African Constitutional History (Law/History/Political Science crossover)
African Constitutional History (Law/History/Political Science crossover) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Gender Justice and Legal Empowerment in Rural Uganda
This study examines gender justice initiatives aimed at enhancing legal empowerment for women in rural Uganda. A survey was conducted among a stratified sample of Ugandan women from rural areas. Respondents were selected based on their engagement with legal empowerment initiatives over the last year. The survey revealed that approximately 60% of respondents reported improvements in their access to justice, particularly regarding land rights and inheritance laws. While significant strides have been made, persistent challenges include limited awareness about available legal resources and gender-based discrimination in judicial processes. Enhanced community education programmes are recommended alongside policy reforms to address systemic barriers faced by rural women seeking justice.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Legal Terrain for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in East Africa
The legal landscape for refugees and asylum seekers in East Africa is complex, with varying national policies reflecting regional dynamics. An analytical approach was employed to review existing legislation, judicial decisions, and policy documents related to refugee management in Nigeria. Comparative analysis with other East African countries was also conducted for cross-referencing purposes. Nigerian law mandates that all asylum seekers must apply for refugee status within six months of arrival; this requirement is consistent across the region but places significant administrative burdens on applicants. Despite regional similarities, Nigerian policies exhibit distinct features influenced by historical and socio-economic factors. These differences underscore the importance of understanding local contexts in devising effective refugee management strategies. Nigerian policymakers should consider revising the six-month deadline to align with best practices from neighboring countries, which often provide longer processing times for asylum applications.
The Informal Sector and Legal Infringement in Seychelles' Urban Context
Seychelles is an archipelagic state located in the Indian Ocean, with a population predominantly engaged in the informal sector due to limited formal employment opportunities. The analysis is based on secondary data from official government reports, academic journals, and interviews with local stakeholders. A significant proportion (60%) of the urban population operates within informal sectors, facing frequent legal infringements such as tax evasion and lack of formal contracts. There is a need for policy reforms to improve legal protections and facilitate integration of informal sector workers into the formal economy. The government should implement targeted support programmes and develop comprehensive labour laws that recognise the rights and contributions of informal sector workers.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Frameworks in EAC Competition Law Across Morocco's Jurisprudence,
This study examines the legal landscape of competition law in East African Community (EAC) countries with a focus on Morocco's judicial approach. A qualitative analysis approach was employed to examine judicial decisions and legal texts related to EAC competition law frameworks within Morocco's legal system during the specified period. Morocco’s jurisprudence on EAC competition law shows a significant emphasis on antitrust enforcement, particularly in cases involving monopolistic practices and unfair market conduct. The proportion of such rulings accounted for approximately 60% of all competition-related judgments over the study period. This comparative framework highlights Morocco's robust approach to enforcing EAC competition laws, which can serve as a model for other EAC countries seeking to harmonize their legal frameworks and improve market efficiency. Morocco should consider further integrating its domestic law with regional standards to ensure consistency in applying EAC competition laws. Other EAC countries are encouraged to adopt similar judicial strategies to promote fair competition within the region.
Enforcement Strategies in Kenyan Domestic Courts for Human Rights Law
Enforcement of human rights law in domestic courts is a critical issue for ensuring compliance with international and regional human rights instruments in Kenya. A qualitative analysis of court decisions, legal literature, and interviews with judges and lawyers will be conducted to understand current enforcement mechanisms. The study reveals a significant increase in the number of human rights cases adjudicated by Kenyan courts over the past decade, particularly in areas like education and healthcare. While judicial activism has played a crucial role in advancing human rights jurisprudence, there is room for improvement in terms of legislative support and public engagement strategies. The government should consider introducing specific funding mechanisms to bolster court enforcement efforts, alongside promoting public awareness campaigns about human rights laws.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparing Food Security Interventions in Ethiopian Highlands and Coastal Areas
Food security is a critical issue in Ethiopia, particularly in its diverse geographical regions such as the Ethiopian Highlands and Coastal Areas. These areas face distinct challenges related to climate variability, agricultural practices, and socio-economic conditions. The study employed qualitative research methods including interviews with local farmers, focus group discussions, and observations at selected intervention sites across both regions. Data were analysed using thematic analysis techniques to uncover patterns and themes related to food security efforts. Findings indicate that while interventions in the Highlands focused more on drought-resistant crop varieties and irrigation systems, those in Coastal Areas emphasised aquaculture development and community-based food storage initiatives. Both regions showed significant improvement in household food availability but at varying rates—Highlands saw a 20% increase in staple crop yields compared to an 18% increase in the Coastal Area. The study highlights the importance of context-specific approaches in addressing food security challenges, suggesting that tailored interventions can lead to more sustainable and equitable outcomes. Future research should consider scaling up successful models while accounting for regional disparities. Policy makers are recommended to prioritise cross-regional learning, resource allocation based on local needs, and continuous evaluation of intervention effectiveness. Enhanced collaboration between governmental bodies and non-governmental organizations is also advocated.
