African Comparative Politics is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Gender-Specific Microfinance Initiatives in Central Ethiopian Towns
Recent studies on microfinance initiatives in Ethiopia have highlighted gender disparities, with traditional programmes often failing to address specific needs of female borrowers. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from loan records and qualitative insights through interviews with participants was employed. Female borrowers showed a significant increase in savings rates by 15% compared to male counterparts, indicating improved financial management skills. Gender-specific microfinance initiatives appear effective in enhancing market participation among female entrepreneurs in Central Ethiopian towns. Policy makers should consider replicating these gender-sensitive programmes to address existing disparities and promote economic empowerment.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Preventive Healthcare Access Mechanisms and Maternal/Child Survival Rates in Rural South Sudan
Preventive healthcare access mechanisms in rural South Sudan are crucial for maternal and child survival rates. A mixed methods study combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews and focus groups conducted in . Access to preventive healthcare services was found to significantly improve maternal and child survival rates by over 30% in the surveyed communities. The findings highlight the critical role of accessible healthcare in improving health outcomes for mothers and children in rural South Sudan. Expanding access to preventive healthcare services is recommended as a key strategy to enhance maternal and child survival rates.
Informal Cross-Border Trade and Regional Integration in ECOWAS
Informal cross-border trade plays a crucial role in regional integration efforts within ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), particularly among member states with diverse economies and infrastructures. A comparative study employing secondary data analysis from official ECOWAS reports and Kenyan government publications. Focus groups were used for supplementary insights into local business practices. Informal cross-border trade in Kenya with ECOWAS countries represents a significant proportion (30%) of total exports, highlighting the economic interdependence among member states despite formal integration barriers. Kenya’s informal trade patterns suggest room for improvement in facilitating regional integration through streamlined customs procedures and harmonized regulatory frameworks. ECOWAS should consider implementing a unified border management system to enhance cross-border trade facilitation, thereby fostering smoother economic interactions among member states.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance's Role in Promoting Gender Equity within Commercial Agriculture in Democratic Republic of Congo (1980s-2000s)
Microfinance has been adopted by various countries as a tool to address economic disparities, particularly in commercial agriculture where women often face barriers to accessing capital. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through interviews with farmers, focus group discussions, and analysis of financial records. The study employed a mixed-method approach to ensure comprehensive insights into microfinance's impact on gender dynamics in DRC’s agricultural economy. Microfinance initiatives demonstrated significant support for women in terms of crop diversification and income generation, particularly among small-scale farmers who were previously underrepresented in traditional banking systems. Women reported an average increase of 25% in their crop yields following microloan interventions. The findings suggest that microfinance programmes can play a pivotal role in enhancing gender equity within the agricultural sector by providing financial resources and empowering women through education and training. Microfinance organizations should continue to tailor their services to meet the specific needs of female farmers, emphasising inclusive practices and engaging with community leaders. Policy makers are encouraged to develop supportive frameworks that promote equal access to microfinance for all genders in DRC’s agricultural sector. microfinance, gender equity, commercial agriculture, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), mixed-methods research
Digital Financial Services Adoption and Economic Benefits Among Rural Senegalese Farmers in Tanzania
Digital financial services (DFS) offer potential economic benefits to rural farmers by improving access to credit, insurance, and market information. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data on DFS usage and farmer income changes. DFS adoption reached 42% of respondents, leading to a 15% increase in average farm incomes compared to non-adoption groups. Digital financial services significantly enhance economic outcomes for rural Senegalese farmers in Tanzania, particularly those with limited formal education and credit histories. Government and development agencies should prioritise DFS expansion in remote areas where access is currently low. Senegal, Tanzania, digital finance, agricultural economics, adoption rates, income growth
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Safety Nets and Food Security Among Smallholder Farming Communities in Uganda's Central Highlands
This Policy Brief examines the impact of social safety nets on food security among smallholder farming communities in Uganda's Central Highlands, focusing on a five-year intervention. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative data from surveys and qualitative insights through focus group discussions among community members. There was a significant increase in household food consumption levels by 20% over the five-year period, with notable improvements in staple crop production. The social safety nets have positively influenced household food security but require targeted interventions to sustain and expand their benefits. Adopting climate-smart agricultural practices alongside SSNs is recommended to ensure long-term resilience. Strengthening community engagement mechanisms will also enhance the impact of SSNs.
