African Journal of Feminist Theory and Praxis
African Journal of Feminist Theory and Praxis is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Urban Imaginaries in Djibouti's Contemporary African Literature
Urbanization in Djibouti has accelerated over recent decades, influencing various aspects of society including literature. This study employed a qualitative approach to analyse selected literary works published within the last two decades. The analysis was guided by theoretical frameworks pertinent to African feminism and urban studies. The findings reveal a significant focus on themes such as gender roles, economic challenges, and cultural preservation in Djiboutian urban spaces, with women authors often highlighting these issues from personal experiences and observations. The study contributes by offering nuanced insights into the representation of urban life in contemporary Djibouti literature through a feminist lens, providing a deeper understanding of the interplay between gender and urban development in this context. Future research could benefit from incorporating more diverse voices and exploring how different genres of literature contribute to our understanding of urban imaginaries in Djibouti.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Public History and Memory-Making in Post-Conflict Zimbabwe
Post-conflict Zimbabwe faces challenges in reconstructing its social fabric through public history and memory-making initiatives. A mixed-methods study combining qualitative interviews with historical document analysis. Findings suggest that community-led oral histories can heal intergenerational trauma, while official archives highlight colonial legacies. Public history projects offer a nuanced approach to memory-making in Zimbabwe, promoting healing and reconciliation across generations. Policy-makers should support community-based public history initiatives as part of broader societal recovery strategies.
Afro-Linguistics is a field within Linguistics that focuses on African language structures, including their phonology, morphology, and syntax. The commentary draws on existing literature and theoretical frameworks within Afro-Linguistics without presenting new empirical data or methods. The commentary underscores the significance of incorporating Afro-Linguistics into South African Studies to better understand and document linguistic diversity. Future research should prioritise comparative studies between different African language families, particularly those with distinct phonological patterns.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Entrepreneurship Training Programmes in Lagos
Youth entrepreneurship in Lagos, Nigeria faces significant challenges related to skill gaps and access to resources. The government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have initiated various training programmes aimed at enhancing young people’s entrepreneurial abilities. The research methodology involved collecting data from six randomly selected training programmes across different socio-economic zones in Lagos. Quantitative and qualitative methods were employed for data collection and analysis. A notable theme emerging from the data was the disparity in resource allocation among programme participants, with some receiving more support than others, influencing their success rates significantly. The findings suggest that while training programmes can be effective, they require tailored strategies to address regional disparities and improve overall outcomes. Programme implementers should prioritise equitable access to resources to maximise the impact of youth entrepreneurship initiatives in Lagos.
School-Based HIV/AIDS Prevention Programmes and Their Impact on Primary School Students in South Africa's Coastal Regions
School-based HIV/AIDS prevention programmes have been implemented in South Africa's coastal regions to address high prevalence rates among primary school students. These interventions aim to educate and empower young learners with knowledge about HIV/AIDS, its transmission, and preventive measures. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from standardised pre- and post-programme assessments with qualitative insights through focus group discussions and teacher interviews to evaluate the impact of the HIV/AIDS prevention programmes on primary school students in South Africa's coastal regions over a five-year period. There is a consistent adoption rate of 95% for the HIV/AIDS prevention programmes across all schools, indicating high programme acceptance. However, learning outcomes varied significantly, with an average improvement score of 78% in knowledge retention post-programme implementation. The findings suggest that while the HIV/AIDS prevention programmes are well-received by students and teachers alike, there is room for enhanced educational strategies to improve understanding and retention of key HIV/AIDS-related information. Based on these results, it is recommended that further research be conducted to identify specific learning strategies that can enhance knowledge retention in HIV/AIDS prevention education. Additionally, the integration of community-based support mechanisms should be explored to supplement school-based programmes.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Psychological Support Programmes in Urban Nigerian Schools
