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.
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.
The Political Economy of Natural Resource Extraction in Postcolonial Gambia
Recent studies in Central Africa have highlighted the complex interplay between natural resource extraction and political dynamics in postcolonial states. This article aims to draw parallels with similar processes observed there, focusing specifically on The Gambia’s experiences. This analysis employs a comparative case study approach, integrating secondary data from academic sources and government reports to trace the evolution of policies related to natural resource extraction in Gambia over recent decades. Significant themes emerge regarding how centralization versus decentralization affects revenue distribution and environmental protection measures. For instance, there is evidence that decentralized management can lead to more equitable local benefits but may result in less effective regulation. The findings suggest that optimal governance models for natural resource extraction must balance efficiency with sustainability, particularly in the face of potential conflicts between economic development and social welfare. Based on these insights, policymakers are advised to adopt a hybrid approach combining elements from both centralized and decentralized regimes to enhance accountability, transparency, and equitable distribution of resources.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Government Anti-Arrest Policies and Prison Populations in Kenya
In Kenya, government anti-arrest policies have been implemented to reduce crime rates and prison overcrowding. A mixed-methods survey was conducted with police officers, prosecutors, and inmates to assess policy implementation and its impact on prison occupancy. The survey revealed that anti-arrest measures were inconsistently applied, leading to varying rates of arrest reduction across districts. While some regions saw a decline in arrests and subsequent lower prison populations, others experienced no significant change or even an increase in arrests. Recommendation for policymakers includes improving policy enforcement consistency and integrating anti-arrest measures with community policing strategies.
The Corruption Perception Index Dynamics Among Public Service Workers in South African Cities
The Corruption Perception Index (CPI), a widely recognised tool for measuring perceptions of public sector corruption globally, has been operational in South Africa since . Public service workers are often at the forefront of corruption and its effects, making them key actors in understanding CPI dynamics. The study employs qualitative content analysis on CPI data from to , focusing on public sector worker perceptions and regional variations. A thematic approach is used to identify patterns and themes in the data related to perceptions of corruption across different cities and regions. This study highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of CPI dynamics at the subnational level in South Africa to inform more targeted anti-corruption strategies that address specific regional contexts. Policy makers should consider implementing region-specific anti-corruption interventions based on local perceptions and governance structures, emphasising community engagement and accountability mechanisms tailored to urban realities.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance and Entrepreneurial Success Among Female Farmers in Northern Ethiopia
Microfinance programmes have been introduced to support smallholder farmers in developing countries, aiming to enhance their entrepreneurial success and livelihoods. The study employed a combination of semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and a survey among 150 female farmers from six randomly selected villages. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis for qualitative findings and descriptive statistics for quantitative outcomes. Microfinance provided significantly more financial resources to participants (72% reported an increase in income), leading to enhanced agricultural productivity and market access, thereby contributing to higher entrepreneurial success rates among female farmers. The study underscores the effectiveness of microfinance programmes in bolstering female farmers' economic resilience and sustainability in Northern Ethiopia. Microfinance institutions should tailor their services specifically for female farmers by incorporating gender-sensitive approaches that address specific needs and challenges faced by this demographic. Microfinance, Female Farmers, Entrepreneurial Success, Northern Ethiopia
Community-Driven Teacher Training in Lagos Suburbs
Educational inequality remains a significant challenge in Lagos suburbs, where disparities in educational outcomes are often attributed to inadequately trained teachers and insufficient resources. The study employed participant observation, semi-structured interviews with educators and community leaders, and focus group discussions to gather qualitative data from four suburbs in Lagos. Community engagement played a crucial role in the effectiveness of teacher training programmes, leading to improved classroom practices and student outcomes by over 30%. The findings suggest that fostering stronger community partnerships can enhance the impact of educational interventions aimed at closing the achievement gap. Schools should prioritise building collaborative relationships with local communities to support teacher training programmes, ensuring they are more effective and sustainable in reducing inequality. Teacher Training, Community Engagement, Educational Inequality, Lagos Suburbs
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Adoption Dynamics of Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices Among Smallholder Farmers in Northern Cameroon,
Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices are crucial for smallholder farmers in adapting to climate change impacts such as erratic rainfall and increased pest pressure. Northern Cameroon's diverse agro-ecological zones present unique challenges and opportunities for CSA adoption. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with survey data collected from 120 randomly selected farmers. Data analysis involved thematic content analysis for qualitative insights and descriptive statistics to quantify adoption patterns. Farmers showed significant interest in adopting CSA, particularly those who perceived higher yields and improved soil health as advantages. However, cost constraints and lack of information remain major barriers to wider adoption. Despite initial enthusiasm, the study revealed that current extension services need improvement to facilitate greater CSA uptake among smallholder farmers in northern Cameroon. Investment should be prioritised in developing low-cost CSA technologies suitable for local conditions and enhancing farmer education programmes to improve awareness of CSA benefits.
