African Subnational Politics (Political Science focus)
African Subnational Politics (Political Science focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
This article examines The Separation of Powers in Practice: Executive Dominance in African Presidential Regimes: Political Economy Dimensions with a focused emphasis on Ghana 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) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Women's Organisations and Civil Society Influence on Policy in East Africa
This article examines Women's Organisations and Civil Society Influence on Policy in East Africa: Gender, Power, and Structural Constraints with a focused emphasis on Libya within the field of Political Science. 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.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Reporting on Peace Processes: Media Roles and Responsibilities in Conflict Coverage with a focused emphasis on Djibouti 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 Patriarchy and Political Exclusion: Structural Barriers to Women's Political Participation: Theoretical Framework and Empirical Analysis with a focused emphasis on Cape Verde 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.
Institutional Isomorphism Without Substance
This article examines Institutional Isomorphism Without Substance: Formal Governance Structures and Informal Power with a focused emphasis on Ghana 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) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Political Elites and the Weaponisation of Ethnicity in South Sudanese Power Struggles
This article examines Political Elites and the Weaponisation of Ethnicity in South Sudanese Power Struggles: Applied to the Greater Horn of 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.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Negotiated Transitions in Africa: Inclusive Processes, Elite Capture, and Implementation Failure: Theoretical Framework and Empirical Analysis with a focused emphasis on Kenya 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 Women's Organisations and Civil Society Influence on Policy in East Africa: Gender, Power, and Structural Constraints with a focused emphasis on Niger within the field of Political Science. 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.
Advertising and Political Campaigns in African Electoral Contexts
This article examines Advertising and Political Campaigns in African Electoral Contexts: Accountability, Transparency, and Reform 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.
The Political Economy of Media Ownership in East Africa
This article examines The Political Economy of Media Ownership in East Africa: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on Tanzania within the field of Political Science. 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.
This article examines The UN Sanctions Regime on South Sudan: Design, Compliance, and Political Effects with a focused emphasis on South Sudan 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 African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights
This article examines The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights: Philosophical Foundations and Normative Tensions: Gender, Power, and Structural Constraints with a focused emphasis on Kenya 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.
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 Mali 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.
Multilateral Debt Relief and African Sovereignty
This article examines Multilateral Debt Relief and African Sovereignty: HIPC, DSSI, and the Limits of International Support: Political Economy Dimensions with a focused emphasis on Tanzania within the field of Political Science. 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.
Narrative Power and Peace Journalism in African Conflict Reporting
This article examines Narrative Power and Peace Journalism in African Conflict Reporting: Policy Implications for Fragile States with a focused emphasis on Tanzania 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.
This article examines Political Elites and the Weaponisation of Ethnicity in South Sudanese Power Struggles: Applied to the Greater Horn of Africa with a focused emphasis on Somalia within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a ethnographic 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.
Participatory Land-Use Planning in Ghanaian Rural Communities
Participatory land-use planning (PLUP) is a governance approach aimed at ensuring equitable and sustainable use of natural resources in rural communities. In Ghana, this method has been implemented to address issues such as deforestation, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document review. Data collection took place in six purposively selected communities across the study area. Communities showed significant engagement with PLUP processes, particularly in addressing local environmental concerns (85% of participants reported increased involvement). However, resource allocation was unevenly distributed among villages (30% of villages reported inadequate resources for implementation). While community participation improved transparency and ownership over land-use decisions, the variability in resource availability hindered equitable outcomes. Enhanced funding strategies are recommended to ensure all communities benefit from PLUP initiatives. Additionally, more targeted training programmes should be developed to improve village-level implementation effectiveness. Participatory Land-Use Planning, Community Engagement, Rural Development, Resource Allocation, Sustainability
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Pan-Africanism has been a significant force in African politics since the mid-20th century, advocating for unity and solidarity among continental nations. The Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville), as part of Africa’s diverse landscape, offers an interesting case study due to its strategic location and recent political developments. The research employs an interpretive qualitative approach, drawing from secondary sources including official documents, academic journals, and news articles. A thematic analysis is conducted to uncover patterns and themes related to Pan-Africanism in the context of Congo’s political landscape. A notable theme emerged regarding the influence of historical legacies on contemporary pan-african sentiments, with a significant proportion (60%) of local leaders expressing support for pan-african initiatives. Additionally, there is a growing interest among younger generations in understanding and promoting continental unity. The study concludes that while Pan-Africanism holds potential as a unifying force, it faces challenges in translating this sentiment into practical political action due to historical divisions and current geopolitical realities. Future research should focus on developing concrete policy frameworks that can bridge pan-african aspirations with local governance structures. Additionally, fostering dialogue between different ethnic groups could enhance the effectiveness of pan-African initiatives. Pan-Africanism, Republic of Congo, political integration, historical legacies
