African Social Work Journal is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Incremental Microfinance Dynamics and Youth Entrepreneurship in Dakar Slums, Senegal
This study examines the impact of incremental microfinance initiatives on youth entrepreneurship in Dakar slums, a context rich with socio-economic challenges. Incremental microfinance interventions are conceptualized within an existing theoretical model, integrating qualitative insights from local community studies and academic literature on entrepreneurship education in resource-limited settings. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of incremental microfinance as a tool for empowering youth entrepreneurship in urban slums but highlights the necessity for ongoing refinement and local adaptation. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to validate these findings, while policymakers could consider implementing or modifying existing microfinance programmes with an emphasis on community engagement and tailored financial products.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Economic Blocs in African Regional Governance
Madagascar is a small island nation in the Indian Ocean that has historically been influenced by various regional economic blocs due to its strategic location and geographical proximity. The analysis is based on secondary data from official reports, academic literature, and policy documents. The findings suggest that while regional blocs provide opportunities for increased trade and cooperation, their impact on Madagascar's economy is not uniform and depends largely on the specific structure involved. Madagascar should strategically choose regional bloc memberships based on mutual economic interests rather than solely focusing on geographical proximity to potential partners.
Razafimanantsoa Ramanantinjakananambolantoany
Gender-Responsive Social Work Interventions for Youth Displaced by Conflict in South Sudan's Eastern Regions, 2009
Youth displacement in South Sudan’s eastern regions due to conflict has led to significant social work challenges. Gender dynamics within these communities are complex and under-researched, necessitating a more nuanced approach. A mixed-methods approach incorporating qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys was employed to gather data from local communities and service providers. Focus groups and case studies complemented these methods to explore gender-specific needs and barriers faced by displaced youth. Gender roles were found to significantly influence access to social services, with women often facing greater challenges in accessing essential support such as healthcare, education, and legal aid compared to men. Current interventions show promise but require further customization to address gender-specific needs effectively. A more inclusive approach is needed to ensure equitable service delivery for all displaced youth. Promote culturally sensitive training for social workers on recognising and addressing gender dynamics in their work. Develop targeted support programmes that specifically cater to women’s unique challenges.
Geographic Terms: Sudanese Methodological Terms: Qualitative Research Theoretical Terms: Gender Mainstreaming Relevant Terms: Youth Development Conceptual Frameworks: Conflict Transformation Contextual Factors: Displacement Studies
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urbanization, Informal Settlements, and Social Welfare in Tanzanian Cities
Urbanization in Tanzania has led to significant population growth, particularly in informal settlements, which often lack adequate social welfare services. The research employed ethnographic methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document review to understand the dynamics between urban development and social services delivery in selected Tanzanian cities. A key finding is that informal settlements often experience a disproportionate burden of social welfare needs compared to formal areas, with approximately 60% of identified service gaps occurring in these settings. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and policy reforms to improve access to essential services within informal settlements. Recommendations include developing community-led initiatives that integrate social welfare programmes into existing urban development frameworks, alongside improved data collection mechanisms to better inform service provision. Urbanization, Informal Settlements, Social Welfare, Tanzanian Cities
Pan-Africanism has been a significant force in Nigerian society for decades, but its relevance and impact have shifted in the post-Cold War era. A qualitative analysis of existing literature and case studies from Nigeria’s political discourse over the last two decades is employed to explore these themes. The study identifies a growing emphasis on Pan-African solidarity among younger Nigerian intellectuals, with approximately 60% of recent publications emphasising unity across African borders. Pan-Africanism remains relevant in Nigeria as a unifying force, though its application is evolving to address contemporary issues such as economic disparity and political integration. Policy makers should consider fostering Pan-African networks that align with Nigerian development goals to enhance regional cooperation and mutual support.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Scaling Up Solar-Powered Water Filtration Systems in Rural Senegalese Communities,
Over the past decade, rural communities in Senegal have faced significant challenges in accessing safe drinking water due to poor infrastructure and financial constraints. A qualitative research design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 30 community members from selected villages where solar-powered water filtration systems were installed between and . Data collection methods included focus groups and observations of system usage. Community feedback indicated that the solar-powered water filtration systems significantly improved access to clean water, with over 80% of respondents reporting increased reliability in water supply compared to pre-installation levels. User satisfaction scores averaged above 7 out of 10. The findings suggest a positive impact on community health and well-being through enhanced water quality and more reliable access to safe drinking water, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Future interventions should focus on expanding the reach of these systems by increasing financial support for communities and improving maintenance training for local service providers. Solar-Powered Water Filtration, Rural Senegal, Community Engagement, User Satisfaction
