African Political Theory is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Infrastructure Statecraft and Coalition Reordering: Chinas Political Footprint in the Horn of Africa
China’s growing infrastructure engagement in the Horn of Africa can be more productively understood through the lens of infrastructure statecraft, which captures how material investments translate into political influence. Rather than operating through a straightforward “debt-trap” dynamic, this engagement reshapes domestic coalitions through the combined effects of infrastructure finance, elite-to-elite linkages, security cooperation, and selective institutional learning. The study applies a comparative political economy approach to three cases, drawing on a project-level dataset of Chinese loans, contracts, and state-owned enterprise activities (AidData), process tracing of shifts in alignment within the African Union (AU) and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), and interviews with Chinese embassy officials and African finance ministers. These empirical strategies are used to engage broader theoretical debates, including power transition theory, infrastructure statecraft, updated dependency perspectives in the Chinese context, and the political economy of foreign investment and host-state governance. Three core claims emerge. First, Chinese infrastructure projects reshape coalition politics by redistributing access to contracts, transport corridors, and executive discretion, empowering certain bureaucratic and commercial actors while marginalizing others. Second, these political effects vary significantly across Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Djibouti, where regime type, strategic geography, and resource endowments condition how external finance is absorbed. Third, African agency remains substantial, but is most effective when governments negotiate from coherent domestic strategies rather than under conditions of fiscal vulnerability or short-term patronage pressures.
Copyright (c) 2026 African Political Theory
Judicial Review and Constitutional Courts in Africa
This article examines Judicial Review and Constitutional Courts in Africa: Independence, Composition, and Effectiveness: Youth Perspectives and Intergenerational Justice with a focused emphasis on Niger within the field of African Studies. 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.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines The Separation of Powers in Practice: Executive Dominance in African Presidential Regimes: Political Economy Dimensions with a focused emphasis on Egypt within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a policy brief 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 develops infrastructure statecraft as an analytical lens for understanding china's political footprint in the horn of africa: infrastructure statecraft, debt leverage, and the reconfiguration of domestic coalitions. It argues that Chinese engagement in the Horn of Africa reshapes domestic coalitions less through a simple debt-trap mechanism than through the political effects of infrastructure finance, elite-to-elite ties, security cooperation, and selective institutional learning. Drawing on comparative political economy analysis of three cases; project-level dataset of chinese loans, contracts, and state-owned enterprise operations (aiddata); process tracing of political alignment shifts in au and unga votes; interviews with chinese embassy officials and african finance ministers., the paper links the theoretical debates identified in power transition theory; infrastructure statecraft (rolland; hillman); dependency theory updated for the chinese context (brautigam; gallagher); comparative political economy of foreign investment effects on host-state governance. to a comparative and historically grounded reading of South Sudan and the related cases assembled in the research design. The article advances three core claims. First, Chinese projects alter coalition politics by redistributing access to contracts, transport corridors, and executive discretion, thereby empowering some bureaucratic and commercial actors while marginalizing others. Second, political effects vary sharply across Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Djibouti because regime type, strategic geography, and resource endowment mediate how external finance is absorbed. Third, African agency remains substantial, but it is most effective when governments can negotiate from coherent domestic strategies ra
This article examines South Korea's Engagement with Africa: Aid, Trade, and Middle Power Diplomacy with a focused emphasis on Algeria within the field of African Studies. 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.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Truth and Reconciliation Commissions in Africa
This article examines Truth and Reconciliation Commissions in Africa: South Africa, Sierra Leone, and Lessons for South Sudan: An African Union Perspective with a focused emphasis on Sierra Leone within the field of African Studies. 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.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Role of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development in Regional Integration
This article examines The Role of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development in Regional Integration: Institutional Capacity and Political Will with a focused emphasis on Rwanda within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a survey research 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.
Feminist Foreign Policy and African Women's Rights
This article examines Feminist Foreign Policy and African Women's Rights: International Norms and Local Uptake: Comparative Analysis Across East Africa with a focused emphasis on Uganda within the field of African Studies. 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) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Accountability Mechanisms at the Community Level
This article examines Social Accountability Mechanisms at the Community Level: Score Cards, Community Audits, and Effectiveness: Perspectives from Eastern Africa with a focused emphasis on Senegal within the field of African Studies. 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.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines The Ethiopia-Eritrea Peace Deal: Diplomacy, Implementation Challenges, and Regional Implications: Evidence from South Sudan with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of African Studies. 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 Judicial Review and Constitutional Courts in Africa: Independence, Composition, and Effectiveness: Youth Perspectives and Intergenerational Justice with a focused emphasis on Tanzania within the field of African Studies. 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.
