African Comparative Law Quarterly is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
The Customary and Statutory Law Interface in Ghanaian Family Matters
The interface between customary law and statutory law in Ghanaian family matters is a complex issue due to the country's legal pluralism. The study employs both qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to gather data from diverse stakeholders including judges, lawyers, community leaders, and affected individuals across different regions of Ghana. A notable finding is the significant proportion (42%) of respondents who reported encountering conflicts between customary and statutory laws in their practice or personal experiences. The study concludes that a nuanced understanding of both legal frameworks is essential for effective dispute resolution and policy-making in family matters. Recommendations include developing comprehensive training programmes for judges on the application of mixed-law scenarios, and promoting public awareness campaigns about legal pluralism. Customary Law, Statutory Law, Family Matters, Ghanaian Legal Pluralism
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Engagement in Legal Processes across Ethiopia
Youth engagement in legal processes is a critical aspect of legal reform across Africa, with Ethiopia serving as an important case study due to its diverse legal landscape and socio-economic challenges. This study employs a qualitative approach, analysing existing policies, interviews with stakeholders, and case studies from different regions of Ethiopia. Data triangulation was used to ensure robust analysis. Youth involvement in legal processes is significant but unevenly distributed across Ethiopian jurisdictions, particularly in urban areas where participation rates are higher (25% compared to rural areas at 10%). The findings suggest a need for targeted policies that address the specific challenges faced by youth participants and promote equitable engagement. Policy recommendations include increasing funding for youth legal education programmes, developing culturally relevant legal materials, and establishing mentorship initiatives to enhance their role in legal processes.
Challenges and Opportunities in African Legal Reconstruction
This article examines Cameroon's post-conflict legal landscape to identify challenges and opportunities in African legal reconstruction. A qualitative approach was employed, drawing from interviews, legislative documents, and case studies to understand the complexities within Cameroon's legal system post-conflict. The analysis reveals a significant proportion of court delays attributed to inadequate infrastructure and staffing issues, necessitating immediate policy interventions. This study concludes that effective governance reforms are essential for enhancing judicial efficiency and public trust in legal institutions. Recommendations include reallocating resources towards improving court facilities and training judiciary personnel to reduce delays and increase service delivery.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The review focuses on Land Law Reforms in Rwanda, exploring how these reforms have impacted land tenure security. The review synthesizes secondary data from published studies, government reports, and academic literature on Land Law reforms in Rwanda. It employs a thematic analysis approach to identify common trends and significant findings across various case studies. A notable finding is the mixed success of land tenure security improvements across different regions of Rwanda, with some areas showing substantial progress while others remain vulnerable to insecurity threats. The review concludes that while significant strides have been made in improving land rights and security through legal reforms, persistent challenges related to implementation and enforcement require continued attention. Future research should focus on enhancing the sustainability of these reforms by strengthening institutional capacities and fostering greater stakeholder participation. Policy-makers should also consider developing specific mechanisms for addressing recurrent issues such as customary practices that conflict with formal laws.
Impact Evaluation of Intergenerational Education Initiatives on School Attendance and Academic Performance in Moroccan Mountainous Regions
Morocco’s rural mountainous regions face unique challenges in education access and outcomes. Quantitative research design, including surveys and interviews with parents and teachers from targeted villages. Parental engagement in education increased by 30% and showed a direct correlation with improved student test scores. Intergenerational education initiatives significantly improve both attendance rates and academic performance. Expand intergenerational programmes to all mountainous regions of Morocco.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Policy Makers' Perspectives on Climate Change Adaptation in Burundi's Agricultural Sector
Burundi experiences significant climate variability affecting its agricultural sector, a critical economic driver. Qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with local government officials. Policy makers identified water scarcity as the most pressing challenge, influencing their agricultural policies. Local authorities need more support to implement effective climate change adaptation measures in agriculture. Enhanced collaboration between national and regional levels for policy development and implementation.
Constitutionalism and Legal Order in Ethiopian Transitions,
This paper examines constitutionalism and legal order in Ethiopian transitions from to , focusing on the development of law and governance in Ethiopia. Qualitative analysis was employed, involving a review of legislative documents, court judgments, and scholarly articles to evaluate the implementation and effects of Ethiopian constitutions and laws. A notable finding is the significant increase in judicial independence cases post-, indicating growing adherence to constitutional mandates for courts to operate free from executive influence. While Ethiopia has made strides towards a robust legal framework, challenges persist, particularly regarding enforcement of anti-corruption laws and implementation of human rights protections. Future research should focus on enhancing the practical application of constitutions through targeted policy interventions and public education campaigns to support judicial independence.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community Health Worker Programmes and Postnatal Care Utilization in Maternal Mortality Reduction
Community health worker programmes have been implemented globally to improve maternal and child health outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings. In Rwanda, these initiatives aim to reduce maternal mortality rates by enhancing access to postnatal care. The study employed qualitative research methods including participant observation and semi-structured interviews with CHWs, healthcare providers, and community members to understand the perceptions and experiences related to postnatal care delivery. CHW programmes significantly increased awareness about postnatal care benefits among women in Kigali, leading to a notable increase in utilization rates from 40% to 65% over two years. The findings suggest that targeted CHW interventions can effectively enhance access and utilization of postnatal care services, thereby supporting maternal mortality reduction goals. Continued support for CHW programmes should include reinforcement of existing community networks and integration with formal healthcare systems to sustain the observed improvements in postnatal care uptake.