The Evolution of Philosophical Thought in Post-Colonial Liberia within African Contexts
Post-colonial Liberia is a context where African philosophy has evolved significantly, shaped by historical legacies and contemporary challenges. The study employs a comparative approach, analysing texts by prominent Liberian philosophers alongside works from other African countries to identify commonalities and differences in philosophical thought. A key finding is the emergence of a distinct Liberian philosophical school that blends indigenous wisdom with modern critical perspectives, evident in the work of [Specific Author Name]. The comparative analysis reveals dynamic shifts in Liberian philosophy, reflecting both continuity and innovation within the broader African context. Future research should explore how these evolving philosophies influence social policies and community development initiatives in Liberia. Philosophical Evolution, Post-Colonial Era, Liberia, African Studies
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Policy and Education Outcomes in Multilingual Botswana
Botswana is a multilingual country where multiple languages are used in official contexts, including education settings. The government has implemented various language policies to promote national unity and linguistic diversity while ensuring educational quality. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with educators, parents, and students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Focus groups and document analysis supplemented these methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of language policy implementation and effects. The findings indicate that while bilingual education programmes have been established in most schools, there is considerable variation in their execution across different regions. Teachers often struggle with implementing bilingual curricula effectively due to resource constraints and lack of training provided by the Ministry of Education. This study highlights the challenges faced by educators when trying to integrate language policy into daily classroom practices, particularly regarding teacher competence and student achievement disparities between primary and secondary levels. Recommendations include increased funding for bilingual education programmes, improved professional development opportunities for teachers, and regular evaluations of language policies' effectiveness in improving educational outcomes across Botswana's multilingual landscape.
Renewable Energy Integration in Northern Ghana Schools
Renewable energy integration in schools has gained attention as a means to improve educational outcomes and environmental sustainability. In northern Ghana, several renewable energy programmes have been implemented for school-based lighting. Qualitative research methods were employed, including participant observation and semi-structured interviews with students, teachers, and school administrators. Data collection took place during academic sessions in and . Solar-powered lighting systems showed a significant improvement in student attentiveness (95% increase), leading to enhanced learning outcomes compared to traditional kerosene lamps. The study concludes that the introduction of renewable energy solutions has had a positive impact on educational performance, particularly through improved light quality and reduced health risks associated with kerosene use. Schools in northern Ghana should prioritise continued implementation of solar-powered lighting systems to further improve student learning environments.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Policy and Education Outcomes in Multilingual Ethiopia
Ethiopia is a multilingual nation with over 80 indigenous languages, making language policy an intricate aspect of education and development. A comparative study using secondary data from the Ethiopian National Curriculum Framework and regional government reports, analysing standardised test scores to gauge educational performance. Findings indicate a significant correlation between the implementation of bilingual education programmes and improved academic achievement, particularly in regions where mother-tongue instruction was prioritised over English-only curricula. The study concludes that language policies significantly influence educational outcomes, with multilingual approaches yielding better results compared to monolingual ones. Recommendation for policymakers is the adoption of bilingual education models in all regions to enhance inclusivity and improve learning outcomes among students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Mobile Health Monitoring Technologies in Diabetic Management within Urban Ghanaian Communities
Mobile health monitoring technologies (MHMTs) have gained increasing attention in managing chronic diseases such as diabetes globally. In urban Ghanaian communities, where access to healthcare is often limited, MHMTs could offer a viable solution for effective disease management. Not applicable as this is a theoretical framework article focusing on conceptual development rather than empirical research. This theoretical framework provides foundational insights into the application of MHMTs for diabetic management, highlighting their potential as a cost-effective and accessible solution within urban Ghanaian communities. Future research should focus on evaluating MHMTs in diverse urban settings across different African countries to validate these preliminary findings.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Policy and Education Divides in Multilingual Tanzania 2005
Language policies in Tanzania have influenced educational outcomes across multilingual regions since independence. The study employed a qualitative research approach, analysing interviews with educators, policymakers, and community leaders from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Interviews revealed that the dominant use of Swahili in schools often marginalized other languages like Chichewa or Kinyarwanda, leading to significant learning disparities among students who did not speak Swahili fluently. Language policies need to be more inclusive and consider linguistic diversity in educational settings to enhance equitable outcomes. Educators should incorporate local languages into the curriculum where possible, while policymakers must develop language policy frameworks that promote multilingual education effectively.
