African Journal of Sexuality and Gender Studies
African Journal of Sexuality and Gender Studies is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Competition Law Frameworks in East African Community Countries
Competition law frameworks play a crucial role in regulating market competition, promoting fair trade, and ensuring consumer welfare. East African Community (EAC) countries have initiated efforts to harmonize their competition laws, reflecting regional integration aspirations. The research methodology involves a systematic review of legal documents, secondary data analysis, and comparative law studies. Expert interviews were conducted to gather insights from relevant stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, and civil society organizations. Tanzania's competition law framework is characterized by strong regulatory oversight but faces challenges in enforcing compliance effectively due to limited resources and enforcement capacity. The comparative analysis reveals significant disparities in the implementation of competition laws across EAC member states. Tanzania stands out for its proactive approach, yet it lags behind in terms of consistent application and public awareness campaigns. To enhance compliance and effectiveness, there is a need to improve enforcement mechanisms, increase public education efforts, and harmonize legal frameworks with regional initiatives. Competition Law, East African Community (EAC), Tanzania, Harmonization, Regulatory Framework
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Adoption and Effectiveness of E-Learning Platforms in Elevating Youth Literacy Rates in Kenya
The rapid adoption of e-learning platforms in Kenya has become a focal point for enhancing youth literacy rates amidst increasing digital literacy. A qualitative study was conducted through interviews with educators, students, and policymakers in selected regions of Kenya. While e-learning has the potential to significantly enhance youth literacy, legal frameworks need updating to ensure equitable access and compliance with educational standards. Policymakers should advocate for comprehensive digital literacy education policies and enforce existing laws to protect young learners' rights within these platforms.
Impact Assessment of Vocational Training Programmes on Women's Entrepreneurship Success Rates in South African Rural Areas
This study examines the impact of vocational training programmes on women's entrepreneurship success rates in South African rural areas from a legal perspective. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a quantitative survey with qualitative interviews to gather data from participants and stakeholders in vocational training programmes across South African rural areas. The findings indicate that women entrepreneurs who participated in the vocational training programmes demonstrated an average success rate of 45%, with notable improvements in legal documentation and market access strategies. While the programmes have shown promise, there is a need for enhanced support systems to ensure long-term sustainability and compliance with relevant laws. Recommendations include strengthening partnerships between government bodies, educational institutions, and private sector entities to provide comprehensive training and mentoring services. Additionally, greater investment in legal education and infrastructure is recommended to facilitate smoother business operations and market integration.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
International Criminal Law (ICL) has been applied in South Africa to hold individuals accountable for war crimes committed during conflicts. Ethnographic research methods were employed, including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. The study covers various stakeholders such as victims, perpetrators, and legal practitioners. Local perceptions towards ICL varied significantly, with some communities viewing it as a tool for justice and reconciliation, while others felt alienated due to perceived lack of relevance or effectiveness in addressing local grievances. The findings highlight the complex interplay between international norms and domestic realities in the application of ICL in South Africa. Further ethnographic research should focus on understanding the social dynamics that influence perceptions and acceptance of ICL among different communities.
Legal Literacy Campaigns among Nigerian Informal Workers
Legal literacy among Nigerian informal workers is crucial for improving access to justice, yet little research exists on how such campaigns are received and perceived over time. The study employed ethnographic methods including direct observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to understand the impact of these campaigns on participants' knowledge and engagement levels. During the two-year campaign, there was a notable increase in awareness about legal rights among informal workers, with over 70% of respondents indicating an improved understanding of their rights compared to before the intervention. The findings suggest that sustained engagement through regular campaigns is essential for building long-term knowledge and behaviour change among Nigerian informal workers. Policy makers should consider integrating these legal literacy programmes into broader social services, ensuring they are accessible and culturally relevant to all segments of the population.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban slums in Mauritius present unique challenges for accessing justice, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as migrants and low-income residents. A structured questionnaire was administered to randomly selected participants from various urban slum areas. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews and online surveys, ensuring anonymity and confidentiality. Approximately 45% of respondents reported experiencing barriers in accessing formal justice systems, with a significant proportion citing language as the primary obstacle. The findings highlight systemic issues that need addressing to improve access to justice for vulnerable populations in urban slums of Mauritius. Immediate measures should include improving language support services and enhancing outreach programmes targeting underprivileged groups within urban slums.
