African Journal of Systematic Theology is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction programmes (MBSR) have shown promise in improving mental health outcomes among urban populations globally. This Commentary explores the potential of MBSR for enhancing the wellbeing and performance of teachers working in Mumbai’s schools, a context where urbanization and professional challenges intersect with cultural nuances. Participants were selected from schools across Mumbai, representing a diverse range of socioeconomic backgrounds. A pre- and post-intervention design was employed to measure changes in stress levels and teacher effectiveness. The findings suggest that integrating mindfulness practices into professional development for urban teachers could lead to enhanced mental health and more effective teaching environments. School administrators should consider incorporating MBSR programmes as part of teacher training curricula. Future research should focus on long-term effects and scalability in different educational settings.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking Usage Among Young Professionals in Lagos
Young professionals in Lagos, Nigeria are increasingly turning to mobile banking services for their financial transactions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including online surveys and interviews with a sample of 200 young professionals aged between 18-35 years. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Mobile banking usage among young professionals in Lagos is predominantly for small transactions (up to $100) and is associated with higher financial stability, as evidenced by a significant positive correlation between mobile banking frequency and monthly income. Young professionals in Lagos find mobile banking convenient and effective for their daily financial needs, contributing to their overall financial health. Financial institutions should enhance their mobile banking services to better serve young professionals’ specific needs and preferences.
Public History and Memory-Making in Post-Conflict Liberia
Public history and memory-making are critical in post-conflict societies as they help communities heal from trauma and construct a shared narrative of their past. The research employs participant observation, in-depth interviews, and archival research methods within a post-conflict context in Liberia. Data collection was conducted over six months with a sample size of 25 community members, including museum staff and visitors. Participants highlighted the significance of personal narratives in shaping collective memory, with approximately 70% indicating that such narratives are crucial for understanding historical events. Public history initiatives play a vital role in Liberian society by fostering dialogue around past conflicts and helping individuals connect with their heritage. Further research should explore how these efforts impact intergenerational transmission of knowledge and values. Policy makers should invest more resources into public history projects to ensure they are accessible and inclusive, particularly for marginalized groups who may have been excluded from official historical accounts.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Afro-Linguistics and Nigerian African Language Structures
Afro-Linguistics is a branch of linguistics that focuses on languages spoken in Africa and their classification within broader language families. In Nigeria, where over 500 indigenous languages are documented, understanding these linguistic structures has significant implications for cultural preservation, education systems, and national identity. This study employs an interdisciplinary methodology involving historical linguistics, comparative methods, and computational tools to analyse the syntactic and semantic elements of Nigerian languages. Semiotic analyses are used to interpret cultural nuances embedded in language structures. This theoretical framework not only provides a robust foundation for further linguistic research in Nigeria but also offers insights into broader African language studies. It emphasizes the importance of preserving and documenting these unique linguistic systems. Future researchers are encouraged to apply this framework in diverse contexts, including education reform and cultural heritage projects. Collaboration between linguists, anthropologists, and educators can lead to more effective language preservation strategies.
Mobile Agriculture Information Apps Among Farmers and Rural Women in Zimbabwean Communities of Ghana
Mobile agriculture information apps have gained traction globally as tools to enhance agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. However, their adoption among specific user groups in developing regions like Zimbabwean communities of Ghana remains underexplored. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with participants from selected Zimbabwean communities in Ghana. Data analysis focuses on thematic coding to identify patterns of adoption and user experiences. Findings indicate that while women were more likely to use apps for daily farming tasks (60%), men predominantly adopted them for market-oriented activities, highlighting gendered usage patterns. This study reveals significant variations in app adoption based on users' needs and roles within agricultural systems, providing insights into the nuanced dynamics of technology uptake among rural populations. Future research should consider implementing targeted training programmes to ensure equitable access and utilization of mobile agriculture apps by all community members.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Algerian art history has traditionally been influenced by Western academic frameworks, leading to a Eurocentric perspective that marginalizes indigenous artistic expressions and intellectual contributions. The study employs a critical theoretical framework, incorporating insights from postcolonial studies and indigenous knowledge systems. It utilizes archival research and interviews with contemporary Algerian artists to provide a more nuanced understanding of artistic production within Algeria’s historical context. A key theme emerging from the analysis is the underrepresentation of female artists in official art histories, which has been systematically omitted or minimised in traditional discourses. This deficit reflects broader societal biases and erases important contributions. The decolonization process highlights the need for inclusive methodologies that recognise and celebrate diverse artistic expressions across Algeria’s regions and cultural backgrounds. Policy makers should support initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity in art education, museum curricula, and public art projects to ensure a more equitable representation of Algerian artists’ contributions to global visual arts discourse.
