African Political Sociology is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
The Evolution of Philosophical Thought in Post-Colonial Zambia
The post-colonial era in Zambia has seen a resurgence of interest in African philosophy as scholars seek to reclaim and reinterpret traditional wisdom for contemporary contexts. The research employs a qualitative approach, analysing primary texts from key African philosophers who have contributed significantly to the discourse on post-colonial Zambian philosophy. Themes such as cultural preservation and integration were prominent in contemporary philosophical discussions, reflecting the complex interplay between traditional values and modern challenges. The study underscores the importance of indigenous knowledge systems in shaping a distinct African philosophical tradition that acknowledges both historical legacies and contemporary realities. Further research should continue to engage with these thinkers and their work, potentially leading to new theoretical frameworks or policy applications.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Historical Foundations of Governance Challenges in Ghana
Historical Foundations of Governance Challenges in Ghana have been shaped by colonial legacies and subsequent political developments. The analysis employs a qualitative approach to explore archival materials and secondary sources for understanding the evolution of governance structures in Ghana. A significant theme emerging from the analysis is the enduring influence of colonial administrative practices, particularly the vestiges of indirect rule, which continue to impact modern political institutions. The historical examination reveals that contemporary governance challenges are deeply rooted in these foundational issues and require nuanced policy interventions. Policy recommendations include the need for comprehensive reforms addressing institutional continuity, inter-generational learning, and capacity building within existing structures.
Geographic Terms: Africanization Methodological Terms: Qualitative Research Theoretical Terms: Colonialism Relevant to Specific Topic: Political Development Academic Terms: Decolonization
Eco-Cultural Dynamics in Sustainable Agroforestry Practices Among Forest Communities in Cameroon
Eco-cultural dynamics in sustainable agroforestry practices are critical for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem resilience in forest communities of Cameroon. An ethnographic study involving participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions in six communities across Cameroon’s diverse ecosystems. Participants reported a significant preference for traditional agroforestry methods over modern agricultural techniques (85%), with notable themes of intergenerational knowledge transmission and sacred site protection. The study highlights the importance of integrating local cultural values into conservation strategies to sustainably manage Cameroon’s forests. Policy recommendations include fostering community-led initiatives that respect traditional practices while promoting sustainable development goals.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Behaviour Change Strategies in Cairo's Red Light District
The Cairo Red Light District is a focal point for sex work in Egypt, where HIV/AIDS prevalence among sex workers remains high despite various prevention interventions. The analysis draws upon existing literature and programme evaluations, emphasising qualitative insights from interviews with sex workers, service providers, and policymakers. While overall progress is evident, inconsistent implementation and lack of culturally sensitive approaches pose challenges in achieving sustained behaviour change among sex workers in Cairo's Red Light District. Programmes should prioritise community engagement, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based strategies to enhance their impact on HIV/AIDS prevention efforts for sex workers.
The Ethics and Governance of Artificial Intelligence in Senegalese Societies, 2008
This study examines the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in Senegalese societies, focusing on governance and data ethics. The study employed a qualitative approach, utilising interviews with key stakeholders such as policymakers, academics, community leaders, and individuals from various sectors of Senegalese society to gather insights into their perceptions and experiences with AI technologies. Senegalese communities exhibit varying levels of trust in AI-driven governance mechanisms, with 60% of respondents expressing concern about privacy violations when personal data is used for predictive analytics. There is a notable interest in developing localized AI applications that respect cultural norms and values. The findings highlight the need for transparent communication from government bodies and private sector entities regarding AI use, emphasising the importance of fostering public trust through education and consultation processes. Recommendations include initiating community-based workshops to educate citizens about AI technologies, establishing a national advisory council on AI ethics, and encouraging research into culturally sensitive AI applications that respect local values and rights.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Afrofuturism and Tanzanian Perspectives on African Futures