Water Scarcity and Conflict Mitigation in Egypt's Nile Basin
Water scarcity in the Nile Basin poses significant challenges to peace and stability in Egypt, a country heavily dependent on this resource for agriculture, industry, and domestic use. The research employs both qualitative interviews with stakeholders and quantitative analysis of socio-economic data from multiple years, providing a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand. Analysis reveals that water scarcity disproportionately affects marginalized communities in rural areas, leading to increased tensions and occasional outbreaks of violence. This is particularly evident among small-scale farmers reliant on irrigation systems. The mixed methods approach highlights the complex interplay between resource availability and social dynamics, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to prevent future conflicts. Policy recommendations include implementing water management reforms that prioritise equitable access and sustainable usage, alongside community-based conflict resolution mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Payment Systems and Street Vendors in Nairobi
Mobile payment systems have gained traction in urban economies globally, offering a convenient alternative to cash transactions. In Nairobi, Kenya, street vendors are at the forefront of adopting these technologies, yet little empirical research has explored their adoption patterns and economic benefits. The analysis employs quantitative methods, including survey data collected from a representative sample of Nairobi street vendors. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression models to identify trends and factors influencing adoption rates. Mobile payment systems are increasingly adopted by Nairobi’s street vendors, with transaction frequencies showing an average increase of 20% over the past year in those who have integrated mobile payments into their business practices. The findings suggest that while mobile payment systems offer significant economic benefits to street vendors in terms of reduced cash handling costs and increased sales, further interventions are needed to address initial barriers such as technology literacy and access to services. Policymakers should consider implementing targeted training programmes for street vendors on the use of mobile payment systems and exploring partnerships with financial institutions to ensure widespread adoption and benefits accrue to a broader population.
Pan-Africanism has been a significant force in African politics for decades, with Tunisia playing a pivotal role given its historical and cultural ties to Africa. Recent years have seen renewed interest in Pan-Africanist ideologies across the continent. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing key speeches, policy documents, and public discourse related to Pan-Africanist themes in Tunisia since the early 2010s. Secondary data from academic journals and news articles are also considered. A notable finding is the increasing prominence of Pan-Africanist rhetoric within Tunisian political circles, with over 60% of recent policy documents mentioning African integration goals. While Tunisia faces challenges in fully embracing Pan-Africanism due to internal socio-economic pressures and regional rivalries, opportunities exist for enhancing economic cooperation and cultural exchange with Africa's diaspora communities. Tunisian policymakers should prioritise inclusive national dialogues that highlight shared African heritage while addressing domestic concerns. Additionally, fostering closer ties with African countries could bolster international partnerships and support local businesses.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Identity and Political Participation in Urban Cape Verde
Youth identity plays a significant role in political participation among urban populations in developing countries like Cape Verde. Qualitative interviews were conducted with young people aged 18-25, focusing on their perceptions of national and local identities, political knowledge, and participation behaviors in three major cities: Praia, Santiago, and Mindelo. Participants were recruited through snowball sampling methods to ensure representation across urban demographics. Young people in all surveyed cities reported a strong sense of Cape Verdean identity but varying levels of engagement with local governance structures, with about 30% indicating they participate actively in municipal elections. Findings suggest that while there is a unified national identity among urban youth, variations exist based on place-specific factors such as economic conditions and historical legacies. These insights contribute to understanding political participation dynamics within African contexts. Further research should explore the impact of socio-economic disparities on youth engagement patterns across different regions in Cape Verde and beyond. Youth Identity, Political Participation, Urban Cape Verde, Comparative Study
Informal Cross-Border Trade and Regional Integration in ECOWAS
Informal cross-border trade plays a crucial role in regional integration efforts across West Africa, particularly within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Uganda has experienced significant growth in this sector but faces challenges related to governance and infrastructure. The research employs qualitative methods including semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and secondary data review from official ECOWAS bodies and Ugandan government reports. A comparative case study approach is used to analyse trends over time in Uganda’s cross-border trade sector within the context of ECOWAS integration efforts. A notable finding is that informal cross-border trade accounts for approximately 30% of total exports from Uganda to neighboring countries, highlighting its significant economic importance. This trade pattern tends to favour larger enterprises and has led to increased demand for regional infrastructure improvements. This study underscores the critical role of informal trade in shaping regional integration dynamics within ECOWAS, emphasising the need for targeted policy reforms that address regulatory gaps and enhance cross-border connectivity. Policy recommendations include developing a comprehensive strategy to regulate informal trade practices, investing in improved transport infrastructure, and fostering closer collaboration between member states to streamline customs procedures.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Credit Access and Repayment Performance among Micro-Scale Entrepreneurs in South African Townships
Micro-scale entrepreneurs in South African townships face significant financial challenges, particularly in accessing traditional banking services. Digital credit access programmes have emerged as a potential solution to bridge this gap. The study employed semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of micro-scale entrepreneurs, focusing on those who have accessed digital credit. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to identify key themes related to digital credit access and repayment outcomes. Among the interviewed entrepreneurs, 70% reported improved cash flow management due to timely digital credit disbursements, which positively influenced their business operations and growth strategies. However, there were notable challenges in maintaining consistent repayments due to irregular income patterns typical of micro-scale enterprises. Digital credit access programmes offer a viable alternative for micro-scale entrepreneurs but require tailored support mechanisms to address repayment difficulties and enhance long-term financial sustainability. Financial institutions should implement risk management strategies that account for the unique business environments of South African townships. Community-based interventions could also be utilised to improve loan repayment rates by fostering trust and understanding between borrowers and lenders.