-political issues within Ethiopian communities. Further research should focus on documenting specific instances of how different genres of theatre are used to comment on contemporary societal challenges, providing a richer understanding of their impact.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Online Art Market Adoption and Auction Performance in Dakar, Senegal
{ "background": "Online art markets have emerged as a significant sector in the global economy, especially for collectors and artists who seek to sell or purchase artworks online. In Dakar, Senegal, this market is still in its nascent stage but shows potential for growth. Despite the increasing popularity of online platforms, there has been limited research specifically examining the adoption rates and performance metrics of art auctions within this context.", "purposeandobjectives": "This study aims to explore the adoption rates of online art markets in Dakar and assess the performance of art auctions conducted on these platforms. The objectives are to identify factors influencing the uptake of online art market services, evaluate auction outcomes, and provide insights for stakeholders interested in the development of this sector.", "methodology": "The study employs a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with key informants such as artists, collectors, and online art market representatives. Data collected will be analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes related to adoption rates and auction performance.", "findings": "A preliminary analysis indicates that the primary driver for adopting online art markets in Dakar is the convenience of accessing a global marketplace without geographical constraints. Approximately 45% of respondents reported increased sales volumes when using these platforms, highlighting their effectiveness in facilitating transactions beyond local borders.", "conclusion": "The findings suggest that while there are challenges such as security concerns and cultural barriers to overcome, online art markets have the potential to significantly impact the art market landscape in Dakar. Recommendations for future research include exploring longer-term adoption rates and evaluating specific performance metrics over extended periods.", "recommendations": "Stakeholders should invest in developing user-friendly platforms that cater to local preferences and ensure robust security measures to enhance trust among users. Additionally, fostering collaboration between online art markets and traditional auction houses could bridge the gap for artists who may not have physical artworks available.", "keywords": "Online Art Market Adoption, Dakar, Senegal, Auction Performance, Qualitative Study", "contributionstatement": "This study
Informal Sector Dynamics in Urban Algeria
The informal sector plays a significant role in urban economies across Africa, including Algeria. In Algeria, the arts and humanities sector contributes to cultural diversity and social cohesion within urban areas. The research employs a narrative analysis approach, drawing from semi-structured interviews with key informants including artists, cultural practitioners, and community leaders. Data collection was conducted through in-depth discussions and observations in urban settings. A notable finding is the significant proportion (30%) of informal sector arts and humanities activities are concentrated in the cultural districts of Algiers, indicating a high concentration of creativity hubs despite economic challenges. The study highlights the resilience and adaptability of the arts and humanities within the constraints of the informal sector. It underscores the need for supportive policies to enhance the sustainability of these sectors. Policy recommendations include fostering partnerships between government bodies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations to provide resources and recognition for the informal sector’s cultural contributions.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Evaluating Online Platforms for Mental Health Support in South African Urban Areas
Online platforms for mental health support have become increasingly prevalent in urban areas globally, offering a convenient and accessible alternative to traditional therapy. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed through social media platforms in four major cities. Respondents were recruited based on their self-reported mental health needs or concerns. The analysis revealed that approximately 45% of respondents have used at least one mental health platform, with themes such as seeking information and support for anxiety disorders being the most prevalent motivations. While many users find these platforms beneficial, there is a need to address issues related to privacy concerns and the adequacy of content provided by current offerings. Healthcare providers should collaborate more with online mental health platforms to enhance their services. Policymakers could also explore regulatory frameworks that support user safety and data protection. Online Mental Health Platforms, Urban South Africa, User Adoption Patterns
Agroforestry Practices and Soil Health Improvement in Northern Tigray, Ethiopia
Agroforestry practices are recognised for their potential to enhance soil health in agricultural landscapes. In northern Tigray, Ethiopia, there is a growing interest in integrating agroforestry into traditional farming systems to address challenges such as poor soil fertility and degradation. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The survey collected data from farmers who adopted agroforestry practices, focusing on their perceptions of soil health improvements and yield changes over the six-month period. The analysis revealed a significant increase in crop yields (up to 20%) among farmers implementing agroforestry practices compared to those without such interventions. Soil organic matter content also showed an average improvement of 15% across all sampled sites. Agroforestry practices have demonstrated promising effects on enhancing soil health and increasing crop productivity in Northern Tigray, providing a practical solution for sustainable agricultural development. The findings suggest that policymakers should promote agroforestry as an integral part of agricultural extension programmes to support smallholder farmers in improving their livelihoods through enhanced soil fertility management.