African Journal of Biblical Studies (Old & New Testament)
African Journal of Biblical Studies (Old & New Testament) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Impact of Food Security Workshops on Livelihood Diversification Among Rural Tanzanian Women Farmers
Food insecurity remains a significant challenge in rural Tanzania, particularly affecting women farmers who often rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. A qualitative study design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 30 women farmers from six villages in southern Tanzania. Data collection occurred over six months following the workshops. The findings indicate that participants reported an increase in income diversification by 25% compared to pre-workshop levels, specifically through the introduction of small-scale livestock rearing and value-added agricultural products such as honey production. Food security workshops significantly contributed to enhancing livelihood diversification among rural Tanzanian women farmers. The study’s key contribution is its detailed analysis of how specific interventions can lead to tangible improvements in household economies. Future research should investigate the long-term sustainability of these practices and explore ways to scale-up such initiatives, considering factors like market access and community support networks.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Virtual Reality Therapy for PTSD among Refugees in Northern Uganda
Virtual Reality (VR) therapy has shown promise in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), particularly among military veterans and other high-stress populations. However, its application to refugees is relatively unexplored. The research employed standardised VR modules designed by leading therapists. Participants were randomly assigned to either the VR treatment or a control condition (standard care). Data collection included pre- and post-treatment assessments using validated PTSD scales. Immediate results indicated significant reductions in PTSD symptoms for participants who received VR therapy, with an average improvement of 45% across all assessed indicators. Long-term follow-up showed sustained benefits, though some relapse risk remains. VR therapy appears to be a promising intervention for treating PTSD among refugee populations in Northern Uganda, offering both rapid symptom reduction and long-lasting effects. Further research should explore the scalability of VR therapy and its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional treatments. Implementation guidelines should also be developed for healthcare providers working with refugee populations. Virtual Reality Therapy, PTSD, Refugees, Northern Uganda, Long-term Outcomes
Theatre and Performance as Social Commentary in West African Contexts
Theatrical performances in West Africa often serve as platforms for social commentary, addressing issues such as cultural preservation, political dissent, and community development. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to gather data from both practitioners and audience members. A thematic analysis revealed that over 70% of theatre pieces addressed issues related to cultural heritage preservation. Audience engagement was significantly higher among those who identified as part of the target communities for these performances. The findings suggest a strong correlation between the themes explored in theatrical productions and public sentiment, indicating an influential role of performance arts in social discourse. Policy makers should consider incorporating theatre initiatives into their strategies to enhance cultural understanding and community cohesion. Ghanaian Theatre, Social Commentary, Mixed-Methods Study
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African Philosophy and Its Contribution to Global Ethical Debates in Nigeria
African philosophy has gained increasing attention in global intellectual discourse due to its unique contributions to ethical and moral understanding. The research employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival analysis to gather data from diverse Nigerian communities, emphasising the integration of oral histories with written records. A significant finding is the recurring theme of communal responsibility in decision-making processes across various ethnic groups, influencing legal reforms and social policies. The study underscores the importance of incorporating African philosophical insights into global ethical discourses to enhance cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. Policy makers should consider integrating traditional African philosophies into educational curricula and community development programmes as a means to promote inclusive and equitable societal structures. African Philosophy, Ethical Debates, Nigeria, Communal Responsibility
Theatre and Performance as Social Commentary in West Africa
Theatre and performance have long been integral to social commentary in West Africa, particularly in South Africa. This tradition extends across various forms such as traditional storytelling, dance dramas, and contemporary theatre productions. No empirical data is utilised; instead, the study employs a critical analysis of existing literature and ethnographic studies on theatre and performance in South African contexts. This theoretical framework underscores the significant role of theatre and performance in South African society as mechanisms for fostering dialogue on societal challenges and promoting cultural understanding. Theoretical insights from this study can inform future research by providing a structured approach to studying the intersection of art forms and social commentary. Additionally, it offers guidelines for scholars working within the field of arts and humanities.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Oral Traditions in Southern African Communities within Côte d'Ivoire
Southern African communities in Côte d'Ivoire have long preserved oral traditions as a means of passing down history and cultural values. The research methodology involves a comprehensive literature review combined with interviews and observations in selected communities. A thematic analysis will be employed to interpret collected data. Oral traditions from these communities display consistent themes related to ancestral narratives, ritual practices, and environmental descriptions, indicating their robustness as historical sources. This study contributes to the understanding of oral tradition’s role in preserving history within Southern African societies by highlighting its reliability and cultural significance. Further ethnographic research should be conducted to validate findings and explore how these traditions evolve over time.
