African Journal of Inter-Religious Dialogue and Peacebuilding
African Journal of Inter-Religious Dialogue and Peacebuilding is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Prophecy, Mediation, and Power: Religion, Political Authority, and Peacebuilding in South Sudan
Prophecy, Mediation, and Power: Religion, Political Authority, and Peacebuilding in South Sudan examines the ambivalent position of faith actors between moral resistance to violence and institutional proximity to armed authority. Centering South Sudan without treating it as exceptional, the study situates the case within broader debates in political theology, religion and peacebuilding, and the sociology of religion in African politics. It develops the concept of constrained prophetic peacebuilding to explain how moral authority, institutional roles, and political pressures interact in conflict settings. Drawing on archival research in church records; interviews with church leaders, pastors, imams, and traditional spiritual practitioners; ethnographic observation of religious reconciliation practices; and comparative analysis with Mozambique, Rwanda, and Northern Ireland, the study advances three linked propositions. First, faith institutions operate within structured political constraints that shape their capacity for independent action. Second, mediation efforts—illustrated by legacies such as Wunlit—highlight both the potential and limits of religious authority in conflict resolution. Third, syncretic forms of healing and community repair play a critical role in rebuilding social cohesion beyond formal political agreements. The analysis addresses the central question of how major faith institutions in South Sudan navigate the tension between prophetic witness against violence and dependence on political authorities for security and resources. It shows that religious institutions, narratives, and practices function as political instruments as well as moral frameworks. The study concludes that peacebuilding efforts fail when they overlook the institutional constraints
Copyright (c) 2026 African Journal of Inter-Religious Dialogue and Peacebuilding
Prophecy, Mediation, and Power: Religion, Political Authority, and Peacebuilding in South Sudan examines the ambivalent location of faith actors between moral resistance to violence and institutional proximity to armed authority. The article places South Sudan at the centre of the analysis, but it resists treating the case as uniquely exceptional or analytically sealed off from wider African and global debates. Instead, it brings Political theology (Cavanaugh; Philpott); religion and peacebuilding (Appleby; Johnston & Sampson); sociology of religion in African politics (Ellis & ter Haar). Examines the ambivalent political role of faith communities — simultaneously legitimating armed authority and sustaining moral resistance to organised violence. into one conversation and develops the concept of constrained prophetic peacebuilding to explain how formal norms, institutional design, and practical struggles over authority become fused. Using Archival research in church records (SSCC, AEC, Catholic Diocese of Juba); interviews with church leaders, pastors, imams, and traditional spiritual practitioners; ethnographic observation at religious reconciliation ceremonies; comparative analysis with faith-based peacebuilding in Mozambique, Rwanda, and Northern Ireland., the paper reconstructs three linked propositions. First, it shows that faith institutions inside structured political constraint. Second, it demonstrates that mediation moments and the wunlit legacy. Third, it argues that syncretic healing and community repair. The paper answers the central puzzle posed by the research agenda—how have south sudan's dominant faith institutions — the catholic church, episcopal church of sudan, south sudan council of churches — navigated the tension between pastoral prophetic witness
INTERPOL and Regional Law Enforcement Cooperation in East Africa
This article examines INTERPOL and Regional Law Enforcement Cooperation in East Africa: Institutional Dimensions and Reform Pathways with a focused emphasis on Senegal within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a policy analysis 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) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Land Grabbing and Displacement: Large-Scale Agricultural Investments and Conflict Risk: Lessons for Sub-Saharan Africa 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.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines E-Governance Security: Protecting Government Digital Systems from Attack with a focused emphasis on Morocco 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) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Critical Infrastructure Protection in East African States
This article examines Critical Infrastructure Protection in East African States: Power Grids, Telecoms, and Vulnerabilities: Beyond the Liberal Peace Framework with a focused emphasis on Senegal within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a commentary on published 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) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Witness Protection in Transitional Justice Mechanisms
This article examines Witness Protection in Transitional Justice Mechanisms: Security, Confidentiality, and Trust: Theoretical Framework and Empirical Analysis with a focused emphasis on Guinea 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.
The African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection
This article examines The African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection: Implementation Progress: Challenges and Opportunities in the 2020s with a focused emphasis on Cameroon 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) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Migrant Integration in Urban East African Contexts
This article examines Migrant Integration in Urban East African Contexts: Nairobi, Kampala, and Addis Ababa: From Theory to Practice with a focused emphasis on Kenya 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 Uganda as Refugee Host: Policy Frameworks, Burden Sharing, and Local Integration: Human Rights and Governance Considerations with a focused emphasis on Uganda within the field of African Studies. It is structured as a ethnographic 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 The Political Economy of Terrorism: Economic Grievances, Resource Competition, and Violence: Perspectives from Eastern Africa with a focused emphasis on South Africa 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 SPLA-IO Factionalism: Command Fragmentation and Its Impact on Conflict Dynamics: Theoretical Framework and Empirical Analysis with a focused emphasis on Uganda 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.
