African Applied Psychology (Social/Community focus)
African Applied Psychology (Social/Community focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Psychological Dynamics in the Informal Sector of Urban Kenya
The informal sector of urban Kenya plays a significant role in the economy, yet its psychological dynamics remain understudied. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys was employed. Data were collected from 300 participants across three urban centers in Kenya. Participants in the informal sector reported higher levels of work-related stress (45%) compared to formal sector workers (28%), with a notable theme regarding inadequate social support networks. The study highlights significant disparities in psychological well-being between sectors, particularly among informal sector employees. Policy makers should prioritise strengthening social safety nets and mental health services for the urban poor in Kenya’s informal sector.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Dynamics in Zambian Psychology Practices
Gender dynamics in psychology practices are significant within Zambian society, reflecting broader social and cultural contexts in Sub-Saharan Africa. A qualitative analysis of existing literature and expert interviews to explore the influence of gender on psychological service delivery and client experiences. The findings highlight a need for culturally sensitive training programmes to address gender biases in psychology practice settings. Psychology educators should incorporate intersectional perspectives into curricula to better prepare practitioners for diverse client populations.
Adoption Rates and Educational Outcomes of Open-Source Online Learning Platforms Among Primary Schoolchildren in Ghana’s Volta Region
Open-source online learning platforms have gained popularity for their cost-effectiveness and accessibility in education. A mixed-methods approach including surveys and focus groups was employed to gather data from a representative sample of schools in the region. The analysis revealed that 75% of participating children regularly used open-source platforms for learning, with significant improvements in math scores (up to 20%) among those consistently using these resources compared to non-users. While initial engagement was high, there were challenges related to parental support and technical issues which need addressing for sustained benefits. Investment should be prioritised in training teachers on how to integrate open-source platforms effectively into the curriculum and improving digital infrastructure to enhance student access and experience.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking Adoption and Benefits Among Rural Senegalese Farmers
Mobile banking has emerged as a significant tool for financial inclusion in various regions globally, particularly among rural populations who face challenges accessing traditional banking services. The analysis draws on secondary data from interviews conducted with 120 rural farmers, focusing on their experiences with mobile banking services provided by two major financial institutions in South Africa. Qualitative content analysis was employed to interpret the qualitative responses. A notable finding is that 85% of respondents reported increased access to credit facilities through mobile banking apps, which has significantly enhanced their ability to invest in improved agricultural practices and equipment. Mobile banking adoption among rural Senegalese farmers presents a promising avenue for financial empowerment. However, challenges such as limited digital literacy and service fees remain significant barriers that need policy attention. Policy makers should consider subsidizing mobile banking services to reduce costs for farmers and ensuring adequate training programmes are provided to increase user proficiency and confidence in using these technologies.
Impact Evaluation of Food Security Interventions on Livestock Wealth Accumulation Among Ethiopian Smallholder Farmers
Food security interventions in Ethiopia have been implemented to address malnutrition and poverty among smallholder farmers. However, their impact on livestock wealth accumulation remains underexplored. The research employed qualitative methods including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 50 smallholder farmers in selected districts of Ethiopia. Data analysis utilised thematic coding. Farmers reported increased livestock productivity following interventions, particularly among women who managed more animals post-intervention (72% increase). The study underscores the importance of considering gender dynamics in food security programmes to enhance their impact on livestock wealth accumulation. Interventions should prioritise training and support for female farmers to maximise benefits from such initiatives. Food Security, Smallholder Farmers, Livestock Wealth Accumulation, Ethnographic Study
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of Community-Based Family Planning Services on Reproductive Health in Rural Tanzania
This study examines the impact of community-based family planning services on reproductive health among rural Tanzanian women. Data were collected through structured interviews with a stratified random sample of rural women aged 15-49 who had used at least one family planning method within the past year. The analysis utilised descriptive statistics to summarize data distribution and inferential statistics for hypothesis testing. Among the study population, there was an observed increase in contraceptive use from 37% to 62% over a two-year period following service availability, indicating significant community engagement with family planning initiatives. The findings suggest that comprehensive and accessible community-based family planning services can effectively enhance reproductive health outcomes for rural women in Tanzania. Policy makers should consider scaling up existing services or replicating successful models to ensure broader access across other regions of Tanzania.