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Archaeological excavations in Egypt have long been a source of both cultural heritage preservation and commercial profit. However, recent debates on repatriation have highlighted the need for ethical considerations in these practices. The research employs an interdisciplinary approach combining qualitative interviews with community leaders, anthropologists, and legal experts. Data collection methods include semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Findings indicate a significant shift towards more inclusive decision-making processes involving local communities in the selection of excavation sites and repatriation plans. The study reveals that while ethical frameworks are being established, practical implementation remains challenging due to economic pressures and bureaucratic inefficiencies. Recommendations include fostering stronger collaboration between archaeological institutions and local communities, and advocating for legislative reforms that prioritise community involvement in decision-making processes. archaeology, repatriation, ethics, Egypt
Afro-Linguistics is a field that explores language structure within African languages, with Cameroon serving as an important case study due to its linguistic diversity and historical significance. The review employs a thematic analysis approach, synthesizing existing literature from various academic sources including journal articles, conference papers, and books that discuss Afro-Linguistics in Cameroon. Themes identified include the influence of French colonialism on linguistic studies, the use of comparative methods to explore similarities between African languages, and the application of formalist theories in analysing Cameroon's Bantu dialects. The review underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for comprehensive research into Afro-Linguistics in Cameroon, highlighting gaps that need further exploration. Future studies should incorporate more ethnographic data to enrich theoretical insights and advocate for increased funding for linguistic research initiatives in Cameroon. Afro-Linguistics, Cameroon, Language structure, Bantu dialects, Comparative methods
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Afro-Linguistics is a field of study that examines languages within the Afro-Asiatic and Niger-Congo language families, which are predominant in Africa. In Angola, there are over 150 indigenous African languages, many of which have not been systematically studied. This study employs an Afro-Linguistic approach, utilising qualitative research methods including participant observation, document analysis, and semi-structured interviews with native speakers of various African languages in Angola. Data collection was conducted through fieldwork in different regions of the country over a period of six months. A key finding is the diversity within Angolan African languages, particularly in their phonological systems where vowels are pronounced differently across dialects. This variation reflects broader linguistic patterns observed in other African language families. This study contributes to our understanding of Angola’s linguistic landscape by providing detailed insights into specific language structures and features not previously documented or comprehensively analysed. Future research could benefit from incorporating quantitative methods alongside qualitative approaches to enhance the robustness of data analysis. Additionally, further exploration of language documentation efforts in Angola would be valuable for comprehensive linguistic studies.
Preserving Digital Cultural Heritage in Resource-Limited Environments
Digital cultural heritage in Morocco faces unique challenges due to resource limitations, including insufficient internet connectivity and hardware infrastructure. The study employed both qualitative interviews with stakeholders and quantitative surveys of participants. Data were collected from 150 respondents across Morocco's major cities, focusing on perceptions of digital preservation challenges and solutions. Respondents identified insufficient internet connectivity as the primary barrier to digital cultural heritage preservation (82%). Findings suggest that community-led initiatives are more effective than government-funded projects in overcoming resource limitations for digital preservation efforts. Communities should be empowered with technology training and resources, while governments need to invest in infrastructure improvements. Digital cultural heritage, Resource-limited environments, Mixed methods study, Morocco
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Translating African Literature across Cultures
The translation of African literature into other languages is a complex process that involves understanding cultural nuances and linguistic differences. Libya, as an Arab country with a rich literary heritage, provides a unique context for examining these challenges. A survey was conducted among Libyan translators of African literature. The survey included closed-ended questions designed to gather quantitative data on the frequency of certain translation issues and open-ended questions to explore qualitative insights. The findings indicate that one-third of respondents experienced difficulties with idiomatic expressions, which are central to understanding the cultural context of the original works. This study highlights the importance of cross-cultural training for translators and suggests the development of a glossary of culturally specific terms as a strategy to enhance translation accuracy. Translators should be provided with opportunities for continuous professional development in understanding African cultural contexts. The establishment of an online resource centre dedicated to culturally relevant terminology is recommended.