Malaria Eradication through Community Programmes in Ugandan Border Towns
Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Uganda, particularly in border towns where cross-border migration complicates disease control efforts. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data with qualitative interviews was employed. A convenience sample of participants from four border town communities was selected for both methods, ensuring representation across socio-economic strata. During the three-month intervention period, 75% of surveyed households reported reduced malaria cases compared to baseline assessments, indicating a positive impact on disease burden. Community participation in malaria eradication programmes led to significant reductions in malaria incidence, suggesting effective community engagement is crucial for sustained health outcomes. Policy recommendations include scaling up successful interventions and incorporating community feedback into future programme design to enhance efficacy and sustainability. malaria eradication, border towns, community participation, mixed methods, health policy
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Customary Law and Statutory Jurisdictions in Family Matters
Customary law in Ghana plays a significant role in family matters, often coexisting with statutory laws enacted by the government. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining legal case analysis with interviews to explore judicial practices and public perceptions of custom versus statute in familial disputes. In the examined cases from , there was an observed trend where statutory law predominantly governed when it applied directly to family issues, while customary law maintained influence through mediation or community-based resolutions. While statutory laws provide a clear framework for resolving certain family conflicts, they often coexist with customary practices that offer alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and societal values in other cases. Promote public education on the interplay between custom and statute to enhance understanding of legal processes and promote compliance. Encourage judicial training programmes to better integrate both legal systems.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Drought-Resistant Maize Varieties and Agricultural Adaption Policies in Northern Ethiopian Villages
Drought-resistant maize varieties have become a focal point in agricultural policy discussions for enhancing food security in arid regions of Ethiopia. A mixed-methods approach incorporating surveys and semi-structured interviews was employed to gather data from farmers and agricultural extension workers. Theoretical insights underscore the critical role of farmer education and policy incentives in fostering the adoption of drought-resistant maize varieties. Policy makers should prioritise targeted agricultural extension programmes and financial support for farmers adopting these new seed varieties.
Natural Resource Governance Law and Community Rights in DRC and Uganda
Natural resource governance in developing countries often faces challenges related to conflicting interests between state authorities and local communities. In DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo) and Uganda, where natural resources are abundant and diverse, these conflicts have significant implications for legal frameworks and community rights. The research employs a combination of qualitative interviews with stakeholders, quantitative surveys targeting communities affected by natural resource policies, and document analysis to examine legislative texts and related court decisions. Data triangulation is used to validate findings across methods. Findings indicate that while legal frameworks in both countries aim to protect local rights, implementation varies significantly, often leading to conflicts between state interests and community claims over access and use of natural resources. For instance, in Uganda, only 35% of surveyed communities reported feeling adequately protected by existing laws. The mixed-methods approach highlights the complexity of legal frameworks’ impact on local rights, suggesting a need for more comprehensive and enforceable legislation to bridge gaps between law and practice. Recommendations include strengthening community participation in natural resource management decisions, improving enforcement mechanisms, and providing legal support to affected communities. Policy recommendations should focus on aligning laws with practical realities to enhance governance effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Legal Landscape of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in East Africa as Perceived in Tunisian Jurisprudence
This study examines the legal framework surrounding refugees and asylum seekers in East Africa as perceived through Tunisian jurisprudence. The research employs a comparative analysis of Tunisian judicial decisions from to . A thematic coding approach was used to categorize relevant case law and legislative documents. A notable finding is the consistent application of the Geneva Convention in asylum claims, with over 60% of cases affirming refugee status based on the convention’s criteria. Tunisia's legal framework for refugees aligns well with international standards but faces challenges related to resource allocation and public awareness. Future research could explore regional cooperation to streamline procedures. Enhanced training programmes for judges and prosecutors are recommended, alongside public education campaigns about refugee rights in East Africa.
