African Administrative Law (Law/Governance/Public Admin crossover)
African Administrative Law (Law/Governance/Public Admin crossover) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Research and Policy Implications in Senegal
This article examines policy implications of legal research in Senegal, a country in West Africa. The analysis employs a qualitative approach to assess recent legal reforms and their effects on administrative procedures in Senegalese institutions. Recent legal amendments have led to an increase in the number of policy directives issued by governmental bodies, particularly affecting education sector regulations. This study highlights the dynamic relationship between legislative changes and administrative practices in Senegal. Policy makers should anticipate increased regulatory burden and seek alignment with international best practices for effective implementation.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The informal sector in urban areas of Africa often operates outside formal legal frameworks, leading to regulatory challenges and economic inefficiencies. The study employs an analytical approach, reviewing legal documents, academic literature, and secondary data sources to understand the current state of informal sector regulation in Liberia. A thematic analysis was conducted on relevant policy documents. A significant proportion (45%) of urban businesses operate informally, with laws such as tax regulations and land tenure policies often conflicting or insufficiently enforced, leading to persistent economic disparities among these enterprises. Liberia's current informal sector policies are inadequate for the scale and complexity of this sector, resulting in inefficiencies and inequality. Recommendations include harmonizing existing laws, enhancing enforcement mechanisms, and fostering collaboration between stakeholders. Recommendations include harmonizing tax regulations with land tenure policies, increasing community engagement through participatory planning processes, and establishing dedicated bodies to monitor compliance with new policies.
Traditional Dispute Resolution Mechanisms and Access to Justice in Uganda
Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms have played a significant role in resolving local conflicts within communities across Uganda for centuries. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with participants from various socio-economic backgrounds, focus group discussions, and document reviews. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. The qualitative data revealed that traditional dispute resolution mechanisms are widely used by marginalized groups for resolving disputes related to land rights, inheritance, and domestic violence in rural areas (85% of respondents reported using these mechanisms). Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms serve as an essential component of the justice system, providing accessible and culturally relevant solutions to legal issues faced by disadvantaged populations. Government bodies should integrate traditional dispute resolution processes into formal legal frameworks to enhance their effectiveness and reach. Increased funding for training and support of traditional leaders is also recommended.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Traditional Dispute Resolution Mechanisms in Access to Justice
Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms have long played a significant role in access to justice across diverse societies, including Seychelles where indigenous legal systems coexist with formal legal frameworks. The research employs a comparative approach, analysing data from interviews with community leaders, court records, and legal literature. A thematic analysis framework is used to interpret findings across different regions of Seychelles. Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms are particularly prevalent in rural areas where they account for approximately 40% of all justice cases heard by local courts, highlighting their relevance in addressing specific community needs. This study underscores the importance of integrating traditional practices into formal legal systems to enhance accessibility and effectiveness in providing justice services across Seychelles. Policy recommendations include strengthening collaboration between traditional leaders and modern legal institutions to ensure continuity and legitimacy of TDRM, while also promoting education programmes to increase awareness about available alternatives.
Urban slums in Egypt often face significant challenges accessing justice due to socio-economic disparities. A mixed-method survey approach including structured questionnaires and focus group discussions with residents and local legal aid organizations. Residents reported frequent delays in court proceedings and inadequate government support services, particularly affecting women and children. Despite limited resources, there is a growing demand for accessible justice solutions tailored to urban slum populations. Development of targeted legal education programmes and partnerships between NGOs and governmental bodies are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Assessing Renewable Energy Access Policies and Their Impact on Lighting Availability and Health Outcomes Among Rural Tanzanian Women
Renewable energy access policies have become a focal point in addressing disparities in rural areas of developing countries, including Tanzania. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, integrating qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis from existing surveys to explore the interplay between policy implementation and its beneficiaries' experiences. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of integrating renewable energy access into broader health and development policies to achieve sustainable improvements in rural areas. Policy makers should prioritise stakeholder involvement, continuous monitoring, and evidence-based decision-making to ensure effective implementation and impact evaluation of renewable energy access initiatives.