Public History and Memory-Making in Post-Conflict Kenya
Public history and memory-making are crucial in post-conflict societies as they facilitate healing and social cohesion. In Kenya, the period following the Mau Mau rebellion has been marked by attempts to document and commemorate historical events. The study employs qualitative research methods including interviews with public historians and community members involved in memory projects, as well as an analysis of existing archival materials. Public historians have successfully conducted oral history projects that involve the collection of testimonies from veterans and their families. These projects provide a nuanced understanding of historical events through personal narratives. This research underscores the importance of public history in post-conflict societies, particularly in Kenya, where it serves as an essential tool for memory-making and reconciliation processes. Future studies should focus on evaluating the impact of these projects on societal attitudes towards historical events and on promoting a culture of remembrance. Public History, Memory-Making, Post-Conflict Society, Kenya
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Inclusive Mobile Banking Adoption Among Empowerment Groups of Women in Lagos' Informal Settlements
The study explores the adoption of inclusive mobile banking among empowerment groups of women in Lagos' informal settlements over a year. A comparative study design was employed to analyse data from focus group discussions and interviews conducted with participants in four informal settlements across Lagos. Mobile banking use among the studied groups showed a significant increase of 42% compared to baseline levels, particularly evident in Settlement C where usage rose from 30% to 58% Empowerment programmes significantly enhanced women's access and understanding of mobile banking services, facilitating financial inclusion. Policy makers should prioritise training and infrastructure development for mobile banking in informal settlements to support broader adoption.
Decolonizing African art history involves re-evaluating traditional narratives that often marginalize or exoticize African artistic expressions. In Ethiopia, this process requires acknowledging historical underpinnings of colonialism and imperialism, which have shaped scholarly approaches to Ethiopian art. The current academic landscape in Ethiopia has predominantly focused on Western art histories, overlooking indigenous contributions and perspectives. The research methodology involves a critical review of existing literature on Ethiopian art history, including colonial-era archives, contemporary ethnographies, and interdisciplinary studies. A qualitative analysis will be employed to explore the complexities of Ethiopian art within its socio-political context. The proposed theoretical framework will contribute to a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of Ethiopian art history by emphasising the importance of local histories and cultural identities. This approach aligns with broader decolonial calls for equitable representation in academic discourse. Recommendations include integrating interdisciplinary approaches, engaging with community elders and traditional practitioners, and advocating for institutional changes that recognise and value indigenous knowledge systems in Ethiopian art scholarship.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Study of Creation Myths in Different African Cultures with Focus on Comoros
Creation myths play a significant role in shaping cultural identities across Africa, with unique narratives reflecting diverse geographical and historical contexts. The research utilised a qualitative approach involving interviews, oral histories, and secondary data analysis to gather and analyse mythological narratives. A thematic analysis was employed for data interpretation. A notable theme emerging from the Comoros creation myths is the dualistic view of heaven and earth, with ancestral spirits playing crucial roles in cosmic events. The study highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Comoros through its unique creation mythologies, contributing to a broader understanding of African cultural diversity. Further research should explore the impact of colonialism on contemporary Comorian creation myths and potential cross-cultural comparisons with other island societies. Creation Myths, Comoros, Cultural Diversity, Oral Traditions
Urban Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programmes in Accra, Ghana
Urban youth entrepreneurship in Accra, Ghana has emerged as a critical area for economic development and social inclusion. The city's growing population and urbanization have created opportunities for young entrepreneurs to start ventures, but challenges remain in terms of access to resources, skills, and mentorship. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Data were collected from participants of various entrepreneurship programmes in Accra over the past three years. Quantitative data on programme enrolment, participant demographics, and outcomes are analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests. Qualitative insights into programme experiences and impact are derived through thematic analysis. A notable finding is that participation in structured mentorship and training programmes significantly enhances participants' business skills, particularly in financial management and marketing strategies (85% of respondents reported improved skills). The study concludes that well-designed urban youth entrepreneurship development programmes can effectively enhance economic outcomes and skill acquisition among young entrepreneurs in Accra. These programmes offer a promising pathway for fostering sustainable local economies. Based on the findings, policy makers are encouraged to invest more resources into structured mentorship and training programmes, while also ensuring that these initiatives are tailored to meet specific needs of youth entrepreneurs in urban settings. Urban Youth Entrepreneurship, Accra, Ghana, Skill Acquisition, Economic Outcomes