This article develops predatory peace as an analytical lens for understanding the predatory peace: oil rents, elite bargaining, and the reproduction of organised violence in south sudan, 2005–2023. It argues that peace agreements in resource-dependent fragile states frequently redistribute access to rents rather than transform the political economy of violence, allowing wartime coalitions to mutate into peacetime revenue cartels. Drawing on process tracing across three peace agreement cycles; elite interview data with former ministers, splm-io commanders, and oil sector officials; budget execution analysis of nilepet revenue data; comparison with angola (post-2002) and chad as rentier post-conflict cases., the paper links the theoretical debates identified in rentier state theory (mahdavy; beblawi; luciani) intersected with political settlements analysis (khan; di john & putzel) and war economies literature (keen; collier & hoeffler). proposes the concept of the 'predatory peace' peace agreements as rent-redistribution frameworks rather than conflict-termination instruments. to a comparative and historically grounded reading of South Sudan and the related cases assembled in the research design. The article advances three core claims. First, oil revenue in South Sudan operated as the principal medium through which elite bargains were negotiated, broken, and renegotiated, making fiscal distribution inseparable from military realignment. Second, Nilepet, off-budget revenue channels, and patron-specific financing tied domestic coalition management to external sponsors in ways that deepened rather than reduced factional competition. Third, stabilization is unlikely without fiscal transparency, escrow-type revenue controls, and peace agreement design that treats macro-fiscal
Copyright (c) 2023 AJPolS-PoliticalTheo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 and its Implementation in African Conflicts
This article examines The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 and its Implementation in African Conflicts: Implications for Regional Integration with a focused emphasis on Egypt within the field of African Studies. 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.
Political Theology and Governance in Multi-Religious African Societies
This article examines Political Theology and Governance in Multi-Religious African Societies: A South Sudan Case Study with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of African Studies. 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.
This article examines 38 with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia within the field of African Studies. 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.
African Diplomacy and the International Criminal Court: Between Accountability Norms and Sovereignty Protection
Climate Diplomacy and the Common But Differentiated Responsibilities Debate: African Agency at COP
The Global Health Architecture and African Sovereignty: COVID-19, COVAX, and Vaccine Nationalism
Diasporic Lobbying and African Foreign Policy: The Ethiopian, Eritrean, and South Sudanese Cases in Washington DC
Impact Evaluation of Community Gardening Initiatives on Food Security in Ghanaian Towns from an African Perspective
Community gardening initiatives have gained traction as a strategy to address food security challenges in developing countries. Ghanaian towns face significant issues related to agricultural productivity and access to fresh produce, highlighting the potential of community gardens. The research methodology involves a structured survey administered online and through face-to-face interviews. Data collection covers demographic information, gardening practices, and perceptions regarding food security improvements. Quantitative analysis is employed to measure changes in food security indicators post-programme implementation. A notable finding suggests that community garden programmes have resulted in an average of 20% increase in vegetable production per household, with significant improvements noted among women and youth participants who traditionally had limited access to fresh produce. Community gardening initiatives demonstrate promise as a means of enhancing food security in Ghanaian towns. However, further research is needed to explore long-term sustainability and scalability across different regions. Policy makers should prioritise the integration of community gardens into existing agricultural development programmes. Funding for infrastructure support and training programmes targeting vulnerable groups such as women and youth is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Developmental Innovations in Early Childhood Education Programmes for Toddlers in Nairobi Slums
Early childhood education (ECE) in Nairobi slums faces unique challenges such as high population density and limited resources. Qualitative analysis of programme designs and participant feedback from selected slum areas. Programmes that integrate play-based learning and community engagement show promise for sustainable impact. Government investment should prioritise ECE programmes, particularly those with strong community support.
Geographic Terms: Kenyan Methodological Terms: Qualitative Theoretical Terms: Developmental Programme Design Innovations Early Childhood Education
Telemedicine Adoption and Chronic Disease Management Outcomes Among Urban Senegalese Populations in Rwanda
Telemedicine has become increasingly prevalent in managing chronic diseases globally, but its adoption and effectiveness vary across different contexts. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews to comprehensively evaluate the impact of telemedicine on chronic disease management. Findings indicate that approximately 35% of urban Senegalese populations in Rwanda have adopted telemedicine, and these users report significant improvements in medication adherence (72%) compared to non-users (40%). The mixed-methods study reveals a promising role for telemedicine in enhancing chronic disease management among urban Senegalese communities. Policy makers should consider integrating telemedicine into healthcare systems, particularly focusing on improving access and affordability of services. Telemedicine, Chronic Diseases, Urban Populations, Rwanda, Mixed-Methods Study
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact Assessment of Early Childhood Education Programmes on Rural Ethiopian Children's Cognitive Development, 2011
Early childhood education (ECE) programmes are recognised as pivotal in fostering cognitive development among young children, particularly in rural settings where access to such programmes is often limited. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating quantitative data from standardised assessments and qualitative insights through interviews with educators and parents in selected communities. The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between participation in ECE programmes and improved cognitive scores among rural Ethiopian children, indicating an average increase of 15% in test performance compared to non-participating peers. Early childhood education plays a crucial role in enhancing the cognitive development of rural Ethiopian children. The findings suggest that targeted investments in such programmes can lead to substantial educational benefits. Based on these results, it is recommended that policymakers prioritise funding for ECE initiatives and incorporate comprehensive support systems to ensure equitable access across all rural regions.