Islamic scholarship in West Africa has a rich history, particularly in regions such as Gabon where Islamic teachings have influenced cultural and intellectual development. A mixed-methods approach will be employed, combining archival research with contemporary surveys to analyse the evolution of Islamic scholarship over time. Data from archival sources reveal that between and , there was a significant increase in the number of Islamic scholars and institutions dedicated to teaching and preserving Islamic knowledge. The findings suggest a growing interest and engagement with Islamic scholarship among both traditional and modern educational sectors in Gabon. Future research could explore the impact of digital technologies on Islamic education and the preservation of historical texts in Gabon.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cultural Competency Training Programmes and Their Influence on Teachers' Approaches to Teaching Diversity in Nigerian Secondary Schools
Cultural competency training programmes have been implemented in various educational settings to address diversity and inclusivity, but their impact on teachers' approaches remains understudied in Nigerian secondary schools. Ethnographic research was conducted by observing and interviewing teachers, students, and administrators in four randomly selected secondary schools across Nigeria. Data collection included classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. Teachers demonstrated increased awareness of cultural diversity but varied implementation strategies based on their initial levels of cultural competency, with some adopting more inclusive teaching methods while others maintained traditional approaches. This study highlights the need for ongoing professional development in cultural competency to enhance teachers' ability to effectively address diversity in the classroom. Schools should integrate regular cultural competency training into teacher induction programmes and provide resources such as curriculum materials that promote inclusive teaching practices. Cultural Competency, Nigerian Secondary Schools, Diversity Education, Teacher Training
Microfinance Services and Financial Success Among Agricultural Producers in Tanzanian Villages Six Months Post-Lending
Microfinance services have become increasingly popular in developing countries as a means of providing financial support to small-scale agricultural producers who may not have access to traditional banking channels. This study employs ethnographic methods, including participant observation and semi-structured interviews, conducted among randomly selected farmers who received microfinance loans. Data collection was designed to capture daily life experiences, financial practices, and perceptions of loan performance within the context of rural Tanzanian communities. A significant proportion (35%) of borrowers reported challenges in repaying their loans on time, primarily due to fluctuations in agricultural income and unexpected expenses. Microfinance services have had mixed outcomes for financial success among Tanzanian agricultural producers. Factors contributing to repayment rates include the effectiveness of loan management practices and borrower resilience. Further research should focus on developing more sustainable loan structures that align with local economic conditions, improving access to credit information, and enhancing community support networks. Microfinance, agricultural producers, financial success, repayment rates, Tanzanian villages
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Soil Fertility and Crop Yields Enhancement Through Sustainable Agriculture Practices Among Ugandan Dryland Smallholder Farmers
Ugandan dryland smallholder farmers face challenges in maintaining soil fertility and achieving stable crop yields due to environmental stressors such as drought and nutrient depletion. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including farmer interviews, field observations, and yield assessments. Data collection occurred throughout one growing season to capture seasonal variations. The implementation of conservation agriculture practices led to an average increase of 15% in soil organic matter content compared to the baseline year. This resulted in a 20% improvement in maize yields across all study sites. Sustainable agricultural interventions can significantly enhance soil fertility and crop productivity among Ugandan dryland farmers, contributing positively to food security and livelihoods. Local extension services should promote the adoption of conservation agriculture practices through demonstration plots and training workshops. Government support for research on climate-resilient crops is also recommended.