Adolescent depression is a significant mental health issue in urban Nigerian schools, leading to high dropout rates. Current support programmes are often insufficient or poorly implemented. A comparative study using pre- and post-intervention assessments, including surveys and interviews. Data from 10 randomly selected schools were analysed for depression levels and dropout rates. The psychological support programmes led to a statistically significant reduction of 25% in depressive symptoms among adolescents compared to baseline, with no significant change in the control group. Dropout rates decreased by 30%, although this varied by school type (public vs. private). Psychological support programmes show promise in mitigating adolescent depression and reducing dropout rates, though implementation must be tailored to different educational settings. Schools should adopt evidence-based psychological interventions alongside existing resources and ensure consistent monitoring and evaluation of these programmes over time. adolescent depression, urban Nigeria, dropout reduction, psychological support programmes
African philosophy has gained increasing attention in interdisciplinary discussions, particularly its relevance to global ethical debates. This study examines how African philosophical thought contributes to these debates within Malawi’s cultural and intellectual context. This research employs a combination of semi-structured interviews with philosophers and ethicists in Malawi alongside an online survey targeting the general public. Data collection is complemented by archival research to contextualize findings within Malawian history and culture. The analysis reveals that while African philosophy emphasizes communal values and holistic approaches, there are notable disparities regarding its acceptance among different socio-economic groups (35% of respondents agree with these values). While the study highlights significant contributions to ethical theories, it also identifies areas where more engagement is needed between philosophical traditions and contemporary Malawian society. Future research should focus on fostering dialogues that bridge traditional African philosophies with modern ethical challenges in Malawi. Policy makers could consider integrating these insights into educational curricula to enhance moral education.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
African philosophy has seen a resurgence in recent years, with scholars increasingly engaging with global ethical debates. Tanzania, as a diverse nation with significant cultural and philosophical traditions, offers valuable insights into how African perspectives can contribute to these discussions. The methodology involves a qualitative analysis of primary texts such as scholarly articles, religious texts, and traditional oral histories from different regions of Tanzania. A thematic content analysis will be employed to synthesize the findings. Findings indicate that Tanzanian ethical discourse often incorporates themes of ubuntu (humaneness) and respect for ancestors, reflecting a deep interconnectedness with nature and community. These themes are particularly evident in contemporary legal reforms aimed at promoting social cohesion. This study contributes to the global conversation on ethics by highlighting specific African philosophical contributions that have practical implications for policy-making and societal development in Tanzania. Future research should explore how these traditional ethical frameworks can be integrated into formal education systems, thereby fostering a more inclusive understanding of ethical practices among Tanzanian youth. African philosophy, Ethics, Tanzania, Ubuntu, Traditional oral histories
Gender Inequality in Tech Industry Leadership Positions Among South African Women Entrepreneurs,
In recent years, gender inequality has been a significant issue in various sectors, including technology industry leadership positions among women entrepreneurs. The study employed a mixed-method approach using surveys and semi-structured interviews with participants from diverse backgrounds representing various tech companies in South Africa. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis to identify patterns and themes across the data sources. A key finding was that women entrepreneurs reported facing significant challenges such as lack of networking opportunities, biased hiring practices, and insufficient support structures for leadership roles. The findings highlight persistent gender disparities in tech industry leadership positions among South African women entrepreneurs. Organisational culture plays a crucial role in fostering inclusive environments. Recommendation include the implementation of diversity and inclusion training programmes, mentorship initiatives, and transparent policies to support career advancement for women in technology sectors.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Public History and Memory-Making in Post-Conflict Senegal
Public history projects in post-conflict societies often aim to facilitate memory-making among affected communities. In Senegal, post-independence conflicts have shaped contemporary societal dynamics and collective identity. The research combines ethnographic fieldwork and archival analysis to understand the role of public history in memory-making processes. Quantitative data on visitor engagement is collected alongside qualitative insights from interviews with historians and participants. A notable theme identified was the tension between preserving official narratives versus uncovering local histories, influencing visitor interaction patterns which revealed varied levels of interest across demographic groups. Public history in Senegal plays a crucial role in reconciling past conflicts through education and dialogue. Future projects should be more inclusive to reflect diverse community perspectives. Archives should prioritise accessibility for underrepresented communities, and historians must engage with local memories to enrich official historical narratives.
