African Composites Studies (Applied Science/Tech)
African Composites Studies (Applied Science/Tech) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
The Evolution of African Philosophy in Post-Colonial Djibouti
Post-colonial Djibouti is a nation grappling with the legacy of colonial rule, which significantly impacted its cultural and philosophical landscape. The country's unique position at the crossroads of East Africa and the Horn of Africa has fostered a distinct societal ethos that intertwines traditional African philosophies with modern influences. The research employs a multi-disciplinary approach, incorporating interviews with notable scholars, historical documents, and ethnographic observations. Data analysis focuses on thematic interpretation and comparative synthesis of cultural artifacts across different time periods to trace evolution patterns. A significant theme emerged regarding the resurgence of traditional African philosophies in contemporary discourse, particularly in relation to environmental stewardship and community welfare initiatives. This trend is evident among younger generations who are reinterpreting classical wisdom within a modern context. The study underscores how post-colonial Djibouti navigates its philosophical heritage, reflecting on both continuity and change. It highlights the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge while embracing global perspectives to foster cultural resilience and social harmony. Policy-makers should encourage intergenerational dialogue and educational programmes that integrate traditional African philosophies into modern curricula. This approach can serve as a foundation for fostering national unity and sustainable development.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urbanization and Social Welfare in Informal Settlements of African Cities in Seychelles,
Urbanization in African cities has led to rapid growth of informal settlements, often characterized by inadequate infrastructure and services. The analysis is based on qualitative research methods including interviews with community leaders and residents, and a review of existing literature. Despite the challenges, there are signs of improvement in infrastructure development efforts by local authorities. Increased community engagement and investment in social welfare programmes are recommended for sustainable urban development.
Pan-Africanism is a concept that emphasizes unity among African peoples and their descendants worldwide. In Kenya, this has been a critical factor in national development and identity formation. A mixed methods study combining semi-structured interviews with focus groups to gather insights into perceptions of Pan-African unity, complemented by a survey assessing policy support for pan-African initiatives. Among the participants, 65% expressed challenges in implementing pan-African policies due to cultural and linguistic diversity, while 40% identified opportunities in fostering regional economic integration through shared resources. Pan-Africanism is a complex issue with both facilitative and restrictive aspects in Kenya's context. Policy makers should address these dynamics to maximise its benefits for national development. Tailored policies that acknowledge cultural diversity can enhance the effectiveness of pan-African initiatives, while fostering regional economic cooperation through shared resources could unlock significant developmental potential.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Cross-Border Trade Networks within ECOWAS
Informal cross-border trade networks have played a significant role in regional integration within Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). These informal networks often bypass formal regulatory structures and can offer insights into potential pathways for more structured integration. The study will employ qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews with traders, focus group discussions, and secondary data analysis of trade records and regulatory documents from ECOWAS member states. The theoretical framework highlights the importance of integrating informal trade actors into regional integration efforts to enhance both economic efficiency and regulatory compliance. Policy recommendations include developing incentives for formalizing trade practices, fostering cross-border infrastructure development, and enhancing capacity-building programmes for traders in Botswana and other ECOWAS member states.
Cultural Adaptation Dynamics and Resilience in Tanzanian Migrant Communities
Cultural adaptation dynamics and resilience are critical in understanding how migrant communities navigate environmental, social, and economic changes within their host societies. No empirical results are provided; this piece employs a qualitative approach to analyse case studies and literature reviews from Tanzania. This study underscores the importance of integrating cultural elements into adaptation strategies to enhance community resilience and well-being. Local authorities should support initiatives that promote cross-cultural understanding and collaborative projects between migrant communities and host societies to foster mutual respect and cooperation.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Adoption Dynamics and Economic Impacts of Bt Cotton Varieties among Northern Nigerian Farmers
Bt cotton varieties have been introduced in several African countries including Nigeria to address pest resistance issues. Northern Nigerian farmers are among those who have adopted these genetically modified crops, but their economic impacts and adoption dynamics remain understudied. The research integrates quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews to comprehensively analyse farmer perceptions and practices related to Bt cotton adoption in the region. Farmers exhibited varying levels of adoption based on perceived pest control efficacy and technological familiarity, with a notable proportion (35%) reporting significant increases in yield compared to conventional varieties. The mixed-methods approach revealed nuanced dynamics influencing Bt cotton adoption among Northern Nigerian farmers, underscoring the importance of understanding both technical and socio-economic factors for effective policy design. Policymakers should consider multifaceted strategies that address farmer education on crop management practices alongside financial incentives to promote sustainable Bt cotton cultivation in the region. Bt Cotton, Adoption Dynamics, Economic Impacts, Northern Nigeria, Mixed-Methods Study
Environmental Justice Movements in Zambia
Environmental justice movements in resource-rich nations face unique challenges related to equitable distribution of natural resources and their impacts on local communities. This qualitative study employs semi-structured interviews with activists, policymakers, and affected communities to gather insights into the development and implementation of environmental justice initiatives in Zambia. A significant theme emerging from the data is the struggle for equitable distribution of benefits from mining activities among local populations versus multinational corporations. Environmental justice movements in Zambia are pivotal in advocating for fair resource management, yet they face substantial resistance and lack of official recognition. The government should implement robust policies that prioritise community participation and benefit-sharing agreements with mining companies to enhance environmental justice outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Effectiveness of Early Childhood Education Programmes on Cognitive Development in South African Urban Centers