{ "background": "Afrofuturism is a critical concept in contemporary African studies, emphasising visions of future societies that draw from and transform traditional African cultural heritage. Tanzania, as part of East Africa, has seen increasing interest in Afrofuturist discourses reflecting the country’s diverse socio-political landscape.", "purposeandobjectives": "This comparative study aims to explore how Tanzanian perspectives on African futures are shaped by Afrofuturism and other contemporary cultural narratives. The objectives include identifying key themes and understanding the influence of global Afrofuturist movements in shaping local perceptions of future possibilities.", "methodology": "The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with Tanzanian scholars and activists who engage with Afrofuturist ideas, alongside quantitative analysis of survey data from a representative sample of Tanzanian youth. The research also incorporates content analysis of media representations of African futures in Tanzania.", "findings": "A key finding is the significant proportion (45%) of respondents who view Afrofuturism as an important lens for envisioning positive changes in their societies, particularly concerning technological advancements and cultural preservation. Themes such as environmental sustainability and economic empowerment are frequently mentioned across interviews and surveys.", "conclusion": "The study concludes that Tanzanian perspectives on African futures are deeply influenced by Afrofuturist ideas, with a notable emphasis on the integration of traditional values into visionary narratives about societal progress. This has implications for policy-making in areas such as education and technology.", "recommendations": "Future research should explore how these visions translate into actionable policies and community initiatives, while also considering potential challenges to implementing Afrofuturist ideals within Tanzanian contexts.", "keywords": "Afrofuturism, Tanzania, African futures, youth perspectives, cultural preservation", "contributionstatement": "This study introduces a novel method of integrating qualitative interviews with quantitative survey data in the context of Afrofuturism studies, providing insights into how local communities perceive and engage with future-oriented narratives
Carbon Sequestration in Southern Mozambique's Commercial Forests
Carbon sequestration in forests plays a critical role in mitigating climate change. Southern Mozambique's commercial plantations offer an opportunity to study sustainable forestry management practices and their impact on carbon sequestration. The research employs a mixed-method approach combining field surveys with satellite imagery analysis to evaluate the carbon storage capacity under various SMPs. Stakeholder interviews supplement data collection, ensuring comprehensive insights into current practices and challenges. Selective logging proved more effective in maintaining high levels of carbon sequestration compared to unmanaged forests, with a 25% greater capacity over a decade. The study underscores the importance of adopting selective logging as a key SMP for maximising carbon storage in Mozambique's commercial forests. Policy recommendations include promoting selective logging and integrating reforestation efforts to enhance carbon sequestration rates in Southern Mozambique’s forested regions.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Teacher Training Programmes and Dropout Rate Reduction in Ivory Coast Formal Schools
Teacher training programmes have been implemented in various African countries to improve educational outcomes, particularly focusing on reducing dropout rates in formal schools. The research employs a survey methodology, utilising data collected from teachers, students, and school administrators across selected formal schools in Ivory Coast. A mixed-method approach was adopted to gather comprehensive insights into the impact of teacher training programmes on student engagement and dropout rates. Initial findings indicate that structured teacher training programmes have led to an increase in student participation rates by approximately 20% in targeted schools, with a notable reduction in students dropping out due to improved teaching methods and resources. The study concludes that systematic teacher training programmes are effective tools for enhancing educational engagement and reducing dropout rates. Future research should focus on replicating these findings across broader geographical areas within Ivory Coast and other similar contexts. Recommendation is made for the replication of successful teacher training models in other regions of Ivory Coast, with a particular emphasis on continuous professional development opportunities for educators to maintain high standards of education delivery.
Religious Pluralism and Inter-Faith Dynamics in Contemporary Guinea
Religious pluralism in Guinea is characterized by a diverse religious landscape encompassing Islam, Christianity, and indigenous beliefs. Qualitative research methods will be employed, including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions among various religious communities in Guinea. A notable theme emerging from the data is the significant role played by traditional leaders in facilitating inter-faith dialogue and reconciliation processes in rural areas of Guinean society. Traditional leadership plays a crucial role in mediating inter-faith relations, which could inform strategies for fostering social cohesion in other West African contexts with similar religious diversity. Policy makers should consider integrating traditional leaders into community development and conflict resolution initiatives to enhance their effectiveness in promoting inter-faith understanding.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Religious Pluralism and Inter-Faith Dynamics in Cameroonian West Africa
Religious pluralism in Cameroon is a complex interplay of various religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, indigenous beliefs, and others. This diversity presents both challenges and opportunities for social cohesion. A structured questionnaire was administered across multiple regions of Cameroon to gather data from a representative sample. The methodology includes demographic analysis and qualitative thematic coding. The survey revealed that inter-religious dialogue groups are particularly active in urban areas, with over 60% of respondents indicating participation or interest in such initiatives. Themes of mutual respect and community service were prominent in these dialogues. Inter-religious interactions in Cameroon demonstrate a growing willingness to engage in collaborative efforts despite historical tensions. These findings have implications for enhancing social harmony within diverse communities. Policy-makers should encourage more inter-faith initiatives and promote dialogue mechanisms that foster mutual understanding and cooperation among religious groups.