Access to justice is a critical issue for vulnerable populations in urban slums of South Africa. A comparative study approach was employed using qualitative data from interviews with community leaders and legal aid providers. Participants reported significant barriers including language difficulties and inadequate infrastructure for accessing courts. There are substantial disparities in access to justice, particularly affecting indigenous populations and those with limited resources. Implementing culturally sensitive service delivery models and improving court accessibility are recommended solutions.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Pre-Trial Detention Reform in Uganda's Criminal Justice System
Pre-trial detention has been a significant issue in Uganda's criminal justice system, leading to prolonged periods of incarceration for accused individuals before their trials commence. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with legal practitioners and quantitative analysis of court records from selected districts. Comparative data is gathered from peer countries for context. A notable finding indicates that while reforms have led to a reduction in pre-trial detention by around 30%, there are still disparities across different regions and types of crimes, necessitating further targeted interventions. The current reform efforts show promise but require localized adjustments based on regional differences and specific crime patterns. To achieve sustainable improvements, the government should prioritise training for judicial personnel, enhance data collection systems, and implement community-based diversion programmes in high-risk areas.
Indigenous Women's Land Rights Awareness Post-Legal Education Workshops in Cameroon
Indigenous women in Cameroon face significant challenges in accessing land rights due to cultural norms and legal barriers. Community-led educational initiatives have been introduced to address these issues. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining pre- and post-workshop surveys to assess participants' knowledge levels and attitudes towards land rights. Quantitative data was analysed using chi-square tests for significant differences. A notable increase in the proportion of women who reported understanding their legal rights from 30% to 58% post-workshop, indicating a shift in awareness and confidence. Community-led educational workshops significantly improved indigenous women's knowledge and attitudes towards land rights, leading to behavioural changes over the study period. Further interventions should focus on consolidating these gains by providing ongoing support and addressing persistent barriers to accessing legal resources.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Land Law Reforms and Security of Tenure in Rwanda
Land law reforms in Rwanda have aimed to enhance security of tenure for rural communities by clarifying legal rights over land ownership and use. The study utilised secondary data from official government reports, academic literature, and interviews with local stakeholders to evaluate the effectiveness of the reforms in addressing tenure insecurity. Recent reforms have led to a significant increase (45%) in documented land rights among traditionally marginalized groups, indicating improved legal protection for vulnerable populations. The analysis highlights that while overall security has improved, disparities persist between different socio-economic groups, necessitating further targeted interventions. Policy recommendations include enhancing access to formal dispute resolution mechanisms and strengthening community engagement in land governance processes. Land Reform, Security of Tenure, Rwanda, Land Law Reforms
Enforcement Mechanisms in Kenyan Domestic Courts under Human Rights Law
Recent legal reforms in Kenya have introduced human rights law into domestic courts, necessitating robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure its effective implementation. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with legal professionals and quantitative analysis of court records from the last five years. Findings indicate that while there is a significant increase in human rights cases being heard by domestic courts, compliance rates remain low, particularly among lower socioeconomic groups. Barriers include resource constraints and cultural resistance to litigation. Despite initial progress, current enforcement mechanisms fall short of achieving equitable outcomes for all affected parties. Recommendations focus on enhancing judicial resources and fostering community engagement in legal processes. Implement targeted training programmes for judges and court staff, allocate additional funding specifically for human rights cases, and establish partnerships with local NGOs to promote awareness and support.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Rwanda has seen significant legal reforms aimed at addressing gender-based discrimination in various sectors, including agriculture where rural women farmers face unique challenges. A qualitative approach was employed to gather data from interviews with agricultural experts and rural women farmers, focusing on changes in legislation over a decade. There has been an increase in the number of legal provisions protecting women's rights in agriculture, particularly concerning land tenure and inheritance. Women now represent a higher proportion (35%) of beneficiaries in agricultural support programmes compared to previous years. The findings suggest that while there is progress, persistent challenges such as cultural norms and bureaucratic inefficiencies remain. Further legal reforms should focus on enhancing enforcement mechanisms and integrating gender perspectives into existing laws. Increased community engagement is also recommended to address deeply ingrained cultural barriers.