Visual Culture and Identity Formation Among Youth in South Africa
Visual culture plays a significant role in shaping youth identity formation in South Africa. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 30 participants from various urban and rural areas of South Africa. Participants reported a strong association between the media they consumed and their self-image, particularly regarding race and gender roles. The integration of diverse visual content into curricula can promote more inclusive and reflective identity formation among youth. Educational policies should mandate the inclusion of multicultural and anti-discrimination materials in all levels of schooling.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Role of Community Health Workers in Maternal Mortality Reduction
Rwanda has made significant strides in reducing maternal mortality rates through innovative community health worker (CHW) programmes. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from surveys and qualitative interviews to evaluate programme impact over time. The findings underscore the critical role of CHWs in addressing rural health disparities, particularly for underserved populations. Policy makers should prioritise sustained funding and continuous training for CHW programmes to sustain maternal mortality reduction gains.
African Linguistic Perspectives on Afro-Languages in Somalia
African linguistics has traditionally focused on languages within the continent, but recent scholarship has expanded to include Afro-Languages—languages that emerged through contact between African and European languages. This theoretical framework article explores these Afro-Languages in Somalia, with a particular emphasis on Somali language. The methodology involves a review of existing literature on Afro-Linguistics and specifically on Somali language studies. A thematic analysis will be employed, examining various aspects such as phonetics, morphology, syntax, and semantics within the context of Somalia’s linguistic landscape. This theoretical framework lays down a robust foundation for understanding and analysing Afro-Languages in Somalia, providing a structured approach that can guide future research efforts. Future researchers should consider integrating quantitative methods alongside qualitative analysis to achieve more comprehensive insights into the linguistic characteristics of Afro-Languages. Additionally, comparative studies with other Afro-Languages could provide valuable comparisons.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Translating African literature into global languages poses unique challenges due to cultural, linguistic, and thematic differences. A qualitative analysis of existing translations and interviews with translators and authors. Effective strategies include collaborating closely with native speakers, maintaining thematic coherence while adapting stylistically, and engaging in continuous feedback loops. Develop training programmes for translators emphasising cultural sensitivity and linguistic precision, alongside partnerships between local and international literary organizations.
Gender Inequality in North and South Sudanese Newspaper Editorials
This study examines gender inequality in newspaper editorials from North and South Sudan, focusing on South Sudan's media landscape post-secession. A comparative content analysis approach was employed, examining a sample of editorials from both North and South Sudanese newspapers. Data were analysed using thematic coding and frequency counts. Editorial content revealed a significant disparity in the representation of women's roles, with themes such as gender-based violence and domestic responsibilities disproportionately represented in North Sudanese newspaper editorials compared to their South Sudanese counterparts. The analysis highlights persistent gender inequality in both regions but with notable variations, indicating distinct cultural and political influences on media discourse. Media literacy programmes should be developed to challenge harmful stereotypes prevalent in editorial content. Policymakers are advised to implement regulations that promote balanced representation of genders in media outlets. gender inequality, newspaper editorials, South Sudan, comparative study
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Solar Cookers and Food Security in Northern Nigerian Villages
Solar cookers have gained traction as a sustainable alternative to traditional cooking methods in developing regions, particularly focusing on food security in rural areas where access to electricity and fuel is limited. The study employed a qualitative research approach with semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions among 30 households selected from two Northern Nigerian villages. Data collection was conducted over four months, focusing on pre-existing social structures and cultural practices related to food preparation and energy use. Solar cooker adoption in the studied villages ranged from 25% in village A to 40% in village B, with significant variations attributed to socio-economic factors such as income levels and access to information. Participants reported a notable reduction in wood fuel consumption by up to 70%, leading to improved environmental sustainability. The findings suggest that solar cookers can be effective tools for enhancing food security in Northern Nigerian villages, particularly among households with lower incomes who face challenges accessing traditional cooking fuels. However, higher adoption rates were observed where there was greater community engagement and education about the benefits of solar cookers. Policy makers should consider promoting awareness campaigns to highlight the environmental and health benefits of using solar cookers in Northern Nigerian villages, while also addressing infrastructure needs such as installation support for households with limited access to electricity. Solar Cookers, Food Security, Nigeria, Qualitative Study
Ethical Dilemmas in Egyptian Archaeological Excavations and Repatriation Practices
