African Electoral Studies (Political Science focus)
African Electoral Studies (Political Science focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Managed Pluralism: Electoral Authoritarianism and the Survival Logic of Hybrid Regimes in Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia
Managed pluralism is developed as an analytical lens for understanding how electoral competition is structured to preserve incumbent dominance without eliminating elections altogether. Rather than offering a descriptive case note, the manuscript situates electoral authoritarianism in Africa’s hybrid regimes—focusing on institutional manipulation, coercion, and the survival logic of competitive autocracy—within broader debates on African political order, state formation, and institutional design. Anchored in the cases of Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, the study engages three interrelated questions: how hybrid regimes combine legal-institutional manipulation—such as boundary delimitation, electoral commission capture, and opposition registration barriers—with selective coercion to sustain dominance without full authoritarian closure; how donor-driven democracy promotion (including election observation, civil society funding, and conditionality) shapes incumbent adaptation strategies; and under what conditions competitive authoritarianism either consolidates further or liberalizes into genuine democratic competition. Methodologically, the study employs a mixed approach, combining cross-national analysis of electoral data (V-Dem) for 25 African states from 1990 to 2023, structured-focused comparison of Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, process tracing of incumbent survival strategies, and interviews with opposition actors and election observers. The central analytical contribution lies not only in explaining specific national or regional trajectories, but in clarifying the conditions under which formal institutional frameworks obscure deeper struggles over coercion, distribution, and recognition (Brownlee 2007; Carbone 2008; Cheeseman 2015). The manuscript concludes by outlining
Copyright (c) 2021 African Electoral Studies (Political Science focus)
This article examines Sub-National Conflict Dynamics: County-Level Violence, Resource Competition, and Weak State Authority: Fiscal Dimensions and Revenue Implications with a focused emphasis on Egypt 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) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Atrocity Prevention and the African Union
This article examines Atrocity Prevention and the African Union: Early Warning, Early Action, and Political Will Deficits: A Mixed-Methods Inquiry with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia 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) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article develops managed pluralism as an analytical lens for understanding how electoral competition is structured to preserve incumbent dominance without abolishing elections altogether. Rather than treating the topic as a descriptive case note, the manuscript positions electoral authoritarianism in africa's hybrid regimes: institutional manipulation, coercion, and the survival logic of competitive autocracy within wider debates on African political order, state formation, and institutional design. The paper is anchored in Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, and it uses the topic brief's theoretical architecture to ask three linked questions: how do hybrid regimes in uganda, ethiopia, and rwanda combine legal institutional manipulation boundary delimitation, electoral commission capture, opposition registration barriers with selective coercion to sustain electoral dominance without full authoritarian closure? What is the relationship between donor democracy promotion (election observation, civil society funding, conditionality) and the adaptation strategies of incumbents in competitive authoritarian contexts? Under what conditions does competitive authoritarianism erode into full consolidation versus liberalise into genuine democratic competition? Methodologically, the article translates the proposed design into a publication-ready strategy built around cross-national analysis of electoral data (v-dem) for 25 african states 1990–2023; structured focused comparison of uganda, rwanda, and ethiopia; process tracing of incumbent survival strategies; interviews with opposition politicians and election observers.. It argues that the central analytical payoff lies not only in better explanation of the South Sudanese or regional cases, but in clarifying the conditions under whi
Traditional Conflict Resolution Mechanisms
This article examines Traditional Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Mato Oput and Communal Reconciliation Practices: From Theory to Practice with a focused emphasis on Nigeria 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.
Copyright (c) 2021 AJPolS-Electoral https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Diplomatic Balancing Between Rivals: South Sudan's Management of Sudan-Ethiopia Tensions: Human Rights and Governance Considerations with a focused emphasis on South Sudan 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) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Ethics of Foreign Correspondent Reporting in African Conflict Zones
This article examines The Ethics of Foreign Correspondent Reporting in African Conflict Zones: Human Rights and Governance Considerations with a focused emphasis on Tanzania 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.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines African National Congress and the SPLM: Liberation Movements as Governing Parties with a focused emphasis on Burkina Faso within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a commentary on published 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) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Refugee Diplomacy: South Sudan's Cross-Border Displacement and Bilateral Tensions with Neighbours: Institutional Dimensions and Reform Pathways 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 article examines The Nuer and the Dinka: Historical Relations, Colonial Codification, and Modern Conflict: Beyond the Liberal Peace Framework with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia 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.
British Colonial Administration in the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan
This article examines British Colonial Administration in the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan: Legacy and Continuity: Institutional Dimensions and Reform Pathways 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.
This article examines Reporting on Peace Processes: Media Roles and Responsibilities in Conflict Coverage: A South Sudan Case Study 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.
