Journal of Horn of Africa Studies is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Epidemiological Study of Tuberculosis among Urban Youth in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge in urban settings of Ethiopia, with limited understanding of its epidemiology among youth. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, utilising structured questionnaires administered through a network of urban health clinics. Data collection spanned over one year with follow-up visits to evaluate long-term outcomes. In the initial cohort study, TB prevalence among surveyed youth aged 15-24 was found at 3.7% in Addis Ababa, with significant disparities noted between male and female populations (P < 0.05). The longitudinal impact assessment revealed that individuals who tested positive for latent TB infection had a higher incidence of active TB cases over the year. Implement targeted educational campaigns on TB prevention, particularly focusing on urban youth demographics and high-risk groups identified through this study. Strengthen surveillance systems to monitor and address emerging trends in TB prevalence among urban populations.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Afrofuturism as a Lens to Illuminate Gambian Futures
Afrofuturism is a conceptual framework that explores visions of Africa's future through cultural and imaginative expressions. The analysis will draw from existing literature on Afrofuturism and contemporary African studies, focusing on cultural productions and policy dialogues related to future-oriented thought in Gambia. Afrofuturism offers valuable insights into envisioning and achieving sustainable development pathways in Gambia by integrating cultural expressions with technological advancements. Policy makers should consider incorporating Afrofuturist perspectives in their planning processes, particularly focusing on digital inclusion strategies to promote equitable socio-economic progress.
This study examines regional economic blocs in Zimbabwe within a broader African context from to . This study employs a qualitative comparative analysis approach, reviewing literature from African studies focusing on economic blocs like SADC (Southern Africa Development Community), COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa), and ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States). A key finding is the significant role played by regional integration in enhancing trade flows within Zimbabwe, with a notable increase in bilateral trade agreements between member states. The study concludes that while regional economic blocs offer opportunities for economic growth and stability in Africa, they face challenges such as uneven development among members and external dependencies on major economies. Recommendations include strengthening intra-regional cooperation, addressing disparities within blocs to ensure equitable benefits, and fostering greater integration with global markets to enhance competitiveness.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Traditional Governance Structures versus Modern Democracy in Southern Africa
Southern Africa is characterized by a diverse array of traditional governance structures coexisting with modern democratic systems in various countries, including Seychelles. This comparative study aims to explore and analyse these two distinct forms of governance within the region. The methodology employed in this comparative study involves qualitative research methods such as interviews, surveys, and document reviews. The data collected from these sources will be analysed using thematic analysis techniques. Findings indicate that traditional governance structures often emphasise communal decision-making processes whereas modern democracy typically relies on elected representatives and participatory mechanisms. These differences are particularly evident in the role of customary leaders versus elected officials in policy implementation. This study concludes by highlighting the unique strengths and challenges associated with both traditional and modern democratic governance systems, providing insights for policymakers aiming to enhance societal development within Southern Africa. Based on the findings, it is recommended that policymakers consider integrating elements of traditional governance structures into modern democracy frameworks where appropriate. This could involve fostering more inclusive decision-making processes and enhancing community participation in policy formulation.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Eco-Friendly Waste Management Systems in Kampala’s Informal Settlements
Eco-friendly waste management systems have been implemented in Kampala’s informal settlements to address environmental challenges and improve public health. A mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews, and observational studies was employed to gather data from residents and waste management personnel in selected informal settlements. Household garbage reduction rates averaged 30% over the two-year period, with significant improvements noted in composting of organic waste, reducing methane emissions by 25% compared to traditional disposal methods. The eco-friendly waste management systems demonstrated substantial environmental benefits and community engagement, providing a model for sustainable waste handling in similar settings. Continue pilot projects with wider implementation, enhance public education campaigns, and integrate technological solutions for improved data collection and dissemination of results.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Environmental Justice in Resource-rich Mali
Environmental justice movements in resource-rich nations are gaining attention as they seek to address environmental degradation and social inequalities exacerbated by natural resources. The analysis draws from existing literature and case studies of environmental justice initiatives in Mali, focusing on scholarly reviews and reports. Recent movements have emphasised community-led conservation efforts and advocacy for equitable resource distribution, often targeting water scarcity and land disputes. These movements demonstrate the potential for grassroots engagement to challenge traditional power structures and promote sustainable development policies. Further research should explore how these movements can be scaled up and integrated into national policy frameworks for environmental justice.
