African Environmental Law Journal (Law/Environmental crossover)
African Environmental Law Journal (Law/Environmental crossover) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Sustainable Agriculture Practices Among Smallholder Farmer Groups in Zimbabwean Bushlands
This ethnographic study examines sustainable agriculture practices among smallholder farmer groups in Zimbabwean bushlands, focusing on Morocco as a case study. Fieldwork was conducted through participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions with smallholder farmer groups in Zimbabwean bushlands. Data analysis utilised thematic coding techniques. A notable finding is the significant proportion (75%) of farmers who practice conservation agriculture methods such as crop rotation and intercropping to maintain soil fertility and reduce chemical inputs. The study highlights the effectiveness of community-led sustainable agricultural practices in enhancing local food security and environmental sustainability. It underscores the importance of farmer-centric policies that support traditional knowledge and innovations. Policy recommendations include promoting access to appropriate technology, financial incentives for sustainable farming methods, and strengthening extension services tailored to smallholder farmers' needs.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Development Principles and Legal Frameworks in Uganda
Sustainable development in Uganda has gained prominence as a priority area for national policy and legal frameworks aimed at balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. A structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of Ugandan lawyers, judges, and environmental practitioners. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The survey revealed that while there is significant recognition of sustainable development principles in law, implementation challenges remain due to resource constraints and enforcement issues. This study underscores the need for strengthened legal mechanisms and improved stakeholder engagement to ensure effective implementation of sustainable development goals. Policy makers are advised to develop clear and enforceable regulations, enhance judicial oversight, and promote public awareness campaigns on environmental law.
Corporate Compliance and Enforcement Frontiers in Nigerian Environmental Law Context,
This study examines corporate compliance and enforcement practices in Nigerian environmental law, focusing on the period from to . A qualitative approach was employed, involving an analysis of existing laws, court decisions, and interviews with stakeholders to assess the current state of compliance and enforcement practices. There is a notable disparity between legal requirements and actual compliance rates among corporations, particularly regarding waste management and pollution control. For example, only 30% of enterprises reported full adherence to environmental regulations in one recent survey. The regulatory environment for corporate environmental compliance remains inadequate, leading to frequent non-compliance issues that pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. To enhance enforcement effectiveness, there is a need for stricter penalties for violations and increased transparency in reporting environmental incidents. Additionally, training programmes should be implemented to improve corporate awareness of their legal obligations.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Land Law Reforms and Tenure Security in Rwanda
Land law reforms in Rwanda have aimed to improve tenure security for rural communities, but mixed results have been reported. A mixed-methods study combining surveys with focus group discussions and legal document analysis. In a survey of 300 farmers, 75% reported improved access to land compared to pre-reform levels, although disparities by gender persist. The reforms have generally enhanced tenure security but require targeted interventions for equitable outcomes. Policy makers should prioritise gender-sensitive measures and community engagement in future reforms.
Microinsurance models are increasingly being explored as a mechanism to mitigate economic disparities exacerbated by natural disasters in developing countries. A qualitative approach was employed, focusing on secondary data from government reports, academic journals, and international development organizations. Microinsurance uptake among vulnerable populations has shown a significant increase from 30% to 45% over the last five years in selected regions of Ghana. The analysis reveals that microinsurance models can be tailored to better align with local needs and regulatory frameworks, thereby improving their efficacy. Policy recommendations include strengthening partnerships between government entities and microfinance institutions, as well as increasing public awareness campaigns.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has jurisdiction over war crimes committed in Africa, including in Chad. However, accountability for such crimes remains a challenge due to complex legal and political contexts. The research employs both qualitative interviews with victims and witnesses, as well as quantitative analysis of legal documents and case studies. Data is collected from a sample of 50 individuals in Chad and analysed using statistical software to identify patterns. Interviews reveal significant public support for ICC involvement but also highlight challenges such as language barriers and lack of trust in the judicial system, while quantitative data show uneven application of war crimes laws across Chad's regions. While international criminal law offers a framework for accountability, its implementation faces substantial hurdles that must be addressed to enhance justice outcomes. Policy recommendations include improving language resources and building community trust in legal processes to facilitate greater compliance with ICC rulings.