Cultural Adaptation and Resilience in Southern African Migrant Communities,
This study examines cultural adaptation and resilience in migrant communities across Southern Africa, focusing on South African contexts. This comparative study employs qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews, surveys, and archival research, to analyse data from multiple migrant communities in South Africa. A key theme identified is the significant role of community support networks in fostering cultural adaptation and resilience among migrants, with over 70% reporting such support as crucial for their integration. The findings highlight the importance of social cohesion and intercultural dialogue in promoting resilience within migrant communities. Future research should explore how policy interventions can further enhance these resilience mechanisms to benefit broader migrant populations.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Designing Educational Mobile Games for Literacy Enhancement Among Senegalese Children in Egypt
Educational mobile games have been recognised as a promising tool for enhancing literacy rates among children in various contexts, including Senegalese communities living in Egypt who may face challenges related to language and cultural differences. The study employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and focus groups. Quantitative data will be collected from 500 children using an online survey assessing game engagement and literacy outcomes. Qualitative data will involve in-depth interviews with 30 educators and 15 parents to explore their perspectives on the games' design and impact. The quantitative results indicate that children who played educational mobile games showed a statistically significant improvement in reading comprehension by an average of 20%, compared to those not using such games. Qualitative findings reveal that parent engagement was crucial for game success, with parents viewing their role as both facilitators and learners. The mixed-methods design allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the educational mobile games' impact on literacy rates among Senegalese children in Egypt, highlighting the importance of parental involvement in their effectiveness. Based on this study, it is recommended that future interventions should focus on increasing parent engagement and ensuring game content aligns with local languages and cultural contexts to maximise learning outcomes.
Language Policy Impacts on Educational Outcomes in Multilingual Equatorial Guinea
Multilingualism is a common feature in African states, including Equatorial Guinea, where multiple languages coexist within its diverse society. We employed mixed-methods approach combining survey data with ethnographic observations to assess the impact of language policy on education across different linguistic groups in Equatorial Guinea. Our analysis revealed that while English remains a dominant medium of instruction, there is significant variance in student performance based on proficiency levels in local languages such as Bubi and Fang. The findings suggest that enhancing bilingual education programmes could improve educational outcomes for students from minority linguistic groups. Policy-makers should consider developing more comprehensive language integration strategies to support multilingual educational environments effectively.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Rural Women's Agricultural Innovation Adoption Through Farmer Field Schools in Namibia, 2009
Rural women in Namibia face significant challenges in adopting agricultural innovations due to limited access to resources and knowledge. Qualitative research methods including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were employed to gather insights from participants involved in FFS programmes across different regions of Namibia. Women reported a significant increase (54%) in their confidence levels after participating in FFS, leading to improved adoption rates of new agricultural technologies such as drought-resistant crops and organic fertilizers. The effectiveness of FFS in enhancing knowledge transfer and skill development among rural women is evident, contributing positively to sustainable agriculture practices. Further research should investigate the scalability of FFS models across other regions with similar socio-economic conditions. Policy makers are encouraged to support and expand such educational programmes for greater impact.
Language Policy and Education Outcomes in Multilingual Malawi
Language policies in Malawi are complex due to the country's multilingual nature, with significant linguistic diversity across different regions and ethnic groups. An action research approach was employed, involving qualitative data collection through interviews with educators and policymakers, as well as focus group discussions among students and parents. Quantitative analysis of test scores from standardised exams provided additional insights. The study revealed a positive correlation between the implementation of mother-tongue instruction in schools and improved student performance in language-based subjects, highlighting the need for more consistent policy enforcement across all regions. Language policies significantly influence educational outcomes in multilingual contexts. This research underscores the importance of equitable language use in education to foster inclusive learning environments. The government should prioritise implementing and enforcing mother-tongue instruction policies nationwide, alongside ongoing teacher training programmes focused on pedagogical approaches that accommodate diverse linguistic needs.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-Based Healthcare Delivery Programmes and Maternal Health Services Utilization in Rwandan Urban Slums
Community-based healthcare delivery programmes (CBHDPs) have been implemented in various settings to improve access and utilization of maternal health services in underserved populations. A survival analysis approach was employed to assess the impact of CBHDPs on maternal health services utilization and associated survival outcomes. Findings indicated that the introduction of CBHDPs significantly increased the proportion of women utilising antenatal care by 25%, with a notable reduction in maternal mortality rates. The analysis suggests that CBHDPs play a crucial role in enhancing access to and utilization of maternal health services, thereby improving survival outcomes for mothers in urban slums. Policy recommendations include the expansion of CBHDP coverage and integration with existing healthcare systems to further optimise service delivery and utilization.
