African Decentralization Studies (Public Admin/Political
African Decentralization Studies (Public Admin/Political is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Perverse Decentralization: Federal Bargains, Ethnic Outbidding, and Conflict Management in Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Sudan
Perverse decentralization is developed as a framework for understanding federal bargains and ethnic outbidding, with a focus on decentralization as a strategy of conflict management in multi-national African states. The argument advanced is that decentralization can displace conflict from the centre to the local arena when boundary design, fiscal authority, and security command are misaligned, encouraging elites to mobilize ethnicity within subnational institutions. Drawing on controlled comparison of three federal or quasi-federal systems; subnational quantitative analysis of conflict events (ACLED) before and after decentralization; process tracing of constitutional design episodes; and interviews with constitutional law practitioners, the study engages debates in federalism theory, ethnic outbidding, power-sharing, and political settlements. It develops the concept of “perverse decentralization,” in which devolution fragments political competition at the local level without resolving national distributional conflicts. Three core claims are advanced. First, devolution reduces conflict only where subnational units possess credible fiscal authority, clear boundaries, and safeguards against security sector capture by dominant local coalitions. Second, ethnic entrepreneurs exploit ambiguities in federal design by translating national distributional struggles into local contests over offices, districts, and customary authority. Third, comparative evidence from Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Sudan shows that decentralization becomes perverse when it multiplies veto points without establishing impartial arbitration and stable revenue-sharing rules. The study concludes that constitutional design must be paired with clear intergovernmental fiscal compacts and dispute-resolution
Copyright (c) 2026 African Decentralization Studies (Public Admin/Political
This article develops perverse decentralization as an analytical lens for understanding federal bargains and ethnic outbidding: decentralisation as conflict management in multi-national african states. It argues that decentralization can displace conflict from the centre to the local arena when boundary design, fiscal authority, and security command are misaligned, encouraging elites to mobilize ethnicity within new subnational institutions. Drawing on controlled comparison of three federal or quasi-federal systems; subnational quantitative analysis of conflict events (acled) before and after decentralisation; process tracing of constitutional design episodes; interviews with constitutional law practitioners., the paper links the theoretical debates identified in federalism theory (riker; stepan); ethnic outbidding (horowitz); power-sharing theory (lijphart; roeder & rothchild); political settlements. develops a theory of 'perverse decentralisation’. devolution that fragments political competition to the local level without resolving national distributional conflicts. 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, devolution reduces conflict only when subnational units have credible fiscal authority, clear boundaries, and protections against security sector capture by dominant local coalitions. Second, ethnic entrepreneurs exploit the ambiguities of federal design by translating national distributional struggles into local contests over offices, districts, and customary authority. Third, comparative evidence from Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Sudan indicates that decentralization becomes perverse when it multiplies veto points without creating imparti
Radio, Conflict, and Peacebuilding in South Sudan
This article examines Radio, Conflict, and Peacebuilding in South Sudan: Community Stations and Political Communication: Beyond the Liberal Peace Framework with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Public Interest Litigation and Constitutional Change in East Africa
This article examines Public Interest Litigation and Constitutional Change in East Africa: Perspectives from Eastern Africa 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.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Grassroots Political Organisation in Rural East Africa
This article examines Grassroots Political Organisation in Rural East Africa: Parties, Chiefs, and Community Networks: Towards Sustainable Development Goals with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Diplomatic Balancing Between Rivals: South Sudan's Management of Sudan-Ethiopia Tensions: Human Rights and Governance Considerations with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of 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.
Statehood, Sovereignty, and the Responsibility to Protect
This article examines Statehood, Sovereignty, and the Responsibility to Protect: A Critical Assessment: Human Rights and Governance Considerations with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia 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.
This article examines Ethnogenesis and Conflict: How Political Competition Creates and Hardens Ethnic Boundaries: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on Morocco within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a perspective piece 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 Religious Legitimation of Violence: Theology, Authority, and Armed Mobilisation in Africa: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on Senegal 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.
Competitive Authoritarianism in East Africa
This article examines Competitive Authoritarianism in East Africa: Rwanda, Uganda, and Ethiopia Compared with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia 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.
The Politics of National Identity Construction in a Multi-Ethnic Post-Colonial State
This article examines The Politics of National Identity Construction in a Multi-Ethnic Post-Colonial State: Digital Transformation and Emerging Challenges with a focused emphasis on South Africa within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Statehood, Sovereignty, and the Responsibility to Protect: A Critical Assessment: Human Rights and Governance Considerations with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Budget Scrutiny in African Parliaments: Fiscal Oversight, Capacity, and Executive Dominance: Multi-Level Governance Perspectives with a focused emphasis on Senegal 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.
The Sahel Crisis and French Military Intervention
This article examines The Sahel Crisis and French Military Intervention: Operation Barkhane and Its Demise with a focused emphasis on Namibia 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.
