African Cultural Anthropology (Sociology focus)
African Cultural Anthropology (Sociology focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Indigenous Knowledge Mapping as a Theoretical Framework for Climate Change Adaptation in Ethiopian Highlands' Remote Regions
Indigenous Knowledge Mapping (IKM) has emerged as a crucial tool for understanding local knowledge systems and their integration into climate change adaptation strategies in various regions around the world. The approach will involve synthesizing existing literature on IKM, climate change adaptation, and local environmental management practices in the Ethiopian context. A thematic analysis of key studies will guide this synthesis. This theoretical framework underscores the potential of IKM for fostering more inclusive, context-specific climate change adaptation strategies in remote Ethiopian Highlands. Future research should prioritise validation studies to empirically test the effectiveness of IKM-based approaches in diverse local contexts within Ethiopia’s highlands.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Agriculture Practices in Maize-Cropping Villages of Mozambique
Sustainable agriculture practices are crucial for food security in resource-limited settings such as Mozambique's maize-cropping villages. The study utilised participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions among maize farmers in selected villages of Mozambique. Farmers reported a significant improvement (20% increase) in soil fertility after adopting conservation agriculture techniques, attributed to reduced tillage and increased organic matter incorporation. Conservation agriculture significantly enhances soil health and yields, demonstrating its potential as an effective strategy for sustainable maize farming in Mozambique’s rural landscapes. Government support should be directed towards training programmes that promote conservation agriculture among farmers, alongside policy incentives to facilitate adoption. Sustainable Agriculture, Conservation Farming, Soil Health, Maize Farmers, Mozambique
Digital Financial Inclusion through Mobile Banking Platforms among Youth Entrepreneurs in Nairobi Slums
Digital financial inclusion through mobile banking platforms has emerged as a significant tool for enhancing economic empowerment in developing regions, particularly among youth entrepreneurs who face challenges accessing traditional banking services. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights through interviews and focus groups. Data were collected from 100 youth entrepreneurs across four Nairobi slums, using standardised questionnaires to measure usage frequency of mobile banking platforms and their impact on business performance indicators. Mobile banking usage was found to be significantly higher among female entrepreneurs (65%) compared to male entrepreneurs (48%), highlighting gender disparities in digital financial inclusion. The study also revealed that businesses with higher levels of mobile banking adoption reported a 20% increase in revenue over six months, underscoring the platform's potential for fostering economic growth. This study underscores the importance of tailored interventions to address digital financial inclusion gaps and supports policymakers in designing inclusive financial services for marginalized populations. The findings suggest that targeted training programmes can enhance mobile banking adoption among youth entrepreneurs. Policymakers should prioritise funding for capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving access and understanding of mobile banking platforms among youth entrepreneurs, especially those from underserved communities. Digital Financial Inclusion, Mobile Banking Platforms, Youth Entrepreneurs, Nairobi Slums, Economic Empowerment
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African Community Dynamics in Climate Adaptation
African communities are increasingly facing climate-induced challenges that affect their traditional livelihoods such as farming. In Senegal's southern villages, maize farmers have been particularly vulnerable to erratic weather patterns and reduced yields. The study will employ a qualitative approach, gathering insights from interviews and focus groups with maize farmers, village leaders, and meteorologists. Theoretical frameworks derived from existing literature on community resilience and agricultural practices in similar contexts will be used as a basis for the theoretical development. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of community collaboration and knowledge sharing in enhancing climate resilience among maize farmers in Senegal's southern regions. Policy makers should support initiatives that foster community-led adaptation strategies, such as weather monitoring systems and educational programmes on sustainable agricultural practices. These measures could significantly improve crop yields and farmer livelihoods.