Gender Dynamics in Sub-Saharan African Jurisprudence
Djibouti, a small East African country, has been grappling with gender dynamics in its legal framework for decades. Despite recent efforts to address these issues, significant disparities persist across various domains of law. The research employs a thematic analysis approach, drawing from case studies of selected laws and court judgments. Interviews with legal practitioners and scholars provide additional insights into the application of these laws in practice. A key finding is the underrepresentation of gender-specific provisions within Djiboutian legislation, particularly in areas such as family law and labour rights. This gap is notable given the country's commitment to international human rights standards. The study underscores the importance of integrating gender perspectives into legal texts and judicial interpretations to ensure equitable treatment of all genders under the law. Recommendations include a call for more proactive inclusion of gender-specific provisions in new laws, as well as ongoing training for judges and legal practitioners on recognising and addressing gender disparities within their decision-making processes.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
and Informality in Equatorial Guinea’s Urban Informal Sector
In Equatorial Guinea's urban areas, a significant portion of the population operates in the informal sector, engaging in activities such as street vending, small-scale trade, and construction work without formal recognition or regulation. An interdisciplinary approach combining legal analysis and socio-economic research to assess current laws and regulations pertaining to the urban informal sector. The study also includes interviews with key informants from both government agencies and informal sector members. A notable finding is that approximately 40% of urban businesses in Equatorial Guinea operate informally, highlighting a substantial regulatory gap between formal and informal sectors. The legal framework governing the urban informal sector in Equatorial Guinea is fragmented and often fails to provide adequate protection or support for its members. This leads to vulnerability, exploitation, and limited access to essential services. To address these gaps, the government should develop comprehensive legislation that explicitly recognizes the rights and needs of the urban informal sector, including provisions for social security and fair labour practices.
Natural Resource Governance Law and Community Rights in DRC
Natural resource governance in DRC has been a contentious issue, with significant legal frameworks but often unequal application and enforcement. An interpretative phenomenological analysis of interviews with community leaders and legal practitioners from DRC's eastern provinces, emphasising thematic synthesis to understand perceptions and practices. Community voices highlight the challenges of enforcing DRC’s Natural Resource Governance Law (NRGL) in rural areas, particularly regarding resource allocation and traditional land rights. Community members often engage in informal agreements with local authorities, indicating a complex interplay between formal law and community practice. The NRGL provides a framework for legal recognition of community rights but faces challenges due to enforcement issues and cultural context differences. Enhanced capacity-building programmes for local communities and stakeholders should be integrated into the implementation strategy, alongside more robust monitoring mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
and Informality in Gabon's Urban Informal Sector
This study explores the informal sector in Gabon's urban areas, focusing on how it interacts with legal frameworks. Qualitative research methods were employed, including interviews with key informants from government agencies, civil society organizations, and community leaders. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and focus group discussions to gather detailed insights into legal practices and informal sector dynamics in Gabon’s urban areas. Findings indicate that approximately 40% of Gabon's urban population operates within the informal economy, with significant disparities in access to formal services across different neighborhoods. There is a notable trend towards increased urban planning interventions aimed at reducing informality over recent years. The study concludes that while there are efforts to regulate and integrate the informal sector into urban governance structures, persistent challenges remain due to limited resources and enforcement mechanisms. Recommendations include strengthening collaboration between local authorities and civil society organizations to enhance service provision in informal areas, promoting community-led initiatives for sustainable development, and advocating for more equitable funding allocations towards urban planning projects.
Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Legal Practice
São Tomé and Príncipe is a small archipelago nation in West Africa with a rich tapestry of indigenous knowledge systems that have coexisted alongside formal legal structures for centuries. The research employs a survey methodology involving interviews with legal practitioners and community leaders. Data collection was conducted through structured questionnaires and semi-structured focus group discussions. A notable finding is the significant role played by traditional healers in resolving disputes related to health issues, where their knowledge systems complement but do not fully replace formal medical regulations. The survey reveals a complex interplay between indigenous legal practices and statutory law, highlighting both areas of convergence and potential for conflict. Policy recommendations include fostering dialogue between traditional healers and the legal system to ensure equitable access to justice while respecting cultural sensitivities.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of School-Based Mental Health Support on Suicidal Ideation Among Urban High School Students in Lagos, Nigeria,
Urban high school students in Lagos, Nigeria, face significant mental health challenges including suicidal ideation. School-based mental health support services are increasingly being implemented to address these issues. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with students and teachers at randomly selected schools. Focus groups were also conducted to gather insights into the implementation and impact of these services. A notable theme emerged regarding the perceived inadequacy of support provided by school-based mental health services, particularly in terms of timely intervention and confidentiality issues. School-based mental health services need enhancement to better address students' needs for timely, confidential support. Further research is recommended to refine service delivery models. Immediate improvements should include training staff on recognising signs of distress and ensuring that students feel comfortable seeking help within the school environment.
African Mental Health First Aid Initiatives in Primary Schools
Mental health issues among primary school students in Northern Nigeria are on the rise, necessitating innovative solutions. A systematic review and qualitative analysis of existing MHFA programme literature from Northern Nigeria. This framework identifies key areas for future empirical research and policy recommendations aimed at enhancing MHFA programmes in Nigerian schools. Investigate the long-term impact on student mental health outcomes and explore scaling up successful interventions to broader populations.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Corporate Accountability and Environmental Law Enforcement in Nigeria
Corporate accountability in environmental law enforcement has become a critical issue in Nigeria, particularly as companies operate within an environment characterized by weak regulatory frameworks and high levels of corruption. No empirical data is utilised; instead, the study employs a qualitative approach informed by existing literature on corporate governance, environmental policy, and legal frameworks in Nigeria. This theoretical framework provides a comprehensive overview of current challenges and potential solutions in improving corporate accountability within environmental law enforcement contexts in Nigeria. To address identified issues, recommendations include strengthening anti-corruption measures, enhancing transparency in legal proceedings, and promoting public engagement through citizen oversight mechanisms.
Intellectual Property Law and Technology Transfer Dynamics in Chad's Universities
Intellectual Property (IP) Law in African universities is an under-researched area, with specific challenges faced by institutions such as Chad's universities. The research employs semi-structured interviews and document analysis to gather insights from key stakeholders including university administrators, researchers, and industry partners. A significant theme identified was the lack of clarity in IP Law provisions affecting technology transfer processes, with a proportion of interviewees reporting difficulties in securing patents due to ambiguous regulations. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive legal reforms aimed at improving the predictability and effectiveness of IP Law implementation within university settings. Policy makers are recommended to prioritise drafting clear and accessible IP Law provisions, coupled with enhanced training programmes for university personnel on technology transfer best practices.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Constitutional Review and Democratic Consolidation in Senegal
Senegal has experienced multiple constitutional reviews aimed at consolidating its democratic institutions since gaining independence in . A qualitative approach was employed, focusing on legislative documents, court decisions, and expert commentary to evaluate the effectiveness of recent reviews in enhancing democratic governance. Recent constitutional reviews have resulted in significant changes, with a notable increase in judicial oversight mechanisms aimed at preventing executive overreach. While progress has been made, ongoing challenges related to political polarization and corruption continue to hinder full democratic consolidation. Further legal reforms focusing on strengthening electoral integrity and enhancing the independence of the judiciary are recommended.