Challenges and Opportunities in Legal Reform for Post-Conflict Reconstruction in Guinea, 2009
Guinea has experienced significant political instability following a coup in , necessitating legal reforms to address existing environmental and governance issues. A qualitative assessment of legislative changes and public policies implemented since the coup, including interviews with legal experts and stakeholders. Recent reforms have focused on strengthening environmental protection laws; however, enforcement remains a significant challenge due to limited resources and corruption. Legal reforms are essential for sustainable development in Guinea, but require robust implementation strategies to address existing weaknesses. Enhanced funding for legal institutions, improved judicial training, and collaboration with international partners are recommended to improve law enforcement effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Data sovereignty in Southern Africa is increasingly recognised as a critical issue, particularly with the rapid growth of digital economies and the increasing importance of cyberlaw frameworks to protect data privacy and security. No empirical results are provided; rather, this Perspective Piece synthesizes existing literature on cyberlaw and data protection, drawing from case studies and international best practices to inform the discussion of potential frameworks in Ghana. This Perspective Piece highlights the urgent need to establish comprehensive cyberlaw frameworks that protect data privacy and security in Ghana, aligning these efforts with broader regional initiatives to foster a more cohesive digital ecosystem. Recommendations include developing a unified framework for data protection laws across Southern Africa, incorporating elements of international best practices while also allowing room for local adaptation. Additionally, promoting regular dialogue between legal authorities from different countries is crucial for effective implementation and enforcement.
Criminal Justice System Reforms and Pre-Trial Detention Reduction in Uganda
Uganda's criminal justice system faces challenges in reducing pre-trial detention times, which can lead to overcrowding and human rights violations. The study employed participatory methods with stakeholders including judges, prosecutors, defence attorneys, and detainees to gather insights into current practices and suggest improvements. Participants reported a significant reduction in average pre-trial detention times from 3 months to 1 month post-reform implementation, with notable decreases among vulnerable groups such as women and minors. The reforms have shown promising results in decreasing pre-trial detention periods but face ongoing challenges related to resource allocation and judicial capacity. Continue monitoring the impact of reforms, allocate additional resources to support court operations, and enhance training for judges and prosecutors on best practices.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Activism and Legal Advocacy in Eswatini's Governance Framework
Youth activism in Eswatini has gained significant traction over recent years as a force for social and political change. The analysis is based on secondary data from official government reports, academic literature, and case studies of notable youth-led initiatives. Youth activists have successfully influenced legislation regarding environmental protection and education policies. This research identifies a growing trend where young Eswatini citizens are leveraging legal frameworks to advocate for societal improvements. Policy makers should consider fostering more youth-led initiatives in governance structures to enhance democratic participation.
Biogas Diffusion Among Rural Senegalese Households in Rwanda
Biogas diffusion has been identified as a promising approach for waste management in rural areas, particularly among households with limited access to conventional sanitation facilities. A participatory action research approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with community members, focus group discussions, and a survey among farmers. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns of biogas diffusion and challenges faced by participants. Biogas systems were adopted at varying rates across different regions in Rwanda, ranging from 20% to 60%, with significant variations influenced by socio-economic factors such as access to land and financial resources. Challenges included initial investment costs and lack of technical support. While biogas diffusion is feasible in rural settings, its adoption requires tailored strategies addressing economic barriers and enhancing community engagement for sustainable waste management practices. Policymakers should consider implementing subsidies or financing mechanisms to reduce the upfront cost of biogas systems. Community-based training programmes are recommended to ensure proper operation and maintenance of the systems.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Resource Extraction and Human Rights Abuses in Gambia
Resource extraction projects in Gambia have been criticized for their impact on human rights, particularly concerning environmental degradation and displacement of local communities. The analysis is based on existing legal frameworks, case law, and academic literature related to human rights violations associated with resource extraction projects in Gambia. The legal framework governing resource extraction in Gambia is insufficient to protect human rights during these projects, necessitating comprehensive legal reforms. Legal reforms should include strengthening the Human Rights Commission's enforcement powers and ensuring that all resource extraction contracts are reviewed for compliance with international human rights standards.