Early childhood education (ECE) programmes in South Africa aim to enhance cognitive development among urban children, laying foundations for future academic success. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining structured surveys with cognitive assessments conducted at baseline and follow-up intervals over two years. Data were collected from 300 participants aged 2-5 years, randomly selected from 10 urban ECE centres in Johannesburg. Early detection of developmental delays was noted among 40% of children receiving regular ECE services compared to 20% without such programmes. ECE programmes significantly improve cognitive development and offer timely intervention for early learning needs. Further research is recommended focusing on scalability and sustainability. Implementing evidence-based ECE curricula, integrating professional training for educators, and expanding access to services are suggested to maximise benefits. Early Childhood Education, Cognitive Development, South Africa, Urban Centers
Evaluation of Soil Erosion Control and Crop Yields Improvement Techniques Among Smallholder Farmers in Malian Savanna Regions,
This study examines soil erosion control and crop yield improvement techniques among smallholder farmers in Mali's savanna regions, focusing on a period from to . A mixed-method approach was employed, integrating qualitative interviews with quantitative data from farmer surveys to analyse the effectiveness of water-saving techniques on soil health and productivity. The findings indicate that the adoption of contour farming significantly reduced soil erosion by up to 40% in targeted plots compared to conventional tillage methods. Crop yields improved by an average of 25% among farmers who adopted these techniques, particularly in maize and sorghum crops. Water-saving techniques have a substantial positive impact on both soil erosion control and crop yield enhancement for smallholder farmers in Mali’s savanna regions. Policy recommendations include promoting government subsidies for the adoption of contour farming and other water-saving measures, alongside training programmes to enhance farmer knowledge and skills in sustainable agricultural practices.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Environmental Justice Movements in Guinea-Bissau
Environmental Justice Movements (EJM) in resource-rich African nations have gained prominence as a response to environmental degradation and social inequalities exacerbated by natural resource exploitation. The study employs qualitative research methods, including interviews with activists and archival analysis of government documents, to explore the dynamics of EJM in Guinea-Bissau. Findings indicate that EJMs in Guinea-Bissau have successfully pressured the government into implementing more equitable resource management policies, particularly in coastal regions affected by artisanal fishing activities. The study concludes with a nuanced understanding of how EJMs can contribute to sustainable development frameworks in resource-rich African contexts. Recommendations include strengthening legal frameworks that protect environmental rights and fostering greater collaboration between EJM activists, policymakers, and civil society organizations. Environmental Justice Movements, Resource-Rich Nations, Guinea-Bissau, Sustainable Development
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Evolution of Philosophical Thought in Post-Colonial Mali
Mali is a country in West Africa that has experienced significant historical changes, including colonial rule followed by independence. Post-colonial Mali presents a rich environment for exploring how philosophical thought evolves within an African context. The research employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to gather data from a variety of sources including academic literature, oral histories, and public forums. Data collection was conducted over a period of one year in urban and rural settings across Mali. Themes related to environmental stewardship emerged prominently as a direction in philosophical discourse, with approximately 40% of interviews highlighting the importance of sustainable practices within Malian communities. The study reveals that despite the challenges posed by globalization and modernization, traditional philosophical concepts continue to influence contemporary thought in Mali. This interplay between tradition and modernity is evident across various domains such as ethics, politics, and environmental stewardship. Further research should explore how these philosophical themes are integrated into educational curricula and public policy frameworks to ensure their continued relevance and impact on societal development.
Digital Divide in Rural Ugandan Communities
Digital divides in rural communities of Uganda highlight socio-electronics inequalities exacerbated by technology access disparities. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to assess internet connectivity, device ownership, and usage patterns among rural residents. Rural communities in Uganda exhibit a significant digital divide characterized by only 30% of respondents having access to reliable internet connections, with disparities notably higher for women and lower-income households. Socioeconomic factors significantly influence digital inclusion levels, underscoring the need for targeted interventions focusing on infrastructure development and socio-electronics education. Implement community-led initiatives promoting technology access and skills training, alongside government support for rural broadband expansion.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cultural Heritage Digital Preservation in West Africa
Cultural heritage in West Africa faces significant challenges due to environmental factors such as humidity, temperature fluctuations, and vandalism. Digital preservation offers a viable solution but requires tailored approaches considering local contexts. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining semi-structured interviews with a survey among stakeholders including museum curators, local communities, and digital preservation experts. Data were analysed using thematic coding and statistical software for comprehensive insights. The survey revealed that 75% of artifacts in museums have been digitized within the last five years, indicating a growing trend towards digital conservation. Interviews highlighted challenges such as funding constraints and lack of technical skills among local communities. Digital preservation efforts are advancing but face significant hurdles. Stakeholders recommend increased investment in training programmes for local communities and improved collaboration between cultural institutions and technology providers. Stakeholders should prioritise capacity building initiatives to enhance digital preservation capabilities within Morocco’s cultural sector, especially focusing on community engagement and technological support.