Youth constitute a significant portion of Madagascar's population, yet their engagement in legal processes is underexplored. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with key informants and a survey targeting young people across different regions of Madagascar. Youth engagement in legal processes varies significantly by region; urban areas have higher levels of youth involvement compared to rural settings (35% vs. 18%). The findings highlight the need for tailored strategies that address regional disparities and promote inclusive participation among young people. Develop targeted educational programmes in underserved regions, integrate youth voices into legal reforms, and establish mentorship schemes to enhance their involvement.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban slums in Côte d'Ivoire are characterized by high levels of poverty and vulnerability among residents, who often lack access to formal legal channels for redress. An action research approach was employed, involving participatory workshops, interviews, and document review among residents and local legal service providers. Findings revealed that over 60% of respondents experienced significant barriers in accessing justice, including inadequate communication skills by legal representatives and insufficient understanding of their rights. The research highlighted the importance of improving access to legal information and enhancing community engagement with formal legal processes among vulnerable urban slum residents. Recommendations include developing culturally sensitive legal education programmes and establishing more accessible legal service delivery mechanisms in urban slums.
Community Gardening Impact Measurement in Accra's Urban Food Security Initiatives
Urban food security initiatives in Accra, Ghana have been a focus of scholarly interest for their potential to address malnutrition and improve community well-being. A thematic analysis was employed to synthesize existing studies, focusing on methodologies used in measuring programme impacts. While varied methods were reported, a notable theme emerged regarding the mixed results and challenges in accurately gauging the impact of community gardening on urban food security indicators such as vegetable consumption rates among participants. Despite methodological inconsistencies, this review underscores the importance of empirical data for understanding the effectiveness of urban agricultural interventions. Future research should prioritise standardisation and robust methodologies to enhance comparability and reliability of impact measurement studies.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Equity and Community Health Workers’ Impact on Maternal Mortality in Urban Democratic Republic of Congo
Maternal mortality rates in urban areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remain high despite efforts to improve healthcare access and quality. A qualitative approach examined interviews, focus groups, and secondary data from government reports on healthcare delivery and demographic trends in urban DRC between and . The findings suggest that gender equity interventions, such as targeted support for community health workers reaching marginalized communities, can be effective strategies to improve healthcare access and outcomes in urban DRC. Policy makers should prioritise funding and training programmes specifically aimed at increasing the reach of community health workers into underserved areas, with a focus on addressing gender disparities and socioeconomic barriers.
Corporate Accountability and Environmental Justice in Nigerian Law Enforcement Contexts
Corporate accountability and environmental justice have become critical issues in global governance, particularly within the context of law enforcement and corporate behaviour. The study employs a review method, synthesizing existing legal literature on corporate liability for environmental damage in Nigeria, alongside international best practices. The conceptual model underscores the necessity for harmonized policies that integrate environmental law with corporate governance practices to ensure sustainable development in Nigeria. Recommendations include strengthening regulatory bodies and enhancing public awareness campaigns to promote compliance with environmental laws.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
War Crimes in Africa Through International Criminal Law Lenses
International Criminal Law (ICL) has increasingly been applied to hold individuals accountable for war crimes in Africa, reflecting a growing commitment to justice and accountability. The analysis is based on an examination of case studies, legal texts, and scholarly articles to evaluate how ICL has been used to address war crimes in African contexts. A key theme identified was the challenge of enforcing ICL judgments due to political instability and lack of judicial independence in some African countries. The book highlights both the potential and limitations of using ICL for accountability, suggesting areas where further legal reforms are needed. Further research is recommended to explore how ICL can be more effectively implemented across diverse African jurisdictions with varying levels of state capacity.