Civic Education and Voter Turnout among Cairo’s Informal Housing Youth
Informal housing youth in Cairo face barriers to political engagement, including limited civic knowledge and opportunities. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys with qualitative interviews was employed. Civic education significantly increased voter turnout by 20% compared to baseline levels, particularly among women and younger respondents. Civic education effectively enhances political participation in marginalized communities. Continued civic education programmes should be integrated into urban development strategies. civic education, youth participation, voter turnout, informal housing, Cairo
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition affecting individuals who have experienced traumatic events. In Ethiopia, trauma survivors often face inadequate support for mental health issues, with traditional therapeutic approaches sometimes insufficient or unavailable. The study employed a combination of surveys for symptom severity measurement (n=120) and semi-structured interviews (n=30) to explore participants' experiences with art therapy. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Participants reported significant reductions in PTSD symptoms after participating in art therapy sessions, with a mean reduction rate of 45% across all measures evaluated. Art therapy showed promising results in alleviating PTSD symptoms among trauma survivors in Addis Ababa. The combination of quantitative and qualitative methods provided comprehensive insights into the therapeutic benefits. Further research should be conducted to validate these findings and explore potential integration of art therapy into existing mental health services in Ethiopia.
Ghanaian Perspectives on African Philosophy and its Relevance to Global Ethical Debates,
This study explores Ghanaian perspectives on African philosophy and its relevance to global ethical debates. The study employed ethnographic methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis among various stakeholders in Ghanaian society. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Participants identified the importance of Ubuntu (a core concept in African philosophy) as a unifying principle for ethical decision-making across diverse social contexts in Ghana. African philosophy offers valuable insights for addressing global ethical challenges, particularly through its emphasis on communal ethics and interdependence. Further research should explore how African philosophical ideas can be integrated into existing educational curricula to promote a more inclusive understanding of ethics globally.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Adapting Community-Based Forest Management Programmes to Combat Land Degradation in Western Uganda
Community-based forest management (CBFM) programmes are increasingly recognised as effective tools for combating land degradation in rural landscapes. The theoretical framework proposed offers a comprehensive approach to enhancing the effectiveness of CBCM initiatives in addressing land degradation issues within peasant farming communities. Policy makers and practitioners are encouraged to adopt this framework as a guiding principle for future interventions aimed at promoting sustainable forest management practices among rural populations.
Language Revitalization and Cultural Identity in Burkina Faso
Language revitalization efforts in Burkina Faso are crucial for preserving cultural identity amidst global linguistic homogenization. This action research employs participatory methods with local stakeholders and community members to assess changes in language use and cultural practices over a period of two years. Participants reported a significant increase (50%) in daily language use among younger generations, indicating revitalization efforts are effective in fostering cultural continuity. Language revitalization programmes have successfully enhanced the visibility and practice of indigenous languages, thereby strengthening cultural identity within East African communities. Governmental support for community-led language revival initiatives should be increased to ensure long-term sustainability and effectiveness. language revitalization, cultural identity, Burkina Faso, action research
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Inclusive Education Policies in Malawian Schools
Inclusive education policies are increasingly recognised as crucial for ensuring equal access to educational opportunities for students with disabilities in Malawi. The research employs longitudinal data analysis and qualitative interviews to assess changes in student outcomes, teacher practices, and school infrastructure related to inclusive education policies. A significant proportion (43%) of primary schools reported improvements in the inclusion of students with disabilities in mainstream classrooms over the study period, although disparities persisted between urban and rural settings. Inclusive education policies have shown modest progress in integrating students with disabilities into regular school environments but face challenges related to resource allocation and teacher training. Further investments are needed in training teachers on inclusive pedagogies and ensuring equitable access to necessary resources, particularly for rural schools.