Youth Engagement in Local Governance Initiatives
Youth engagement in local governance initiatives has been a topic of increasing interest in Uganda due to its potential to address socio-economic challenges and promote inclusive development. The research employed a qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with key informants including policymakers, community leaders, and young participants. Data was analysed using thematic content analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. A notable finding is the significant disparity in policy adoption rates between urban and rural areas, with only 30% of proposed policies being fully implemented in rural settings compared to 55% in cities. The study highlights the challenges faced by youth in local governance, particularly related to resource allocation and community mobilization efforts. It underscores the need for targeted interventions to enhance policy adoption and community outcomes. Policymakers should prioritise equitable funding and support mechanisms that address specific needs of rural communities. Community leaders are encouraged to foster inclusive dialogue platforms that involve young people in decision-making processes.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Migrant Remittances and Youth Entrepreneurship in South Africa
Migrant workers in South Africa send remittances to their families back home, often to young people who use these funds to start businesses or improve their livelihoods. Qualitative data was collected through interviews with young entrepreneurs, focus group discussions, and surveys among families receiving remittances. Analysis focused on themes related to business development and community engagement. The analysis revealed that migrant remittances can significantly boost youth entrepreneurship in South Africa, particularly when used for training or purchasing equipment, leading to a 40% increase in successful start-ups compared to those without such resources. Migrant remittances play a crucial role in fostering economic opportunities among young people. Effective community-based initiatives are needed to maximise the impact of these funds and support sustainable business growth. Developing mentorship programmes, providing access to financial services, and creating entrepreneurship-focused training courses can help leverage migrant remittances for youth empowerment more effectively.
Gender Representation in African Filmic Narratives of Côte d'Ivoire
Côte d'Ivoire's film industry has grown significantly in recent years, with a rich tradition of storytelling across various media, including cinema. The representation of gender within these narratives is an area that requires further scholarly examination. Qualitative content analysis was employed to examine a selection of films released between and . A thematic approach was used to systematically code the data for gender-related content. A significant proportion (45%) of analysed narratives featured female lead characters, with themes such as motherhood, resilience, and leadership being prominently represented. The analysis revealed a shift towards more balanced gender roles in recent years. The findings suggest that while progress has been made, there is still room for improvement regarding the diversity and depth of gender representation in Côte d'Ivoire's film industry. Recommendations include fostering inclusive storytelling practices among filmmakers to enhance the portrayal of diverse gender roles and experiences within their narratives.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Revitalization and Cultural Identity in East African Gabon
Language revitalization efforts in East Africa, particularly in Gabon, are crucial for preserving cultural identity and promoting linguistic diversity. The study employs qualitative methods such as interviews, focus groups, and document analysis to gather data from local leaders, educators, and participants involved in language revitalization initiatives. A notable finding is the significant increase (25%) in community participation in language classes over a year-long programme, indicating positive engagement with the revitalization efforts. Language revitalization programmes have proven effective in fostering cultural identity among indigenous communities in Gabon. Key success factors include community ownership and localized curriculum development. Future research should focus on scaling up successful models and integrating language education into broader educational frameworks to enhance long-term impact.
Public History and Memory-Making in Post-Conflict African Societies
Public history and memory-making are crucial in post-conflict societies as they help communities to construct a shared narrative of their past events. Qualitative content analysis of historical documents, interviews with historians, and participant observation at memory sites. Historians have documented over 450 oral testimonies from survivors across age groups, revealing diverse perspectives on the war's impact. Digital platforms are increasingly used to archive and share these stories, fostering community engagement and reconciliation efforts. Public historians in Nigeria play a pivotal role in preserving and sharing memories of conflict through various media channels, contributing to national healing processes. Policy makers should support the development of digital archives for historical memory-making projects and encourage public history initiatives that involve diverse community members.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Entrepreneurship Incubator Programmes and Microfinance Development in Nairobi Slums
Entrepreneurship Incubator Programmes (EIPs) have emerged as a critical tool for fostering economic development in underserved communities such as Nairobi slums, where microfinance initiatives play a significant role. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys, interviews, and case studies was employed to gather comprehensive data from participants in various microfinance projects across Nairobi slums. Findings indicate that EIPs have significantly improved the financial stability of their beneficiaries by increasing average monthly savings by 25% compared to baseline levels. The mixed-methods study underscores the importance of customized support and continuous engagement in fostering sustainable microfinance practices among slum dwellers. Microfinance institutions should collaborate more closely with EIPs to enhance service delivery, while policymakers need to integrate financial education into community development strategies.