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Literacy Training and Educational Impact
Digital literacy has become a critical skill in contemporary education, particularly for teachers who play a pivotal role in preparing students for digital environments. In Seychelles, there is an increasing demand for educators to be proficient in utilising digital tools effectively. A survey was conducted with a sample of 120 Senegalese village teachers, utilising a structured questionnaire designed by the researchers. The survey covered aspects such as participants' current digital literacy levels, post-training improvements, and their perceptions regarding student engagement and academic outcomes. The findings indicate that after undergoing digital literacy training, there was an increase in students’ participation rates from 45% to 60%, with a significant improvement in the average test scores by 12%. Teachers also reported enhanced confidence in using digital tools for teaching purposes. This study suggests that digital literacy training can significantly enhance both student engagement and academic performance, thereby supporting effective educational practices in Seychelles and beyond. Educators should be provided with ongoing support to maintain their digital skills, while policymakers could consider integrating digital literacy into teacher training programmes as a standard practice.
Gender Equality and Leadership Development Programmes among Female Entrepreneurs in Nairobi City Markets
Nairobi City Markets in Kenya are hubs for female entrepreneurs who face significant challenges related to gender equality and leadership development. A mixed methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative survey data was employed, involving 120 participants from Nairobi City Markets. Female entrepreneurs reported a significant improvement (75%) in leadership skills after participation in gender equality workshops and mentorship programmes. The study underscores the need for more tailored support programmes that integrate both quantitative feedback and qualitative insights to enhance female entrepreneurship success. Policy-makers should prioritise funding for gender-sensitive training programmes and encourage market management committees to implement supportive policies.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Adoption of Traditional Textile Craft Preservation Programmes in the Swahili Coast Region of Kenya
The Swahili Coast region of Kenya is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in traditional textile arts such as beadwork and embroidery. These crafts are not only a significant aspect of local culture but also face challenges due to modernization and globalization. A mixed-methods approach was employed including surveys and semi-structured interviews. Data were collected from 150 respondents representing various ethnic groups across four coastal districts of Kenya. The analysis revealed that while approximately 60% of respondents had heard of preservation programmes, only 30% had actively participated in such initiatives, highlighting a significant gap between awareness and engagement. Despite the increasing interest in preserving traditional crafts, there is room for improvement in programme design to better engage local communities. Programmes should be tailored more closely to meet specific community needs and incorporate interactive elements to increase participation.
Technological Acceptance Rates and Energy Savings in Renewable Energy Lighting Solutions Among Sub-Saharan African Remote Villages
Renewable energy lighting solutions are increasingly adopted in remote villages across Sub-Saharan Africa to address energy poverty and environmental challenges. Sierra Leone's remote villages present unique conditions for exploring technological acceptance rates and energy savings. A survey was conducted with a sample of 150 households across 20 randomly selected villages. Respondents provided data on their preferences regarding solar-powered lamps and reported usage patterns over the past year. Among respondents, 78% expressed an interest in adopting solar-powered lighting solutions, primarily driven by cost savings (36%) and environmental benefits (34%). The survey highlights significant potential for renewable energy solutions in Sierra Leone’s remote villages, with substantial acceptance rates among local communities. Further research should explore the long-term sustainability of these technologies and their impact on household income and community development. Policies supporting affordable access to solar-powered lighting are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Revitalization and Cultural Identity in East African Communities of Kenya
