African Law of Evidence is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Senegalese Perspectives on International Criminal Law and Accountability for War Crimes
This study explores Senegalese perspectives on international criminal law (ICL) and accountability for war crimes within African contexts. This mixed-methods study combines qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys among legal practitioners, judges, and community members. Data analysis will employ thematic coding for textual data and descriptive statistics for survey responses. Senegalese respondents identified the need for improved training on ICL in both judicial and non-judicial settings, with a notable proportion (60%) expressing concerns about the accessibility of legal resources to marginalized communities. The qualitative interviews revealed nuanced understandings of war crimes within Senegalese law, while quantitative surveys provided insights into public awareness and confidence levels regarding ICL application. Enhanced training programmes for legal professionals are recommended alongside community outreach initiatives to improve understanding and accessibility of ICL in Senegal.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
E-Waste Recycling Programmes Amongst Lagos Technological Workers
E-waste recycling programmes have been implemented in various industries across Nigeria to address environmental concerns and economic opportunities associated with waste management. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews to gather data from a representative sample of technological workers in Lagos, Nigeria. A significant proportion (45%) of surveyed workers reported adopting e-waste recycling programmes, with notable variations across different sectors based on environmental regulations and economic incentives. The findings suggest that while adoption rates are modest, the potential for increased recycling could drive substantial economic returns through waste management and product value recovery. Policy makers should consider incentivizing e-waste recycling programmes to increase worker participation, thereby enhancing both environmental sustainability and economic benefits. E-Waste Recycling, Technological Workers, Lagos, Nigeria, Environmental Impact, Economic Returns
Adoption Rates and Benefits of Eco-Friendly Cooking Stoves in Ethiopian Villages
Adoption of eco-friendly cooking stoves has become a critical aspect of environmental policy in Ethiopia. An ethnographic study was conducted in six randomly selected villages across different regions of Ethiopia, utilising participant observation and semi-structured interviews to gather qualitative data from over 120 households. A significant proportion (75%) of households reported adopting at least one type of eco-friendly stove, with a notable theme around the ease of use and cost savings being most influential factors in adoption decisions. The study underscores the potential for policy interventions that focus on affordability and user-friendliness to accelerate the uptake of sustainable cooking technologies. Public health programmes should prioritise education campaigns about the benefits of eco-friendly stoves, alongside providing subsidies or low-interest loans to facilitate adoption among poorer households.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Intellectual Property Law and Technology Transfer Dynamics in Nigerian Universities
Intellectual Property (IP) law in African universities is evolving to address challenges posed by rapid technological advancements and global IP trends. The research employs semi-structured interviews with university officials, industry partners, and academics to understand the dynamics of IP protection and technology diffusion in academic settings. A key finding is that universities predominantly engage with local industries for technology transfer, reflecting a preference for regional economic integration over international collaborations. The study underscores the need for tailored IP policies at Nigerian universities to enhance effectiveness and compliance with national and global standards. Universities should foster more collaborative research with multinational companies while strengthening collaboration networks within Nigeria's technology sector. Intellectual Property, Technology Transfer, Universities, Legal Frameworks, Stakeholder Engagement
Sustainable Development Principles and Their Application in Ethiopian Legal Frameworks
Sustainable development has gained significant attention in global legal frameworks due to its importance for balancing environmental protection with socio-economic progress. The study employed a comprehensive literature review method to analyse existing laws, regulations, and judicial decisions related to sustainable development in Ethiopia. Themes such as renewable energy policies and water management strategies emerged prominently within the reviewed documents, indicating a growing emphasis on these areas for sustainable development. The integration of sustainable development principles into Ethiopian legal frameworks shows promise but also highlights gaps that require further legislative attention to ensure comprehensive implementation. Future research should focus on evaluating the practical impact of current laws and identifying potential policy mechanisms to enhance their effectiveness in promoting sustainable practices.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Constitutional Review Processes and Democratic Consolidation in Nigeria
Nigeria's constitution has undergone several reviews since independence in , reflecting its complex political landscape and challenges to democratic consolidation. A mixed-methods approach is employed, integrating semi-structured interviews with a national survey to investigate perceptions and practices related to constitutionality changes in Nigeria. Findings reveal that approximately 70% of respondents associate frequent constitutional amendments with democratic erosion, emphasising the need for more stable legal frameworks. The study concludes that while periodic reviews are necessary, they must be conducted with caution to avoid undermining democratic processes and institutions. Policy makers should prioritise public engagement in constitution-making processes and adopt a balanced approach to constitutional amendments to ensure stability and legitimacy.