Reducing Pre-Trial Detention in Uganda’s Criminal Justice System
Pre-trial detention remains a significant issue in Uganda's criminal justice system, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with stakeholders and quantitative data analysis of court records. Findings indicate that approximately 40% of detainees are held for over two months before trial, with a higher proportion among low-income groups. Current detention practices are inefficient and unjust, necessitating systemic reforms to ensure fair justice delivery. - Implement mandatory legal aid services for pre-trial detainees. - Establish clear timelines for pre-trial proceedings. - Increase judicial resources to expedite case management.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Responsive Budgeting in Côte d'Ivoire Municipal Governments
Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) is a policy tool aimed at addressing gender inequalities and promoting economic growth through improved financial transparency in public spending. Qualitative research methods were employed, including interviews with government officials, analysis of budget documents, and observations at municipal offices. GRB led to a significant increase in the disclosure of gender-specific expenditure data by 45% across all municipalities studied. The findings suggest that GRB can enhance financial transparency and contribute positively to economic growth when implemented effectively. Municipal governments should continue to implement GRB with regular training for budget officers and public engagement initiatives.
Migrant workers in Johannesburg face significant legal challenges due to South Africa's complex immigration landscape and labour regulations. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with policymakers, legal experts, and migrant workers to analyse existing laws and advocate practices. Findings reveal that while there is growing awareness of migrant rights issues, the proportion of comprehensive policy frameworks remains low (approximately 20% of relevant laws address migrants). The review identifies gaps in current policies and highlights the need for more inclusive and enforceable legislation. The government should prioritise the development and implementation of robust migrant rights policies, incorporating feedback from all stakeholders to ensure effectiveness and inclusivity.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Traditional Dispute Resolution Mechanisms and Access to Justice in Central African Republic
Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms play a significant role in resolving conflicts within communities across Central African Republic (CAR). These traditional practices often involve local leaders and customs that have been used for centuries to mediate disputes. The study employs a qualitative approach to analyse existing literature and interviews with local legal practitioners and community leaders. It also includes secondary data from official government reports and court records. While traditional dispute resolution mechanisms can significantly improve access to justice, they face challenges such as lack of recognition by the state and insufficient funding. Governments in CAR should strengthen the integration of traditional practices into formal legal systems and provide more resources to customary courts. Training for local leaders is also recommended to ensure fair and effective mediation processes.
Innovative Vocational Training Initiatives for Urban Youth in Nairobi Slums
Urban youth in Nairobi slums face limited employment opportunities and high unemployment rates. To evaluate the impact of innovative vocational training initiatives on employment outcomes for young adults aged 18-25 in Nairobi slums, specifically focusing on skills development. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews with participants and trainers. Data were collected over five years to track changes in employment rates and skill acquisition among trainees. Participants who completed vocational training programmes increased their employment opportunities, with 75% securing jobs within six months post-training. Training models focusing on industry-relevant skills, such as digital literacy and basic programming, proved most effective. Targeted vocational training initiatives significantly improve employment outcomes for urban youth in Nairobi slums but require sustained support for long-term success. Expand vocational training programmes, especially in high-demand sectors, and provide ongoing mentorship and job placement services to enhance employability and career development. Vocational Training, Urban Youth, Employment Outcomes, Nairobi Slums This study highlights the potential of vocational training initiatives in improving employment outcomes for urban youth and underscores the need for sustained support mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Systematic Review of Criminal Justice Reforms and Pre-Trial Detention Reduction in Uganda