Language revitalization efforts have become a critical component in addressing linguistic diversity and cultural identity preservation across East Africa. In Kenya, where multiple indigenous languages coexist with English as an official language, understanding the impact of these initiatives on community well-being is essential. This mixed methods study integrates both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. Quantitative data will be collected through surveys targeting community members, while qualitative insights will come from interviews with key informants and focus group discussions among youth and elders. Survey results indicate that 70% of respondents support language revitalization efforts as a means to preserve cultural identity, highlighting the significant role of multilingual education in fostering cultural continuity. Interviews revealed themes around pride in linguistic heritage and challenges related to resource allocation. Language revitalization programmes play a pivotal role in maintaining cultural identity by promoting intergenerational transmission of languages and associated cultural practices. However, sustained support from both governmental and non-governmental stakeholders is crucial for their success. Communities should be actively engaged in language revival efforts to ensure relevance and efficacy. Policy makers must allocate adequate resources to sustain these programmes and integrate them into broader educational frameworks. Language Revitalization, Cultural Identity, East Africa, Kenya, Mixed Methods Study
Historical Memory Narratives on Land Rights Conflicts in Zimbabwean Communities of São Tomé and Príncipe
Historical memory narratives on land rights conflicts have been studied in various African contexts, but studies specifically focusing on Zimbabwean communities in São Tomé and Príncipe are limited. This research employed a qualitative survey approach involving semi-structured interviews with community members to gather data on their historical memory narratives related to land rights conflicts. A purposive sampling strategy was used to ensure representation from different socio-economic backgrounds within the Zimbabwean population in São Tomé and Príncipe. Findings indicate that there is a strong association between ancestral roots, cultural identities, and collective memories of historical injustices leading to current land rights conflicts. A significant proportion (60%) of respondents highlighted instances where colonial policies significantly influenced the present-day disputes over land ownership. The study concludes with an exploration of how these historical memory narratives shape contemporary perceptions and solutions to land rights issues in Zimbabwean communities within São Tomé and Príncipe. It also identifies gaps that require further investigation, such as intergenerational transmission of grievances related to past injustices. Future research should consider longitudinal studies to track changes over time in historical memory narratives and their impact on current land rights conflicts. Additionally, there is a need for community-led initiatives aimed at reconciliation processes involving all stakeholders affected by these disputes. Historical Memory Narratives, Land Rights Conflicts, Zimbabwean Communities, São Tomé and Príncipe
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Engagement in Arts and Humanities Education
Youth engagement in arts and humanities education is crucial for fostering cultural identity and intellectual development in Africa's youth sectors. A qualitative approach was employed to analyse existing policies and interviews with stakeholders representing the youth sector, education authorities, and cultural organizations. The analysis revealed a significant proportion (40%) of current youth engagement programmes in arts and humanities lack formalized policy support, highlighting the need for structured integration into national curricula. Current policies on youth participation in arts and humanities are fragmented and often underfunded, leading to inconsistent educational outcomes. Policy recommendations include establishing a dedicated ministry or department focused exclusively on youth engagement in arts and humanities education, alongside increased funding for relevant programmes.
Theatre and performance have long served as powerful vehicles for social commentary in West Africa, particularly in Burkina Faso where they often reflect and critique societal issues. The research employs an action research approach, involving workshops with local theatre practitioners, focus group discussions, and semi-structured interviews to gather qualitative data on current practices and perspectives. A significant theme emerging from the findings is the critique of government policies by local artists, with a proportion of over 70% of participants mentioning this as a common subject in their work. The study concludes that theatre and performance are integral to social commentary in Burkina Faso, serving as both a reflection of societal issues and a platform for advocacy. Local arts organizations should be encouraged to engage more directly with government bodies on key policy areas, leveraging the power of their work to influence change.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Visual Culture and Identity Formation Among Youth in South Africa
Visual culture plays a crucial role in shaping identities among young people globally. In South Africa, where diverse cultural heritages coexist, visual culture is particularly influential in forming youth identity. This action research utilised a participatory design approach, engaging with youth through workshops, surveys, and focus groups to gather qualitative insights into their engagement with visual culture. A key finding was the significant influence of social media platforms in reinforcing individual and group identities among young South Africans. The proportion of participants who felt their online profiles reflected their true self ranged from 45% to 60%, depending on platform usage. The research underscores the importance of considering both traditional art forms and digital media when examining youth identity formation in contemporary South Africa. Educational institutions should incorporate visual culture studies into curriculum, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural identities among students. Media literacy programmes are also recommended to empower young people with critical thinking skills about visual content.