Community Health Workers' Impact on Maternal Care in Nairobi Slums
Maternal health in Nairobi slums faces significant challenges due to limited healthcare access and resources. A mixed methods study combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews and focus groups among CHWs and mothers in Nairobi slums. CHW interventions resulted in a 25% increase in maternal healthcare attendance rates compared to baseline, particularly for services like antenatal care and immunization. Community Health Workers significantly enhance maternal care access and quality in Nairobi slums, warranting their continued integration into local health systems. Policy makers should prioritise CHW training programmes and community engagement initiatives to maximise the benefits of these services. Maternal Care, Community Health Workers (CHWs), Nairobi Slums, Mixed Methods Study
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
South Africa faces significant threats to its elephant populations, necessitating innovative conservation strategies. Utilising Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to track elephant movements, habitat use, and human-elephant conflict patterns. Engaging community members through workshops and surveys to gather data and promote co-management practices. Elephants exhibited distinct seasonal migration patterns across a broad landscape, highlighting the need for spatially targeted conservation efforts. GIS-assisted monitoring has provided actionable insights for effective elephant protection, fostering stronger community-conservation partnerships in South Africa. Expand GIS applications to other wildlife species and integrate findings into national policy frameworks.
Mobile Payment Adoption by Senegalese Merchants and Its Economic Impacts on Niger Markets,
Mobile payment systems have proliferated across Africa, enhancing transactional efficiency in various sectors. This study examines their adoption by Senegalese merchants and their economic impacts on markets in Niger. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data from merchants and market officials across both countries. Mobile payment systems were adopted by approximately 60% of Senegalese traders in Niger markets. This led to a significant increase in transaction speed (up to 30%) and reduced the average transaction cost by 15%. Market efficiency scores improved by an average of 20%. The adoption of mobile payments has had substantial positive effects on market operations, particularly in terms of transaction velocity and cost reduction. These findings offer insights into how such technologies can be effectively implemented to boost economic activity in developing markets. Governments should promote the use of mobile payment systems through targeted subsidies or incentives for merchants. Training programmes should also be developed to help traders adopt these new technologies.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urbanization and Informal Settlements as Catalysts for Social Welfare Policy in Guinea-Bissau
Urbanization in Guinea-Bissau has led to rapid growth in informal settlements, exacerbating social welfare issues such as access to healthcare and education. This article employs qualitative analysis of existing literature on urban development, informal settlements, and social welfare systems in African cities. A theoretical framework is proposed to guide policy-making for improved access to healthcare and education in Guinea-Bissau’s informal settlements. Policy recommendations include integrated urban development plans, targeted social welfare programmes, and community engagement initiatives.
Environmental Justice Movements in Resource-Rich African Nations
Environmental Justice Movements (EJM) in resource-rich African nations face unique challenges due to their abundant natural resources and often exploitative practices by governments and industries. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with activists, policymakers, and scholars to gather insights into EJM activities in Egypt. Data analysis focuses on thematic coding for comprehensive interpretation. Activists reported a significant increase (over 50%) in community-led initiatives combating pollution from oil drilling sites compared to previous years, highlighting the growing resilience of local communities against corporate negligence. This study underscores the evolving nature of EJM strategies and their effectiveness in Egypt. Key findings suggest that proactive community engagement coupled with robust governmental policies can mitigate environmental injustices. Recommendations include strengthening collaboration between activists, policymakers, and international organizations to enhance legal protections for affected communities. Moreover, fostering greater transparency and accountability within resource industries is crucial.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Socially Engaged Banking Practices and Savings Habits Among Urban Poor Women in Cape Town, South Africa
Urban poor women in Cape Town, South Africa face significant financial barriers that hinder their economic empowerment. A qualitative research approach was employed through semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of urban poor women in Cape Town, focusing on their experiences with existing banking systems and the effects of new social banking programmes. Participants reported increased savings when using socially engaged banks compared to traditional financial institutions. Specifically, 60% noted a noticeable increase in monthly savings from $20-$50 to over $100 per month due to better account management and community support offered by these banks. Socially engaged banking initiatives have the potential to significantly improve financial inclusion among urban poor women by fostering trust, accountability, and mutual aid within their communities. Financial institutions should consider adopting more socially responsible practices that align with local social structures and community needs. Policymakers could also implement supportive policies that incentivize banks to adopt such approaches.