This systematic literature review critically analyses the scholarly discourse surrounding Uganda’s criminal justice reforms, specifically the strategic agenda to reduce pre-trial detention. The research problem centres on evaluating the implementation and efficacy of these recent reforms, given the persistent and disproportionate use of pre-trial detention, which undermines defendants’ rights and burdens the penal system. Employing the PRISMA framework, the methodology involved a rigorous search and synthesis of peer-reviewed articles, government reports, and analyses from Ugandan civil society organisations published up to and including 2023. Key findings reveal a discernible policy shift towards alternatives to custody and case backlog reduction initiatives. However, the analysis identifies a significant implementation gap, where structural impediments—including chronic underfunding, logistical constraints, and entrenched prosecutorial and judicial practices—continue to hinder substantive progress. The evidence suggests that while legislative and policy frameworks are increasingly aligned with regional human rights standards, their operationalisation remains inconsistent. The significance of this review lies in its consolidation of contemporary evidence, offering a crucial African-centred evaluation for policymakers and scholars. It concludes that achieving the strategic agenda’s objectives requires a more holistic approach addressing systemic capacity issues and cultural practices within the justice sector, beyond mere procedural adjustments.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theorising Governance Legislation in Uganda
This article presents a new theoretical framework to analyse the synthesis and collective impact of key governance laws enacted in Uganda during the period of its Third National Development Plan (NDPIII). It argues that the prevailing, fragmented analysis of disparate statutes—such as the Computer Misuse (Amendment) Act, the Anti-Homosexuality Act, and the Public Order Management Act—fails to capture their systemic function. Employing a rigorous doctrinal and conceptual methodology, the article constructs an integrative analytical model. It demonstrates that these laws collectively constitute a distinct ‘governance legislation’ paradigm, characterised by a centralisation of executive authority, a constriction of civic space, and the instrumental use of law for political consolidation. Through a systematic application of this framework, the analysis reveals a fundamental governance paradox: these statutes often operate in tension with the participatory, accountable, and transformative governance espoused in Uganda’s own NDPIII. The framework’s significance lies in providing scholars and policymakers with a structured tool to critically evaluate the alignment—or misalignment—of legal frameworks with substantive development ambitions, moving beyond purely economic metrics. This contributes a vital, context-specific Ugandan perspective to broader continental debates on the rule of law, administrative justice, and the legal architecture of the African development state.
A Comparative Analysis of Governance Legislation in Uganda
This comparative legal study examines the tension between recent Ugandan governance legislation and established principles of African administrative law. It addresses the critical problem of whether laws designed to enhance public administration may, in practice, unduly restrict civic space and undermine administrative justice. Employing a doctrinal methodology, the research conducts a systematic analysis of specific Ugandan statutes, including the Computer Misuse (Amendment) Act and the Public Finance Management Act. These are evaluated against core regional benchmarks derived from the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the evolving jurisprudence of African human rights bodies, focusing on accountability, transparency, and participatory governance. The analysis, based on a review of primary legal sources and pertinent Ugandan case law up to the present, identifies a discernible gap. It finds that while legislative intent often purports to streamline governance, the operationalisation of these laws frequently centralises executive discretion and limits judicial and public oversight. This divergence underscores a key challenge for administrative law in the African context: balancing effective governance with robust safeguards for citizens’ rights. The study concludes that for Ugandan governance legislation to foster sustainable development, future reforms must be more deeply informed by a substantive, pan-African administrative jurisprudence. The findings offer significant implications for policymakers and jurists seeking to draft laws that genuinely enhance governance while empowering citizens.
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This qualitative study investigates the dissonance between formal legal reforms and their practical implementation within Uganda’s governance framework between 2021 and 2026. It addresses a critical gap in African administrative law scholarship by examining why progressive legislative instruments, particularly those aimed at enhancing transparency and public participation, often fail to materialise in administrative practice. Employing a multi-method approach, the research analyses primary legal documents alongside data from semi-structured interviews with Ugandan public administrators, legal practitioners, and civil society actors. A rigorous thematic analysis reveals that while statutory reforms have established a more comprehensive legal architecture, their efficacy is substantially undermined by entrenched bureaucratic cultures, acute resource constraints, and the discretionary interpretation of procedural rules by officials. The study contends that this implementation gap perpetuates a form of administrative formalism, wherein compliance is procedural rather than substantive, thereby curtailing the laws’ transformative potential. The findings underscore the imperative of moving beyond legislative drafting to actively cultivate an enabling administrative culture. This research contributes to the African administrative law discourse by demonstrating the centrality of institutional behaviour and socio-legal context in realising governance objectives, offering insights pertinent to other jurisdictions undergoing analogous legal transitions on the continent.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/