Adoption Dynamics of Climate-Smart Agriculture Techniques in Ethiopian Highlands, 2008
The Ethiopian Highlands are characterized by a diverse range of agricultural practices, with varying levels of adoption of climate-smart agriculture (CSA). Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate climate change impacts on food security and livelihoods. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data from 200 randomly selected households spread across five distinct farming communities in the region. Data analysis includes descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis. A notable finding is that smallholder farmers who received training on CSA techniques were more likely to adopt these practices (75% vs. 45%, p < 0.05). Additionally, households with access to improved seeds showed higher adoption rates compared to those without (82% vs. 61%). The study underscores the importance of targeted training and seed distribution in enhancing CSA adoption among Ethiopian smallholder farmers. Policy recommendations include increasing investment in farmer education programmes and improving access to high-quality seeds, which are essential for scaling up CSA practices across the region.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
University portfolios in Malawi have emerged as critical nodes for knowledge production and dissemination within the broader academic landscape of African Studies. The analysis is interpretive and qualitative, drawing from existing literature and case studies across Malawian universities. The insights suggest that while universities in Malawi play a crucial role in fostering knowledge production and dissemination, there is scope for greater alignment between these activities and national development goals. Universities should develop more strategic partnerships with local communities and government bodies to ensure their research aligns with societal needs and priorities.
Cultural Heritage Digitization and Preservation in West Africa
Lesotho, a small kingdom in southern Africa, faces challenges in preserving its rich cultural heritage due to limited resources and technological gaps. This qualitative research employed participatory action research methods, including interviews with stakeholders from various sectors of society, focus group discussions, and surveys among the general public to gather insights into current preservation practices and identify gaps. Participants highlighted the need for culturally sensitive digital tools that can preserve traditional knowledge in Lesotho’s indigenous languages. A significant proportion (70%) of respondents supported government-led initiatives that integrate local communities as active participants in cultural heritage digitization efforts. The research underscores the importance of collaborative approaches involving all stakeholders to ensure sustainable and culturally appropriate digital preservation strategies for Lesotho's unique cultural heritage. Recommendations include the development of specialized software tailored to indigenous languages, fostering public-private partnerships, and integrating community feedback into policy decisions. Lesotho, Cultural Heritage, Digital Preservation, Participatory Action Research
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Economic Empowerment through Vocational Training Programmes in Nairobi, Kenya
Youth unemployment in Nairobi, Kenya, is a significant challenge, particularly among disadvantaged groups such as girls and young adults from low-income backgrounds. Despite efforts to address this issue through various vocational training programmes, there is limited empirical evidence on their effectiveness. The study employs a combination of quantitative surveys (N=300) and qualitative interviews (N=50) to gather data from participants and their employers. Data analysis will involve statistical tests for quantitative results and thematic coding for qualitative insights. Participants reported significant improvements in employability skills, with over 80% indicating enhanced proficiency in computer literacy and basic office software. However, employment opportunities remain limited, with only one-third of participants finding jobs within six months post-training. Vocational training has contributed to skill development but does not fully address the systemic barriers faced by youth in Nairobi’s job market, particularly for women and young adults from marginalized communities. Programmes should integrate career counseling and networking opportunities to increase employability rates. Additionally, partnerships with local businesses are recommended to provide more sustained employment outcomes. Youth Empowerment, Vocational Training, Nairobi, Kenya, Mixed Methods Study
Gender Disparity in Water Sanitation and Hygiene Education Strategies Among Primary School Girls in Dar-es-Salaam Slums, Tanzania
This study examines gender disparities in water sanitation and hygiene education strategies implemented among primary school girls in Dar-es-Salaam slums, focusing on educational opportunities and resource allocation. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from surveys (N=500) and qualitative data through interviews (n=50). Data were collected over a year in Dar-es-Salaam slums. Quantitative analysis included chi-square tests to identify significant differences between genders. Findings revealed that female students faced higher barriers in accessing water sanitation resources compared to male counterparts, with approximately 30% fewer girls completing hygiene education programmes due to gender-related challenges. The study concludes that existing educational strategies need to be tailored more specifically to address the unique needs and challenges faced by primary school girls in Dar-es-Salaam slums. This includes providing additional support for female students to ensure equitable access to water sanitation resources. Recommendations include increasing teacher training on gender-sensitive hygiene education, implementing gender-specific interventions, and enhancing community engagement efforts to foster a supportive environment for female students.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender and Power Dynamics in South African Political Transitions
This study examines gender dynamics in South African political transitions by comparing historical and contemporary data. Qualitative analysis of primary and secondary sources including government documents, media reports, and expert interviews from various sectors. Findings indicate that women hold approximately 35% of parliamentary seats but are underrepresented in cabinet positions, with a notable increase since the early 2000s. Despite progress, persistent gender disparities persist in South African political leadership, necessitating continued policy interventions to enhance female representation and influence. Recommendation for policymakers is the implementation of targeted quotas and mentorship programmes to boost women’s involvement in politics.