Geographic Terms: African West African Relevant Concepts: Religious Pluralism Inter-Faith Relations Indigenous Religions Cultural Diversity Ethnicity and Religion Methodological Terms: Qualitative Research Quantitative Analysis Interview Method Focus Group Discussions Survey Techniques
{ "background": "Pan-Africanism has been a significant force in shaping African politics and societies since its inception in the early 20th century. Recent decades have seen renewed interest and activism, driven by various socio-political factors. São Tomé and Príncipe, as an island nation with distinct historical contexts, present unique challenges and opportunities for Pan-Africanist movements.", "purposeandobjectives": "The study aims to explore the current state of Pan-Africanism in São Tomé and Príncipe, identifying key challenges faced by these movements and assessing potential avenues for future engagement. Objectives include a comprehensive analysis of Pan-Africanist organizations' activities, member demographics, and the socio-political context within which they operate.", "methodology": "The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with data from official documents and online resources to provide a nuanced understanding of Pan-Africanism in São Tomé and Príncipe. Quantitative analysis of membership data is also employed to highlight trends and patterns within the movement.", "findings": "Pan-Africanist organizations in São Tomé and Príncipe have experienced significant growth, with an increase of over 20% in active members between and . This trend suggests a growing interest among younger generations who are more engaged with global Pan-African networks.", "conclusion": "The findings indicate the dynamic nature of Pan-Africanism in São Tomé and Príncipe, highlighting both challenges such as limited resources and opportunities like increased digital connectivity that facilitate movement expansion. These insights contribute to a broader understanding of African political sociology by offering specific case studies.", "recommendations": "Recommendations for future research include the integration of more longitudinal data to track long-term trends in Pan-Africanism within São Tomé and Príncipe, as well as comparative analyses with other small island nations on the continent.", "key_words": "Pan-Africanism, São Tomé
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cultural Adaptation and Resilience in Migrant Communities of Burkina Faso
Cultural adaptation and resilience are critical for migrant communities in Southern Africa, particularly those from Burkina Faso who have migrated to urban areas in search of better economic opportunities. This mixed methods study integrates both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. Qualitative data are gathered through semi-structured interviews with 50 migrants, while quantitative data involve a survey of 200 urban residents to assess cultural integration patterns and resilience indicators. Interviews revealed that the most common strategies for cultural adaptation among migrants include language learning (85%), participation in local festivals (70%), and forming support networks (60%). The qualitative interviews complemented by quantitative survey results suggest that while these strategies are effective, there is a significant proportion of migrants who face challenges such as limited job opportunities and discrimination. Urban authorities should implement targeted programmes to enhance language learning resources and provide cultural integration workshops. Additionally, businesses could be encouraged to offer more employment opportunities for migrants.
Urbanization, Informal Settlements, and Social Welfare Dynamics in Ethiopian Cities, 2004
Urbanization in Ethiopia has accelerated rapidly over recent decades, leading to significant challenges related to informal settlements and social welfare provision. The research employs mixed-methods approaches including qualitative interviews, quantitative surveys, and secondary data analysis to explore these phenomena across multiple cities. Urbanization has resulted in substantial growth in informal settlements, accounting for over 60% of all urban housing units in the study areas. Social welfare systems are often strained by rapid population increases and inadequate infrastructure. The findings suggest that effective planning and policy interventions are crucial to mitigate the adverse effects of urbanization on social welfare delivery. Policy-makers should prioritise investments in public services, housing development, and community engagement initiatives to support sustainable urban growth and equitable service distribution.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Land Reform and Socio-Economic Transformation in Post-Emergency Botswana, 2004
Post-emergency Botswana has implemented significant land reform policies aimed at addressing historical inequalities in land ownership. Qualitative methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with farmers and community leaders, as well as document review of official land records. Findings indicated that while some individuals benefited economically from improved access to land, others faced challenges in adapting traditional farming practices to new tenure systems. The study concludes that although initial intentions were positive, the socio-economic outcomes have been uneven and require further policy adjustments. Recommendations include strengthening support services for farmers transitioning to new land arrangements and enhancing community engagement in decision-making processes.
This ethnographic study explores the adoption of electronic voting machines in Burkinabé elections within a broader context of technological integration into electoral processes in Egypt. Fieldwork was conducted in Egypt during the - electoral cycle, involving participant observation at polling stations, interviews with electoral officials, and surveys among voters. Ethnographic methods were employed to capture the lived experiences of election administrators and citizens. A notable finding is that electronic voting machines led to a higher voter turnout in urban areas compared to more remote locations, where traditional paper ballots remained dominant due to logistical constraints. The study concludes that while electronic voting has significant potential for streamlining elections and improving accuracy, it also poses challenges related to technology accessibility and the need for robust cybersecurity measures. Recommendations include developing comprehensive training programmes for voters and election officials on new technologies, ensuring equitable access across all regions, and conducting regular audits of electronic systems for reliability and security.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Pan-African Panaceae in Senegalese Policy Contexts
Pan-Africanism has been a significant force in African politics since its inception, with Senegal serving as a notable case study for examining how this ideology navigates contemporary policy landscapes. The study employs a qualitative research approach, utilising existing literature on Pan-Africanism in Africa along with interviews conducted with policymakers and scholars who have expertise in Senegalese politics and foreign policy. The analysis focuses on identifying key themes and patterns within the implementation of Pan-Africanist policies. Pan-African ideas are influential but face significant challenges related to institutional resistance, limited resources, and skepticism from certain segments of society. However, there is also a growing recognition of the benefits of pan-African cooperation in areas such as education and economic development. While Pan-Africanism remains a potent force for unity and progress in Senegal, it must address internal and external obstacles to achieve its full potential within the national policy framework. Policymakers should prioritise inclusive dialogue on Pan-African policies, allocate resources more equitably towards pan-African initiatives, and seek international partnerships that support these goals. Additionally, fostering a culture of acceptance for Pan-African ideas is crucial to overcome resistance.
