African Rural Sociology is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Traditional Governance Structures and Modern Democracy in Ghana
Traditional governance structures in Ghana have evolved over centuries, blending indigenous practices with colonial influences. Southern Africa’s diverse societies, including Ghana, offer a rich tapestry of traditional leadership systems that continue to influence contemporary political landscapes. The research employs qualitative methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions among various stakeholders, such as traditional leaders, community members, and government officials. Data analysis follows thematic coding to identify patterns and themes across the study sites. Traditional councils continue to play a significant role in dispute resolution and community decision-making processes, often complementing rather than competing with formal democratic institutions. However, there are variations in the extent of traditional influence depending on regional context and socio-economic factors. The findings suggest that while traditional governance structures have enduring relevance, they can be leveraged to enhance the effectiveness of modern democracy by fostering trust, inclusivity, and community engagement. Policy makers should consider integrating traditional leadership elements into democratic reforms to better align with local contexts. Community-based initiatives could also promote mutual understanding between traditional leaders and formal institutions.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Adoption and Success Rates among Women Entrepreneurs in Abidjan
Microfinance programmes have been implemented in various African countries to support women entrepreneurs, but their effectiveness varies across regions and contexts. The study employs a combination of quantitative data collection through surveys and qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative interview transcripts. Women entrepreneurs in Abidjan showed an immediate loan application success rate of 75%, with repayment rates at 80% after one year. Themes emerging from the interviews included challenges related to business planning and financial management skills. Microfinance programmes have shown promise in supporting women entrepreneurs in Abidian, though further development is needed in areas such as business planning education. Future research should focus on developing comprehensive training programmes for microfinance clients to enhance their entrepreneurial success rates.
Digital Literacy Workshops and Educational Growth in Sierra Leonean Rural Communities
Digital literacy workshops have been introduced in Sierra Leonean rural communities as a means of empowering youth with digital skills and enhancing educational outcomes. A qualitative approach was employed, involving interviews with participants from various rural communities in Sierra Leone, focusing on their experiences and perceptions of the workshops. Participants reported significant improvements in computer skills and internet usage, reflecting an increased technological maturity. There was also a noticeable rise in academic achievement among those who attended the workshops compared to non-participants. The findings suggest that digital literacy workshops can lead to substantial growth in educational performance within rural communities of Sierra Leone. Future research should explore the long-term effects and potential scalability of these workshops across different regions of Africa. digital literacy, youth empowerment, technological maturity, educational achievement, rural communities
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Historical Foundations of Contemporary Governance Challenges in Tunisia
Historical Foundations of Contemporary Governance Challenges in Tunisia Not applicable for this perspective piece as it is an exploratory analysis focusing on theoretical frameworks rather than empirical data collection or testing. The analysis reveals a complex interplay between past and present in Tunisia's governance challenges, emphasising the importance of integrating historical context into contemporary policy-making processes. Suggests incorporating historical education into curricula to foster greater awareness and understanding of the impacts of historical events on current conditions. Advocates for a more inclusive and participatory approach to governance that acknowledges past injustices and promotes equitable development.
Community-Based Immunization Campaigns in West African Countries
Community-based immunization campaigns have been implemented in several West African countries to prevent measles outbreaks, with Kenya being a case study where these initiatives were conducted over two years. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from health records with qualitative insights gathered through interviews and focus group discussions with community members and healthcare workers. The findings indicate a significant reduction in measles incidence rates by 40% within the study area compared to pre-campaign levels, highlighting the critical role of community engagement in vaccine uptake. Community-based immunization campaigns played a crucial role in mitigating measles outbreaks in Kenya, demonstrating their effectiveness and potential for broader application in similar contexts. Based on this assessment, it is recommended that government health departments continue to support and expand community-based vaccination programmes as a key strategy in measles prevention efforts.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cultural Adaptation and Resilience in Gabonese Migrant Communities
Cultural adaptation and resilience are critical for migrant communities in southern Africa, particularly those in Gabon. These communities face unique challenges due to cultural differences, language barriers, and social integration. An ethnographic approach was used, involving participant observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with migrant families in urban areas of Gabon. Data collection took place over a period of six months. Migrants reported significant cultural changes, including the adoption of local cuisine and religious practices to maintain connection with their heritage but also integrating into the host culture through language classes and community events. This study highlights the complex interplay between cultural preservation and adaptation among Gabonese migrants in Gabon. Understanding these dynamics can inform policies aimed at enhancing social cohesion and integration. Policy makers should consider developing culturally sensitive programmes that support both cultural heritage maintenance and skill-building for language proficiency, thereby fostering resilience within migrant communities.