The Politics of National Identity Construction in a Multi-Ethnic Post-Colonial State
This article examines The Politics of National Identity Construction in a Multi-Ethnic Post-Colonial State: Digital Transformation and Emerging Challenges with a focused emphasis on South Africa within the field of African Studies. 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 article examines Sub-National Conflict Dynamics: County-Level Violence, Resource Competition, and Weak State Authority: Fiscal Dimensions and Revenue Implications with a focused emphasis on São Tomé and Príncipe 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.
Media Development Aid and Press Freedom in Conflict-Affected States
This article examines Media Development Aid and Press Freedom in Conflict-Affected States: Decolonial Reflections with a focused emphasis on Nigeria within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a working 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.
Masculinity, Violence, and Political Culture in Conflict-Affected African States
This article examines Masculinity, Violence, and Political Culture in Conflict-Affected African States: A Feminist Political Economy Approach with a focused emphasis on South Sudan 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.
The Political Economy of Continued Conflict
This article examines The Political Economy of Continued Conflict: Why Wars Persist When Peace Seems Rational: Political Economy Dimensions with a focused emphasis on Namibia 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 British Colonial Administration in the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan: Legacy and Continuity: Institutional Dimensions and Reform Pathways with a focused emphasis on Egypt 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.
The Role of African Universities in Morocco
This study examines the role of African universities in Morocco's academic ecosystem, focusing on knowledge production and dissemination within the field of African studies. A survey was conducted among a sample of Moroccan academic institutions, focusing on universities with established programmes in African studies. The data collection method included online questionnaires and interviews to gather information about research outputs, collaboration patterns, and outreach efforts. The analysis reveals that while there is significant interest in African studies from Moroccan universities, the thematic focus tends towards more contemporary issues rather than historical or pre-colonial contexts, indicating a shift in academic priorities within the field. This study underscores the importance of continued collaboration between African universities and Moroccan institutions to enhance knowledge production and dissemination in African studies. Recommendations include fostering interdisciplinary research initiatives and strengthening partnerships with both local and international stakeholders to broaden the scope and impact of academic work.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
ICT Integration in Remote Community Health Clinics
Telemedicine services have been implemented in various remote community health clinics across Africa to address healthcare delivery challenges. This study examines the usage frequencies of telemedicine by comparing two countries, Northern Côte D'Ivoire and Tanzania. A comparative study approach was employed, analysing quantitative data from health clinic records, surveys conducted among users, and interviews with healthcare providers. Data were collected from to . Telemedicine usage varied significantly between the two countries, with Northern Côte D'Ivoire showing a higher frequency of teleconsultations compared to Tanzania. This study reveals that ICT integration plays a crucial role in facilitating telemedicine services and improving healthcare access in remote areas. The findings suggest that tailored interventions are necessary to maximise telemedicine usage effectively. Healthcare authorities should invest in infrastructure improvements, training for users, and ongoing evaluations to enhance the adoption of telemedicine technologies in underserved regions.
Comparative Economic Integration Among African Regional Blocs in South Africa,
This study examines the economic integration among African regional blocs within South Africa's context. A comparative study approach was employed using secondary data sources from official statistics offices and international organizations' reports. There is a significant variation in the level of economic integration among regional blocs, with some showing higher levels of trade facilitation compared to others. The analysis highlights the need for increased collaboration and harmonization among African regional blocs to boost their collective economic performance. Regional blocs should focus on reducing bureaucratic barriers, enhancing infrastructure connectivity, and promoting a common market to facilitate smoother cross-border transactions.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and Innovation Hubs in Central African Republic
Entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs have emerged as critical drivers of economic development in East Africa. Central African Republic (CAR), a landlocked country with significant natural resources, is less studied in this context. Understanding how these systems operate can inform policy aimed at fostering sustainable growth. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining semi-structured interviews with focus groups (qualitative) and administrative data analysis (quantitative). Data collection spans urban areas of CAR and includes government records to complement qualitative insights. Semi-structured interviews revealed high levels of community engagement in innovation hubs, particularly among youth. Analysis of administrative data showed a significant increase in venture capital investments over the past five years, indicating growing interest in entrepreneurial ventures. The study underscores the importance of local participation and government support for successful entrepreneurship ecosystems in CAR. Future research should focus on scaling up initiatives to broader regions and sectors. Policy makers are advised to prioritise capacity building programmes for entrepreneurs and enhance collaboration between public and private sectors to foster a robust innovation ecosystem. Entrepreneurship, Innovation Hubs, Central African Republic, Mixed Methods Study
Adoption Rates and Sustainability of Solar Energy Systems Among Poor Households in Northern Nigeria
Solar energy systems have emerged as a viable solution to meet electricity needs in rural areas of Nigeria where access to conventional power is limited. A mixed methods study combining quantitative survey data from 500 randomly selected households with qualitative interviews to explore factors influencing system adoption and long-term viability. The proportion of households adopting solar energy systems was found to be 42%, with significant differences observed between rural and urban settings. Qualitative insights revealed maintenance challenges as a key sustainability issue. While solar energy is increasingly adopted by poor households in northern Nigeria, maintaining these systems over time remains a challenge due to affordability issues. Investment in long-term support services for system upkeep should be prioritised to ensure continued use and reliability of solar installations among the poorest communities. solar energy adoption, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, mixed methods study, Nigeria
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Climate Change and Human Security in the Sahel
The Sahel region of Senegal is facing significant environmental challenges exacerbated by climate change, impacting human security in various dimensions such as food security, health, and social stability. Theoretical synthesis and conceptual modelling without empirical data collection or analysis. This theoretical framework underscores the need for integrated adaptation strategies that consider both environmental and socioeconomic dimensions of human security in the Sahel. Policy recommendations include enhancing early warning systems, promoting resilient agricultural practices, and improving access to healthcare facilities during climate-induced crises.
