African Comparative Politics is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Aid Conditionality and African Sovereignty
This article examines Aid Conditionality and African Sovereignty: The Political Economy of Development Finance with a focused emphasis on Mali within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a comparative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Grassroots Political Organisation in Rural East Africa
This article examines Grassroots Political Organisation in Rural East Africa: Parties, Chiefs, and Community Networks: Towards Sustainable Development Goals with a focused emphasis on Ghana within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a action research study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines The UN Sanctions Regime on South Sudan: Design, Compliance, and Political Effects: Beyond the Liberal Peace Framework with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a book review that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Money in Politics: Campaign Finance Regulation and Enforcement in East Africa: A Feminist Political Economy Approach with a focused emphasis on Democratic Republic of Congo within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a mixed methods study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Frantz Fanon's Wretched of the Earth and African Political Thought
This article examines Frantz Fanon's Wretched of the Earth and African Political Thought: Lessons for Sub-Saharan Africa with a focused emphasis on South Africa within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a comparative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Urban Conflict and Civilian Resilience: Contested Cities in African Civil Wars: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on Malawi within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a perspective piece that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines The 2011 Independence Referendum: Self-Determination, International Support, and Expectations: Beyond the Liberal Peace Framework with a focused emphasis on Egypt within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a conference paper that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Independence Referendum Self-Determination
Referendum Self-Determination International
Self-Determination International Support
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Aid Conditionality and African Sovereignty: The Political Economy of Development Finance with a focused emphasis on Lesotho within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a commentary that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Clientelism and Democratic Accountability
This article examines Clientelism and Democratic Accountability: How Patronage Politics Survives Electoral Competition: Implications for Regional Integration with a focused emphasis on Nigeria within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a theoretical framework article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Track-Two Diplomacy in African Peace Processes
This article examines Track-Two Diplomacy in African Peace Processes: Non-Official Channels and Their Effectiveness: A Subaltern Perspective with a focused emphasis on Senegal within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a policy analysis article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines The 2011 Independence Referendum: Self-Determination, International Support, and Expectations: Beyond the Liberal Peace Framework with a focused emphasis on Equatorial Guinea within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Rebel Governance Legacies and Post-Conflict State Formation in South Sudan
This article examines Rebel Governance Legacies and Post-Conflict State Formation in South Sudan with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This comparative study addresses the critical problem of state fragility in post-independence South Sudan, arguing that persistent institutional collapse and conflict cannot be divorced from the specific governance legacies of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A) insurgency. Its objective is to trace how the rebellion’s variegated administrative models, social contracts, and authority structures have shaped the fraught process of post-conflict state formation since 2011. Employing a qualitative, comparative case study design, the research utilises process-tracing and analysis of archival documents alongside fieldwork data from sub-national regions with distinct rebel governance histories. The core finding reveals a paradoxical inheritance: in areas where the SPLM/A established structured, civilian-incorporating systems, a hybrid authority foundation has provided limited local institutional resilience. Conversely, the rebellion’s wider legacy entrenched a militarised, predatory political economy that has actively undermined peacebuilding and public service delivery. The study’s central contribution is to demonstrate that the networks and institutions which secured military victory were fundamentally ill-suited for constructing an inclusive, functional state, explaining the central paradox of formal sovereignty coexisting with pervasive state collapse. These findings necessitate a recalibrated understanding of war-to-peace transitions centred on the enduring and often debilitating institutional footprints of non-state armed groups.
Copyright (c) 2024 African Comparative Politics
Telemedicine Access and Treatment Outcomes for Undocumented Patients in Nairobi
Telemedicine has emerged as a promising solution for improving access to healthcare services in underserved populations, including undocumented migrants who often face significant barriers to traditional medical care. No empirical results were obtained, as this was a qualitative analysis based on interviews with healthcare providers and consultations conducted via telemedicine platforms. While telemedicine offers potential benefits for undocumented migrants, its implementation faces substantial logistical challenges related to technology adoption and infrastructure development. Policymakers should prioritise investments in improving internet connectivity and subsidizing devices for underserved populations. Additionally, training programmes for healthcare providers on the use of telehealth platforms are recommended to ensure effective service delivery.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender and Gendered Power in Mali's Political Transitions,
Mali has experienced several political transitions since its independence in , with significant gender dynamics influencing these processes. The analysis draws from secondary sources such as official documents, press releases, and academic articles to explore gendered power dynamics within the context of Mali’s transitional governance structures. The commentary underscores the importance of gender-sensitive approaches in transitional governance to ensure inclusive political processes and equitable outcomes. Policy makers should incorporate gender analysis into their strategies, particularly when engaging with local communities and civil society organizations during transitions.
Resource-Rich Togo and the Struggle for Environmental Justice
Togo is a resource-rich country in West Africa, with significant natural resources such as oil and gold. Environmental degradation and social inequality have become pressing issues. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with semi-structured questionnaires was employed to understand the dynamics of environmental justice advocacy in Togo. Findings indicate that while there is a strong grassroots movement, they face significant challenges including weak institutional support and limited resources for legal action against polluters. The analysis highlights the need for increased government engagement with these movements to foster more effective environmental policies and ensure equitable resource management. Recommendations include strengthening governmental frameworks that facilitate collaboration between environmental justice groups and regulatory bodies, as well as increasing public awareness campaigns on sustainable practices.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African Universities' Role in Zambia's Knowledge Production and Dissemination
African universities play a significant role in knowledge production and dissemination across various fields of study, including African Studies. In Zambia, these institutions are pivotal actors in shaping national and regional policy landscapes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews, targeting a diverse sample from Zambian academia. Data were analysed using statistical software for comprehensive insights into university activities. A notable finding is that over 70% of surveyed universities report engaging in collaborative research projects with international partners, significantly influencing the quality and breadth of knowledge produced. The survey underscores the critical role of African universities in Zambia's broader academic ecosystem, highlighting their active engagement in both local and global knowledge networks. Given the findings, there is a need to enhance institutional collaboration between Zambian universities and international counterparts to foster equitable knowledge exchange and innovation.
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/