Egyptian archaeological excavations have long been a subject of ethical debate, particularly concerning repatriation practices. No empirical research was conducted as this is a policy brief focusing on theoretical and conceptual analysis of existing practices and policies. The findings indicate that there is a significant gap between the actual implementation of international ethical guidelines and their perceived adherence by Egyptian authorities in repatriation decisions. Despite efforts to align with global ethical standards, challenges persist in ensuring equitable treatment for archaeological artifacts, particularly those from African origins. Recommendations include strengthening local participation in decision-making processes related to artifact repatriation and increasing transparency in the allocation of funds used for such activities.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Decolonizing African Art History in Rwanda
Rwanda's art history has been predominantly Eurocentric, with little attention given to indigenous perspectives and methodologies. Conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 local artists and scholars in Rwanda. Employed thematic analysis for data interpretation. Indigenous perspectives emerged as a significant theme, influencing the direction of future research methodologies. The study highlights the importance of integrating indigenous voices to redefine art history in Rwanda. Encourage arts institutions and educational programmes to adopt decolonized methods that value local knowledge.
Comparative Analysis of Creation Myths in African Cultures with Special Reference to Cameroon
Creation myths are a fundamental aspect of African cultural heritage, providing insights into cosmology, creation narratives, and societal values. The research employs qualitative textual analysis to explore the thematic similarities and variations in these mythological accounts. A notable theme is the emphasis on water as a creative force, recurring in various myths from different regions of Cameroon. This comparative study highlights the rich cultural diversity within Cameroon's creation narratives while identifying common themes that link diverse communities. Policy makers should consider integrating elements of these shared mythological motifs into educational curricula to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Libraries and Archives as Custodians of African Intellectual Heritage in Nigeria
Libraries and archives play a crucial role in preserving African intellectual heritage across various regions, including Nigeria. In recent decades, these institutions have become increasingly important for documenting and safeguarding unique cultural, historical, and academic materials. This ethnographic study employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival research methods to gather data from key stakeholders including librarians, archivists, scholars, and the general public within selected Nigerian libraries and archives. Libraries and archives in Nigeria have successfully documented over 80% of traditional oral histories and cultural practices through audio recordings, photographs, and written records. Their engagement with local communities has resulted in a 35% increase in community-led projects focused on heritage preservation. The findings highlight the significant contributions of libraries and archives to preserving African intellectual heritage in Nigeria, underscoring their role as vital partners for cultural revitalization and educational advancement. Given the critical importance of these institutions, recommendations include increased funding support, professional development programmes for staff, and enhanced community outreach initiatives.
Gender Imbalance in Mobile Banking Adoption among Rural Ugandan Women
Mobile banking has emerged as a critical tool for financial inclusion in many regions, including rural Uganda. However, gender disparities persist across various sectors, particularly in digital and financial services. The research employs a comparative analysis of qualitative data collected from interviews and surveys conducted among rural female participants. Data were analysed using thematic coding techniques to identify common themes and barriers. A notable finding is the significant disparity in mobile banking use between women and men, with only 30% of surveyed females actively engaging in mobile banking services compared to 55%. This gender gap is evident across all socio-economic groups within rural communities. The study highlights several key barriers that contribute to this gender imbalance, including cultural norms, lack of digital literacy, and perceived financial insecurity. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to enhance women's access to mobile banking services in Uganda’s rural areas. Policy makers should prioritise initiatives aimed at increasing digital literacy among rural females, while also addressing socio-cultural barriers that hinder their participation in mobile banking. Financial institutions must adopt more inclusive marketing strategies and provide tailored financial education programmes for female clients.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Media Indicators in Feminist Mobilization among University Students
This study examines the role of social media in facilitating feminist mobilization among university students in Lagos, Nigeria. A qualitative approach was employed to gather data through interviews with student activists and a review of online content. The study focused on the period -, reflecting historical context relevant to contemporary social media use in Nigeria. Engagement metrics such as likes, shares, and comments were found to be significant indicators for mobilizing students towards feminist causes, with a notable increase in interactions during peak activism periods. The analysis underscores the critical role of social media in amplifying feminist voices among university students in Lagos. Policy makers should consider enhancing digital literacy programmes and fostering safe spaces for online activism to support student-led movements effectively.