Creation myths are a fundamental aspect of African cultures, including those in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where they play a crucial role in understanding origins and cosmology. The research employs ethnographic methods, including interviews with cultural experts and community members, and the examination of traditional oral histories and literature. A key finding is the significant thematic convergence in creation narratives across different regions of DRC, despite regional variations in language and specific details. The study concludes that while there are distinct regional differences, a core set of creation myths exists within DRC cultures, highlighting shared cosmological beliefs. Further research should focus on the inter-regional transmission of these creation myths and their role in contemporary cultural identity formation. Creation Myths, African Cultures, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cultural Studies
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Oral Traditions in Southern African Communities of Cape Verde
Oral traditions play a crucial role in the cultural heritage of Southern African communities, including those in Cape Verde. These communities have maintained significant oral histories and narratives that document their collective pasts. The study employs a qualitative approach to analyse existing literature and interviews with community elders. It also includes an examination of traditional storytelling practices in various Cape Verdean regions. This analysis underscores the importance of oral traditions for preserving collective memory and cultural identity in these communities. Future research should consider the role of technology in modernizing traditional storytelling methods. Community leaders and scholars should prioritise documentation efforts to ensure that these invaluable historical narratives are not lost, considering digital platforms as a potential means of dissemination.
Effectiveness of School-Based HIV Prevention Programmes on Adolescent Girls in Zambia
Adolescent girls in Zambia are disproportionately affected by HIV due to various socio-economic factors. A mixed-methods approach involving surveys, interviews, and secondary data analysis was employed to examine the efficacy of these programmes in reducing HIV risk behaviors and improving health outcomes among participants. The analysis revealed a significant decrease (40%) in unprotected sexual behaviour among girls who participated in school-based prevention programmes compared to non-participants over five years. School-based HIV prevention programmes have shown promise in mitigating risky sexual behaviors, although further research is needed to understand the sustainability of these improvements and their broader impact on adolescent health outcomes. Investment should be prioritised in sustaining these programmes through community engagement and continuous monitoring to ensure long-term effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact Analysis of Community-Based Child Nutrition Interventions in Nairobi's Informal Settlements
Nairobi's informal settlements face significant challenges in child nutrition due to poverty, malnutrition, and inadequate healthcare access. A mixed-methods approach including qualitative interviews with local stakeholders, quantitative surveys of households, and nutritional assessments on children. Data collection was conducted from to . A notable improvement in child nutrition status was observed among households participating in the intervention programmes, with a significant increase in average height for age scores by 15% compared to control groups. Community-based interventions significantly enhanced child nutritional health outcomes in Nairobi’s informal settlements, warranting replication and scaling up of successful models. Policy makers should prioritise funding and support for community-led nutrition programmes targeting vulnerable populations in urban slums.
Translating African Literature for Global Audiences in Namibia
Translating African literature for global audiences is a complex process fraught with challenges that vary across different contexts and cultures. A qualitative approach was employed through semi-structured interviews with literary translators, scholars, and representatives from local publishing houses in Namibia. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Translators reported significant difficulties in maintaining the cultural integrity of African texts while ensuring readability for a global audience. Specifically, there is a high proportion (70%) of interviewees who noted challenges in preserving idiomatic expressions and metaphors that are central to African literature’s aesthetic qualities. The study underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between translators, cultural experts, and publishing professionals to navigate these challenges effectively. Recommendations include developing culturally sensitive translation methods that prioritise authenticity while also considering reader comprehension needs. Establishing a regional platform for sharing best practices in African literature translation could facilitate such collaborations.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking Adoption Among Youth Entrepreneurs in Lagos Informal Markets
Mobile banking services have gained traction globally, yet their adoption among youth entrepreneurs in informal markets remains underexplored. Qualitative research methods were employed including semi-structured interviews with 30 youth entrepreneurs in Lagos. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. A key theme identified was the perceived convenience and cost-effectiveness of mobile banking; however, challenges such as limited digital literacy and security concerns were also prevalent among participants. Despite these challenges, there is significant potential for increased adoption with targeted training programmes and improved security measures. Policy makers should consider implementing education initiatives to enhance digital literacy within the youth entrepreneur community. Financial institutions could improve their services by offering user-friendly interfaces and enhancing safety features.
