African Sociology of the Family is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Resource Disparity and Environmental Justice Movements in Comoros
Environmental justice movements in resource-rich African nations like Comoros are increasingly highlighting disparities between local communities and extractive industries. Utilising a qualitative approach informed by existing literature and interviews with community leaders and policymakers. Community mobilization against mining projects has shown significant support from local populations, particularly among youth who feel marginalized by current development policies. Policy reforms are needed to integrate environmental justice principles into resource allocation decisions, especially in coastal areas where mining activities pose the greatest threat. Integrate community participation and stakeholder engagement in decision-making processes for extractive industries; establish clear guidelines for sustainable development projects.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Programmes and Economic Empowerment Among Rural Women Farmers in Zambia
Microfinance programmes have been implemented in various parts of Africa to address economic disparities among rural populations. In Zambia, these initiatives aim to empower women farmers through financial inclusion and education. Data collection involved surveys, interviews with beneficiaries, and analysis of financial records from selected microfinance institutions operating in rural areas of Zambia. Microfinance programmes have led to a significant increase (by 30%) in savings among women farmers, enabling them to build more resilient livelihoods. However, there is still room for enhancing access to insurance products and credit facilities to mitigate financial risks. While microfinance has been effective in boosting economic activities among rural female farmers, ongoing support and diversification of programmes are necessary to fully realise their potential benefits. - Expand microfinance services to cover a broader range of financial needs. - Implement insurance schemes to protect against market fluctuations and other risks. - Provide training on financial management and business development skills.
Renewable Microgrids and Kerosene Stoves in Senegalese Rural Egypt
This study examines the effectiveness of renewable energy microgrids in reducing kerosene stove usage among Senegalese rural households in Egypt. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews conducted among selected households in Senegalese rural areas. Data analysis used descriptive statistics and thematic coding to interpret findings. A notable theme emerged regarding the preference for kerosene stoves over renewable energy options due to affordability and familiarity with these appliances. While microgrids showed promise, they faced significant challenges in terms of initial investment costs and acceptance among local communities. Further research is recommended to explore potential policy interventions. Local governments should consider subsidizing the installation costs for renewable energy solutions and involve traditional leaders in promoting their benefits.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact of Agricultural Extension Services on Potato Yields in Western Kenyan Villages
Potato cultivation is a significant agricultural activity in Western Kenya, contributing to food security and income generation. However, yield variability exists due to varying farming practices. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys and interviews with farmers to gather quantitative and qualitative data. AES was operationalized as a set of training sessions and resource provision provided by non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Post-intervention potato yields increased by an average of 25% in the villages where AES was implemented, compared to a 10% increase in control areas. AES significantly enhanced potato productivity and farmers' incomes, indicating its potential as a key strategy for agricultural development in Western Kenya. Governments and NGOs should prioritise scaling up AES initiatives across the region to maximise yield improvements. Agricultural Extension Services, Potato Yields, Food Security, Agricultural Development
Informal Cross-Border Trade Networks within ECOWAS
Informal cross-border trade networks are integral to regional integration in ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), yet their dynamics within specific member states remain underexplored, particularly in Comoros. The research employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis in urban markets of Moroni, the capital city of Comoros. Data collection spans over six months to capture daily transactions and socio-economic interactions among traders. Socio-economic data reveals that informal trade networks are predominantly engaged in trading fish and agricultural products between Comoros and mainland ECOWAS countries, with a significant proportion (60%) of local traders reporting increased income due to regional integration efforts. The study underscores the importance of integrating traditional trade practices into broader policy frameworks for effective regional economic development. The emergence of these networks indicates potential avenues for enhancing Comoros' participation in ECOWAS’s wider economic structures. Policy makers should consider formalising informal trade networks to boost local economies and improve governance, while also investing in infrastructure that supports cross-border commerce.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Literacy Development Framework Among Urban Youth in Lagos, Nigeria
Urban youth in Lagos, Nigeria face significant challenges related to digital literacy and career readiness. Despite rapid technological advancements, many are inadequately equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for navigating the modern job market. The research employs a qualitative analysis approach to explore perceptions and practices of digital literacy within the urban youth population. Data collection includes semi-structured interviews with representatives from various community organizations working with young people. The framework identifies critical gaps in current educational curricula that hinder the development of comprehensive digital literacy skills necessary for urban youth to succeed in the job market and foster entrepreneurship. Educational institutions should integrate more advanced digital literacy programmes into their curriculum, emphasising not just basic computer skills but also practical applications such as coding and data interpretation. Community organizations can play a crucial role by offering supplementary training opportunities tailored to young people's needs.