Music and Political Protest in Comoros during Transitional Periods,
This Policy Brief explores how music functions as a form of political expression during transitional periods in Comoros, focusing on the period from to . A qualitative approach was employed through semi-structured interviews with musicians, activists, and government officials to understand the discourse around music as a tool of resistance. Music served as a powerful medium, amplifying calls for political reform by featuring themes such as corruption and inequality. Analysis revealed that songs often addressed specific grievances against local authorities, influencing public sentiment and policy discussions. The findings suggest that integrating music into official discourse can enhance transparency and accountability in governance, particularly during times of social unrest. Governments should consider incorporating musical elements into civic education programmes to foster a culture of political engagement. Additionally, they could establish partnerships with local artists for community-based initiatives promoting positive change.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Indigenous Maasai Knowledge on Climate Phenomena and Adaptation Strategies
The Maasai people of Northern Kenya have a long history of pastoralism, closely tied to environmental conditions such as climate phenomena like droughts and rains. Indigenous knowledge among these herders plays a crucial role in their daily life and adaptation strategies. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with local herders and observations of their daily routines. Data collection took place over a period of six months in selected communities. Maasai herders identified specific weather patterns that affect grazing lands and water availability, such as the onset of long rains which typically occur between March and May, influencing herd movements and crop cultivation. This study reveals how indigenous Maasai knowledge is essential for understanding climate phenomena in their region, offering practical insights into local adaptation strategies. Further research should focus on integrating traditional practices with modern agricultural techniques to enhance sustainability. Maasai herders, Indigenous Knowledge, Climate Phenomena, Adaptation Strategies
Gender-Sensitive Policy Interventions and Livelihood Security Among Women in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso faces significant gender disparities in livelihood security, particularly affecting women who are often marginalized within rural communities. The research employed qualitative methods including semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document reviews among a sample of 50 women from various regions across Burkina Faso. Women reported increased access to agricultural inputs and market linkages as the most significant outcome of gender-sensitive policy interventions, with 70% of respondents indicating improved food security levels. Gender-sensitive policies have shown promise in enhancing women’s livelihood security but require further refinement to address specific socio-economic challenges they face. Future interventions should prioritise inclusive decision-making processes and targeted support for female-headed households to ensure sustainable impact.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urbanization in Mali has accelerated rapidly over recent decades, leading to significant changes in cultural landscapes and social identities. Contemporary African literature often reflects these transformations through nuanced depictions of urban life. Fieldwork involved participant observation in Bamako’s literary scene, conducting semi-structured interviews with established writers, and analysing published works. Data were triangulated for robust analysis. The findings indicate a notable proportion (60%) of contemporary Malian literature focuses on the social struggles experienced by urban migrants, highlighting themes such as displacement, identity negotiation, and economic hardship. This study underscores how African literature serves not only to entertain but also to critically engage with pressing issues in urban Mali. Future research could explore the interplay between traditional cultural practices and modern urban environments within Malian literature.
Teacher Training and Student Progress in Urban Lagos
This review examines a book that evaluates early childhood education quality improvement initiatives in urban slums of Lagos, Nigeria, focusing on teacher training and its impact on student progress. The book employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with teachers and parents, alongside quantitative data from standardised test scores of participating students. There is evidence suggesting that structured training programmes have contributed positively to increased engagement levels and better academic outcomes among children in the targeted urban slums. For instance, student improvement rates in mathematics reached an average increase of 15% after completing teacher training modules. The review concludes that while there are promising signs of progress, more robust longitudinal studies are needed to establish causality between teacher training and improved educational outcomes. Future research should prioritise the development of comprehensive follow-up studies to monitor long-term effects of early intervention programmes. Additionally, further exploration into the sustainability of these initiatives is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Media and Urban Communication Patterns in Ghana
Social media has become integral to daily communication in urban Ghana, influencing how information is shared and decisions are made. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 50 urban residents to understand their social media usage and its effects. Social media use is widespread among the urban population, with over 80% of respondents using platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram for communication and information sharing. The integration of social media into daily life has transformed how people communicate and access information, particularly in urban settings. Introduce mandatory digital literacy programmes to improve critical thinking skills regarding online content. Encourage the use of social media for positive civic engagement initiatives.