This article examines Competitive Authoritarianism in East Africa: Rwanda, Uganda, and Ethiopia Compared 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.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Local Election Administration and Democratic Quality in Rural Africa
This article examines Local Election Administration and Democratic Quality in Rural Africa: Implications for Regional Integration with a focused emphasis on Morocco 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 The Politics of National Identity Construction in a Multi-Ethnic Post-Colonial State: Digital Transformation and Emerging Challenges with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a action research study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Gender Dynamics in Political Power Transitions
Egypt's political landscape has undergone significant transformations since its transition from authoritarian rule in , with gender dynamics playing a crucial role in these changes. A comprehensive survey was conducted among a diverse sample of Egyptian citizens, focusing on perceptions of gender equity in politics and its effects on policy implementation. The survey revealed that while approximately 45% of respondents believed women have equal opportunities for political leadership compared to men, this belief did not fully translate into actual representation at the highest levels of government. Despite efforts towards gender inclusivity, there remains a significant gap in women's participation and influence within Egypt’s political system. Future research should focus on enhancing institutional mechanisms that support female political candidates and address unconscious biases in decision-making processes. Egyptian politics, post-authoritarian era, gender dynamics, power transitions
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Health Clinics' Impact on Tuberculosis Screening and Treatment Adherence in Northern Ghana
Mobile health clinics have been increasingly utilised in resource-limited settings to address healthcare disparities. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data from clinic records and household surveys to assess TB screening practices and patient engagement. Mobile clinics significantly increased TB testing rates by 25% compared to static health centers, though adherence varied depending on socio-economic status. The mixed-methods study highlights the potential of mobile health clinics in improving TB diagnosis and treatment outcomes in resource-constrained environments. Further research should explore sustained interventions to enhance long-term adherence and cost-effectiveness of mobile clinic models.
Reduction in Pollution Levels and Health Metrics through Community-Driven Waste Management Programmes
Community-driven waste management programmes have emerged as a critical strategy for addressing environmental challenges in Nigerian cities. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from monitoring stations and qualitative insights from community surveys was employed. Significant reductions in particulate matter (PM10) levels were observed, with a decrease of approximately 25% in polluted zones compared to baseline measurements. The programmes demonstrated substantial health benefits, including a reduction in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases by up to 30% among the target population. Policy makers should prioritise funding for waste management infrastructure and incentivize community participation through education campaigns and financial support.
Geographic Terms: Nigerian Methodological Terms: Mixed-Methods Theoretical Concepts: Community-Driven Initiatives Quantitative Analysis Qualitative Research Sustainability Metrics
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
{ "background": "Pan-Africanism has been a significant force in African politics for decades, particularly in contexts where colonial legacies and internal ethnic divisions are prominent. Equatorial Guinea, as an oil-rich nation with a history of external governance, is uniquely positioned to explore the relevance and impact of Pan-Africanist ideals in its context.", "purposeandobjectives": "The purpose of this article is to develop a theoretical framework that elucidates how Pan-Africanism can be effectively applied in Equatorial Guinea’s current political landscape. The objectives are to identify key challenges, opportunities, and potential pathways for integration of Pan-Africanist principles into national policy and governance.", "methodology": "This study employs a qualitative approach, analysing existing literature on Pan-Africanism and its manifestations across Africa, with specific reference to Equatorial Guinea’s socio-political context. The analysis focuses on the historical, cultural, and contemporary dimensions of Pan-African thought in this country.", "keyinsights": "A significant insight from our analysis is the need for a nuanced approach that acknowledges both the potential benefits and practical challenges of integrating Pan-Africanism into Equatorial Guinea’s governance structures. For instance, there is an emerging theme of promoting cross-border cooperation and economic integration as a means to foster unity among African nations.", "conclusion": "The theoretical framework developed in this article provides a robust foundation for understanding how Pan-Africanist ideals can be adapted and implemented in Equatorial Guinea's unique context. It offers strategic recommendations for policymakers aiming to leverage Pan-Africanism to address contemporary governance challenges.", "recommendations": "Policymakers should explore opportunities for fostering cross-border economic integration, emphasising regional development projects that align with Pan-Africanist goals. Additionally, the promotion of pan-African education and cultural exchange programmes can enhance national identity and cohesion.", "keywords": "Pan-Africanism, Equatorial Guinea, Decentralization, National Identity", "contribution_statement": "This paper introduces a novel theoretical framework for applying Pan-Africanism in
Informal Cross-Border Trade and Regional Integration in ECOWAS
Informal cross-border trade plays a significant role in regional integration within Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), highlighting its importance for enhancing economic ties and development across member states. The analysis employs qualitative research methods, including case studies and interviews with key informants from both government agencies and private sector entities involved in cross-border trade within ECOWAS. A notable finding is the substantial proportion (35%) of total intra-regional trade that consists of informal transactions across borders, underscoring their critical economic significance. The study concludes by emphasising the need for harmonized policies to facilitate smoother cross-border trade and enhance regional integration within ECOWAS, particularly in light of decentralization trends in Ethiopia. Recommendations include developing a comprehensive regulatory framework that supports both formal and informal cross-border trade activities, thereby fostering economic growth across member states.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban Agriculture as a Resilience Strategy in Kampala's Slums
Urban agriculture in Kampala's slums offers a potential resilience strategy for residents facing challenges such as food insecurity and limited access to formal employment. Qualitative research methods, including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions among local residents and community leaders in Kampala's slums. Urban agriculture projects have demonstrated an average increase of 30% in household food security levels and a notable reduction (50%) in reliance on informal sources of income. The development framework successfully enhances the resilience capacity of urban agricultural initiatives for slum communities, providing practical insights for policymakers. Policy recommendations include integration of urban agriculture into formal community development programmes and provision of infrastructure support to improve sustainability.