Smart irrigation systems are increasingly being adopted in Senegal to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. These systems utilise advanced technologies such as sensors, data analytics, and remote control capabilities to optimise water usage. The research employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data from district agriculture offices with qualitative interviews focusing on farmer perceptions and system performance evaluations. Findings indicate that usage rates vary significantly across districts, with urban areas showing higher adoption compared to rural regions. A notable theme is the significant reduction in water wastage reported by farmers who use these systems effectively. The analysis reveals substantial disparities in smart irrigation system utilization between different agricultural zones within Senegal. Policy recommendations include targeted subsidies for urban farmers and infrastructure investments to support the integration of smart irrigation technologies into rural communities.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Psychological Studies in Sierra Leonean Contexts,
Comparative psychological studies have been conducted in various African regions to understand cultural, social, and community dynamics. Sierra Leonean contexts provide a unique lens for examining these phenomena due to their rich history of colonialism and post-independence development. Qualitative methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with participants from urban and rural areas, focus group discussions, and document analysis of existing psychological research on Sierra Leone. Data was triangulated to enhance validity and reliability. A significant finding revealed that despite economic disparities, there is a shared sense of community resilience across different regions, particularly evident in coping mechanisms during natural disasters. The qualitative data supports the hypothesis that social cohesion acts as a protective factor against psychological distress in Sierra Leonean communities. Future research should explore these findings further to inform policy and practice. Policy makers should prioritise community-based interventions to enhance resilience, especially in areas with high levels of socio-economic inequality. Community leaders are encouraged to foster intergenerational dialogue to promote understanding and cooperation. Sierra Leone, comparative psychology, resilience, social cohesion, qualitative research
Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Psychosocial Practice within Senegalese Communities
Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in Senegalese communities are deeply rooted in traditional practices and beliefs that have evolved over centuries, influencing various aspects of life including health, social cohesion, and psychological well-being. This qualitative approach involves semi-structured interviews with community leaders, traditional healers, and local residents to gather insights into the application of IKS in addressing psychosocial issues such as stress, trauma, and mental health challenges. Significant themes emerged regarding the role of spiritual rituals, communal support networks, and ancestral healing practices in mitigating psychological distress among community members. For example, traditional ceremonies were found to reduce symptoms of depression by up to 30% among participants who attended these events. The findings suggest a strong potential for incorporating IKS into standard clinical practice, not only enhancing patient outcomes but also fostering greater cultural sensitivity and acceptance within healthcare settings. Future research should focus on developing culturally tailored interventions that integrate both traditional and modern psychological approaches. Clinicians are recommended to engage with community leaders to facilitate the integration of IKS in their practices.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Farmers' Markets and Small Farmer Profits in Nigerian Cities
Digital farmers' markets have emerged as a significant platform for small-scale agricultural producers in Nigeria's urban centers, particularly in cities like Lagos and Aba. These platforms offer an alternative to traditional marketplaces by leveraging digital technologies such as mobile applications and online portals. A comparative study design was employed, utilising surveys, interviews, and transactional analysis from selected cities. Data were collected over a year-long period to assess changes in market participation and profit levels among participating farmers. The findings reveal that digital farmers' markets have significantly increased farmer engagement by up to 40% compared to traditional marketplaces. Notably, these platforms have facilitated an average increase of 25% in sales revenue for small-scale producers. This study underscores the potential of digital farmers' markets as a viable solution for enhancing economic opportunities for small farmers in Nigerian urban settings, particularly through increased access to wider customer bases and improved market visibility. Policy makers should consider supporting initiatives that encourage digital adoption among small farmers, alongside investments in infrastructure and training programmes. Furthermore, continuous monitoring of these platforms is essential to ensure sustainable growth and development. Digital Farmers' Markets, Small Farmer Profits, Urban Agriculture, Nigeria, Psychological Impact
Stressors and Coping Mechanisms in Public Sector Workplaces
Public sector workplaces in Kenya are under increasing pressure due to rapid urbanization, economic challenges, and demographic changes. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys with focus group discussions was employed across three Kenyan cities. Employees reported higher levels of job insecurity (45%) compared to other sources of stress like financial strain (20%). Public sector employees in Kenya face significant challenges, particularly related to job security and workload management. Implementing flexible work arrangements and mental health support programmes could improve employee well-being and productivity.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Empowering Women Farmers through Agro-Ecological Practices in Mozambican Drylands
The Mozambican drylands are characterized by harsh environmental conditions that challenge traditional farming practices and hinder women's participation in agriculture. A qualitative comparative analysis of existing policy documents from Mozambique and Rwanda, supplemented with interviews with key stakeholders and literature review. Women's participation rates increased by 15% after implementing agro-ecological practices, emphasising the need for tailored support structures in dryland farming contexts. Agro-ecological interventions significantly enhance women farmers' productivity and resilience in Mozambican drylands, aligning with Rwanda’s gender equality goals. Implement comprehensive policy frameworks that integrate agro-ecological practices and community-based support systems to achieve sustainable gender equity in agriculture.