Language Policy Impacts on Education Outcomes in Multilingual Ethiopian Societies
Language policies in Ethiopia have been influenced by multilingual contexts where multiple official languages coexist alongside Amharic and English as primary educational mediums. A comparative study design was employed, analysing data from public schools in Oromia and Amhara regions to assess the effectiveness of different language policies on literacy rates and academic performance. Data revealed significant disparities in student achievement scores between schools implementing multilingual curricula versus those using only Amharic or English as the primary teaching medium. Language policy has a substantial influence on educational success, with mixed results depending on local language use strategies and community engagement. Policy makers should consider integrating multiple languages in education to enhance inclusivity and effectiveness, particularly in regions where linguistic diversity is pronounced. Ethiopia, Language Policy, Multilingual Education, Educational Outcomes
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Water Scarcity Dynamics and Mitigation Strategies in the Nile Basin of Gambia
Water scarcity is a critical issue affecting agricultural productivity and socio-economic development in the Nile Basin of Gambia. A mixed-methods approach combining case studies, surveys, interviews, and secondary data analysis will be employed to comprehensively analyse the situation in Gambia’s Nile Basin. The preliminary findings suggest that approximately 40% of farmers in the study area depend on rain-fed agriculture, which is highly vulnerable to water scarcity. This research highlights the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern agricultural practices for sustainable water management. Policy recommendations include fostering collaboration between stakeholders and implementing targeted irrigation systems to enhance resilience against water scarcity.
The Integration and Impact of Traditional Medicine in Contemporary Zambian Healthcare Systems
Traditional medicine plays a significant role in healthcare systems across Zambia, blending with modern medical practices. A qualitative study involving interviews with traditional healers and surveys among patients seeking both traditional and conventional treatments. The integration of traditional medicine into contemporary Zambian healthcare systems demonstrates the potential for enhancing accessibility and effectiveness of healthcare services, especially in underserved regions. Policy makers should consider integrating traditional medicine into national health policies to improve healthcare coverage and quality.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Eco-Friendly Farming Techniques in the Western Ethiopian Highlands
This study examines the effectiveness of an eco-friendly farming programme in the Western Ethiopian Highlands. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to evaluate programme outcomes. Farmers showed a significant interest (75%) in adopting new farming techniques following the training programme, particularly in water conservation methods. The findings suggest that structured farmer education significantly enhances adoption rates of sustainable agricultural practices. Policy recommendations include scaling up successful interventions and integrating more community-based initiatives to boost sustainability efforts.
Urbanization, Informal Settlements, and Social Welfare in Ethiopian Cities
Urbanization in Ethiopia has led to rapid growth of informal settlements, challenging traditional social welfare systems. An ethnographic study was conducted with interviews and observations focusing on key stakeholders such as community leaders, service providers, and residents. A significant proportion (70%) of residents in informal settlements reported difficulties accessing essential services like healthcare and education due to distance and cost barriers. The study highlights the critical need for tailored social welfare policies that address the unique needs of urban populations in Ethiopia’s informal settlements. Policy makers should prioritise investment in infrastructure and community-led initiatives to improve access to basic services in these areas.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African Universities' Role in Post-2007 Knowledge Production and Dissemination
African universities play a crucial role in knowledge production and dissemination across various fields of study, including African Studies. However, there is a need to understand their specific contributions within this context, particularly in Kenya. The study employs qualitative methods for data collection and analysis, including interviews with university faculty members, focus group discussions, and document reviews. These methods were chosen to capture nuanced insights into the role of African universities in fostering scholarly engagement and community impact. University researchers have produced a significant number of high-quality publications on post- topics, with a notable proportion (35%) focusing on issues relevant to rural development and education. This highlights their active contribution to academic discourse and policy-making within the region. The research underscores the vital role of African universities in driving knowledge production and dissemination, particularly in areas aligned with societal needs such as rural development and education. University administrators should prioritise supporting interdisciplinary collaborations and international partnerships to further enhance their impact on local communities and global scholarship.
Maternal Mortality Reduction through Community Health Worker Programmes in Kampala, Uganda
Maternal mortality remains a significant public health concern in many African countries, including Uganda. In Kampala, community health worker (CHW) programmes have been implemented to address this issue. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews. Data collection was conducted through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews among CHWs, community members, and healthcare facilities in Kampala. A notable trend observed is the significant reduction in maternal mortality rates (MMR) attributed to improved access to emergency obstetric care by CHWs, with a decrease of 25% over five years. CHW programmes have been instrumental in enhancing maternal health outcomes in Kampala. Future research should explore scaling up these interventions and assessing their sustainability across diverse settings. Policy makers are encouraged to invest more resources into CHW training and infrastructure, while community engagement initiatives should be strengthened to ensure widespread adoption of these services.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Patient Satisfaction with Mobile Health Clinics in Remote Villages of Burkina Faso,
Mobile health clinics have been introduced in remote villages of Burkina Faso to address healthcare challenges faced by underserved populations. A survey was conducted in across various remote villages, employing a structured questionnaire to gather data on patient experiences and perceptions of the mobile clinics. The survey revealed that approximately 75% of respondents reported feeling satisfied with the services provided by the mobile health clinics, highlighting their effectiveness in addressing healthcare needs in remote areas. Mobile health clinics appear to be a viable solution for improving access to healthcare in rural settings of Burkina Faso. Patient satisfaction was significantly influenced by clinic proximity and perceived quality of care offered. Future initiatives should focus on enhancing the visibility and accessibility of mobile clinics, particularly through targeted awareness campaigns and partnerships with local leaders.