Digital inclusion efforts in rural African communities have been a focus of interest due to their potential to bridge existing digital divides and enhance socio-economic development. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from surveys and qualitative insights from interviews was employed to assess digital infrastructure availability and user engagement levels. The analysis revealed significant disparities in internet access between urban and peri-urban areas compared to rural settings, with a notable proportion of households lacking basic connectivity. Findings suggest that while overall digital inclusion efforts have shown promise, there are substantial gaps necessitating targeted interventions for equitable access. Recommendations include the development of community-based digital literacy programmes and improved infrastructure investment in remote rural areas to address existing disparities.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender-sensitive Training Workshops in Malawi
Agricultural productivity in Malawi is influenced by a variety of factors including gender dynamics and market access. However, limited research exists on the effectiveness of gender-sensitive training workshops in enhancing farmers' knowledge and improving their market connections. Surveys were conducted with a sample of 150 randomly selected female farmers who participated in at least one workshop over two years. Data collection included pre- and post-training assessments to measure learning outcomes and post-workshop market engagement activities. Female participants showed statistically significant improvements in knowledge related to crop management, which translated into a 25% increase in the likelihood of accessing new markets compared to those who did not participate in workshops. Gender-sensitive training works effectively in improving farmers' knowledge and market connectivity. The study provides empirical evidence that supports further investment in gender-focused agricultural development programmes. Policy makers should prioritise funding for gender-sensitive training initiatives as a key strategy to boost female farmer productivity and economic empowerment. Additionally, continuous monitoring and evaluation of such programmes are recommended. Agricultural Training, Female Farmers, Market Access, Gender Sensitivity
Innovation Adoption Rates for Solar Irrigation Systems Amongst Smallholder Farmers in Mozambique
Solar irrigation systems are increasingly adopted by smallholder farmers in Mozambique to address water scarcity issues, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. However, adoption rates vary significantly across different geographic and socio-economic settings. The study employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data from 500 randomly selected smallholder farmers across three provinces of Mozambique with qualitative interviews to understand farmer perspectives and challenges. Findings suggest that the proportion of smallholders who have adopted solar irrigation systems ranges from 10% in the northern region to 30% in the central region, indicating significant geographical disparities. Qualitative data reveal common barriers such as initial investment costs and lack of technical knowledge. Despite challenges, there is potential for increasing adoption rates through targeted policy interventions focusing on reducing financial barriers and enhancing farmer education programmes. Policy recommendations include subsidizing solar irrigation systems for smallholder farmers, providing training workshops to improve technological understanding, and implementing community-based initiatives to foster knowledge sharing among adopters.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Historical Foundations Underpinning Contemporary Governance Challenges in South Africa
South Africa's governance challenges are deeply rooted in its history of colonialism, apartheid, and subsequent democratic transition. This study employs a qualitative research approach, analysing archival documents, interviews with key stakeholders, and secondary data to trace the historical roots of contemporary challenges. Interviews revealed that structural inequalities persist, particularly among historically disadvantaged groups who face significant barriers in accessing political power and resources. Historical legacies continue to shape South Africa's governance landscape, necessitating targeted interventions to address systemic issues like corruption and inequality. Policy recommendations include strengthening anti-corruption measures and promoting inclusive economic policies to mitigate the lasting impacts of apartheid.
Gender and Power Dynamics in Political Transitions in Gambia
Recent political transitions in Gambia have highlighted gender dynamics within power structures, including the presidency and party leadership. Qualitative content analysis of official election documents, semi-structured interviews with political actors, and archival research methods were employed. Gender disparities were evident in the nomination process for party leadership positions across all analysed elections, with women comprising less than 20% of nominations. The findings suggest that while progress has been made towards gender inclusivity, significant challenges remain in fully integrating female voices into political decision-making processes. Further research should focus on understanding the social and cultural factors hindering greater gender representation.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/