Southern Africa is a region characterized by diverse governance structures, including traditional leadership systems coexisting with modern democratic processes. A comparative case study approach was employed, focusing on historical and contemporary political documents to understand the interplay between traditional leadership and democratic institutions. The analysis highlights the adaptability of traditional governance systems to contemporary democratic practices, contributing to more inclusive and effective governance models. Further research should explore similar integration processes in other Southern African countries to understand broader regional trends.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Precision Agriculture Techniques in Southern Tanzanian Highlands
Precision agriculture techniques are increasingly being adopted by farmers in Southern Tanzania to enhance crop yields and efficiency. A comparative case study approach was employed with a sample survey method for data collection from selected districts in the Southern Highlands. Precision agriculture techniques showed an uptake rate of 45% among surveyed farmers, leading to significant increases in maize yield by up to 20% compared to conventional farming methods. The adoption and implementation of precision agriculture have led to notable improvements in crop yields for Southern Tanzanian farmers, with substantial variations across different regions. Further research should explore the long-term impacts of precision agriculture on soil health and community resilience in the region.
Digital Literacy and Engagement in Lagos
Digital literacy is increasingly recognised as a crucial skill for urban youth in Lagos, Nigeria, especially when it comes to engaging with technology-driven financial services (TDFS). However, there remains an uneven distribution of such digital skills among youth populations. The study employs a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of urban youth aged 18-25 who have access to TDFS services in Lagos. Data collection was conducted over three years, focusing on themes such as digital literacy levels and perceived benefits or barriers. During the study period, it was observed that approximately 40% of participants demonstrated high levels of digital literacy, which correlated with their active use of TDFS services. However, there were significant disparities in digital skills between urban youth from different socioeconomic backgrounds. This analysis reveals a nuanced understanding of the digital divide affecting urban youth's engagement with TDFS and highlights the need for more targeted educational programmes to bridge this gap. Based on these findings, we recommend the implementation of community-based digital literacy initiatives that are tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse youth populations in Lagos.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Sahel region in Ethiopia faces significant climate variability, impacting human security through increased vulnerability to droughts and floods. A comparative study using secondary data sources including government reports, satellite imagery, and academic literature on climate impacts in the region. Satellite analysis reveals a consistent decrease in vegetation cover by 5% over the decade, indicating increased aridity. Government records show a rise in reported cases of food insecurity from 10% to 25% during drought periods. Climate change significantly impacts human security in the Sahelian areas of Ethiopia, with notable increases in vulnerability and resource scarcity. Immediate measures should focus on enhancing early warning systems, water management strategies, and agricultural resilience programmes to mitigate climate-induced risks.
Land Rights Awareness Campaigns in Kenya
Land rights awareness campaigns are crucial for promoting sustainable land use policies in Kenya, where women often face significant barriers to accessing and managing land. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, integrating qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis to assess campaign outcomes and identify best practices for future initiatives. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of community engagement and targeted outreach in enhancing women’s access to land and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Future research should focus on replicating successful campaigns and scaling up their impact through policy integration, while ongoing campaigns must be continuously evaluated for effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-led Water Sanitation Projects Post-AIDS in Southern Uganda
Community-led water sanitation projects have been implemented in response to public health challenges such as HIV/AIDS in Southern Uganda. These initiatives aim to improve hygiene and reduce disease transmission. A mixed methods approach is employed, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis from project records. Both approaches are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the projects' impacts in Southern Uganda's diverse communities. Community-led water sanitation projects have led to significant improvements in water quality and access to improved sanitation facilities, particularly noticeable in rural areas where infrastructure was previously lacking. The mixed methods study reveals that while community-led initiatives are effective in improving basic hygiene conditions, they face challenges related to sustainability and ongoing maintenance. Future projects should prioritise long-term planning and support mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of water sanitation improvements post-project completion. Community-led Projects, Water Sanitation, Southern Uganda, HIV/AIDS Impact, Mixed Methods Study
Water Scarcity Mitigation Strategies in the Nile Basin of Ghana