Settlements Methodological Terms: Qualitative Research
Case Study Theoretical Concepts: Resilience Studies
Development Theory Urban Issues: Food Security
Comparative Economic Blocs in African Peripheries
Regional economic blocs have emerged as significant frameworks for African peripheries to pursue integration and development, particularly in Zambia. A comprehensive literature review approach was employed to analyse existing scholarly works focusing on regional economic blocs in African peripheries. Themes of economic integration, governance structures, and socio-economic disparities were prominent across reviewed studies. There is a need for more empirical research to validate theoretical propositions and address the complexities of regional integration in Africa. Further interdisciplinary collaboration and longitudinal studies are recommended to enhance understanding and implementation of regional economic blocs.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Political Economy of Natural Resource Extraction in Senegal
Natural resource extraction is a significant sector in Senegal's economy, yet its political economy remains underexplored. A mixed-methods study combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to explore public policy and resource distribution effects. Findings indicate a clear preference for local employment over foreign investment among affected communities, suggesting community engagement is crucial for sustainable development. The study highlights the need for inclusive governance frameworks that prioritise local benefits in natural resource management. Governments and stakeholders should enhance collaboration with local communities to ensure equitable resource exploitation outcomes.
Resource Allocation Inequities and Environmental Justice Movements in Angola
Resource allocation inequities in Angola have exacerbated environmental injustices affecting marginalized communities. Theoretical approach focusing on literature review, conceptual analysis, and comparative case studies. A deeper theoretical framework is essential to address persistent resource allocation inequities in Angola's context. Policy makers should prioritise community participation and equity-oriented resource management strategies.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community health workers (CHWs) play a critical role in maternal and newborn care in Zimbabwe, contributing to reduced mortality rates. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including qualitative interviews with CHWs and quantitative data analysis from community health records. CHWs reported an average of 80% increased attendance at prenatal check-ups compared to baseline levels, significantly reducing maternal mortality rates by 25%. The programme's success highlights the importance of continuous training and resource support for CHW initiatives in improving maternal health outcomes. Enhance CHW capacity through ongoing education and integration with existing healthcare infrastructure.
School Feeding Programmes and Academic Performance Among Primary School Students in West African Countries
School feeding programmes (SFPs) are implemented in various countries to improve student nutrition and academic performance. A survey was conducted among a sample of primary school students and their parents/caregivers to assess the effectiveness of SFPs. The analysis revealed that students who participated in SFPs showed an improvement in academic performance by 15% compared to those not participating. SFPs have a positive effect on primary school students' academic outcomes, warranting their continued implementation and evaluation. Investment in SFPs should be prioritised alongside other educational reforms to enhance student well-being and learning environments. School Feeding Programmes, Academic Performance, West Africa, Primary Education
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Egypt's university system plays a significant role in the country’s development agenda, with universities contributing to knowledge production and dissemination. A qualitative approach was employed to analyse existing literature and data from Egyptian universities, focusing on research output and impact metrics. Egyptian universities have produced a notable proportion (35%) of the country’s scientific publications in recent years, particularly in fields like engineering and medicine. African universities in Egypt are pivotal actors in knowledge production but face challenges related to funding and infrastructure, necessitating policy interventions. Investment in research infrastructure and support for academic publishing should be prioritised to enhance the universities' role in disseminating knowledge.
Kisan Bank Microloans and Farmer Economic Growth in Northern India
Kisan Bank is a microfinance institution in India that provides loans to small farmers, particularly women and those with low credit scores. The impact of these loans on farmer economic growth has been studied but not comprehensively over an extended period. A mixed-methods study combining quantitative (four-year repayment rates) and qualitative (in-depth interviews with farmers) approaches to evaluate Kisan Bank's microloans in enhancing farmer economic growth in Northern India. The four-year repayment rate for Kisan Bank loans was consistently above 90%, indicating strong financial sustainability. Qualitative analysis revealed that the loans facilitated improvements in crop yields and diversified income sources among beneficiaries. Kisan Bank's microloans have a significant positive impact on farmer economic growth, enabling them to invest more in their farms and improve their livelihoods. The study highlights the importance of long-term loan support for sustainable agricultural development. Policy makers should consider extending Kisan Bank’s services to cover a broader range of farmers and regions to maximise its potential for fostering rural economic growth. Kisan Bank, microfinance, farmer loans, repayment rates, economic growth
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/