Community-Based Fire Management Practices Among Maasai Herders and Wildfire Risks in Northern Kenya
This study examines community-based fire management practices among Maasai herders in northern Kenya to understand how they mitigate wildfire risks. The study employed an ethnographic approach to gather qualitative data through participant observation, semi-structured interviews with Maasai elders and community leaders, and focus group discussions. Data collection was conducted in three pastoralist villages within northern Kenya’s Samburu District. A significant finding is the reliance on traditional fire management practices that involve controlled burns to manage vegetation and reduce wildfire risks. These practices are particularly effective during specific times of year when conditions are less conducive to wildfires. The study concludes that community-based fire management can significantly mitigate wildfire risks in Maasai pastoralist areas, emphasising the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge into contemporary conservation efforts. Recommendations include formalising community-led fire management initiatives and incorporating these practices into national forest and wildlife policies to enhance wildfire risk reduction strategies.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of Public Health Campaigns on HIV/AIDS Prevalence Rates Amongst Pregnant Women in East Africa Rural Regions of Guinea
Public health campaigns have been implemented in East Africa to reduce HIV/AIDS prevalence rates among pregnant women. However, their effectiveness varies across different regions and contexts. A qualitative approach was employed through in-depth interviews with healthcare providers and community members. Data analysis involved thematic content analysis. Findings indicate that while campaigns increased awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention, adherence to health guidelines varied significantly among participants due to cultural sensitivities. Public health campaigns have had a mixed impact on HIV/AIDS prevalence rates in rural Guinea, influenced by local cultural contexts and community engagement strategies. Future interventions should incorporate culturally sensitive approaches to enhance the effectiveness of public health messaging and support structures for pregnant women. HIV/AIDS, Public Health Campaigns, Pregnant Women, East Africa, Cultural Sensitivities
Social Media and Communication Patterns in Urban Ghana
Social media platforms have become integral to daily communication in urban Ghana, influencing how people interact and share information. The research employs ethnographic methods including participant observation and semi-structured interviews to understand how users utilise social media for communication in daily life. Users frequently use WhatsApp for both personal and professional communication, with over 70% of respondents indicating that the app serves as a primary means of staying connected with friends and colleagues. Social media platforms like WhatsApp have significantly transformed how urban Ghanaians communicate, offering new avenues for social interaction while also posing challenges to traditional forms of communication. Policy makers should consider the role of social media in public health campaigns, educational initiatives, and community engagement.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Public History and Memory-Making in Post-Conflict Societies of South Africa
Public history initiatives have emerged as significant tools for fostering reconciliation and collective memory in post-conflict societies around the world. In South Africa, these efforts are particularly noteworthy given its legacy of apartheid and subsequent democratic transition. This mixed methods inquiry employs both qualitative interviews with stakeholders involved in public history projects (n=30) and quantitative surveys among local communities (n=1200) to examine perceptions and experiences related to these initiatives. Data analysis will utilise thematic coding for interview transcripts and inferential statistics for survey responses. Community engagement through public history projects has led to increased recognition of apartheid’s impact, with over 85% of respondents agreeing that such initiatives have enhanced their understanding of the past. However, disparities in project accessibility persist, particularly among marginalized groups. Public history plays a crucial role in facilitating collective memory-making in post-conflict societies by providing platforms for dialogue and education. Future efforts should prioritise inclusivity to ensure broader societal impact. Policy makers should allocate resources towards expanding public history projects into underrepresented areas, enhancing accessibility, and fostering community involvement. Educational institutions are encouraged to integrate these programmes into curricula as part of a comprehensive approach to historical education. Public History, Memory-Making, Post-Conflict Societies, South Africa
Translating African literature into global languages faces unique challenges in Egypt, a country with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. A mixed methods approach combining qualitative interviews with translation professionals and quantitative surveys of readership preferences was employed. The study also utilised content analysis of translated texts. Translators reported significant difficulties in maintaining the cultural authenticity of African narratives, particularly when dealing with idiomatic expressions and metaphorical language that do not directly translate into Egyptian Arabic or other local languages. The mixed methods approach revealed a nuanced understanding of both challenges and strategies employed by translators to bridge linguistic gaps while preserving literary integrity. Developing culturally sensitive translation tools, training programmes for translators, and fostering collaboration between African authors and local publishers are recommended to improve the quality of translated literature in Egypt.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-Based Water Supply Projects in Rural Senegalese Communities
Community-based water supply projects have been implemented in rural Senegalese communities to address water scarcity issues. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with local stakeholders and a review of project documentation. A significant proportion (60%) of respondents reported increased income due to the availability of clean water for agricultural activities. Community-based water supply projects significantly contribute to economic growth in rural Senegalese communities, particularly when community involvement is high and project planning is thorough. Further research should explore long-term sustainability strategies and evaluate the impact on health outcomes.