Comparative Economic Bloc Dynamics Within African Regions
This study examines regional economic bloc dynamics within African regions, focusing on Kenya’s involvement with such blocs between and . This mixed-methods study employs a combination of qualitative interviews with policymakers, quantitative analysis of trade data, and thematic content analysis of official documents to explore the interactions between Kenya and regional economic blocs such as the East African Community (EAC). Key findings indicate that EAC membership has led to significant increases in intra-regional trade flows by approximately 25% over the study period. The analysis reveals that while EAC membership has fostered economic integration, it also presents challenges such as uneven development within member states and limited impact on cross-border investment and employment opportunities. To maximise benefits from regional blocs, Kenya should focus on addressing internal disparities and fostering inclusive growth strategies across all member states of the EAC.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Innovation Hubs within Entrepreneurship Ecosystems in East Africa Contextualized from Egypt
In East Africa, Egypt has emerged as a significant player in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation through established hubs. Qualitative research methods were employed, including participant observation, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, and document analysis of relevant policies and initiatives. Key themes identified include a robust network of public-private partnerships facilitating access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities for startups. The study provides insights into the effectiveness of innovation hubs in Egypt's entrepreneurial ecosystem and suggests potential areas for improvement. Policy recommendations focus on enhancing collaboration between government agencies and private sector entities to further support entrepreneurship.
Urbanization, Informal Settlements, and Social Welfare in Nigerian Cities
Urbanization in Nigeria has accelerated rapidly over the last few decades, leading to significant changes in urban settlement patterns and social welfare provision. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from national surveys with qualitative insights from in-depth interviews conducted in selected cities. Our analysis reveals that while urbanization has led to increased population density and economic opportunities, it has also exacerbated the challenges faced by informal settlements, particularly in terms of access to essential social services such as healthcare and education. The study concludes that effective policy interventions are needed to address the growing disparities between formal and informal areas within Nigerian cities. Recommendations include the development of targeted urban renewal programmes for informal settlements and improved data collection on urban poverty levels to inform better social welfare policies. Urbanization, Informal Settlements, Social Welfare, Nigeria
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Traditional Governance Structures and Modern Democracy in Southern Africa
This Perspective Piece examines traditional governance structures in Ghana within the broader context of Southern Africa and their interaction with modern democratic practices. No empirical data were collected in this analytical piece; instead, the study relies on literature review and theoretical analysis of existing research on traditional African governance and Ghanaian democracy. The integration of traditional governance elements into modern political frameworks could enhance democratic inclusivity and effectiveness in Ghana, particularly in rural areas where traditional leadership remains influential. Policy-makers should consider ways to formalize existing traditional councils' roles within the state apparatus to ensure continuity and legitimacy, while also promoting transparency and accountability.
The Historical Foundations of Contemporary Governance Challenges in Uganda,
Uganda's governance challenges have been a subject of scholarly interest for decades, with various scholars examining different time frames and policy areas. The study employs a qualitative approach, drawing on archival research and secondary data analysis of government documents, official reports, and historical records. A prominent finding is the significant influence of colonial-era administrative structures on contemporary governance practices. This has led to persistent challenges in policy implementation and public service delivery. The historical context reveals that many current governance issues are deeply entrenched and require a nuanced understanding for effective policy reform. Given the findings, recommendations include revisiting and modernizing colonial-era administrative frameworks while also promoting inclusive participatory governance mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mosquito Net Adoption and Its Impact on Malaria Transmission in Zanzibar's Villages
Malaria remains a significant public health concern in Zanzibar's rural villages, particularly due to its vector control strategies that include insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). The research employed qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with local residents and village leaders. A key finding was that while over 80% of households owned ITNs, only a third reported using them regularly due to discomfort and limited availability of nets in some areas. The study highlights the need for improved distribution systems and community engagement strategies to enhance ITN usage and impact on malaria control. Recommendations include strengthening ITN supply chains and implementing behavioural change campaigns focusing on net use and maintenance.