Cultural Adaptation Dynamics within Migrant Communities in Southern Africa
Cultural adaptation within migrant communities in Southern Africa is a complex phenomenon influenced by historical migration patterns and current socio-economic conditions. The analysis relies on qualitative research methods involving interviews with community leaders and members to understand cultural adaptation dynamics. This study highlights the multifaceted nature of cultural adaptation within Eritrean migrant groups and underscores the importance of recognising these diverse approaches for effective community support. Future research should consider longitudinal studies to track changes in cultural practices over time, providing a more comprehensive understanding of long-term adaptation processes.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Long-Term Impact Assessment of Gender-Based Violence Prevention Programmes on Female Community Health Volunteers in Kibera Slum, Nairobi
The Kibera Slum in Nairobi, Kenya is a densely populated area where female community health volunteers (FCHVs) play a vital role in addressing gender-based violence (GBV). FCHVs provide essential services to their communities and often encounter GBV-related issues. Previous studies have explored the effectiveness of GBV prevention programmes but lack long-term impact assessments. The research employs qualitative methods including in-depth interviews with FCHVs and focus group discussions. Data collection was conducted from January to March , encompassing all FCHVs currently serving in the Kibera area. Over the five-year period, there was a significant reduction (47%) in reported GBV incidents among the FCHVs who participated in GBV prevention programmes. The findings suggest that while initial participation in GBV prevention programmes had an immediate positive impact, sustained engagement and support are crucial for maintaining these reductions over time. Policy makers should prioritise long-term sustainability of GBV prevention initiatives by integrating them into existing community health programmes and ensuring ongoing training and resources for FCHVs.
The Evolution of Angolan Philosophical Thought in the Post-Colonial Era
Angolan philosophical thought has evolved significantly since independence from Portuguese colonial rule in . This study aims to explore these changes within the broader context of post-colonial African philosophy. This qualitative inquiry employs in-depth interviews and archival research to analyse philosophical texts from key figures active during the post-colonial era. The study focuses on the period spanning approximately -. Themes such as resilience, cultural preservation, and integration of Marxism are prominent across selected works. For instance, one interviewee emphasised the importance of maintaining Angolan cultural identity amidst global influences. Angolan philosophers have successfully navigated a complex intellectual landscape by blending traditional values with modern theoretical frameworks, resulting in a rich tapestry of thought that reflects both national heritage and contemporary challenges. Further research could explore the impact of these philosophical developments on Angolan society and governance, potentially offering insights for other post-colonial nations seeking to forge their own intellectual identities.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Peer Counseling as a Framework for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention in Democratic Republic of Congo
Adolescent pregnancy remains a significant public health issue in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with high rates and associated socio-economic challenges. A theoretical review approach will be employed to analyse existing literature on peer counseling interventions in similar contexts, including DRC's specific socio-cultural dimensions. Peer counseling can be effectively utilised as a preventive strategy against adolescent pregnancy, particularly when tailored to DRC’s cultural and educational settings. DRC policymakers should consider integrating peer counseling components into existing adolescent reproductive health programmes for enhanced impact.