Language Policy and Education in Multilingual Morocco
Morocco is a multilingual country where several languages coexist in various administrative regions. This diversity has implications for education and language policy. The analysis draws from existing literature and government documents to assess current language policies and their impact on education. A notable finding is that schools in regions with strong linguistic diversity often incorporate multiple languages into their curriculum, which can enhance learning outcomes for bilingual or trilingual students. Language policies significantly influence educational success; promoting multilingual education appears to improve student performance compared to monolingual curricula. Morocco should consider expanding its multilingual education programmes to better reflect the country's linguistic diversity and enhance educational quality.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This study examines the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into governance systems in Ghana from an African perspective. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a structured questionnaire survey of stakeholders and focus group discussions in Ghanaian communities. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses. The survey revealed that 70% of respondents expressed concern about potential biases in AI decision-making processes, highlighting the need for robust oversight mechanisms. This research underscores the importance of ethical frameworks and community engagement in AI governance to mitigate negative societal impacts. Policy recommendations include establishing independent ethics committees and integrating public participation into AI development and deployment strategies.
Afrofuturism is a contemporary cultural movement that explores speculative futures for Africa and its diasporas through interdisciplinary approaches. The review synthesizes existing Afrofuturist scholarship on Morocco, focusing on theoretical frameworks and empirical analyses. A thematic analysis revealed recurring themes of technological advancement, cultural preservation, and economic diversification as central to Moroccan futures discussed within the Afrofuturism discourse. The review underscores the utility of Afrofuturism in fostering nuanced insights into contemporary African development trajectories, particularly in Morocco. Further research should explore how specific Afrofuturist narratives can inform policy and practice in Moroccan society.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Identity and Political Engagement in Urban Nigeria
Youth identity in urban Nigeria is a subject of increasing scholarly interest due to its potential impact on political stability and social cohesion. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a structured questionnaire administered to a diverse sample of urban youths across Nigeria. Qualitative thematic analysis complemented quantitative data for comprehensive insights. Urban youth exhibit significant variation in political engagement, with 65% participating in at least one form of civic activity such as voting or community service. The findings underscore the importance of fostering inclusive narratives that address diverse youth identities to enhance their active participation in Nigerian politics. Policy-makers should prioritise initiatives aimed at promoting dialogue and representation among urban youth, focusing on equitable access to political resources and opportunities.
Environmental Justice Movements in Resource-Rich African Nations
Environmental justice movements have emerged in resource-rich African nations as a response to perceived injustices related to exploitation of natural resources and environmental degradation. The research employs ethnographic methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews with key informants from environmental justice groups, and document review of relevant policies and reports. Data analysis involved thematic coding to identify patterns and themes in movement activities and challenges faced. Findings indicate that environmental justice movements in the Republic of Congo operate primarily through advocacy campaigns targeting government officials and corporations responsible for resource extraction projects. This study highlights the resilience and effectiveness of environmental justice movements in challenging corporate and governmental practices, albeit with significant obstacles posed by vested interests. Recommendation is to strengthen collaboration between local communities and international NGOs to enhance advocacy efforts and leverage global pressure on affected corporations and governments.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact Study of Early Childhood Development Centers on Parenting Styles in Nairobi, Kenya
Early childhood development centers (ECDs) in Nairobi, Kenya have been established to enhance child well-being and parental engagement. A mixed-method approach combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys was employed to assess changes in parenting practices before and after enrollment in ECDs. Parents reported a significant shift towards more nurturing and responsive parenting, characterized by increased responsiveness to their children's needs and reduced authoritarian behaviour. This change was evident across all socioeconomic groups studied. The findings suggest that ECDs play a crucial role in shaping parents' approach to child-rearing, particularly in promoting positive parental behaviors. Governments should continue supporting the expansion of ECD programmes and integrate them into broader social welfare policies to ensure comprehensive support for young families.