Urban Food Security Innovations in Accra's Informal Settlements
Urban food security in Accra’s informal settlements faces significant challenges due to limited access to land, resources, and markets. Community gardens and farmer markets have emerged as potential solutions, offering pathways for local residents to increase their food production and income. The analysis draws on qualitative interviews with local residents and stakeholders from both initiatives. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to understand participants' experiences and perceptions of these urban food security innovations. Community gardens in Accra’s informal settlements have significantly increased vegetable production by up to 30% compared to traditional farming methods, while farmer markets have facilitated direct sales to consumers, boosting local incomes by an average of $15 per week for participating vendors. Both community garden projects and farmer markets play crucial roles in improving urban food security in Accra’s informal settlements. Their success highlights the need for supportive policies that encourage investment in these initiatives. The government should provide more support to community gardens by allocating land, offering training programmes, and creating a favorable regulatory environment. Farmer markets can benefit from enhanced marketing strategies to expand their reach into urban areas.
Geographical Indicators of Sub-Saharan Africa
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of Digital Financial Services on Youth Entrepreneurship Opportunities in Lagos City Centre, Nigeria 2004
The digital financial services (DFS) sector in Nigeria has grown significantly over recent years, particularly in Lagos City Centre where many young entrepreneurs operate. The research employed semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of young entrepreneurs (aged 18-30) who operate in Lagos City Centre. The data were analysed thematically to identify key themes related to DFS usage and its effects on entrepreneurship opportunities. Young entrepreneurs reported that the availability and accessibility of DFS have significantly increased their access to funding, improved cash flow management, and reduced financial risks associated with starting a business. The findings suggest that DFS have played a pivotal role in enhancing youth entrepreneurial activities by providing essential financial tools and services which were previously less accessible. This has led to more robust business plans and higher levels of venture success among young entrepreneurs. Policy makers should consider promoting DFS adoption among youths as part of their entrepreneurship support programmes, alongside traditional banking channels. Educating youths on the benefits and correct usage of DFS can further enhance its impact. Digital Financial Services, Youth Entrepreneurship, Lagos City Centre, Nigeria
Land Reform and Socio-Economic Transformations in Post-Elimu Era Zambia,
Land reform in Zambia has been a contentious issue since the end of colonial rule in . The post-Elimu era marked significant socio-economic transformations, including shifts in land ownership patterns and agricultural productivity. The research utilizes a combination of secondary data analysis (including census records and government reports) and primary data collection techniques such as structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The sample includes rural communities with varying levels of land reform intervention. Quantitative results indicate that households receiving formalized land titles experienced an average increase in agricultural output by 15% compared to those without formal titles, highlighting the positive impact on productivity. The mixed methods approach reveals nuanced socio-economic impacts of land reform, underscoring the need for tailored policies to address diverse local contexts and support sustainable development. Policy recommendations include continued support for formalization processes alongside targeted interventions to enhance smallholder farmers' access to markets and inputs.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Afrofuturism and Its Potential to Illuminate African Futures in Mozambique
Afrofuturism is a contemporary cultural movement that explores African identity through futuristic narratives, often addressing historical traumas and envisioning positive futures for Africa. In Mozambique, Afrofuturist discourses have emerged alongside broader conversations about national development and social progress. The study employs a qualitative approach involving content analysis of Afrofuturist literature, interviews with Mozambican intellectuals, and surveys targeting the general public. A thematic framework is used for data collection and interpretation. A significant theme identified in Afrofuturist narratives is the emphasis on overcoming historical injustices and promoting inclusive development. Surveys reveal that 75% of respondents view these narratives as hopeful visions for their country’s future, indicating a strong positive reception among the public. The study concludes that Afrofuturism offers valuable perspectives for understanding African futures in Mozambique, particularly regarding themes of progress and reconciliation. These narratives resonate with public sentiment on national development and identity. Researchers are encouraged to further explore the impact of Afrofuturist discourses on policy-making and community engagement in Mozambique and other African contexts. Policy makers could benefit from incorporating these narratives into their planning processes.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Dynamics in Political Power Transitions
Gender dynamics have emerged as a critical area of study in understanding political power transitions across Africa. Madagascar's recent and ongoing political landscape offers a unique case for examining these dynamics, particularly in light of its complex socio-political context. The approach will draw upon feminist theories, comparative politics methodologies, and insights from historical analyses, with a focus on data-driven examination of policy documents, election results, and public discourse related to gender in political processes. The theoretical framework provides a robust foundation for future research into gender dynamics within political power transitions in Madagascar, emphasising the importance of inclusive policies that promote women's representation across all levels of governance. Policy recommendations include enhancing education on gender equality in politics, implementing quotas for female participation in leadership positions, and fostering supportive environments that encourage women to engage more actively with political processes.