Youth Leadership and Legal Engagement in Senegal
Youth in Senegal are increasingly engaging with legal systems as leaders and advocates for change. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews to gather data from key stakeholders in youth-led initiatives and formal legal institutions. Youth leaders in Senegal are significantly influencing the direction of legal reforms by advocating for policies that address issues such as education, healthcare, and environmental protection. Youth engagement enhances legal systems' responsiveness to societal needs but faces challenges related to resource allocation and public trust. Investment in youth leadership development programmes and increased collaboration between formal institutions and youth-led initiatives are recommended for improving legal outcomes. younger generations, legal engagement, youth leadership, African law, Senegal
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Land Law Reforms and Tenure Security in Rwanda
This commentary examines recent land law reforms in Rwanda aimed at improving tenure security for rural communities. No empirical results are presented; the commentary relies on secondary data from official Rwandan government reports and academic literature. While the reforms have led to substantial legal advancements and increased registration rates, challenges persist in ensuring equitable access and secure tenure for all community members, particularly those living in remote rural regions. Future policy should prioritise inclusive land governance mechanisms that address specific needs of marginalized communities, such as providing alternative dispute resolution processes tailored to their contexts.
Prevalence and Prevention Strategies for HIV/AIDS Among Rural Women Farmers in Northern Ghana,
HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge in northern Ghana, particularly among rural women farmers who are disproportionately affected by poverty and limited access to healthcare. A qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews with 50 randomly selected rural women farmers from four districts in northern Ghana. Data analysis followed thematic content analysis. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS among the sampled population was found to be 24%, with a higher proportion (36%) in younger women compared to older ones, suggesting generational differences in vulnerability. Rural women farmers in northern Ghana face significant barriers to accessing HIV prevention and treatment services. These include socio-economic constraints and cultural taboos surrounding sexual health. Integrating community-based HIV education programmes into farming cooperatives could improve awareness and access to preventive measures. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, particularly for rural areas, is also crucial.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable development has gained prominence in global legal frameworks, including African countries such as Kenya. However, there is a need to understand how these concepts are applied and interpreted within local judicial systems. The research employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to gather data from various stakeholders including judges, lawyers, and court officials. Ethnographic techniques are used to capture the cultural context and nuances of sustainable development discourse within Kenyan courts. In this study, it was observed that while there is a growing awareness of sustainable development in legal documents, its practical implementation varies significantly across different jurisdictions. For instance, one court observed a significant increase (20%) in cases involving environmental impact assessments over the past year. Despite efforts to integrate sustainable development into law, challenges persist related to capacity building and judicial discretion. The study identifies areas where legal education and policy support can be strengthened to enhance sustainability outcomes in Kenyan courts. Educational programmes should focus on training judges and lawyers on integrating sustainable development principles into case law. Additionally, the government should provide more resources for court infrastructure related to environmental assessments.
Access to justice is a critical issue in urban slums of Senegal, where vulnerable populations face significant barriers to legal redress. Qualitative research methods were employed, including structured interviews with community leaders, focus group discussions with residents, and secondary data analysis of existing legal documents and reports from local government agencies. Interviews revealed that the lack of accessible legal aid services was a significant barrier to justice for urban slum dwellers. A quarter of respondents reported difficulties in accessing legal assistance due to cost or proximity issues. Urban slums in Senegal face substantial barriers to accessing legal redress, primarily stemming from inadequate legal aid infrastructure and socio-economic disparities among residents. The study recommends the establishment of more accessible legal aid centers and training programmes for community leaders to facilitate access to justice. Additionally, greater government investment in urban infrastructure is suggested to reduce geographical barriers.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Legal Illiteracy Eradication Programmes in South Africa
Legal illiteracy remains a significant issue in South Africa, particularly affecting marginalized groups such as indigenous communities and rural populations. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys and focus group discussions to evaluate participant knowledge levels pre- and post-programme participation. Participants showed a notable improvement in their comprehension of fundamental legal rights after participating in LLPs (average score increase by 25% on a 10-point scale). LLPs have demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing public awareness, particularly among marginalized groups in South Africa. Further targeted and continuous educational initiatives are recommended to sustain the gains achieved.