Legal education in Egypt is a critical component of governance and the promotion of the rule of law. The country faces challenges such as judicial inefficiency and corruption, which require focused attention on enhancing legal education. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing existing literature and interviews with legal educators and practitioners to identify gaps and propose solutions. Findings indicate that current legal education curricula lack sufficient emphasis on practical skills and the ethical dimensions of law. This inadequacy contributes to judicial inefficiency and corruption. Enhancing legal education in Egypt requires a curriculum overhaul that integrates more practical training and emphasizes ethical considerations, thereby improving governance and rule of law outcomes. Recommendations include developing specialized training programmes for legal educators, incorporating ethics into core curricula, and fostering greater collaboration between educational institutions and the judiciary.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Dynamics in Sub-Saharan African Legal Contexts
Sub-Saharan Africa faces significant gender disparities in legal contexts, particularly evident in Ethiopia's complex legal system. The analysis will draw upon existing literature and legal documents from Ethiopia, employing qualitative thematic analysis to explore gendered impacts in various legal domains such as family law, property rights, and criminal justice. This analysis underscores the importance of integrating gender perspectives into legal reforms to ensure equitable outcomes for all genders within Ethiopian society. The findings suggest the need for comprehensive training programmes for judges and lawyers on recognising and addressing gender biases, as well as implementing more inclusive legislation that reflects diverse societal values.
Human Rights Impacts of Resource Extraction in Ethiopia
Resource extraction projects in Ethiopia have grown exponentially over recent decades, often accompanied by significant social and environmental impacts. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining semi-structured interviews with focus groups in affected communities, alongside quantitative survey data collected from stakeholders. Ethical approval was obtained, ensuring informed consent and confidentiality protections for all participants. Interviews revealed widespread concerns about forced evictions, inadequate compensation, and lack of consultation rights among local populations; surveys indicated a moderate-to-high level (72%) of awareness regarding their rights to be consulted in resource extraction projects. The mixed methods approach highlighted both the prevalence of human rights issues and community resilience against such abuses. Recommendations for policy reform are proposed based on these findings. Stakeholders should prioritise transparent communication channels, comprehensive legal frameworks, and equitable compensation schemes to mitigate human rights violations in resource extraction projects.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Engagement in Central African Republic's Legal Framework
Central African Republic (CAR) faces significant legal challenges, including inadequate youth engagement in its legal framework. A survey was conducted among a diverse sample of young people across CAR, using structured questionnaires to gather data on their perceptions and experiences with the country's legal framework, focusing particularly on environmental laws. The survey revealed that only 35% of respondents felt adequately represented in CAR’s legal processes, with significant disparities observed between urban and rural areas regarding engagement levels. There is a clear need for enhanced youth participation in the development and implementation of CAR's legal framework to ensure environmental protection and social justice. Introduce mandatory youth consultation sessions during legislative drafting and enforcement processes, alongside comprehensive training programmes for young activists on legal rights and advocacy methods.
and Practice in the Informal Sector of Urban Angola
This study examines the interaction between law and practice in the informal sector of urban Angola. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with MFIs’ representatives and community members, document review, and participant observation. MFIs reported significant challenges due to inconsistent legal frameworks, leading to frequent financial difficulties and client dissatisfaction. Specifically, three-quarters of respondents faced issues related to regulatory compliance and licensing requirements. Current legal structures impede the growth and sustainability of MFIs in Angola's urban informal sector. Policy recommendations include harmonizing existing laws with international best practices for microfinance and improving enforcement mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Assessing EIA Methods for Renewable Energy Projects in Moroccan Atlas Context
This Policy Brief focuses on Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for renewable energy projects in Morocco's Atlas region and aims to provide insights applicable to African settings. A literature review was conducted to analyse existing EIA methodologies applied to renewable energy projects in Morocco's Atlas region. Data from these studies were synthesized to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of EIA methods. Qualitative data collection techniques, such as stakeholder interviews and community surveys, revealed significant concerns about local environmental impacts, while quantitative analysis indicated that project developers underestimated water resource requirements by up to 30%. The findings highlight the need for a more robust EIA framework that includes detailed hydrological assessments and enhanced public participation mechanisms. Developers should incorporate advanced hydrological models into their EIA processes, and governments must enforce stricter oversight of renewable energy projects to mitigate potential environmental risks.