Healthcare Accessibility and Outcomes in Rural Oromia, Ethiopia
Rural areas in Ethiopia often face challenges in accessing quality healthcare services, which can significantly impact health outcomes. Oromia is one of the most populous regions with significant rural populations. A mixed methods approach combining quantitative data from surveys and qualitative insights through interviews and focus groups was employed to analyse the performance of rural health facilities. Public health centers in one district were found to have significantly higher patient satisfaction rates (85%) compared to another, where only 60% reported high levels of service quality. The study underscores the importance of equitable healthcare access and improvement strategies tailored to specific regions within Oromia. Strategic investments should be prioritised in underperforming health centers to enhance patient experiences and outcomes. healthcare accessibility, rural Ethiopia, mixed methods, public health facilities
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Religious Pluralism and Inter-Faith Dynamics in West Africa
Religious pluralism in West Africa is a topic of growing interest among scholars studying religious dynamics and interfaith relations. The research employs qualitative methods including interviews with religious leaders and community members, as well as a content analysis of official government reports and media coverage relevant to religious affairs. A notable finding is the observed trend towards greater accommodation between Islam, Christianity, and indigenous beliefs in urban contexts, though tensions persist over issues like land rights and cultural practices. The study concludes that while Morocco has made strides in fostering inter-faith dialogue, persistent socio-economic disparities contribute to ongoing challenges in achieving full religious pluralism. Recommendations include the establishment of more inclusive community development programmes and increased public education initiatives on shared values among diverse faith communities.
Digital Inclusion Dynamics in Rural African Communities of South Africa
Digital inclusion in rural African communities of South Africa remains a significant challenge due to infrastructure limitations and socioeconomic disparities. A comparative study approach was employed, analysing data from five randomly selected rural communities across South Africa's diverse geographic regions. Digital divide patterns revealed stark inequalities with only 30% of surveyed households having reliable internet connections. The study highlights the critical need for targeted government interventions and community engagement strategies to bridge this digital gap. Policy recommendations include increasing broadband infrastructure, enhancing public education on digital skills, and promoting private sector partnerships.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Climate Change and Human Security in Chad's Sahel Region
The Sahel region of Chad is facing increasing climate variability and extreme weather events, posing significant challenges to human security. An interdisciplinary approach combining qualitative interviews with local communities and quantitative data from government agencies was employed. Climate-induced displacement has reached alarming proportions, with over 30% of affected households experiencing significant disruptions to their livelihoods in recent years. The analysis highlights the urgent need for comprehensive climate adaptation strategies that integrate socio-economic resilience and community engagement. Policy recommendations include enhanced early warning systems, improved access to credit and market opportunities, and increased investment in drought-resistant crops.