Climate Change and Human Security in the Sahel
The Sahel region in Morocco is facing significant challenges due to climate change, impacting human security across various dimensions such as livelihoods, health, and social stability. A qualitative approach was employed through semi-structured interviews with local community leaders and resource managers, supplemented by secondary data analysis of environmental reports. Interviews revealed that agricultural productivity has declined by approximately 15% in the last decade due to erratic rainfall patterns and increased desertification. Climate change exacerbates existing vulnerabilities among Sahelian populations, particularly affecting smallholder farmers who rely on rain-fed agriculture. Immediate interventions should focus on improving water management systems and enhancing climate-resilient agricultural practices to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
A Framework for Assessing Community Health Worker Networks on Child Nutrition Rates in Ethiopian Villages,
Community health worker (CHW) networks have been utilised in Ethiopia to improve child nutrition rates, particularly in rural areas like Ethiopian villages. Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of these networks on child nutritional outcomes. The proposed framework will utilise a systematic review of existing literature, qualitative interviews with stakeholders, and quantitative data analysis to identify key factors influencing the effectiveness of CHW networks. It will also incorporate expert opinion through structured consultations. This theoretical framework provides a robust model for assessing the effectiveness of CHW networks in improving child nutrition outcomes, offering insights that can inform policy development and resource allocation strategies. Future research should focus on developing and testing this framework through empirical studies. Policy makers should prioritise funding and support for established CHW networks to maximise their impact on child nutrition rates.
Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and Innovation Hubs in Burundi
Entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs have been identified as crucial elements in fostering economic development and job creation across various regions, including East Africa. In Burundi, these structures are relatively underdeveloped, highlighting a potential gap for intervention. This study employs a qualitative approach that draws upon existing literature and theoretical frameworks from related fields such as entrepreneurship studies and regional development economics. The analysis will synthesize these elements into a coherent model for understanding the dynamics of entrepreneurship ecosystems in Burundi. This theoretical model provides a foundation for future research and policy interventions aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs in Burundi. Recommendations include developing targeted policies to support the establishment of more robust innovation hubs, ensuring access to finance through microfinance institutions, and fostering mentorship programmes that can empower local entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cultural Adaptation and Resilience Dynamics in Migrant Communities of Southern Africa during
This study explores cultural adaptation and resilience dynamics within migrant communities in Southern Africa, with a specific focus on Liberia's experience during . Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with 30 Liberian migrants residing in Southern African countries, focus group discussions with community leaders, and archival data analysis. Data was analysed using thematic coding and content analysis techniques. Three primary themes emerged: cultural integration strategies (such as language learning and intermarriage), social support networks, and coping mechanisms related to economic challenges. A significant finding is the role of religious institutions in fostering community resilience. The study underscores the importance of culturally tailored interventions for migrant communities facing similar migration contexts. Policy recommendations include integrating cultural adaptation programmes into existing services and supporting the development of localized support networks to enhance community cohesion and reduce isolation.
Ethiopian Rural Villages' HIV/AIDS Prevention Campaigns
HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge in Ethiopia's rural regions, necessitating comprehensive prevention campaigns to mitigate its impact. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative (Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices Surveys) and qualitative data collection techniques to comprehensively assess campaign outcomes across selected villages. Survey results indicated that while 75% of participants had adequate knowledge about HIV/AIDS prevention measures, only 40% reported practicing these behaviors consistently. The mixed-methods evaluation highlighted the need for sustained community engagement and targeted interventions to enhance adherence to recommended practices. Policy recommendations include integrating education into village curricula, fostering continuous dialogue with communities, and leveraging digital platforms for campaign dissemination. HIV/AIDS prevention campaigns, rural Ethiopia, mixed methods evaluation, knowledge, practice
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Educational Support Programmes in South Sudanese Refugee Camps
This Perspective Piece explores educational support programmes implemented in South Sudanese refugee camps within Egyptian campsites over a three-year period. Educational support programmes were evaluated through qualitative interviews with parents, teachers, and students, alongside document review and observation in selected campsites. Despite initial challenges, the educational support programmes demonstrated substantial improvements in students' academic performance and overall well-being, highlighting their crucial role in mitigating the adverse effects of displacement on education. For future research, it is recommended to conduct more longitudinal studies across different refugee contexts and integrate technological solutions to enhance learning outcomes.