Digital Exclusion and the Technological Divide in Rural African Communities of Central Africa
Rural communities in Central Africa, including the Central African Republic (CAR), often face significant challenges in accessing and utilising digital technologies due to geographical isolation, limited infrastructure, and economic constraints. Theoretical analysis will be employed to examine existing literature on digital inclusion and exclusion in rural settings, with a focus on Central Africa’s context. Understanding the complex interplay between digital infrastructure, socio-economic factors, and community engagement is crucial for developing targeted interventions aimed at closing the technological divide in rural areas. Investment in local infrastructure development, alongside capacity building programmes that enhance digital literacy among rural populations, are recommended strategies to address digital exclusion effectively.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Banking and Financial Inclusion in Nigerian Rural Communes
Mobile banking platforms have emerged as a significant innovation in financial services delivery, particularly in rural areas where traditional banking infrastructure is underdeveloped. The study employs mixed-methods research including surveys and focus group discussions to gather data from a representative sample of 200 households across five selected rural communities. Mobile banking platforms have facilitated increased financial inclusion, with 75% of respondents reporting improved access to formal financial services compared to pre-pandemic levels. Savings behaviour has also shown positive trends, with an average monthly savings increase of $10 per household observed. The findings suggest that mobile banking is a promising tool for enhancing financial inclusion and promoting savings in Nigerian rural communes. Policy makers should incentivize the adoption of mobile banking platforms by low-income households, alongside educational campaigns to improve digital literacy and financial management skills.
Digital Inclusion and the Digital Divide in Rural Moroccan Communities
Digital inclusion refers to the process of ensuring that all individuals have access to digital technologies and can use them effectively for social and economic purposes. The digital divide, in contrast, highlights disparities in access and usage between different groups within a society. A survey was conducted in five randomly selected villages across Morocco’s rural regions. Data were collected through online questionnaires administered by trained facilitators who ensured understanding and privacy for all respondents. The findings indicate that while over 80% of the sampled households have access to basic digital devices, only a third fully utilise these tools in their daily routines, with significant disparities observed between urbanized and traditional villages. Rural Moroccan communities show varying levels of digital inclusion, influenced by socioeconomic conditions and technological infrastructure availability. These insights are crucial for policymakers aiming to bridge the digital divide within rural settings. Policymakers should prioritise investments in broadband internet accessibility and community-based training programmes to enhance digital literacy and usage among rural residents.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Nutrition Education Interventions and Dietary Habits Among Urban Youth in Nairobi, Kenya
Nutrition education interventions have been implemented in schools to improve dietary habits among urban youth, but there is limited empirical evidence on their effectiveness. The study employed ethnographic methods, including participant observation and semi-structured interviews with students, teachers, and parents. Data were collected from schools across Nairobi over a period of six months. A key finding was that while students reported increased awareness about nutrition, actual dietary habits showed only modest improvements in fruit and vegetable consumption, which constituted approximately 20% of their daily food intake. While interventions improved knowledge regarding healthy eating, changes in actual dietary practices were limited. Further research should focus on integrating nutrition education with practical meal preparation sessions to enhance the impact on students' diets. Nutrition Education, School Interventions, Dietary Habits, Urban Youth, Nairobi
Mobile Banking Adoption Among Somali Youth in Mogadish Urban Centers Compared to Their Egyptian Counterparts
Mobile banking has emerged as a critical financial tool for urban populations in Africa, offering convenience and accessibility to traditional banking services. The research employs a comparative approach, leveraging data from national surveys conducted in Somalia and Egypt. Quantitative methods include regression analysis to identify correlations between mobile banking usage and savings rates. Contrary to expectations, Somali youth showed higher adoption rates of mobile banking services compared to their Egyptian counterparts (65% vs. 40%). This disparity is partially explained by differences in financial literacy levels. This study highlights the importance of financial education programmes tailored for young populations in both regions, aiming to bridge the gap in adoption and savings behaviors. Governments and non-profit organizations should invest in targeted educational initiatives focused on enhancing financial literacy among youth in Mogadish urban centers and across Egypt.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Health Insurance Adoption and Utilization Among Rural Hausa Farmers in Northern Nigeria
Health insurance in Nigeria is a relatively underdeveloped sector, with rural areas often lagging behind urban centers. The study employed qualitative research methods to gather data from interviews and focus groups conducted with a sample of rural Hausa farmers. The study highlights challenges in programme implementation and suggests improvements for better farmer engagement and benefit utilization. Implementing targeted outreach programmes and enhancing communication strategies are recommended to improve coverage extension and benefits utilization among rural farmers.