Gendered Resource Governance in South Sudan
This case study examines the intersection of gendered political participation and the political economy of oil in South Sudan from 2021 to 2023. It addresses the critical research problem of how formal commitments to women’s inclusion, notably the 35% quota under the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement, translate into substantive influence over the governance of the country’s primary natural resource. The analysis employs a rigorous qualitative methodology, drawing on triangulated data from policy document analysis, 27 semi-structured interviews with women legislators and civil society leaders conducted between 2021 and 2023, and a review of budgetary allocations to gender-sensitive programmes linked to oil revenues. The study argues that, despite increased descriptive representation, women’s political agency remains circumscribed by a deeply entrenched petro-masculine political settlement. Key findings demonstrate that elite patronage networks, sustained by oil revenues, systematically marginalise women from core decision-making on environmental governance, revenue allocation, and climate adaptation strategies, thereby perpetuating gendered economic vulnerabilities. The case underscores that without disrupting the underlying political economy, quota systems alone cannot foster transformative, gendered resource governance. Its significance lies in contributing an African-centred analysis to debates on post-conflict resource management, demonstrating how the exclusion of women from hydrocarbon governance directly undermines sustainable development and equitable climate resilience in South Sudan.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This theoretical framework article addresses a critical lacuna in African political studies: the absence of a cohesive analytical lens for examining the intersection of gender, state power, and natural resource governance in fragile, resource-dependent states. Focusing on South Sudan from 2021 to 2025, it interrogates how the political economy of oil extraction and climate-induced environmental stress are fundamentally gendered, shaping women’s political participation and policy influence. Employing a feminist political ecology methodology, the analysis synthesises contemporary data on South Sudan’s transitional governance, environmental degradation, and patterns of women’s formal and informal political mobilisation. It posits that the state’s patrimonial control over oil revenues and its under-resourced response to climate shocks, such as the catastrophic floods of 2021–2024, co-produce distinct ‘gendered ecologies of power’. These ecologies systematically marginalise women from resource decision-making whilst exacerbating their burdens in ecological reproduction and community resilience. The framework challenges androcentric analyses of the resource curse and state fragility by centring African feminist perspectives on power and ecology. Its scholarly and practical contribution lies in providing a rigorous analytical tool to critically assess how environmental and economic governance reforms, including those under the revitalised peace agreement, may either entrench or transform gendered inequalities in South Sudan and analogous post-conflict African states.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This commentary examines the intersection of gender, resource governance, and climate politics in South Sudan’s fragile transitional period (2021–2023). It argues that the prevailing political economy, centred on elite-controlled oil revenues, systematically excludes women from meaningful participation in environmental and economic decision-making, thereby exacerbating gendered vulnerabilities. The analysis employs a feminist political ecology lens, drawing on recent policy documents, reports from South Sudanese civil society organisations (2021–2023), and emerging scholarship on the region’s climate adaptation challenges. It finds that, despite constitutional provisions for women’s inclusion, the male-dominated patronage networks governing the oil sector marginalise women’s voices in critical debates on resource allocation and environmental remediation. Furthermore, climate-induced stresses, such as intensified flooding since 2022, disproportionately impact women’s livelihoods, yet climate response frameworks remain largely gender-blind. The commentary contends that treating oil politics and climate politics as separate spheres obscures their compound gendered impacts. Its significance lies in challenging dominant state-centric analyses of South Sudan’s transition by foregrounding a gendered African perspective. It concludes that sustainable peace and effective environmental governance are unattainable without transforming the patriarchal structures that govern natural resources, urging scholars and policymakers to integrate gender justice centrally into both resource governance and climate adaptation agendas.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This survey research article investigates the gendered dimensions of natural resource governance in South Sudan, analysing the extent and nature of women’s political participation in oil and climate politics from 2021 to 2023. It addresses a critical gap in the political economy literature, which often overlooks the specific barriers and contributions of women in shaping environmental policy within fragile, resource-dependent African states. Employing a rigorous mixed-methods design, the study administered a structured questionnaire to 450 purposively sampled women stakeholders—including community leaders, civil society activists, and government officials—complemented by 25 key informant interviews to provide contextual depth. The findings demonstrate that despite constitutional provisions for gender inclusion, women’s participation in formal oil revenue management and climate adaptation decision-making fora remains markedly low and largely symbolic. However, the research identifies significant, yet under-recognised, informal agency exercised by women through local networks, particularly in managing climate-induced resource scarcities and mitigating community-level conflicts linked to environmental stress. The analysis contends that the prevailing extractive political settlement systematically marginalises gendered perspectives, thereby undermining the efficacy, legitimacy, and equity of resource governance. The article concludes that substantive progress requires moving beyond tokenistic representation to institutionalise women’s knowledge and leadership, a vital imperative for sustainable and just governance in South Sudan and analogous post-conflict contexts.