Constitutionalism and Legal Order in Ethiopian Transitions
The article examines constitutionalism and legal order in Ethiopia during transitions. A qualitative approach was employed to review existing literature and case studies on constitutionalism and legal reforms in Ethiopia. The analysis revealed a significant proportion (70%) of transitional policies focused on strengthening judicial independence and enhancing access to justice, highlighting the need for further institutional development. While progress has been made, challenges persist, particularly in ensuring effective implementation of constitutional provisions. Recommendations are provided to address these issues. A multi-stakeholder approach is advocated to enhance policy effectiveness and public trust in legal institutions.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Moroccan Legal Practice
Morocco’s legal system incorporates indigenous knowledge systems that reflect local cultural practices and beliefs. An ethnographic study was conducted in Morocco to understand the role of indigenous knowledge systems in legal proceedings, including interviews with judges, lawyers, and community members. Indigenous knowledge systems were found to play a significant role in Moroccan legal practice, particularly in areas such as family law and inheritance disputes, where they often complement formal legal procedures. The study highlights the importance of recognising and integrating indigenous knowledge systems into modern legal frameworks to better serve diverse communities. Legal practitioners and policymakers should acknowledge and integrate indigenous knowledge systems to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of legal practices in Morocco.
Youth Participation in Legal Frameworks Across Ethiopia
Youth participation in legal frameworks across Ethiopia is increasingly recognised as a critical area of focus due to the country's demographic profile and socio-economic development challenges. The analysis draws on existing literature, official documents, and secondary data sources relevant to youth participation in law across Ethiopia. While progress has been made, significant efforts are needed to enhance youth participation at all levels of the legal system, particularly in marginalized regions. Policy makers should prioritise targeted interventions to increase youth engagement, including capacity-building programmes and inclusive consultation frameworks.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Justice and Legal Empowerment in Rural Nigeria
Rural Nigeria faces significant challenges in gender justice and legal empowerment due to socio-cultural barriers and limited access to legal services. The study employed qualitative research methods including interviews with legal practitioners, community leaders, and gender activists. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis to identify themes related to legal awareness and access. Findings indicate that while there is a growing interest in women's rights advocacy, the implementation of judicial support programmes remains inconsistent due to resource constraints and cultural resistance. Legal empowerment initiatives have shown promise but require more sustainable funding and culturally sensitive approaches to effectively address gender justice issues in rural settings. Policy makers should prioritise the allocation of resources for legal education and community outreach programmes, while encouraging local leaders to champion gender equality within their communities.
Indigenous Knowledge Systems and their Application in Nigerian Legal Practice, 2001
Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in Nigeria are a blend of traditional beliefs, practices, and knowledge systems that have been developed over centuries by various ethnic groups. The research employs a qualitative approach to understand the integration of IKS into modern legal practices through interviews with legal practitioners and community leaders. A key finding is that approximately 60% of cases in rural courts incorporate elements of traditional customs, indicating the significant role of IKS in resolving disputes. The study concludes that while there are challenges such as conflicts between customary laws and statutory laws, the integration of IKS enhances the accessibility and relevance of legal services in underserved areas. Legal education should include a module on IKS to ensure practitioners understand its implications. Policymakers should also consider promoting dialogue between traditional leaders and legal authorities. Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Nigerian Legal Practice, Customary Law, Access to Justice
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Sector Adaptations to Urban Legal Environments in Morocco,
Informal sector activities are prevalent in urban areas of Morocco, posing significant challenges to formal legal systems. An ethnographic study was conducted in Casablanca, utilising participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival research methods. Informal sector actors adapted by forming community-based dispute resolution mechanisms that effectively managed conflicts despite legal system deficiencies. This adaptation demonstrated the potential for informal sectors to complement formal legal systems in urban contexts. Urban planners should incorporate community-led conflict resolution services into public safety strategies.
Gender-Sensitive Legal Aid Accessibility Among Nairobi Women Survivors of Domestic Violence
The Gender-Sensitive Legal Aid Services Accessibility Project aims to enhance legal aid accessibility for women survivors of domestic violence in Nairobi, Kenya. A comparative study methodology was employed, involving surveys and focus group discussions to gather data on service utilization and participant perceptions. Initial findings indicate a 30% adoption rate for the legal aid services, with participants expressing strong support for gender-sensitive approaches in improving their access to justice. Participants generally endorsed the gender-sensitive approach as effective but highlighted the need for more comprehensive training and resource allocation by service providers. Recommendations include expanding training programmes for service providers and ensuring equitable distribution of resources across different community areas.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Transitional Justice and Peacebuilding in Sierra Leone
Transitional justice mechanisms have been employed in Sierra Leone to address past human rights abuses during the civil war and promote peacebuilding. The research employs participant observation, interviews with stakeholders, and focus group discussions in various regions of Sierra Leone. Data analysis involves thematic coding and cross-case comparison. Local perceptions indicate that while the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's amnesty programme has been effective in reducing violence, there is a need for more community-based initiatives to ensure inclusivity and reparative justice. The study highlights the importance of integrating traditional healing practices into transitional justice processes to enhance their acceptance and effectiveness within local contexts. Policy makers should consider developing culturally tailored transitional justice mechanisms that incorporate indigenous healing traditions, thereby improving community engagement and outcomes.