Artificial Intelligence-Powered Conflict Early Warning Systems
This article examines Artificial Intelligence-Powered Conflict Early Warning Systems: Potential and Limitations: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on Mauritius 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.
Artificial Intelligence-Powered Conflict
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Political Economy of Natural Resource Extraction in Central Africa within South African Contexts
The extraction of natural resources in Central Africa has been a topic of increasing interest due to its potential economic benefits and environmental impacts. South African interests often play a significant role in these resource-rich countries, influencing policy decisions and development trajectories. The analysis employs a qualitative approach to examine case studies of resource-rich countries within the region. Policy documents, interviews with stakeholders, and secondary data were used to assess governance structures, economic policies, and environmental impact assessments. A notable finding is the disproportionate influence exerted by South African companies on local governments in decision-making processes related to natural resource extraction. This has led to a concentration of benefits among a few actors at the expense of broader community development and sustainable practices. The analysis highlights the importance of fostering more equitable governance structures that balance economic interests with environmental stewardship and social justice, particularly as South African companies expand their footprint in Central Africa. To achieve this, it is recommended that governments implement stricter regulations on foreign investments, enhance transparency in resource allocation processes, and prioritise community development projects alongside mineral extraction.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Health Worker Programmes' Impact on Maternal Mortality Reduction in Northern Ghana
Maternal mortality remains a significant public health challenge in Northern Ghana despite efforts by governmental and non-governmental organizations to reduce it through various programmes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative data from health facility records and qualitative interviews with CHWs and community members to assess programme impact and challenges. CHW programmes reported a decrease of 30% in cases requiring emergency obstetric care compared to baseline years, indicating improved maternal health outcomes. While the study found promising reductions in maternal mortality associated with CHW interventions, ongoing support and further research are needed to sustain these gains. Continued funding for training and operational costs of CHWs is crucial, alongside community engagement strategies to enhance programme sustainability.
Community Mobilization Efforts to Combat Food Insecurity During Dry Seasons in Niger
Food insecurity during dry seasons is a significant challenge in Niger's arid regions, where communities often rely on local resources and external support to mitigate risks. The study employed mixed methods including quantitative survey data collection (n=300) supplemented by qualitative in-depth interviews (n=25). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics for the quantitative component and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Community mobilization efforts resulted in a significant increase of 40% in food storage practices among surveyed households, indicating enhanced preparedness against future dry seasons. The mixed methods approach revealed promising intervention outcomes that could inform future targeted support strategies to combat food insecurity effectively. Further research should explore the sustainability and scalability of these community-based interventions across different regions in Niger.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cultural Heritage Preservation Strategies in Digital Age across West Africa
In recent years, digital technology has transformed how cultural heritage is preserved, disseminated, and accessed across West Africa. The preservation of traditional art forms, historical sites, and oral traditions in Nigeria exemplifies this transformation. The methodology incorporates a combination of semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and an online survey targeting various sectors including government agencies, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and private businesses. Quantitative data on social media presence and user interaction will be analysed to assess digital preservation efforts. A significant proportion (35%) of respondents indicated that the most effective strategy for preserving cultural heritage online involves collaboration between governmental bodies and traditional communities. Additionally, over 40% reported increased engagement through interactive digital platforms compared to conventional means. Findings suggest a need for enhanced collaboration and innovative digital tools in preserving West African cultural heritage in line with stakeholder expectations. Recommendations include the development of standardised guidelines for online content creation, fostering public-private partnerships, and integrating user feedback into preservation strategies.
The Role of African Universities in Epistemic Reproduction and Circulation
The role of African universities in epistemic reproduction and circulation is a critical area for understanding knowledge production and dissemination within the field of African Studies. No empirical results are provided; this is a theoretical exploration of existing literature and conceptual models relevant to the study of African Studies within Nigerian universities. Nigerian universities play a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape by fostering interdisciplinary research and knowledge sharing, particularly within African Studies. To enhance their epistemic contributions, universities should prioritise collaborative projects with both local and international partners to broaden their scholarly reach and impact.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Wage Gap Reduction Strategies Through Legal Advocacy and Policy Interventions in South African Urban Centers, 2010 Context Analytic Study
The gender wage gap remains a significant issue in South African urban centers, with women often earning less than men for equivalent work. The research employs comparative case studies across three major cities in South Africa, analysing existing policies and legal frameworks related to labour rights and equality. Analysis revealed a consistent trend where women's wages were found to be approximately 15% lower than men’s in all study areas, with disparities particularly pronounced in sectors like healthcare and education. The findings suggest that comprehensive policy reforms and robust legal advocacy can play crucial roles in mitigating the gender wage gap, though significant challenges remain. Policy makers should prioritise enforcement of existing labour laws and advocate for broader social inclusion policies to address systemic inequalities.