Legal education in Kenya is crucial for promoting a culture of compliance with laws and fostering governance based on rule of law principles. A mixed-methods study combining surveys, interviews, and document analysis was conducted among legal practitioners, judges, and students across Kenyan universities. The findings indicate that there is a positive correlation between the quality of legal education and the application of laws in judicial proceedings, with over 70% of respondents agreeing that well-trained lawyers contribute significantly to fair trials. Legal education plays a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law and governance in Kenya. Recommendations include enhancing teacher training programmes and incorporating more practical legal skills into curricula. Develop comprehensive teacher-training programmes for legal educators, ensuring they are updated on current legal practices and trends to better equip students with practical knowledge. Legal education, Rule of Law, Governance, Mixed Methods Study
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Women's Land Rights and Agricultural Policies in Zimbabwean Villages
In Zimbabwean villages in South Africa, women's land rights are often contested due to historical and cultural influences. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis of existing laws and regulations. Women in the sampled villages reported significant challenges, including limited inheritance rights (30%) and unequal decision-making power over land use (45%). Current policies do not adequately protect women's land rights, leading to disparities in agricultural productivity between genders. The government should enact comprehensive legislation that grants equal inheritance rights and mandates gender-sensitive agricultural development programmes.
Microfinance Access and Development Among Female Agricultural Entrepreneurs in West African Countries
Microfinance initiatives have emerged as a critical tool for economic empowerment in developing countries, particularly among female agricultural entrepreneurs. In West Africa, where agriculture is a primary livelihood and women often play pivotal roles in rural economies, microfinance can significantly impact poverty alleviation and sustainable development. This study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data with qualitative interviews to gather insights from female agricultural entrepreneurs across various regions of Ghana. The sample was stratified by region, income level, and years in the industry to ensure comprehensive coverage. Within the three-year period, microfinance access led to significant increases in business expansion rates (from 45% pre-programme to 70% post-programme) among female agricultural entrepreneurs. Financial stability improved markedly with a proportion of respondents reporting reduced reliance on informal sources of finance from 60% to 20%. These findings highlight the positive impact of microfinance on empowering women in agriculture. The study underscores the importance of continued support and expansion of microfinance programmes for female agricultural entrepreneurs, contributing to both individual success and broader economic development in Ghana and beyond. Policy recommendations include increased funding for microfinance initiatives targeting rural areas, integration of financial education within microfinance services, and fostering a supportive regulatory environment that encourages sustainable business growth among female farmers.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Adolescent Contraceptive Use Trends in Rural Senegal
Adolescent contraceptive use in rural Senegal has been a subject of interest due to its potential impact on reproductive health and family planning. The research employed a mixed-methods approach involving surveys and focus group discussions among adolescents aged 15-19 in rural Senegal. Data were collected from to . A notable increase in contraceptive uptake was observed, with adolescent girls using modern methods at a rate of 43% compared to 36% in the previous survey period. The analysis indicates that existing policies aimed at reducing teenage pregnancy have been moderately effective, though disparities remain among different socio-economic groups. Further tailored interventions targeting disadvantaged communities are recommended to enhance contraceptive use and reduce unintended pregnancies.