Translation of African literature is crucial for promoting cultural understanding globally, with significant implications in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The research employs a qualitative approach involving interviews with translators, focus group discussions with literary scholars, and document analysis of translation materials from Congo’s cultural sector. Translators in the DRC reported encountering significant difficulties such as maintaining fidelity to the original text while adapting for global audiences, particularly regarding cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions. A notable finding is that 70% of translators use a combination of source language and target language elements to bridge these gaps. Despite challenges, there are effective strategies being developed by the DRC’s literary community to enhance the accessibility and appreciation of African literature. Policy makers should prioritise supporting research into translation techniques that can promote cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. Universities should include courses on translation studies in their curricula.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
School-Based Interventions and Gender Norms in Early Adolescents
School-based interventions have been proposed as a strategy to address gender norms in early adolescents, particularly in contexts where traditional gender roles are prevalent. A survey research design was employed, utilising a structured questionnaire distributed across multiple South African schools from to . Data collection involved self-reported assessments of students' attitudes towards traditional gender roles and their reported experiences in school environments. Findings indicate that while there were significant improvements in understanding of equitable gender relations, behavioural changes in the classroom remained limited, suggesting a need for further interventions addressing cultural barriers. Despite initial positive feedback from students regarding increased awareness about gender equity, sustained action is required to translate this knowledge into practical behaviour change across all school settings. Recommendation includes enhancing teacher training programmes and integrating gender sensitivity education more deeply within existing curricula to promote long-term impact on student attitudes and behaviors. School-based interventions, early adolescents, gender norms, South African schools
Mobilizing Women Farmers Against Pesticide Risks
Pesticide use in agricultural settings poses significant health risks to women farmers in Kenya, particularly affecting their reproductive health and community well-being. Action research methodology was employed, involving interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys conducted among Kenyan women farmers to understand their experiences with pesticides and identify strategies for collective action. Women farmers reported a 70% increase in health issues related to pesticide exposure compared to pre-implementation levels. Community health screenings revealed higher rates of reproductive disorders among women farming in high-risk areas. Empowering women farmers through collective advocacy significantly reduced their vulnerability to pesticide risks, leading to improved community health and rights recognition. Policy makers should prioritise training programmes for women farmers on sustainable agricultural practices that minimise pesticide use. Community-based health initiatives are essential in addressing the pervasive pesticide-related health issues. women farmers, pesticide risk, participatory action research, reproductive health, community advocacy
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Visual Culture and Identity Formation among Youth in South Africa
Visual culture plays a significant role in shaping identities among young people in South Africa. This study examines how visual media and art contribute to identity formation within this demographic. This study employed semi-structured interviews with 30 participants aged between 18 to 25 years. Participants were recruited through social media platforms and community centers in urban and rural areas of South Africa. Data collection involved both face-to-face and online sessions, ensuring accessibility for all participants. A core theme identified was the use of digital art forms such as memes and GIFs to express cultural identity and solidarity within youth groups. The findings also revealed a significant proportion (45%) of respondents who reported using visual content to challenge stereotypes and advocate for social justice issues. This study contributes to our understanding of how young people in South Africa use visual culture as an essential tool for personal development, community engagement, and identity formation. The findings highlight the importance of digital media in shaping youth perceptions and actions. Policy makers should consider integrating arts education into digital literacy programmes to support the creative expression of marginalized communities. Educators could also incorporate visual content analysis into curriculum to foster critical thinking skills among students. Visual culture, Youth identity, South Africa, Digital media, Arts education