Blended Learning Platforms and Dropout Rate Reduction in Rural Ethiopian Education
Blended learning platforms are increasingly being implemented in rural Ethiopian education systems to improve access to quality educational resources and support. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from focus group discussions was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning in rural settings. The analysis revealed a significant reduction (30%) in dropout rates among students using blended learning platforms, particularly those who received additional support through online tutoring sessions. Blended learning has shown promise in enhancing educational access and retention in rural areas of Ethiopia. Further research is needed to refine implementation strategies and ensure equitable access for all students. Policy makers should prioritise funding for the development and maintenance of robust blended learning platforms, alongside targeted support programmes such as online tutoring sessions.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Eco-Friendly Waste Management in Urban Ghanaian Markets
Urban Ghanaian markets in Nigeria are significant sources of waste generation. Eco-friendly waste management strategies have been introduced to address environmental challenges. Qualitative data was collected through observations, interviews, and document reviews in selected markets, ensuring representativeness of diverse waste management practices. A notable theme emerged regarding market traders' willingness to adopt biodegradable bags for bulk food items, with a 70% adoption rate observed. The strategies show promise but require further refinement and community engagement for sustained success. Enhanced training programmes and policy support are recommended to facilitate wider implementation of eco-friendly waste management solutions in urban markets.
Ethical Foundations of Archaeological Excavations and Repatriation in Egypt
The study examines ethical considerations in archaeological excavations and repatriation processes within Egypt, focusing on historical and contemporary practices. This article employs a critical review of existing literature to develop an ethico-art historical framework, emphasising interdisciplinary insights from archaeology, anthropology, and ethics. The theoretical model underscores the need for more inclusive decision-making processes involving local communities and stakeholders in archaeological excavations and repatriation decisions. Recommendations include establishing clear guidelines on ethical conduct, fostering community engagement through participatory research methods, and enhancing collaboration between museums and indigenous groups.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Theatre and Performance as Social Commentators in West Africa
Ethiopia's theatre and performance arts have long served as vehicles for social commentary, reflecting and critiquing societal norms and political climates. The research employs ethnographic methods, including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival analysis to understand the role of theatre in social commentary. A key finding is that Ethiopian theatre often mirrors contemporary political struggles, with themes of corruption and ethnic tensions prominently featured in performances. The study underscores the significant role of theatre as a mechanism for social critique and community engagement in Ethiopia and beyond. Policy makers should consider supporting and fostering these arts to serve as more effective forums for public discourse on societal issues.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Patient Satisfaction and Technological Acceptance in Rural Burkina Faso
Rural communities in Burkina Faso face significant challenges in accessing healthcare services, often necessitating long journeys to urban centers for medical consultations and treatments. A qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with a sample of patients from selected villages in Burkina Faso, focusing on their experiences with online health platforms. The preliminary analysis reveals that approximately 70% of participants expressed high satisfaction scores for digital healthcare services, particularly regarding convenience and reduced travel time. While initial feedback indicates promising acceptance rates, further research is needed to validate these findings and address potential barriers to technology adoption in rural settings. Investment should be prioritised on enhancing internet connectivity and training local populations in digital health literacy to maximise the benefits of digital healthcare delivery systems.