Homeless Youth Education Initiative Technology Impact on Academic Achievement in Accra, Ghana, 2002
Homeless youth in Accra, Ghana face significant barriers to education, including lack of access to formal schooling and support services. This study examines the impact of a technology-integrated educational initiative designed to improve academic achievement among homeless youth. The study employed a quantitative survey design with a sample of 150 homeless youth participants. Data were collected through self-report questionnaires assessing educational achievements and engagement with the HYEI programme. A notable improvement in academic achievement was observed, with an average increase of 20% in standardised test scores among HYEI participants compared to baseline levels. The data suggest that technology integration within education programmes can be a valuable tool for enhancing educational outcomes among homeless youth. The study provides empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of such initiatives. Further research should explore long-term impacts and potential scalability of HYEI across different urban settings in Ghana, while also considering socio-economic factors impacting youth homelessness.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African Universities' Role in Knowledge Production and Dissemination Paradigm
African universities play a crucial role in knowledge production and dissemination across various fields, including African Studies. In Uganda, these institutions are pivotal to fostering scholarly engagement with local contexts and global trends. The study employs a comprehensive review of existing literature on university functions and contributions to scholarly engagement and policy development. The analysis underscores the need for enhanced collaboration between universities and these external stakeholders to bridge the knowledge divide and ensure broader impact. Recommendations include fostering partnerships with industry leaders, enhancing public engagement initiatives, and integrating traditional knowledge in curriculum development to promote a more inclusive academic environment.
Community Health Worker Programmes and Maternal Healthcare Acceptability in Ethiopian Districts
Community Health Worker (CHW) programmes have been implemented in various African countries to improve maternal healthcare outcomes. The study employed mixed-methods research including surveys, interviews, and qualitative assessments to gather data from multiple Ethiopian districts. Data were analysed using statistical software for quantitative analysis and thematic coding for qualitative insights. CHW programmes significantly increased maternal healthcare acceptability by 20% in the studied districts compared to control areas (p<0.05). Themes identified included improved health education, local trust in CHWs, and reduced transportation barriers. The study found that tailored CHW training and community engagement strategies are key to enhancing maternal healthcare acceptability in Ethiopian contexts. Programmes should prioritise continuous professional development for CHWs and foster stronger community partnerships to sustain high levels of service acceptance and quality delivery.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Media Platforms and Democratic Mobilization among University Students in the DRC
This study examines the role of social media platforms in facilitating political mobilization among university students in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). A comparative study design was employed, utilising surveys and interviews with participants from two universities in Kinshasa. Data collection methods included online questionnaires distributed via email and face-to-face interviews at the university campuses. Findings indicate a significant increase (30%) in student engagement through social media platforms compared to traditional mobilization channels such as rallies and meetings, highlighting the platform's growing importance in modern political discourse among students. The study concludes that while social media offers new opportunities for democratic mobilization, it also presents challenges related to information accuracy and echo chambers. Recommendations include fostering critical digital literacy skills among students and enhancing transparency in how student organizations use social media platforms.
Urbanization, Informal Settlements, and Welfare in Egyptian Cities
Urbanization in Egypt has led to rapid growth of informal settlements, posing significant challenges for social welfare systems. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys of residents living in informal settlements was employed to gather data. Informal settlement dwellers represent approximately 40% of urban populations and face significant challenges accessing basic services such as healthcare and education. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions that address both structural inequalities within these communities and gaps in social welfare provision. Policy recommendations include prioritising infrastructure development, improving access to healthcare facilities, and enhancing educational opportunities for residents of informal settlements.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Technological Innovations in Waste Management Services for Urban Slums
Addis Ababa’s urban slums face significant waste management challenges due to rapid population growth and inadequate infrastructure. A mixed-methods approach incorporating qualitative interviews with stakeholders and quantitative data analysis of service usage patterns among slum dwellers. Technological innovations can significantly enhance waste management outcomes in urban slums if supported by robust community engagement and appropriate governance structures. Develop tailored service models that incorporate technological solutions and emphasise inclusive stakeholder participation to ensure sustainable impact.