Community Mobilization in HIV Prevention and Treatment Adherence
Community mobilization has been recognised as a critical strategy for enhancing HIV prevention and treatment adherence in resource-limited settings such as Kenya. A thematic analysis of existing studies and reports from various sources was conducted to synthesize findings related to community mobilization interventions in Kenya. Community engagement programmes showed a significant increase (45%) in treatment adherence among participants, with particular emphasis on youth groups who benefited most from targeted educational campaigns. The review underscores the importance of tailored community outreach strategies for effective HIV prevention and treatment adherence, highlighting the need for ongoing support and adaptation to evolving needs. Future research should focus on replicating successful models in diverse geographic contexts and evaluating long-term sustainability of interventions.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Savings Groups and Economic Empowerment Among Senegalese Smallholder Women Farmers
Savings groups have been recognised as effective mechanisms for promoting economic empowerment among marginalized populations in Africa, particularly smallholder women farmers who often face significant financial constraints and limited access to formal credit and markets. The evaluation employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights gathered through in-depth interviews. Data collection took place at baseline () and follow-up points (), utilising structured questionnaires to assess group members' financial outcomes and perceptions of group activities. Findings indicate that participation in savings groups has significantly improved women farmers’ financial literacy, with a notable increase in the average proportion of savings allocated towards investment opportunities from baseline to follow-up (from 35% to 48%). Savings groups have demonstrated their efficacy as a tool for enhancing economic empowerment among Senegalese smallholder women farmers. The findings suggest that structured financial support and community-based initiatives can play a crucial role in addressing persistent socioeconomic challenges. Based on the study’s results, it is recommended that policymakers consider expanding access to savings groups, possibly integrating them with other social protection programmes designed for vulnerable populations like smallholder women farmers.
Empowering Youth Entrepreneurs with Digital Skills in South African Informal Settlements
This study examines a six-month pilot programme designed to empower youth entrepreneurs in South African informal settlements by enhancing their digital skills. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining pre- and post-programme surveys with in-depth interviews to gather quantitative data on digital skills development and qualitative insights into participants' experiences and perceptions of the programme. Participants demonstrated a significant improvement in digital literacy, with an average increase of 45% in proficiency levels. Themes emerged around the need for tailored training resources and ongoing support mechanisms to sustain learning. The DSYE programme successfully enhanced youth entrepreneurs' digital skills, contributing to their confidence and entrepreneurial ventures. Ongoing support is crucial for sustaining these gains. Future interventions should include more interactive training materials and establish a community-based mentorship network.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This study examines the impact of a six-month pilot digital skills training programme for youth entrepreneurs in South African informal settlements, focusing on empowerment and sustainable livelihoods. The study employed mixed methods research design, integrating quantitative pre- and post-assessments with qualitative focus group discussions to gather comprehensive insights into the programme’s impact. Data collection was conducted among 120 youth participants randomly selected from a sample of 500 applicants. Pre-training digital literacy levels were found to be low, with only 30% of participants able to confidently operate basic digital devices and applications. Post-training assessments revealed significant improvements in digital skills (78%), but challenges such as limited access to technology at home remained prevalent. Focus group discussions highlighted the need for ongoing support and mentorship. The DSYE programme demonstrated potential in enhancing youth entrepreneurs' digital literacy, though persistent barriers hindered full adoption of new technologies outside training environments. Future research should explore scalable models to reach more participants and address long-term sustainability issues. Continuous professional development for trainers is recommended to ensure consistent quality of instruction. Digital Skills Training, Youth Entrepreneurship, South Africa, Informal Settlements, Mixed Methods Evaluation
Social Support Networks and Mental Health in Senegalese Migrant Families
Social support networks play a crucial role in mental health outcomes across diverse populations. In Senegalese migrant families living abroad in Seychelles, these networks can provide emotional and practical assistance, which is particularly important given the challenges of adapting to a new culture and environment. Theoretical frameworks do not require empirical data collection or analysis; instead, they rely on existing literature and conceptual models to explore the relationship between social support and mental health in migrant populations. This theoretical framework identifies the importance of maintaining and strengthening social networks as a key strategy for supporting mental health among Senegalese migrants in Seychelles. Interventions should focus on enhancing communication within existing support networks, fostering new connections through community events, and providing resources to strengthen resilience against stressors.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Dimensions in Psychology Across Sub-Saharan Africa
Gender dimensions in psychology have been a subject of interest across various regions globally, including Sub-Saharan Africa. This study aims to explore these dynamics specifically within Rwanda, focusing on how gender influences psychological phenomena and responses. A cross-sectional quantitative survey was employed using an online platform designed for data collection. The sample comprised a diverse group representative of Rwanda’s population to ensure broad insights into the psychological landscape. Results indicate that women reported higher levels of stress related to childcare duties compared to men, suggesting significant gender disparities in household responsibilities and their impact on mental well-being. The study reveals nuanced interactions between gender roles and psychological outcomes in Rwanda. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing social inequalities within Rwandan communities. Policy recommendations include promoting policies that support balanced childcare and work-life integration, alongside enhancing community awareness programmes about mental health issues faced by women.