Human Rights Violations in Resource Extraction Projects
Resource extraction projects in Kenya have been a subject of increasing concern due to allegations of human rights violations impacting local communities. The research employs ethnographic methods including participant observation, interviews with community members, and document review to understand the direct experiences and perceptions of local communities regarding resource extraction projects in Kenya. Interviews revealed that approximately 30% of respondents experienced direct human rights abuses related to environmental degradation and forced displacement during recent resource extraction activities. The anthropological inquiry highlights significant human rights challenges associated with resource extraction, emphasising the need for more comprehensive and community-informed regulatory frameworks. Policy recommendations include increased transparency in project planning, enhanced protection of affected communities' rights, and greater accountability measures to mitigate future abuses. Anthropology, Resource Extraction, Human Rights Violations, Kenya
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mozambique's Legal Framework for Sustainable Development
Mozambique has made significant strides in integrating sustainable development principles into its legal framework to address environmental degradation and socio-economic disparities. The research employs a qualitative approach, examining legislative documents, judicial decisions, and academic literature. Comparative frameworks are used to assess practices in other African jurisdictions. Key themes emerge regarding the fragmented nature of sustainable development legislation across Mozambique's different sectors, with notable success in environmental protection laws but gaps in water management policies. Mozambique’s legal framework for sustainable development shows promise but requires consolidation and harmonisation to achieve comprehensive implementation. The government should prioritise cross-sectoral policy integration and public education campaigns to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and increase awareness of sustainable practices.
Female Refugees' Access to Mental Health Services in Ethiopian Border Regions
Female refugees in Ethiopia's border regions often face significant mental health challenges due to trauma from conflict zones, displacement, and limited access to services. The research employed qualitative interviews with 50 female refugees from Somalia, Sudan, and Eritrea living near the Ethiopian border. Data was analysed using thematic content analysis to identify common issues and gaps in service provision. Female refugees reported a strong preference for traditional healing practices over formal healthcare options, highlighting a significant unmet need for culturally sensitive mental health services within their community. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated mental health care that incorporates local cultural practices and addresses language barriers to ensure equitable access among female refugees in border regions. Implementing culturally tailored mental health programmes combined with traditional healing methods can enhance service uptake while reducing stigma associated with formal healthcare interventions.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Constitutional Boundaries and Legal Praxis in African Transitions
This article examines Uganda's path of constitutionalism and legal praxis in African transitions. No empirical results are presented; this article employs a conceptual analytical approach grounded in jurisprudence and comparative law studies. This theoretical framework underscores the critical role of judicial independence and the rule of law in ensuring effective constitutional implementation. The article recommends strengthening judicial capacity, enhancing public awareness of constitutional rights, and fostering a culture that values compliance with legal norms as essential for advancing Uganda’s path towards more robust constitutional governance.
Microfinance Adoption and Outcomes in Nairobi Slums
Microfinance platforms have been introduced to Nairobi slums as a means of enhancing financial inclusion among vulnerable populations. Microfinance platforms showed a steady increase in adoption from 25% at baseline to 40% after one year, reflecting community engagement and regulatory support. Economic outcomes included modest savings growth but no significant reduction in poverty levels. While microfinance has contributed to financial inclusion, its impact on economic empowerment remains limited, necessitating further policy adjustments. Enhanced regulation, targeted subsidies for low-income clients, and integrated social services could bolster the effectiveness of microfinance initiatives.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Sector Dynamics and Legal Frameworks in Urban Libya,
Informal economies are prevalent in urban settings across Africa, including Libya, where regulatory frameworks often fall short of accommodating these sectors effectively. The research adopts a mixed methods approach, integrating qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys among urban dwellers and legal practitioners in Libya. Data collection spans both urban areas of Tripoli and Benghazi. A notable theme emerging from the qualitative interviews was the preference for informal sector activities over formal ones due to perceived ease of operation and lower costs. While regulatory gaps exist, there is evidence suggesting that some entrepreneurs in Libya actively seek compliance with existing laws. This dynamic highlights potential for targeted legal reforms that could enhance sector integration within existing frameworks. Policy recommendations include the development of more inclusive legal policies that recognise and support informal sector actors while also ensuring effective enforcement mechanisms are in place.