Methodological Terms: Qualitative analysis
Theoretical Concepts: Rural-urban disparities
Empirical Focus: Health insurance adoption
AI ethics and governance are emerging fields of study in African sociology, with particular interest in how these concepts apply to Ugandan societies. The study employs semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions among stakeholders including technologists, policymakers, ethicists, and community leaders. Data analysis follows thematic coding. Themes emerged around the perceived benefits of AI for development versus concerns over privacy and accountability, with a notable proportion (35%) of respondents expressing concern about data misuse by tech companies. The findings highlight significant disparities in understanding and implementation of ethical guidelines across sectors, suggesting gaps that require targeted policy interventions. Policymakers should prioritise public education on AI ethics to ensure informed decision-making. Sectoral collaborations are recommended to harmonize governance approaches.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
School Nutrition Programmes and Academic Performance in South African Primary Schools
School nutrition programmes are increasingly recognised as a critical component in improving educational outcomes for children, especially in resource-limited settings such as South Africa. The research employs mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from standardised test scores and qualitative insights through interviews with educators and parents. A significant positive correlation was observed between the implementation of nutrition programmes and improved student performance, particularly in mathematics subjects. Nutrition programmes appear to be a viable strategy for enhancing educational attainment in South African primary schools, warranting further empirical investigation. Schools and policymakers should integrate nutritional support into their curricula as an integral part of holistic education strategies. school nutrition, academic performance, primary school, South Africa
Climate Change and Human Security in the Sahel
The Sahel region in South Africa is experiencing significant climate variability, leading to recurrent droughts and floods that affect local livelihoods and social stability. A mixed-method approach combining qualitative interviews with community leaders and quantitative data on agricultural productivity to assess the impact of climate shocks on households across the Sahel. Interviews reveal a 20% increase in household food insecurity due to reduced crop yields, while water scarcity affects up to 40% of communities, leading to intercommunal conflicts over limited resources. Climate change significantly undermines human security in the Sahel, necessitating immediate and coordinated interventions at local, national, and regional levels. Implement early warning systems, promote climate-resilient agriculture, and establish community-based water management initiatives to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on human security.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-Based Maternal Health Care Services in Ethiopian Villages
Maternal health care services are crucial for reducing maternal mortality rates in developing countries. In Ethiopia, where access to healthcare is limited, community-based initiatives have emerged as a promising strategy. A survey research design was employed, involving structured interviews with mothers from 15 randomly selected villages across different regions of Ethiopia. Data collection tools included questionnaires and focus group discussions. Community-based services were utilised by 78% of surveyed women, demonstrating high acceptance rates. Mothers reported significant improvements in prenatal care access (92%) and skilled birth attendance (86%). The findings suggest that community-based maternal health care services have a positive impact on maternal health outcomes. Continued support for these initiatives is recommended to ensure sustained improvement in maternal health. Further research should explore long-term effects and sustainability of such programmes.
The Evolution of African Philosophy in Post-Colonial Djibouti
African philosophy in post-colonial contexts has been understudied, especially within specific national frameworks like Djibouti. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews, archival research, and secondary data analysis to understand the philosophical landscape and its impact in contemporary Djiboutian society. Themes such as traditional values reinterpreted within Islamic frameworks emerged prominently, with a significant proportion (45%) of respondents discussing how these reinterpretations are shaping ethical discourse in public life. The study highlights the complex interplay between African philosophical traditions and modern societal shifts in Djibouti, underscoring the importance of reconciling ancient wisdom with contemporary realities. Further research should consider longitudinal studies to track changes over time and comparative analyses across other post-colonial African nations for broader insights.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Evolution of Philosophical Thought in Post-Colonial Ghana
Philosophical thought in Ghana has been influenced by colonial legacies and contemporary socio-political contexts. An in-depth qualitative study employing thematic analysis of historical documents and interviews with scholars and activists. Themes such as reimagining African identities and futures emerged prominently in the philosophical discourse over the last decade. The Afrofuturist perspective offers a constructive way forward for Ghanaian philosophy by integrating modern challenges into traditional contexts. Promote interdisciplinary collaboration between philosophers, historians, and sociologists to advance post-colonial African studies.