This working paper examines the intersection of gender, resource governance, and climate politics in South Sudan, focusing on the period from 2021 onward. It addresses the critical question of how women navigate and influence the male-dominated political economy of oil—a sector central to state revenue—amidst escalating climate vulnerabilities. Challenging the frequent sidelining of gender in analyses of petro-states, the paper argues that women’s political participation is fundamentally shaped by, and potentially key to transforming, this extractive governance model. Employing a rigorous qualitative political economy approach, the methodology is grounded in policy analysis, semi-structured interviews with women activists, officials, and community representatives, and a systematic review of civil society documentation. Ethical protocols for research in a sensitive context were strictly observed. The analysis substantiates that, whilst formal inclusion mechanisms remain weak, women are forging consequential political agency through advocacy networks focused on the gendered impacts of oil pollution and climate-induced livelihood loss. These grassroots movements are strategically framing environmental degradation and revenue mismanagement as intertwined feminist issues. The paper’s significance lies in re-centring African women’s lived experiences and strategic activism within core debates on resource governance and climate adaptation. It concludes that sustainable and equitable policy in South Sudan necessitates recognising and supporting these gendered advocacy coalitions as essential stakeholders in any future political settlement concerning oil and climate resilience.
This case study examines the intersection of women’s political participation and the governance of oil resources in post-independence South Sudan. It addresses the critical problem of how, despite constitutional quotas, women’s agency within a male-dominated political settlement remains circumscribed in shaping the lucrative oil sector. Employing a rigorous qualitative political economy analysis, the research draws on documentary analysis of policy frameworks, parliamentary records, and civil society reports, alongside semi-structured interviews conducted in Juba with female legislators, activists, and policy practitioners. The analysis demonstrates that while women have achieved notable descriptive representation, their substantive influence over oil revenue allocation, environmental remediation, and community compensation is systematically marginalised. Key findings reveal that entrenched patronage networks and the securitisation of oil infrastructure exclude gendered perspectives from core governance decisions. This perpetuates a resource curse that disproportionately impacts women through environmental degradation and lost livelihoods. The study contributes to African political economy scholarship by elucidating how resource dependence reinforces gendered power asymmetries, even within inclusive institutional designs. It concludes that transformative change requires moving beyond quota systems to fundamentally challenge the androcentric political economy of extractivism in South Sudan and similar post-conflict states.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This perspective piece critically examines the intersection of gender, oil governance, and emerging climate politics in South Sudan from 2021 to 2024. It posits that the political economy of oil extraction, a cornerstone of state revenue, systematically marginalises women from decision-making processes, thereby intensifying the gendered impacts of both resource exploitation and climate vulnerability. Employing a feminist political ecology lens, the analysis draws on recent policy documents, civil society reports, and emerging scholarship to map women’s formal and informal participation in environmental governance. It demonstrates how the prevailing petro-centric governance model, compounded by the Revitalised Peace Agreement’s insufficient provisions for women in substantive roles, creates a dual exclusion. Women remain largely absent from high-level oil revenue management whilst disproportionately bearing the socio-ecological burdens of pollution and climate-induced disruptions to agriculture. The argument underscores that nascent climate adaptation initiatives, while entering policy discourse, risk perpetuating these inequalities if they fail to confront the core structures of resource control. The significance of the work lies in its advocacy for a transformative African feminist approach. This approach centres the agency and knowledge of South Sudanese women, contending that genuine environmental resilience is inseparable from gendered economic justice and inclusive political participation in natural resource governance.
This article proposes a theoretical framework for analysing the intersection of women’s political participation and environmental governance within South Sudan’s political economy from 2021 to 2022. It addresses a critical gap in African Studies, where gender politics and resource governance are frequently examined in isolation, despite their deep interconnection in post-conflict states. The research investigates how the entrenched, masculinised political economy of oil systematically constrains women’s agency in environmental decision-making, thereby intensifying gendered vulnerabilities to climate change and ecological degradation. Employing a feminist political ecology lens, the framework synthesises contemporary analyses of patronage networks, the gender provisions of the 2018 revitalised peace agreement, and nascent climate adaptation policies. It contends that women’s formal political inclusion, while nominally expanded, is co-opted and undermined by a resource-centric governance model that marginalises both ecological sustainability and social reproduction. The analysis utilises evidence from recent policy documents and civil society assessments to demonstrate how environmental governance is constructed as a technical, depoliticised sphere, insulating it from gendered critique. The framework’s significance lies in its utility for scholars and practitioners aiming to decolonise analyses of African political economies by centring gendered power relations. It offers a critical tool for evaluating whether contemporary initiatives genuinely transform governance or merely integrate women into unsustainable extractive paradigms, with direct implications for equitable peacebuilding and climate resilience in South Sudan and analogous contexts.
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/