User Satisfaction in Digital Mental Health Platforms for Urban Youth in Kampala
Digital mental health platforms have emerged as a promising tool for addressing the growing need for accessible mental healthcare in urban settings, particularly among young populations. User satisfaction surveys were conducted online and through focus groups with a diverse sample of youth aged 15-24 years. Survey data focused on factors such as usability, effectiveness, and perceived value of the platforms. The findings suggest that digital mental health platforms can be effective in engaging urban youth, provided they offer tailored and supportive features to meet specific needs. Future research should explore how to integrate more interactive elements and personalization into these platforms to enhance user satisfaction and engagement.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Assessment of Food Security Programmes' Success in Yambio District, Sudan
Food security remains a critical challenge in Yambio District, Sudan, where agricultural productivity is affected by various environmental and socio-economic factors. The study employed qualitative research methods including semi-structured interviews with farmers and focus group discussions. Data were collected from a sample of 50 households across Yambio District, focusing on agricultural practices and programme participation. A significant proportion (60%) of respondents reported improved yields after participating in the food security programmes, particularly in the areas of crop diversification and soil management techniques. The findings suggest that targeted interventions can significantly boost agricultural productivity among farmers, contributing to broader food security goals. Future research should explore the long-term sustainability of these programmes and consider incorporating more participatory approaches to ensure farmer engagement. Agricultural Productivity, Food Security Programmes, Yambio District, Sudan
Community-Led Tree Planting Programmes and Biodiversity Conservation in Coastal Mozambique
Community-led tree planting programmes have been implemented in coastal regions of Mozambique to combat deforestation and enhance biodiversity conservation. The research employs both quantitative data from satellite imagery analysis and qualitative insights gathered through interviews with stakeholders and focus group discussions. Quantitative metrics include changes in tree cover density and species diversity indices, while qualitative data explore socio-economic factors influencing programme sustainability. A significant increase of 30% in tree cover was observed across the study area, particularly in areas where community-led programmes were implemented. Interviews revealed that improved livelihoods and enhanced environmental awareness drove continued participation in planting activities. The findings suggest that sustained community engagement is crucial for effective biodiversity conservation through tree planting initiatives. Policy makers should prioritise capacity building and financial support to sustain these community-led programmes, ensuring long-term ecological benefits. Community-Led Programmes, Tree Planting, Biodiversity Conservation, Mozambique
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Health Systems Resilience in Epidemic-Affected Rwanda
Rwanda has faced several epidemic challenges in recent years, necessitating robust health systems to manage outbreaks effectively. The study employs a qualitative approach to examine case studies and policy documents, focusing on key actors and strategies employed by Rwandan authorities during epidemic responses. Rwanda's health system resilience has been significantly enhanced through the integration of community-based healthcare workers into surveillance networks, increasing their role from passive reporting to proactive disease detection. The findings highlight Rwanda’s successful model for integrating local resources into national health strategies, offering valuable insights for enhancing Africa's pandemic preparedness capabilities. Adoption of a similar community-centric approach is recommended as a key strategy for improving epidemic response and resilience across the continent.
The Comoros Natural Resource Extraction Political Economy Landscape
The Comoros are an archipelagic nation in Central Africa known for its rich natural resource base, including fisheries and minerals. These resources have significant economic potential but also pose challenges to governance and development. This brief employs a qualitative approach focusing on interviews with government officials, industry representatives, and civil society organizations to understand current policies and stakeholder interactions related to natural resources. Interviews revealed that the main stakeholders include the Comoros Government, foreign investors, and local communities. There is evidence of conflict over resource extraction rights and benefits distribution among these groups, highlighting a complex power dynamic. The political economy landscape in the Comoros for natural resources shows significant disparities in benefit distribution and governance effectiveness. Stakeholder engagement and equitable resource management are critical for sustainable development. Policy recommendations include strengthening local community participation in decision-making processes, ensuring transparent revenue sharing agreements with stakeholders, and promoting environmental sustainability initiatives.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and Innovation Hubs in East Africa
Entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs are critical for economic development in East Africa, with Egypt serving as a notable case study due to its strategic location and diverse cultural landscape. This study employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to gather data from various stakeholders including entrepreneurs, policymakers, and community leaders in Egypt's innovation hubs and ecosystems. A significant finding is the presence of a vibrant startup community that attracts international investment with an estimated proportion of 20% of funding coming from foreign sources. The study also revealed that these systems are heavily reliant on government support for sustainability, with over 75% of participants citing governmental assistance as crucial. The findings suggest that Egypt's entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs play a pivotal role in fostering economic growth through the integration of local knowledge with global resources. However, they also highlight the need for greater private sector engagement to ensure long-term viability. To enhance their effectiveness, policymakers should foster collaboration between public and private sectors, encourage more localized investment strategies, and provide targeted training programmes for entrepreneurs.