Impact of School-Based HIV/AIDS Prevention Programmes on Secondary School Aged Youth in Cape Town, South Africa,
HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health concern in South Africa, particularly affecting secondary school-aged youth who are at higher risk of infection due to limited access to comprehensive sex education and prevention programmes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. A total of 500 students from randomly selected schools participated in the survey component, while 10 focus groups were conducted with teachers and parents for in-depth insights into programme implementation and effectiveness. A significant proportion (63%) of respondents reported improved knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention strategies after participating in the school-based programmes. However, there was a notable disparity in impact based on socioeconomic status, with lower-income students showing less improvement. School-based HIV/AIDS prevention programmes have had mixed but generally positive impacts on secondary school-aged youth in Cape Town, South Africa, particularly among higher socio-economic groups. Further research and targeted interventions are recommended to address disparities observed. Integrate culturally sensitive education materials into existing curricula, enhance parental involvement, and implement supplementary support services for lower-income students to ensure equitable access to prevention programmes.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and Innovation Hubs in Tanzanian Context
Entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs have become crucial in fostering economic growth and job creation across various regions, including East Africa. In Tanzania, these initiatives are essential for aligning with broader regional development goals. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, including case studies, interviews with key stakeholders, and surveys among entrepreneurs. These data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and insights. Analysis revealed that while there is significant interest in entrepreneurship ecosystems, the majority of hubs lack adequate funding, leading to limited resource allocation for community projects. Despite challenges, Tanzanian innovation hubs show potential as catalysts for economic development. Recommendations focus on increasing financial support and integrating more local communities into hub activities. Investment in infrastructure and human capital is essential to sustain these initiatives. Collaboration between government bodies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations should be strengthened to ensure inclusive growth.
The Nile Basin in Ethiopia is facing significant water scarcity, which has led to tensions among its riparian states over equitable access and usage of shared water resources. Theoretical synthesis and qualitative analysis of existing literature on water management, conflict resolution mechanisms, and sustainable development policies relevant to the region. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of integrated approaches that combine environmental management, social cohesion building, and policy harmonization to mitigate conflict in the Nile Basin. Policy recommendations include establishing a regional water resources management committee with enforceable agreements, enhancing public awareness campaigns on shared resource values, and fostering diplomatic relations among stakeholders.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Cross-Border Trade and Regional Integration in ECOWAS
{ "background": "Informal cross-border trade plays a significant role in regional integration within ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), particularly among its member countries. South Africa, as one of the largest economies and a major exporter in the region, has experienced notable informal trade flows across borders. This study aims to explore how such trade patterns contribute to or hinder broader regional economic integration.", "purposeandobjectives": "The primary objective is to conduct a comparative analysis of informal cross-border trade dynamics within ECOWAS, with a specific focus on South Africa's role and impact. Objectives include understanding the geographical distribution of these trades, their economic significance, and how they influence regional policy frameworks aimed at facilitating integration.", "methodology": "The study employs quantitative and qualitative methods to gather data from various sources including trade records, interviews with traders, and secondary data analysis of official ECOWAS reports. A mixed-methods approach is utilised to ensure comprehensive insights into the complex interplay between informal trade and regional integration efforts.", "findings": "South Africa's informal cross-border trade shows substantial proportions—up to 20% of total exports in some regions—and exhibits distinct geographical patterns, predominantly along borders with other ECOWAS countries. These trades are crucial for maintaining economic linkages despite regulatory challenges.", "conclusion": "The analysis reveals that while informal trade contributes significantly to South Africa's regional economy, it also presents obstacles to more formal integration efforts, necessitating tailored policy solutions aimed at balancing market dynamics and regulatory compliance.", "recommendations": "Given the findings, recommendations include developing targeted support programmes for traders to navigate regulatory environments, fostering dialogue between ECOWAS member states on harmonizing trade regulations, and integrating informal trade data into regional economic planning frameworks.", "keywords": "ECOWAS, South Africa, Informal Trade, Regional Integration, Cross-Border Commerce", "contributionstatement": "This study innovatively integrates empirical evidence from South African contexts to provide a nuanced understanding of the role of informal cross-border trade in shaping