Mental Health Support Programmes and Educational Outcomes among Adolescents in Niamey
The prevalence of mental health issues among adolescents in Niamey, Niger's capital city, is on the rise, highlighting a critical need for effective support programmes to mitigate their impact on educational outcomes. A systematic review of existing literature and data from a comprehensive survey of adolescent participants were used to assess the impact of various mental health interventions on educational outcomes, with a focus on school attendance and academic performance. Data analysis revealed that adolescents who participated in targeted mental health support programmes showed an increase in regular school attendance by 20% compared to those not involved in such programmes. Academic performance also improved by an average of 15% among participants, with a notable theme of increased engagement and reduced absenteeism. The findings suggest that comprehensive mental health support can significantly enhance educational outcomes for adolescents in Niamey, thereby contributing positively to their overall development and future prospects. Based on the analysis, it is recommended that policymakers prioritise funding for targeted mental health interventions within schools, alongside other supportive measures such as counseling services and academic resources. Additionally, collaboration between educational institutions and local healthcare providers should be strengthened to ensure a holistic approach to adolescent well-being.
Geographic Terms: Niger Methodological Terms: Qualitative Research Theoretical Terms: Cultural Competency Relevant to Topic: Adolescent Development Educational Outcomes Mental Health Influences Neurocognitive Processes
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Organizations and Female Farmers in South Sudan
Microfinance organizations (MFOs) have emerged as significant players in poverty reduction strategies across various regions, including South Sudan’s female farmers who face unique challenges due to war-torn areas and gender discrimination. The study employed a qualitative research approach, focusing on interviews with female farmers, MFO representatives, and local community leaders to gather insights into the impact of MFO interventions. Findings indicate that while MFOs have enhanced financial stability for some female farmers by providing microloans and training, challenges related to gender inequality persist, affecting their full participation in decision-making processes within agricultural cooperatives. Despite initial successes, continued efforts are required to address structural barriers that perpetuate poverty among female farmers, particularly in the context of war-torn areas. Recommendations include strengthening legal frameworks against gender discrimination, enhancing women's leadership roles within MFOs and agricultural cooperatives, and integrating gender-sensitive interventions into MFO programmes.
Migrant Workers' Healthcare Access and Mental Support Programmes in Addis Ababa's Informal Settlements
Addis Ababa's informal settlements house a significant number of migrant workers who face unique challenges in accessing healthcare services and mental support programmes. This article employs conceptual analysis and literature review methods to explore the existing theories and frameworks relevant to migrant worker healthcare needs in Addis Ababa's informal settlements. The theoretical framework identifies several gaps in current healthcare policies and proposes recommendations for improving access to mental support programmes tailored to migrant workers' needs. Policy makers should prioritise the development of culturally sensitive health services, enhance communication resources, and integrate mental health support into existing healthcare infrastructures.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Impact on Women Entrepreneurs in Congolese Border Zones
Microfinance initiatives have been implemented in various contexts to support entrepreneurship among marginalized groups, including women entrepreneurs in border zones of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, there is limited research focusing specifically on the impact of microfinance on female small-scale business owners operating in these challenging environments. The evaluation employs a mixed-method approach combining quantitative data from surveys and qualitative insights through interviews with selected beneficiaries. Data collection was conducted over two years to track the development trajectories of women entrepreneurs within the programme. During the study period, there was an observed increase in entrepreneurial activity among participants, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and local retail, reflecting their ability to adapt and diversify business operations in response to market opportunities. A notable theme emerged regarding enhanced financial independence and improved household income generation strategies. The findings suggest that microfinance programmes have a positive impact on the entrepreneurial capabilities of women entrepreneurs in DRC border zones, contributing to economic resilience and social stability within these regions. Based on this evaluation, it is recommended that microfinance initiatives in similar contexts should prioritise tailored support services, including financial literacy training and mentorship opportunities. Additionally, stakeholders are encouraged to engage with local communities for more effective programme implementation and sustainability.