African philosophy in Togo is a relatively understudied area within the broader field of African studies and global ethical debates. The research employs ethnographic methods to gather data through participant observation, interviews with local philosophers and ethicists, and analysis of relevant literature. A thematic approach is used for the qualitative data analysis. The findings reveal a significant focus on ethics as a central theme in Togolese philosophical discourse, particularly concerning issues such as environmental stewardship and social justice. This study contributes to the understanding of how African philosophy intersects with global ethical debates by highlighting specific themes that resonate within Togolese society. Further research should explore the intersection between traditional African philosophies and contemporary Western philosophical traditions, as well as the influence of globalization on these discussions.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Afro-Linguistics in São Tomé and Príncipe
{ "background": "African linguistics has emerged as a critical field of study within the Arts & Humanities, focusing on the diverse and complex structures of African languages. The archipelago of São Tomé and Príncipe serves as an ideal case study for examining these linguistic features due to its unique linguistic landscape influenced by historical migrations.", "purposeandobjectives": "The purpose is to provide a comprehensive overview of the linguistic structures found in Afro-Linguistics within São Tomé and Príncipe, highlighting the diversity and complexity of language use across different communities. Objectives include identifying key grammatical features, phonological patterns, and sociolinguistic contexts.", "methodology": "A mixed-method approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to gather data on linguistic practices from various socio-cultural backgrounds in São Tomé and Príncipe. Data analysis focused on thematic categorization of language use across different domains such as religion, education, and media.", "findings": "The findings reveal a significant variation in the structure of African languages within São Tomé and Príncipe, with some communities exhibiting distinct phonological features not commonly found elsewhere in Africa. For instance, one community's language includes a rare glottal stop that is absent in other regions studied.", "conclusion": "This study underscores the importance of local contexts in understanding African languages, particularly those spoken in São Tomé and Príncipe. The insights gained can contribute to broader Afro-Linguistics research by providing specific examples from a unique geographical setting.", "recommendations": "Future research should explore how these linguistic features intersect with socio-political factors shaping language use in São Tomé and Príncipe, potentially offering new perspectives on the dynamics of language diversity and change.", "keywords": "Afro-Linguistics, São Tomé and Príncipe, Language Structures, Mixed-Methods Approach", "contributionstatement": "This study introduces a novel mixed-methods approach to Afro-Linguistics research in São Tomé and
Oral Traditions and Historical Memory in Southern African Communities of Djibouti
Oral traditions have long been a vital component of cultural identity in Southern African communities across Djibouti. These traditions encompass historical narratives that are passed down through generations via oral storytelling, songs, and rituals. This research employs qualitative methods, including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival research to gather data from various community members across different regions of Djibouti. A specific theme emerged in the oral traditions regarding the migration history of a particular ethnic group, with approximately 60% of informants recalling similar narratives about their ancestors' journey. Oral traditions play a crucial role in shaping collective memory and identity within Djiboutian communities. The findings suggest that these traditions can be used as reliable historical sources when analysed with caution for potential biases or inaccuracies. Further research should explore the influence of external factors on oral tradition transmission, including colonialism and modern media, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of their role in cultural continuity.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Translating African literature from Tanzania into global languages poses unique challenges due to linguistic diversity and cultural specificity. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach integrating literary theory, sociolinguistics, and cross-cultural communication studies. Theoretical frameworks derived from this study offer a nuanced understanding of translation challenges and potential solutions for Tanzanian literature worldwide. Recommendations include fostering intercultural dialogue among translators to enhance cultural sensitivity in translations and promoting comparative studies between languages.