Mobile Finances' Role in Mitigating Poverty Among Pastoralist Herders
Mobile financial services have gained traction in addressing poverty among pastoralist herders globally, with Ethiopia serving as a case study for their effectiveness. The research employed comparative analysis, focusing on qualitative data collected through interviews, focus groups, and secondary sources such as government reports and academic journals. Data from - were analysed using thematic coding and cross-regional comparisons to identify commonalities and differences in the effectiveness of mobile finance. Mobile financial services showed a significant reduction (45%) in poverty levels among pastoralist herders, with notable improvements in access to credit, insurance, and savings opportunities compared to traditional banking methods. The comparative study highlights the transformative role of mobile finance in alleviating poverty for Northern Ethiopian pastoralists, particularly in enhancing financial inclusion and stability. Policy makers should consider expanding mobile financial services coverage and integrating them into broader socio-economic development strategies for rural communities.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Frameworks in EAC Competition Law
This paper examines the legal frameworks of competition law in East African Community (EAC) countries with a particular focus on Eswatini's (Swaziland), drawing upon comparative analysis. The research methodology involves a comparative analysis of legal texts from Eswatini and other EAC countries, supplemented by secondary sources such as academic articles and reports. A thematic review approach is employed to identify commonalities and differences in the competition law frameworks. Eswatini's competition law framework shows significant influence from regional and international standards but incorporates a unique set of provisions addressing local market dynamics and regulatory challenges, particularly regarding small-scale enterprises and agricultural sectors. The comparative study reveals distinct yet interconnected patterns in EAC countries' competition laws that reflect broader regional integration goals while accommodating national specificities. Given the findings, recommendations include enhancing enforcement mechanisms for smaller enterprises to ensure compliance with competition law, and promoting cross-border cooperation within the EAC region.
Drought-Resistant Maize Varieties and Smallholder Farmers in Eastern Kenya
Drought-resistant maize varieties have been introduced to address increasing water scarcity in Eastern Kenya's agricultural landscapes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data from 150 randomly selected farmers in the region. Data analysis included statistical tests for quantifiable outcomes and thematic coding for qualitative insights. The adoption rate of drought-resistant maize varieties among smallholder farmers reached a significant proportion (78%) within two years, indicating their efficacy in enhancing agricultural productivity under challenging climatic conditions. Smallholder farmers in Eastern Kenya have shown substantial interest and uptake of drought-resistant maize varieties, contributing to improved yields and overall resilience against climate-induced water shortages. Government policies should prioritise the promotion and subsidization of drought-resistant maize varieties for smallholder farmers. Farmer education programmes on best practices should be expanded to maximise benefits from these seeds.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Traditional Dispute Resolution Mechanisms in Access to Justice
Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms have been integral to resolving conflicts within communities in Botswana for centuries. A qualitative approach was employed through literature review and expert consultations to understand TDRM practices and their impact on access to legal services. Traditional courts in rural areas handle approximately 40% of all civil cases without formal legal representation, highlighting the significant role they play despite limited resources. The analysis underscores the potential for integrating traditional dispute resolution mechanisms into modern legal systems to improve accessibility and effectiveness. Policy recommendations include funding support for traditional courts, training programmes for traditional leaders, and integration of TDRM practices in formal legal education.
Constitutional Review Processes and Democratic Consolidation in Algeria
Algeria has undergone several constitutional review processes since gaining independence from France in , with varying degrees of success in consolidating democratic governance. The research employs a comparative legal analysis approach, drawing from both primary sources such as constitutional texts and secondary sources including scholarly articles and government reports. Data is collected through a systematic examination of recent amendments in Algeria alongside similar processes observed in other countries with comparable democratic trajectories. Recent constitutional review processes in Algeria have shown significant variation in terms of the proportion of proposed changes implemented, ranging from minor adjustments to substantial overhauls, reflecting diverse political and social contexts. A notable theme has been the influence of external actors on the drafting and adoption of new constitutions. This study concludes that while constitutional review mechanisms have played a crucial role in Algeria's democratic development, their effectiveness is contingent upon factors such as political will, public engagement, and international support. For future research, scholars should consider exploring the long-term impacts of these processes on socio-political dynamics and developing more robust indicators to measure democratic consolidation. Policymakers could benefit from adopting lessons learned in other countries' constitutional review experiences to enhance their own legislative processes. constitutional review, democratic consolidation, Algeria, comparative law
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Challenges and Opportunities in Legal Reforms of Post-Conflict African States
Post-conflict African states face significant legal challenges in reconstructing their legal systems to meet contemporary needs while preserving historical contexts. A mixed-methods study combining semi-structured interviews with purposive sampling of legal practitioners and community members, complemented by an online survey targeting the general public in Kenya. Quantitative data is analysed to identify patterns and trends, while thematic analysis of qualitative data elucidates nuanced perspectives on law reform. The findings reveal a predominantly positive attitude towards changes in legal frameworks among both legal professionals and the broader population, with significant support for reforms that aim to enhance access to justice and protect human rights. This mixed methods study underscores the potential of collaborative approaches in understanding complex issues related to law reform in post-conflict contexts. The results highlight a strong willingness for change but also reveal areas needing further attention to ensure equitable legal systems. Policy makers should prioritise inclusive consultations and targeted interventions to address specific challenges identified, such as improving access to justice mechanisms and strengthening institutions responsible for enforcing new laws. post-conflict law reform, qualitative research, mixed methods study, Kenya