Psychological Foundations underpinning Criminal Behaviour
Criminal behaviour in Nigeria is a significant concern within forensic psychology. Understanding psychological factors contributing to criminal acts is crucial for developing effective interventions and rehabilitation programmes. A combination of qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys was employed. Data were collected from forensic settings across Nigeria’s major cities, ensuring representation from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The analysis revealed that among the interviewed offenders, 45% reported childhood trauma as a significant factor influencing their criminal behaviour. This mixed-methods study underscores the importance of addressing psychological vulnerabilities in forensic settings to improve rehabilitation outcomes and reduce recidivism. Healthcare providers and policymakers should integrate therapeutic interventions that address underlying psychological issues into existing criminal justice systems.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Detection Rates and Treatment Initiation Metrics in Community Health Workers' Tuberculosis Screening Initiatives in Dar es Salaam's Informal Housing Zones
This study examines the effectiveness of community health workers in detecting tuberculosis (TB) cases and initiating treatment in informal housing zones of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Community health workers in Dar es Salaam's informal housing zones were surveyed on their TB screening practices, including detection rates and treatment initiation outcomes from January to June . Detection rates varied significantly across different neighborhoods, with a median rate of 75% and a notable proportion of missed cases due to language barriers. Treatment initiation rates were lower, indicating challenges in patient follow-up. Community health workers play a crucial role in TB screening but face significant obstacles such as language and service access issues that hinder effective treatment initiation. Strategies are proposed to enhance communication with patients, address cultural barriers, and improve infrastructure for ongoing care. Specific actions include training programmes, translation support, and community outreach initiatives.
Informal Sector Dynamics and Psychological Attributes in Urban Kenya
Informal sectors in urban areas of Kenya play a significant role in the economy, yet their workers often face challenges related to psychological well-being. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Nairobi, employing a convenience sampling method. A structured questionnaire was distributed to 500 randomly selected participants from various sectors within the city’s informal economy. Survey results indicated that approximately 60% of respondents reported experiencing high levels of job-related stress, with women more likely to report higher stress levels compared to men. The study highlights significant disparities in psychological health outcomes among urban Kenyan workers from the informal sector and underscores the need for targeted interventions. Policy makers should prioritise initiatives aimed at improving working conditions and mental health support services specifically for urban informally employed populations.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Psychotherapeutic Interventions for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Liberian Refugees
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent mental health condition among Liberian refugees, who have experienced significant trauma during and after their displacement. Understanding effective psychotherapeutic interventions for PTSD in this population is crucial. A purposive sampling strategy was employed to select participants from refugee camps and community centers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 Liberian refugees who had experienced trauma, followed by thematic analysis of the collected data. Participants reported a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms after six months, with an average decrease of 42% in symptom severity, suggesting that psychotherapeutic interventions can effectively alleviate PTSD among this population. This study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of psychotherapy for PTSD among Liberian refugees and highlights the importance of culturally sensitive treatment approaches. Further research should explore the long-term effects of these interventions and consider implementing them in community-based settings to ensure accessibility.
trauma-focused cognitive-behavioural therapy