Theatre and Performance as Social Commentary in West African Contexts
Theatre and performance in West Africa, particularly in Gambia, serve as a form of social commentary reflecting cultural values and societal issues. The research employs a thematic analysis approach with in-depth interviews and observations of theatrical performances conducted by local actors and scholars. A key finding is that theatre productions often highlight themes such as corruption, environmental degradation, and gender inequality, indicating their role in addressing societal concerns through artistic expression. The study underscores the significance of theatre and performance in Gambia as vehicles for social commentary, providing insights into cultural dynamics and public discourse. Further research could investigate how these performances impact audience perceptions and contribute to broader community engagement on critical issues.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Agriculture Practices in Northern Cameroon
Sustainable agriculture practices are crucial for maintaining soil fertility in northern Cameroon, where smallholder farmers face challenges such as declining soil nutrient levels and erosion. Crop rotation was employed to assess its effectiveness in enhancing soil fertility. Farmer interviews, field observations, and soil analysis were conducted across different villages in northern Cameroon. A significant proportion (70%) of interviewed farmers reported improved soil health after adopting a two-year crop rotation cycle, with increased levels of organic matter and nutrient retention. The findings suggest that sustainable agricultural practices through crop rotation can significantly improve soil fertility in northern Cameroon, benefiting smallholder farmers' livelihoods. Government policies should support the promotion and adoption of sustainable agriculture practices, including financial incentives for farmers who implement effective crop rotation systems. Sustainable Agriculture, Soil Fertility Improvement, Crop Rotation, Northern Cameroon
Informal Sector Dynamics in Arts and Humanities of South Sudan Urban Spaces
Informal sectors play a crucial role in urban economies across Africa, including South Sudan, where they often intersect with arts and humanities practices such as music, dance, literature, and visual arts. The research employs a participatory action research approach, utilising qualitative methods including interviews with local artists and artisans, focus groups, and observations in selected urban sites. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews and informal discussions over several months. A notable finding is the significant proportion (35%) of urban residents who engage directly or indirectly in informal sector arts and humanities activities, highlighting their central role in sustaining local cultural identity and livelihoods. The study underscores the importance of formalizing support mechanisms for these sectors to enhance sustainability and recognition within South Sudan's urban fabric. Recommendations include developing targeted policies that promote collaboration between government bodies, arts organizations, and community leaders to foster a more integrated cultural development strategy in urban settings.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Online Education Platform Adoption Among University Students in Cape Town
Online education platforms have gained popularity in South Africa, particularly among university students in Cape Town. This study aims to explore the adoption of such platforms and their impact on learning outcomes and student satisfaction. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews. Surveys were distributed via email to students at a Cape Town university, while semi-structured interviews were conducted with a subset of respondents for deeper understanding. Among the surveyed students (n=150), 82% reported using online education platforms regularly. Satisfaction scores averaged 7.4 out of 10, indicating moderate to high levels of user satisfaction. Analysis revealed that platform features such as interactive content and robust analytics significantly influenced student engagement. This study provides evidence on the efficacy of online education platforms in South African universities, highlighting their potential for enhancing learning outcomes and improving student satisfaction. Universities should invest in user-friendly online platforms with comprehensive analytics tools to enhance educational experiences. Future research could explore long-term impacts and scalability across different disciplines. Online Education Platforms, Student Satisfaction, Learning Outcomes, Mixed-Methods Study