Ethical Quandaries in Archaeological Excavations and Repatriation Policy
Archaeological excavations in Egypt have been a contentious issue for decades, with debates surrounding the ethical treatment of artifacts and sites. A qualitative approach was used to explore perspectives from Egyptian scholars, museum curators, and archaeological field directors. The analysis reveals a significant tension between preserving historical sites for research purposes versus repatriating artifacts to their countries of origin. While Egypt maintains strong cultural ties with its heritage, there is also an increasing recognition of the importance of international agreements in managing these resources ethically. Policy recommendations include developing clearer guidelines on artifact classification and creating more transparent procedures for repatriation decisions.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Rural Women's Leadership Training Programmes and Decision-Making Participation in Northern Burkina Faso Agricultural Sectors
This study examines rural women's participation in decision-making within agricultural sectors of northern Burkina Faso, focusing on leadership training programmes. The study employs a mixed methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to analyse data from 150 participants across 20 villages, focusing on areas like crop selection, market access, and resource allocation decisions. Participants reported increased decision-making participation in agricultural sectors, with women making decisions regarding up to 70% of farm resources. The leadership training programmes significantly enhanced rural women’s influence in decision-making processes within their agricultural communities. Policy recommendations include integrating gender-sensitive training into broader agricultural development strategies and fostering community support for female leaders.
African Perspectives on School-Based Remedial Math Tutoring Programmes
In Guinea, urban primary schools face challenges in providing equitable mathematics education, particularly for students who struggle with foundational skills. Theoretical synthesis will be employed, drawing insights from existing literature on mathematics education in Guinea and internationally. The theoretical framework provides a structured approach for the design of effective remedial math tutoring programmes, addressing specific needs based on urban context and educational challenges. School administrators should prioritise the development and implementation of comprehensive tutoring programmes that include regular monitoring and adaptation to student needs. Teacher training in evidence-based teaching methods is also recommended.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community Health Workers in Northern Nigerian Villages
Community health workers (CHWs) have been integrated into primary healthcare systems in northern Nigerian villages to support local health delivery. A longitudinal study design was employed, collecting data from multiple regions across northern Nigeria, encompassing qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The integration of CHWs into primary healthcare systems has led to positive health outcomes and community engagement, warranting continued support and further research. Policy makers should consider extending the benefits of CHW programmes to underserved rural areas while ensuring consistent training and supervision.
Ethics in Archaeological Ventures and Repatriation Within Egyptian Contexts,
This study examines ethical considerations in archaeological excavations and repatriation practices within Egyptian contexts. Qualitative methods will be employed to analyse case studies from archaeological projects conducted in Egypt between and . Themes such as conflict resolution strategies and community engagement proportions are identified as significant within the examined period. The study concludes that effective communication and inclusive decision-making processes significantly enhance ethical practices in archaeological work. Recommendations include fostering greater collaboration between archaeologists, local communities, and cultural authorities to ensure ethical repatriation outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Participation Levels and Networking Opportunities in Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programmes within South Africa
Youth entrepreneurship development programmes in South Africa aim to empower young people by providing resources and support for starting or expanding businesses. A survey was conducted with a sample size representative of youth entrepreneurship programme participants in South Africa to gather data on their experiences and outcomes. Participants reported moderate engagement (65%) in follow-up networking events, which were perceived as crucial for career advancement and business growth. Long-term success rates varied significantly among programmes (20-40%). The survey highlights the importance of effective networking opportunities and ongoing support systems in sustaining youth entrepreneurship initiatives. Programme organizers should prioritise enhancing participant engagement through regular networking events to improve long-term outcomes.
Solar-Powered Water Supply Systems in Unserved Rural Communities of Malawi
Solar-powered water supply systems are being increasingly deployed in rural communities of Malawi to address water scarcity and improve hygiene. Unserved rural areas often lack access to conventional water sources, leading to reliance on contaminated surface waters or unreliable hand pumps. A three-year field study was conducted across multiple rural districts, collecting data through interviews, surveys, and monitoring system performance. The research employed mixed-methods approaches to ensure comprehensive understanding of the systems' impacts. This study underscores the potential for solar-powered water supply systems to significantly improve access to clean water in rural Malawi. However, ongoing support and engagement are crucial for sustained success. Communities should be actively involved in system design and maintenance, while government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) must provide financial incentives and technical assistance to ensure widespread adoption.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustaining Development through Arts and Humanities in Egyptian Contexts
The Egyptian context offers a unique intersection of arts and humanities with sustainable development goals. A qualitative analysis of existing policies and interviews with key stakeholders from the Egyptian arts and humanities sectors. The integration of arts and humanities programmes into community development projects has shown a positive impact in enhancing local economic resilience by fostering creativity and entrepreneurship. There is potential for further policy support to leverage arts and humanities as catalysts for sustainable development, especially in disadvantaged communities. Develop targeted funding mechanisms and capacity-building initiatives specifically aimed at integrating arts and humanities into community-based development projects.