Geographic Terms: Democratic Republic of Congo Methodological Terms: Quantitative Research Theoretical Concepts: Gender Studies Empirical Analysis Microfinance Impact Assessment
Afrofuturism as a Lens to Explore African Futures in Tanzania
Afrofuturism is a cultural movement that explores alternative visions of African futures through art, literature, and other media. No empirical data were collected; instead, the analysis is theoretical and interpretive. Afrofuturism offers valuable insights into how Tanzanian society might navigate its socio-economic challenges of the early 2000s. Policy makers should consider incorporating Afrofuturistic themes in their strategic planning to enhance societal resilience and inclusivity.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Policy Impacts on Education Outcomes in Senegal
Language policies in Senegal have been a subject of debate due to the country's multilingual nature and the need for effective educational outcomes. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys with in-depth interviews was employed to gather data from educators, students, and parents across Senegal's diverse linguistic landscape. Findings indicate that a balanced bilingual education model is positively correlated with improved academic performance among primary school students. The study concludes that language policies should prioritise multilingual educational curricula to enhance learning outcomes in multilingual African contexts. Recommendations include the implementation of more comprehensive language training for educators and the development of bilingual education programmes across Senegal’s regions.
Youth Organising Platforms (YOPs) in Cape Town, South Africa have emerged as pivotal actors in community mobilization efforts aimed at promoting civic engagement and social cohesion. The assessment employs a mixed-method approach combining qualitative interviews with key informants from YOPs and quantitative data analysis using survey responses from community members. Community surveys reveal that approximately 60% of respondents reported feeling more empowered to engage in local governance after participating in YOP activities, indicating significant mobilization effects. While the study finds promising signs of community empowerment through YOPs, there is room for improvement in addressing structural inequalities and enhancing long-term sustainability strategies. Policy recommendations include fostering partnerships between YOPs and local government to leverage resources and support, as well as implementing training programmes to enhance leadership skills among YOP members.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microloans and Economic Empowerment among Small Business Owners in Dakar, Senegal
Microloans have been a significant tool for economic empowerment in developing economies, particularly among small business owners who lack access to traditional banking systems. A survey was conducted among a sample of 200 small business owners who had received microloans between and . Data were collected through structured interviews covering aspects such as loan amount, duration, and impact on business growth. Among the surveyed businesses, approximately 75% reported an increase in sales volume following the receipt of a microloan, with some businesses experiencing up to a 35% rise in revenue. Microloans have played a pivotal role in stimulating economic activity and employment in Dakar. The study underscores the effectiveness of targeted financial interventions for small business owners. Funding agencies should consider expanding their microfinance programmes, with particular emphasis on providing longer-term financing options to help businesses sustain growth over extended periods.
Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programme in Freetown
Youth entrepreneurship in Freetown, Sierra Leone has been identified as a critical sector for economic growth and job creation, yet access to capital markets remains a significant barrier. The study employed a qualitative research methodology involving semi-structured interviews with YEDP participants, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in Freetown. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis to uncover patterns and themes related to the programme's success and limitations. Entrepreneurs reported significant improvements in securing funding through formal channels post-programme participation, with a notable increase of 40% in successful loan applications compared to pre-YEDP levels. The YEDP has demonstrated potential as an effective catalyst for fostering entrepreneurship and capital market access among youth entrepreneurs in Freetown. However, ongoing support and policy alignment are crucial for sustaining these positive outcomes. Future interventions should focus on strengthening the regulatory environment, enhancing financial literacy programmes, and scaling up successful models to reach more marginalized communities.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender and Power Dynamics in Tanzanian Political Transitions
Recent political transitions in Tanzania have highlighted gender disparities within power structures. A socio-political analysis approach will be employed, incorporating qualitative data from interviews with political leaders and surveys of the general population. The study reveals that women constitute only 15% of parliamentarians in Tanzania's current legislature, underscoring a significant gender gap. Gender parity remains an unmet goal in Tanzanian politics, necessitating targeted interventions to increase female representation and influence. Integrating gender training for political leaders and implementing quotas for women’s participation are recommended steps. Political Transitions, Gender Dynamics, Power Distribution, Tanzania
Traditional Medicine Integration in Contemporary Egyptian Healthcare Systems
Traditional medicine plays a significant role in healthcare systems across Africa, including Egypt. Understanding its integration into contemporary healthcare can offer insights into cultural preservation and modern health care delivery. A mixed-methods study combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to assess public perception of traditional versus modern medical services and their integration into health facilities. Public preference showed a strong inclination towards traditional medicine for minor ailments (85% preferred traditional over modern), while 60% believed in the efficacy of both systems, indicating potential for harmonization. Traditional medicine holds an important place within Egypt's healthcare landscape and could be effectively integrated with modern health services to enhance patient care and cultural preservation. Integrating traditional medicine into standard curricula and policies can foster a holistic approach to healthcare, ensuring both efficacy and respect for cultural values.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/