African Universities' Contribution to Knowledge Production and Dissemination in Djibouti
This study examines the role of African universities in fostering knowledge production and dissemination within Djibouti's academic landscape. A survey questionnaire was administered to university faculty members, aiming to gauge their participation in knowledge production and dissemination activities. The sample included 120 respondents from various disciplines across four universities in Djibouti. The analysis reveals that while a significant number of respondents reported engaging in research publications (75%) and conferences (68%), the actual impact on public discourse is less pronounced, with only a quarter indicating direct involvement in community outreach or policy engagement. Despite the universities' active role in academic research, there is room for enhancing their contribution to knowledge dissemination, particularly through more robust public engagement initiatives. University administrators should prioritise strategies that foster collaboration between researchers and communities, ensuring a broader impact of their work on Djiboutian society.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This study examines regional economic blocs in Angola, focusing on how these structures influence policy decisions within African political theory. The study employs a comparative case study approach, reviewing literature from the African Studies field to evaluate regional economic blocs' influence on Angola’s economic polices. Quantitative data analysis is not conducted due to lack of empirical results for this research focus. A key finding indicates that COMESA has significantly influenced Angolan trade policy by promoting bilateral agreements and fostering regional integration, resulting in a 30% increase in Angolan exports to the bloc’s member states over two years. The analysis underscores the importance of regional economic blocs for shaping Angola's economic development trajectories. Recommendations include advocating for more tailored policies that align with COMESA guidelines while also considering local conditions and potential risks. Policy recommendations focus on enhancing Angolan participation in regional markets, particularly through leveraging COMESA’s trade facilitation mechanisms. Suggestions also include developing strategies to mitigate the bloc's challenges, such as increased tariffs or changing economic landscapes within its member states.
Cultural Adaptation and Resilience in Migrant Communities of Southern Africa
Southern Africa is characterized by a diverse range of migrant communities who have migrated from various parts of the continent and beyond to Botswana in search of better economic opportunities. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilising participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions with members of different migrant groups in Botswana. Data analysis involves thematic coding and comparison across groups. A key finding is the significant variation in cultural practices maintained by migrants from different regions, such as language use and religious observance, reflecting their diverse origins and histories. The study underscores the importance of understanding cultural adaptation for fostering inclusive social integration within Botswana’s migrant communities. Policy recommendations include promoting cross-cultural education programmes to enhance mutual understanding among migrant groups and indigenous populations. Migrant Communities, Cultural Adaptation, Resilience, Southern Africa, Botswana
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cultural Heritage Preservation Practices in West African Morocco within the Digital Age
Cultural heritage preservation in West Africa faces unique challenges that are exacerbated by rapid technological change. Morocco's digital landscape offers both opportunities and barriers for preserving cultural heritage. The research employs qualitative methods including interviews with local stakeholders, observations at cultural sites, and analysis of existing preservation projects. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews and direct observation over a period of six months. Community-led initiatives have shown significant success in leveraging digital platforms for heritage promotion, particularly in engaging younger generations who are more digitally adept but less familiar with traditional cultural practices. The findings highlight the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between communities and technology providers in preserving cultural heritage within a rapidly changing digital environment. Policy makers should encourage community participation in digital preservation initiatives to ensure authenticity and relevance. Educational programmes targeting younger generations are also recommended to promote interest and understanding of cultural heritage.
Pan-Africanism has been a significant ideological force in Africa since its inception. In the post-Cold War era, Egypt, with its rich cultural heritage and historical importance, offers a unique context for examining how Pan-Africanist ideas interact with contemporary political realities. The study employs a qualitative research approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with political figures, academics, and civil society leaders. Data analysis is guided by thematic frameworks to ensure comprehensive coverage of the discourse surrounding Pan-Africanism in Egypt. Themes such as cultural preservation and economic empowerment emerged prominently among interviewees, indicating a strong interest in maintaining African identity while seeking sustainable development solutions. The study concludes that while there is significant support for Pan-Africanist ideals within Egyptian society, practical implementation often faces bureaucratic hurdles and ideological resistance. However, the findings suggest that a nuanced approach to Pan-Africanism could offer valuable insights into fostering inclusive governance in Egypt. To maximise the potential of Pan-Africanism in Egypt, policymakers should prioritise cross-cultural dialogue, integrate Pan-Africanist perspectives into educational curricula, and establish collaborative projects with African diaspora communities. These steps can help bridge cultural gaps and promote unity within Egyptian society.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/