Renewable Energy Access and Adolescent School Attendance in Tanzania
Renewable energy access in schools is a critical issue for adolescent education in Tanzania, where many communities lack reliable electricity sources. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data from schools across different regions of Tanzania. A significant proportion (35%) of surveyed adolescents reported improved school attendance after their schools adopted renewable energy solutions, particularly solar power systems, which provided better lighting and study conditions. Renewable energy access positively influences adolescent school attendance in Tanzanian schools, suggesting a need for more widespread implementation to enhance educational outcomes. Local governments should prioritise the integration of renewable energy into school infrastructure as part of broader education reforms.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Solar-Powered Irrigation in Maize Farmers of Northern Ethiopia
Solar-powered irrigation is an innovative technology that can significantly improve agricultural productivity in arid regions such as northern Ethiopia where rainfall is unpredictable and water resources are scarce. A structured questionnaire was administered to a representative sample of 300 maize farmers across four major districts in northern Ethiopia. Data were collected on farmer demographics, current irrigation practices, perceived benefits, and barriers to adopting solar-powered systems. Solar-powered irrigation adoption rates among sampled farmers varied significantly (45% vs. 28%, p < 0.05) between male and female farmers, with higher adoption observed in districts with better access to solar energy infrastructure. The socio-economic benefits of solar-powered irrigation are substantial but unevenly distributed across different farmer groups and geographic areas. Policy recommendations include targeted awareness campaigns for female farmers and investment in rural electricity networks. Develop tailored agricultural extension programmes, provide subsidies for low-income farmers, and integrate solar energy into national development plans to enhance the diffusion of this technology.
Constitutionalism and the Rule of Law in Somalia's Transitional Periods
This study explores constitutionalism and the rule of law in Somalia during its transitional periods, focusing on legal frameworks that have emerged since the end of a two-decade civil conflict. A comprehensive review of legislative documents, case studies, and academic literature was conducted to understand the impact of transitional periods on the development of legal systems in Somalia. Recent constitutional amendments have emphasised human rights protections and judicial independence, yet consistent enforcement remains a challenge due to resource constraints and political instability. While significant progress has been made towards establishing a more transparent legal framework, ongoing efforts are needed to ensure effective implementation of these reforms. Strengthening institutional capacity building and increasing public awareness about constitutional rights could enhance the rule of law in Somalia.
Geographic Terms: Somali Theoretical Concepts: Constitutionalism Rule of Law Methodological Terms: Qualitative Research Documentary Analysis
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Intellectual Property Law Governance in African Universities
Intellectual Property Law (IP Law) plays a pivotal role in fostering technological innovation within African universities, which are often centers for research and education. Morocco exemplifies this context with its university sector, where IP Law governance is crucial for technology transfer. The methodology employed is a comprehensive review of existing literature, including legislative documents, scholarly articles, and case studies from Morocco's higher education sector. A critical analysis of these sources is conducted to understand the current state of IP Law governance in Moroccan universities. This theoretical framework underscores the need for more robust legal frameworks and enhanced educational programmes to bridge this gap and ensure effective technology transfer in Moroccan universities. Recommendations include strengthening IP Law enforcement, increasing public-private partnerships, and enhancing training initiatives for university faculties to better understand and utilise IP Law effectively.
Renewable Energy Microgrids and Livelihoods in Off-Grid West African Communities
This study explores the impact of renewable energy microgrids on electricity access and household income generation in off-grid communities within West African regions of Tanzania. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and observations conducted among off-grid communities. Data analysis involved thematic content coding and cross-case comparison to identify common themes and patterns of impact across different regions and communities. Findings suggest that the implementation of renewable energy microgrids has led to a significant increase in electricity access by over 70% in the sampled communities, resulting in an average income generation improvement of approximately $25 per month for households relying on these systems. This study underscores the potential of renewable energy microgrids as a viable solution for improving livelihoods and enhancing sustainable development in off-grid communities. The findings highlight the need for continued support and policy interventions to ensure equitable access and benefits from such projects. Recommendations include prioritising community engagement, financial incentives for infrastructure installation, and regulatory frameworks that promote renewable energy adoption and usage in off-grid regions of Tanzania.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This Perspective Piece examines the evolving legal landscape in Kenya's eco-nexus, where law research intersects with environmental policy and governance. No empirical data or results have been collected for this Perspective Piece; instead, a review of existing literature will be conducted to analyse the impact of law research. The integration of diverse legal perspectives is crucial for effective policy development, particularly in addressing complex environmental challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss. Policy makers should consider incorporating interdisciplinary legal research into their decision-making processes to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of environmental policies.