Cyberlaw and Data Protection Dynamics in Southern Africa
Cyberlaw and data protection are critical areas of law in Southern Africa, especially as digital technologies continue to transform societal structures. In particular, the Republic of Congo has been grappling with how to balance privacy rights with technological advancements. The methodology involves conducting semi-structured interviews with 20 legal professionals and administering an online survey to 500 tech users. Quantitative data is analysed using descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis is applied to the qualitative interview transcripts. A significant proportion (60%) of respondents reported encountering challenges related to data protection compliance, particularly in relation to consent mechanisms and cross-border data transfers. There was a notable emphasis on legal literacy as an area needing improvement among tech users. The findings highlight the need for more robust training programmes for legal practitioners and enhanced policy guidance for tech users regarding their rights and responsibilities under current frameworks. Recommendations include strengthening enforcement mechanisms, improving public education campaigns about data protection laws, and fostering dialogue between stakeholders to address emerging issues in cyberspace.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Sector Dynamics in Law in Urban Morocco
Informal sector activities are prevalent in urban Morocco, often operating outside formal legal frameworks. A comparative study approach was employed, including interviews with local practitioners, analysis of existing laws, and qualitative assessments of enforcement practices in selected cities. The study found a significant disparity (30%) in legal recognition between urban areas, affecting the extent to which informal sector actors can operate legally. Urban Moroccan law often fails to accommodate the diverse needs of an informal economy, leading to uneven enforcement and economic opportunities. Policy recommendations include strengthening legal protections for informal workers and enhancing cross-sectoral collaboration to address regulatory gaps effectively. Morocco, urban areas, informal sector, law, enforcement, disparities
Egypt's legal framework has long influenced sexual and gender norms within its society. A qualitative content analysis method was employed to review existing legislation and related court judgments for insights into current legal standards and their impact on social behaviour. Findings indicate that the new anti-harassment law has led to a significant increase in reported cases, suggesting an improvement in victims' willingness to come forward but also potential over-reporting issues. The reviewed laws have had both expected and unexpected impacts on behaviour and perceptions within Egyptian society. Recommendation for policymakers includes strengthening enforcement mechanisms and providing more support services for marginalized groups affected by these policies.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Challenges and Opportunities in Post-Conflict Legal Rebuilding
Post-conflict societies in Africa often face significant challenges in rebuilding their legal systems to address societal needs and promote stability. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing legislative documents, judicial decisions, and interviews with stakeholders to provide insights into the current state of legal rebuilding efforts. Legal frameworks in post-conflict Côte d'Ivoire have shown mixed effectiveness; while some laws aimed at reconciliation have been enacted, others remain underutilized or poorly enforced due to resource constraints and societal resistance. The legal system in post-conflict Côte d'Ivoire faces significant challenges but also offers opportunities for reform that could enhance its efficacy and impact on society. Stakeholders should prioritise the enforcement of existing laws, engage with communities to build trust, and seek international support to strengthen the legal framework's reach and effectiveness.
Implementing and Accepting HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis among Key Populations in Kenya
HIV remains a significant public health challenge in Kenya, particularly among key populations such as sex workers and men who have sex with men (MSM). A mixed methods study combining quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and observational data collection. The survey used a validated PrEP adherence scale to measure uptake and effectiveness. Among the key populations surveyed, 45% reported using PrEP consistently over six months, with perceived side effects being the most common reason for non-adherence. PrEP is acceptable but not fully adopted by key populations in Kenya; addressing stigma and improving access are crucial to its wider implementation. Integrate community-based health education programmes that address both PrEP benefits and side effect concerns. Enhance PrEP availability through mobile clinics targeting high-risk groups.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban slums in Niger are characterized by high levels of poverty and vulnerability, with limited access to justice for their residents. This study focuses on understanding how vulnerable populations navigate legal systems within these urban environments. This study employed participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions with residents of urban slums in Niger to gather qualitative insights into their legal experiences and challenges. Findings indicate that a significant proportion (35%) of vulnerable populations encountered barriers when trying to access formal justice mechanisms. Common issues include language barriers, lack of documentation, and distrust towards institutions. The study concludes by highlighting the need for tailored legal literacy programmes and community-based mediation services to improve justice outcomes for urban slum residents in Niger. Recommendations include developing culturally sensitive legal aid initiatives, improving infrastructure in slums, and enhancing communication between local authorities and vulnerable communities.