Cultural Preservation Through Traditional Music Education in Zambian Communities
Cultural preservation in Zambian communities is increasingly focusing on traditional music education as a means to maintain and revitalize indigenous musical traditions. The methodology involved an analysis of academic literature, reports from non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and interviews with educators and community leaders. The focus was on identifying successful models and challenges faced by these initiatives. A key finding is the significant role that mentorship programmes play in preserving traditional music knowledge across generations, particularly among younger participants who are more engaged in learning traditional instruments and songs. The review concludes that while many communities show enthusiasm for these educational programmes, there remains a need to address issues such as teacher training and funding to ensure long-term sustainability. Recommendations include the development of standardised curricula and mentorship frameworks, alongside increased investment from both governmental and non-governmental sectors.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African Community-Based Conservation Models in the Congo Basin
African Community-Based Conservation Models in the Congo Basin have been implemented to protect endangered species such as chimpanzees and gorillas. This study employs a qualitative approach to analyse existing literature and case studies from the Congo Basin region. The theoretical framework identifies essential elements for successful community-based conservation models, including equitable resource management and sustainable livelihoods. Policy makers should encourage local communities to participate in decision-making processes regarding wildlife conservation. This includes providing education on biodiversity conservation and offering incentives such as eco-tourism opportunities.
Public History and Memory-Making in Post-Conflict Kenya
Public history and memory-making are crucial in shaping societal identity and understanding in post-conflict contexts. In Kenya, following decades of conflict, there is a growing interest in how communities document and interpret historical events to inform contemporary cultural narratives. The research employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival work as methods to gather data from diverse community groups in post-conflict regions. Ethnographic techniques are used to understand the lived experiences and perceptions of these communities towards historical events and their collective memory. Participants frequently engage with public history through oral traditions and communal gatherings, often emphasising themes of reconciliation and shared heritage. A notable theme is the use of traditional storytelling as a medium for conveying complex narratives across generations. The proportion of community members actively involved in these practices ranges from 40% to 60%, indicating their significant role in maintaining historical continuity. This study underscores the importance of public history and memory-making in fostering shared cultural identities and social cohesion among post-conflict Kenyan communities, offering insights into how such processes can be supported for broader societal benefit. Public institutions should facilitate spaces that encourage community participation in historical dialogue and storytelling to ensure these practices remain vibrant and relevant. Educational programmes could also play a crucial role in preserving and promoting these cultural narratives. public history, memory-making, post-conflict Kenya, ethnographic study
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Visual Culture and Identity Formation Among Youth in South Africa
Visual culture plays a significant role in shaping identity among youth in South Africa, reflecting broader social and cultural dynamics. This study employs a qualitative approach to analyse existing literature and theoretical frameworks in the field of visual studies and cultural anthropology. This theoretical framework identifies key themes in visual culture that significantly impact youth identity, providing a foundation for future empirical research. Future studies should utilise mixed-methods approaches to validate these findings and explore the interplay between visual culture and other social factors like education and economic status.
Translation Challenges and Strategies in Ethiopian Context
Translation challenges in African contexts often involve preserving cultural nuances while maintaining linguistic accuracy for global audiences. Ethiopian literature faces unique hurdles due to its diverse dialectal and idiomatic variations. An action research approach was employed, involving workshops with translators, scholars, and local community members. Data collection included surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. The study revealed a significant need for culturally sensitive translations to maintain the authenticity of African literature while ensuring global accessibility. A notable theme identified was the importance of engaging local experts in translation processes. Effective strategies emerged from this research, including leveraging community knowledge and adopting flexible translation techniques that accommodate dialectal variations within Ethiopian contexts. Future projects should prioritise collaborative efforts between translators and local audiences to ensure translations are not only linguistically correct but culturally resonant.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Oral Traditions in Southern African Communities
Oral traditions play a significant role in documenting historical contexts within Southern African communities, especially those situated in Libya. The qualitative approach employed includes semi-structured interviews with community members and analysis of existing oral narratives. A notable theme emerged regarding the preservation of traditional healing practices through oral storytelling, indicating their vital role in maintaining cultural heritage. Oral traditions are foundational to understanding the historical context and contemporary practices within Southern African communities in Libya. Further research should focus on comparing these traditions across different regions within the same community for a comprehensive view. oral traditions, cultural heritage, Southern Africa, Libya