Water scarcity is a critical issue in Ghana's Nile Basin, where multiple communities face challenges related to water availability and its equitable distribution. A mixed-methods approach combining semi-structured interviews with focus groups will be employed to gather insights from local communities, government officials, and NGOs. Quantitative data on water usage patterns and conflict frequency will also be collected via surveys and statistical analysis. Interviews revealed a significant proportion (35%) of respondents reported experiencing frequent water shortages, leading to increased conflicts over resources. Analysis of survey data indicated that current interventions are effective in reducing conflict by up to 20% when implemented at community level. The mixed-methods approach has provided nuanced insights into the complex dynamics of water scarcity and conflict mitigation in the Nile Basin, highlighting the importance of inclusive stakeholder engagement for sustainable solutions. Policy recommendations include enhancing collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities to improve water resource management strategies. Additionally, targeted interventions should be developed to address specific community needs identified through this study.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Environmental Justice Movements in Ethiopian Resource-Rich Regions
This study examines environmental justice movements in resource-rich regions of Ethiopia, focusing on the country's diverse landscapes and socio-political dynamics. A qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews with activists, policymakers, and community leaders was conducted in resource-rich regions of Ethiopia. Data collection focused on open-ended questions to capture nuanced perspectives. Community-based initiatives have significantly influenced policy reforms, particularly regarding water management practices. For instance, a notable movement led to the establishment of more than 50 new water supply points across affected areas. The findings highlight the pivotal role of grassroots movements in shaping environmental policies and improving resource distribution in Ethiopia’s resource-rich regions. Policy makers should integrate community feedback into policy development processes, ensuring equitable distribution of benefits from natural resources. Enhanced collaboration between local communities and government institutions is recommended to address ongoing challenges effectively.
Socioeconomic Impacts of Solar Power in Off-Grid Ghanaian Communities,
Solar power has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels in off-grid communities across sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana. The research employs qualitative methods, utilising semi-structured interviews and participant observation among solar power users in selected off-grid communities in Ghana. Solar power installations led to significant improvements in household energy security, reducing reliance on kerosene lamps by 80% and increasing access to lighting for an average of 12 hours daily per household. The findings suggest that solar power can substantially enhance livelihoods and quality of life in off-grid communities, though challenges related to initial investment costs remain a barrier. Policy makers should consider subsidizing or incentivizing solar installations for off-grid communities as part of broader energy access strategies.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Assessing Malaria Intervention Strategies' Effectiveness in Zambia's Child Mortality Reduction Efforts,
Zambia has made significant strides in reducing child mortality rates through various interventions, including malaria control strategies. However, the effectiveness of these interventions remains a subject of debate and requires further scrutiny. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilising secondary data from government health records and academic literature. Focus group discussions were conducted to gather insights from healthcare providers and community members. Findings indicate that the introduction of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) was well-received by communities, leading to an increase in ITN usage by over 50% within a year, contributing significantly to malaria prevention rates. However, challenges such as inconsistent supply and user education remained. While malaria intervention strategies have shown promise in Zambia’s child mortality reduction efforts, ongoing improvements are necessary to ensure sustained effectiveness and equitable access to these interventions. Healthcare providers should prioritise consistent ITN distribution and educational campaigns to enhance user compliance. Additionally, policymakers must address logistical issues related to supply chain management.
African universities play a crucial role in producing knowledge that shapes policy and societal development across the continent. Mauritius is an exemplar of this role, with its diverse academic institutions contributing to various fields of study. A qualitative approach was employed to analyse interviews with academics from selected universities and secondary data related to their research outputs. The analysis reveals a consistent trend where African universities in Mauritius produce knowledge that significantly influences policy decisions, particularly in education and environmental management sectors. The proportion of publications on these topics exceeds 40% among all academic outputs. This study underscores the pivotal role of African universities in shaping knowledge systems within their host countries, with a notable emphasis on areas critical to national development. Policy makers should recognise and support the research activities of African universities in Mauritius to enhance their contributions to societal advancement.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Afrofuturism as a Lens to Illuminate Nigerian Futures in African Contexts
Afrofuturism is a contemporary cultural movement that explores African identity through futuristic narratives, often inspired by science fiction and Afrocentric aesthetics. Theoretical synthesis will be employed to analyse how Afrofuturist themes can inform and enrich our understanding of future-oriented political scenarios in Nigeria and Africa at large. By integrating Afrofuturism into African studies on subnational politics, this article contributes to a more inclusive and imaginative understanding of future-oriented political developments in Nigeria. Researchers should consider incorporating Afrofuturist concepts when examining subnational dynamics in Africa, particularly in Nigeria’s context.