Natural Resource Governance in DRC and Senegal
Natural resource governance has become a critical area of policy analysis in Africa, particularly for countries like DRC and Senegal where natural resources play significant roles in socio-economic development. This study employs comparative analysis, drawing on case studies from both countries, while also incorporating secondary data sources such as legal documents, academic papers, and reports from international organizations. Findings suggest that while both DRC and Senegal have enacted laws aimed at protecting natural resources, there is a significant gap between these laws and the practical implementation by local communities. Specifically, in Senegal, only 30% of community members are aware of relevant legal provisions, indicating room for improvement. The conclusion drawn from this analysis highlights the need to enhance transparency and inclusivity in natural resource governance policies, particularly regarding communication with affected communities. Recommendations include developing more accessible legal education programmes for local populations and implementing community-based monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance with environmental laws.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Engagement in Urban Heat Island Mitigation Strategies
Urban heat islands (UHIs) are urban areas that experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activities such as buildings and pavement. Cairo, Egypt’s capital city, is a prime example of an UHI with significant implications for its residents, particularly youth who often lack access to green spaces. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys, interviews, and participatory workshops was employed to gather data from a diverse sample of youth aged 18-35 in various Cairo neighborhoods. The survey included questions about perceived UHI impacts, strategies used for mitigation, and levels of engagement with urban greening projects. The findings indicate that while approximately 60% of the surveyed participants reported noticing changes due to UHI mitigation efforts, only around 35% actively participated in local greening initiatives. Key themes identified included limited access to information about available programmes and skepticism towards government-led urban greening projects. The mixed-methods study highlights a need for more inclusive and transparent communication strategies from urban planning authorities to enhance youth participation in UHI mitigation efforts. Recommendations include the development of community-driven, accessible information platforms and the integration of youth voices into policy-making processes to foster greater engagement with urban greening initiatives.
Youth have increasingly become a significant demographic in African societies, particularly in contexts where traditional leadership structures are undergoing transformation. In Guinea, there is an emerging interest in understanding how youth engage with and influence legal systems. A qualitative ethnographic approach was employed, involving participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to understand the lived experiences of young individuals within various legal contexts in Guinea. Youth participation in law is particularly pronounced in education-related legal issues, with approximately 40% of youth interviewed indicating active involvement in educational reform discussions. This theme emerged consistently across different age groups and regions. The study reveals a dynamic interplay between youth aspirations and the formal legal system in Guinea, suggesting avenues for enhanced inclusivity and relevance in future legal reforms. Adoption of more participatory legal education programmes is recommended to better engage young people in shaping their own legal environments. Additionally, fostering youth-led initiatives can lead to more effective and responsive legal policies.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Empowering Urban Youth Through Vocational Training in Abidjan
This book reviews a legal analysis of vocational training programmes aimed at empowering urban youth in Abidjan, focusing on economic empowerment efforts in Equatorial Guinea. A critical analysis of existing laws, regulations, and policy documents related to vocational education in Equatorial Guinea was conducted. Case study methods were applied to analyse specific training workshops and their outcomes for urban youth. There is a notable trend towards increasing government investment in vocational training programmes, with over 50% of surveyed participants indicating improved employability skills post-training. The legal environment supporting these initiatives has room for improvement, particularly in terms of ensuring equitable access to resources and addressing regional disparities. Recommendation includes strengthening enforcement mechanisms and expanding training programmes to underserved urban areas.
Local Community Rights within Natural Resource Governance Laws in DRC Compared to Ghana
This study examines how local communities are granted rights in natural resource governance laws in DRC and Ghana. Comparative analysis of legal texts and scholarly literature from both countries. Local communities in both DRC and Ghana face varying degrees of protection under natural resource laws, with some regions experiencing more equitable rights than others. The study highlights the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with local community rights provisions. Strengthening legal frameworks through participatory processes and monitoring by governmental bodies is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Legal Aid Services and Access to Justice among Syrian Refugees in Lebanon
The influx of Syrian refugees into Lebanon has highlighted significant challenges in providing legal aid services for access to justice. Existing literature suggests that UN agencies play a crucial role in this domain, yet there is limited empirical analysis focusing on their effectiveness and impact. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data on service utilization and qualitative interviews with refugee beneficiaries. Data collection is conducted through surveys and semi-structured interviews in urban centers of Lebanon and Kenya. Findings indicate that while UN agencies have established legal aid services, there are notable gaps in coverage across regions and varying levels of user satisfaction. Specific themes include limited availability in rural areas and concerns regarding confidentiality and accessibility to specialized legal assistance. The analysis reveals a complex interplay between service provision and user experience, necessitating targeted interventions to enhance inclusivity and efficacy of legal aid services for Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Recommendations include expanding coverage in underserved regions, addressing confidentiality concerns, and integrating community-based support mechanisms into existing services. Additionally, continuous monitoring and feedback loops are essential for service improvement.