Drought Resistant Sorghum Varieties Among Smallholder Farmers in Northern Ghana
Drought conditions in northern Ghana pose significant challenges to smallholder farmers who rely on sorghum as a staple crop. A mixed-methods approach combining farmer surveys, focus group discussions, and field observations was employed to gather data from 120 randomly selected households in four districts of northern Ghana. Farmers reported an average increase of 25% in sorghum yield when using drought-resistant varieties compared to traditional seeds. Socio-economic benefits included reduced input costs and increased income, with over 80% of farmers indicating improved food security. The adoption of drought-resistant sorghum varieties has yielded substantial improvements in both agricultural productivity and farmer well-being, highlighting the need for continued support and policy interventions to enhance resilience against climate change impacts. Government agencies should invest in extension services that promote best practices around drought-resilient crop management. Policies should incentivize smallholder farmers to adopt these varieties through subsidies or insurance schemes.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Traditional Medicine Nexus in Contemporary Gambian Healthcare Systems
Traditional medicine plays a significant role in contemporary healthcare systems across Africa, including Gambia. Despite modern medical advancements, traditional practices remain deeply entrenched and often complement or coexist with formal health services. No empirical data will be presented; instead, a conceptual exploration through literature review and thematic analysis will inform our theoretical development. A theoretical framework highlighting the importance of integrating traditional and modern healthcare systems in Gambia is proposed to improve access and efficacy of health services for a broader population. Policy makers should consider promoting education on both traditional and modern medical practices, fostering collaboration between healers and formal healthcare providers, and incorporating traditional healing into national health insurance schemes.
Pan-Africanism has gained renewed attention in African studies as a potential unifying force for unity and development across the continent. This study employs mixed methods including qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and quantitative surveys to gather comprehensive data on Pan-African sentiments and their practical implications in Gabonese society. Findings indicate a significant proportion (45%) of respondents support Pan-Africanism for fostering unity and development, with notable variations across urban versus rural areas. Despite challenges such as language barriers and socio-economic disparities, the study highlights opportunities for promoting Pan-African solidarity through targeted community engagement initiatives. Policy recommendations should include enhanced cross-cultural dialogue programmes and inclusive economic policies to support Pan-African aspirations in Gabon.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
E-Food Traceability Systems in African Farmers Markets
E-food traceability systems have emerged as a promising tool to reduce food loss in agricultural supply chains. A comparative study design was employed, involving surveys and interviews with market vendors and consumers. Data analysis revealed significant reductions in food loss by up to 30% among participating markets. E-food traceability systems can effectively combat food loss in African farmers markets, reducing economic losses for small-scale producers. Implementing e-traceability systems should be prioritised by government and market authorities to enhance market efficiency and sustainability. African Farmers Markets, E-Traceability Systems, Food Loss Reduction, Market Efficiency
The ethical dimensions of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data governance have become increasingly significant in contemporary societies, particularly in African contexts where rapid technological advancements are intersecting with traditional social structures. The research employs a comparative case study approach, drawing on qualitative data from interviews with policymakers, community leaders, and technology experts in three selected municipalities within South Africa. The analysis focuses on the perceptions and practices related to AI ethics and governance. A notable finding is that there is significant variance in how different regions perceive and implement ethical guidelines for AI applications, influenced by socio-economic disparities and historical contexts. This comparative study highlights the need for tailored strategies at both national and local levels to address the challenges posed by AI ethics and governance within South African society. Recommendations include developing culturally sensitive frameworks that incorporate traditional values into AI governance policies, enhancing public engagement in ethical AI discussions, and fostering a more inclusive technological development environment. Artificial Intelligence, Governance, Ethics, Societies, Comparative Study
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Environmental Justice Movements in Resource-Rich Ugandan Communities
Environmental Justice Movements in Resource-Rich Ugandan Communities The study employs a qualitative research approach to gather data from interviews with community leaders, activists, and government officials. Focus groups were also conducted to understand the perspectives of different stakeholders. The study underscores the need for more inclusive decision-making processes that consider local voices in resource management policies to address environmental injustices effectively. Governments and international organizations should prioritise support for community-led initiatives, including financial assistance and training on sustainable development practices.
Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and Innovation Hubs in Cameroon's Rural Context
Entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs have gained significant attention in urban settings globally, but their potential impact on rural areas is less explored. The study employs a qualitative approach based on secondary data analysis and expert interviews from various stakeholders involved in rural development initiatives. The study concludes that while challenges exist, the potential benefits of entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs are substantial, particularly in stimulating local economic growth and improving access to technology. Given the identified needs, recommendations include securing adequate funding, fostering collaboration among government agencies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations for successful hub implementation.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Policy and Education Outcomes in Multilingual Uganda
Language policies in multilingual African states like Uganda aim to balance linguistic diversity with educational equity. However, their effectiveness varies, highlighting a need for comparative analysis. We employed mixed-methods including qualitative interviews with educators and quantitative data from national educational assessments. Comparative analyses were conducted using statistical software. Our findings indicate that while significant improvements in language proficiency have been observed among Ugandan students, regional disparities persist, particularly in marginalized communities where English remains the dominant medium of instruction. Language policies must be tailored to address these regional disparities and ensure equitable access to education for all linguistic groups in Uganda. Policy makers should prioritise multilingual curricula and teacher training programmes that enhance language skills across all regions, thereby fostering inclusive educational environments.
Youth Identity and Political Engagement in Moroccan Urban Areas
Youth in Moroccan urban areas are increasingly active participants in political processes, but their identities and engagement patterns vary significantly. A quantitative survey approach was employed with a sample size of 500 young adults aged between 18-29 from various urban districts across Morocco. Data collection included surveys and interviews aimed at understanding their personal identities and political engagement. The analysis revealed that 70% of respondents identified as Moroccan nationals, while 30% had dual citizenship or were not citizens. A significant proportion (45%) reported participating in local elections within the past year, with women showing a higher level of participation compared to men (52% vs. 48%). This study highlights the importance of national identity and gender in shaping political engagement among urban youth in Morocco. Future research should explore how socioeconomic factors impact these dynamics, particularly addressing economic disparities within urban Moroccan communities.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Cross-Border Trade Networks within ECOWAS
Informal cross-border trade networks are a significant aspect of regional integration in Africa, particularly within Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Benin's efforts to integrate into ECOWAS face challenges and opportunities related to these networks. The research employs qualitative methods including semi-structured interviews with traders, focus groups with local communities, and document analysis of trade regulations and policies across borders. Data was collected from both within Benin and neighboring countries. Informal cross-border trade networks in Benin are predominantly centred around agricultural products such as rice and fish, accounting for at least 40% of total exports to ECOWAS member states. These networks often involve small-scale traders who operate outside formal regulatory frameworks. The study highlights the importance of engaging with informal cross-border trade actors in Benin’s integration strategy within ECOWAS. It also underscores the need for harmonized policies that can facilitate smoother cross-border transactions while ensuring compliance with regional regulations. To optimise Benin's participation in ECOWAS, it is recommended to establish a regulatory framework that supports informal traders and encourages their formalization while maintaining market access rights. Strengthening intergovernmental cooperation on trade facilitation measures is also crucial.
Land reform policies in East Africa have been implemented to address issues of land tenure insecurity and promote equitable access to resources. Cameroon is an example where such reforms are being considered or already underway, with significant socio-economic implications. The research employs semi-structured interviews with stakeholders including farmers, community leaders, and government officials. A thematic analysis approach is used to identify recurring themes and patterns within the data collected over six months in selected regions of Cameroon. Interviews revealed that while some farmers benefited from increased access to land through formalization processes, others faced challenges related to tenure security and lack of legal documentation, leading to ongoing disputes. The qualitative insights suggest a need for more comprehensive support systems to assist those affected by the reforms, particularly in resolving conflicts and ensuring sustainable outcomes. Policy makers should consider implementing additional measures such as community-based dispute resolution mechanisms alongside formal land registration processes to enhance inclusivity and stability.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Norms and Their Role in Disseminating Campaigns on School Attendance Among Adolescent Girls in Nairobi City Centre, Kenya
Gender norms significantly influence how campaigns on school attendance are disseminated among adolescent girls in Nairobi City Centre, Kenya. This study will employ qualitative research methods to analyse existing campaigns and interview key informants from community organizations, schools, and government bodies. Understanding these norms is crucial for designing more effective school attendance promotion strategies in urban areas. Campaigns should incorporate culturally sensitive messaging aligned with prevailing gender norms to enhance their impact on adolescent girls' school attendance rates.