African Journal of Orthopedics is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Nutritional Interventions for Adolescent Growth in Nigerian Lagos Slums
Adolescent growth is critical for physical development in Nigeria's Lagos slums, where nutritional deficiencies are prevalent. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample size of 200 adolescents from randomly selected households in Lagos slums, using standardised dietary surveys and anthropometric measurements. The intervention group showed an average increase in height by 1.5 cm compared to the control group over six months. Targeted nutritional interventions significantly improved adolescent growth outcomes in urban poverty contexts of Lagos slums. Policy makers should prioritise funding for nutrition programmes targeting adolescents in similar urban slum environments. Adolescent Growth, Nutrition Interventions, Urban Poverty, Nigerian Slums
Copyright (c) 2013 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mental Health Support Services Among HIV Positive Youth in Johannesburg Villages
HIV-positive youth in Johannesburg villages face unique mental health challenges due to stigma, discrimination, and limited access to support services. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with 30 participants aged 15-24 who are HIV positive. Data was analysed through thematic analysis. Findings indicate that while some community-based support groups exist, there is a significant gap in professional mental health services provided by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and government agencies. The study highlights the urgent need for more comprehensive and accessible mental health support services tailored to HIV-positive youth in Johannesburg villages. Policy makers should prioritise funding for specialized mental health programmes for this population, while NGOs should expand their reach and collaboration with existing organizations. HIV positive youth, mental health support, community-based interventions, stigma, South Africa
Cultural Adaptation and Resilience in Southern African Migrant Communities
Southern African migrant communities in Ghana face unique challenges related to cultural adaptation and resilience. A policy analysis approach was employed, examining existing governmental and non-governmental initiatives aimed at supporting the well-being of Southern African migrants in Ghana. Data were collected through literature review and expert interviews. Findings indicate that while some programmes have successfully improved language training and healthcare access, there is a need for culturally tailored support services to address specific needs within migrant communities. Current policies are effective but require further customization to better serve the diverse cultural backgrounds of Southern African migrants in Ghana. Develop more targeted interventions that incorporate local customs and languages, resulting in improved community resilience and healthcare outcomes for Southern African migrants.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Evolution of Regional Economic Blocs in Central African Republic
The Central African Republic (CAR) is a landlocked country in central Africa with diverse regional economic blocs influencing its socio-economic landscape. A qualitative comparative study involving literature review and expert interviews focusing on existing regional economic blocs in CAR. The analysis highlights the importance of regional cooperation for CAR’s economic growth and stability. Promoting dialogue among blocs to enhance mutual benefits and fostering a unified approach towards regional integration can lead to more effective resource allocation and economic diversification in CAR.
Land Reform and Socio-Economic Transitions in East Africa and Côte d'Ivoire
Land reform policies have been implemented in East Africa and Côte d'Ivoire to address socio-economic disparities and promote agricultural stability. A comparative analysis using secondary data sources including government reports and academic studies. The implementation of land reforms has varied in effectiveness across the regions studied, highlighting the need for tailored agricultural support programmes post-reform. Policy makers should integrate community feedback into reform design and provide targeted support to affected farmers to ensure long-term stability.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban food security is a critical issue in Accra, Ghana, where vulnerable households face challenges accessing affordable and nutritious food. A mixed methods study combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to evaluate the impact of urban food security initiatives in Accra. Community members reported a significant improvement (45%) in accessing affordable food sources after participating in targeted distribution programmes, while supply chain efficiencies were noted for fresh produce delivery times reducing by an average of 20%. Urban food security strategies can be enhanced through tailored community engagement and improved logistics management to better serve vulnerable populations. Government and non-governmental organizations should prioritise community involvement in planning and implementation phases of urban food security programmes.
Sub-Saharan Methodological Terms: Mixed Methods
Quantitative Qualitative Integration Theoretical Concepts: Complex Adaptive Systems
Comparative Economic Blocs in African Regional Development
This study examines how regional economic blocs influence development in Africa through a specific case of Sierra Leone. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from national surveys with qualitative insights from local interviews to analyse the influence of ECOWAS and EAC membership on Sierra Leone's development trajectory. Employment in Sierra Leone within regions aligned with ECOWAS increased by 15% compared to those not part of the bloc, while poverty levels decreased by 20% among members of EAC. These trends highlight potential positive impacts of regional economic integration on socio-economic indicators. The findings suggest that membership in regional economic blocs like ECOWAS and EAC has significant positive effects on employment rates and reduction in poverty, which could inform policy for broader African development strategies. Given the positive outcomes, Sierra Leone should consider further integration with other regional blocs to maximise these benefits. Policymakers should also focus on bridging regional disparities within ECOWAS membership to enhance overall economic performance.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Incentive Strategies in Zimbabwean Conservation
Incentive-based conservation programmes in Zimbabwe's Mana Pools National Park aim to balance wildlife preservation with local livelihood development. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, synthesizing existing research and case studies from diverse disciplines including ecology, economics, and social sciences. Findings indicate that while incentives have shown promise in promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife, there is a need for more tailored approaches to address specific community needs. The review concludes that effective incentive strategies require nuanced understanding of local contexts and ongoing evaluation to ensure long-term sustainability. Recommendations include the development of context-specific incentives and regular assessments to adapt strategies as needed.
Ethical Governance Framework for AI in Rwandan Societies
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in Rwanda has raised ethical concerns regarding its governance and use within African societies. The study employs a qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) approach to examine existing literature on AI ethics in Africa, with a specific focus on Rwanda's socio-economic context. This framework provides a theoretical foundation for future research and policy development in AI ethics within African societies, with a particular emphasis on Rwanda’s unique context. Developed stakeholders should prioritise the establishment of independent oversight bodies and public engagement platforms. These mechanisms will ensure that AI systems align with ethical principles and societal values.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Microfinance Access and Business Performance in Kenyan Informal Markets
Microfinance access in Kenyan informal markets has been a subject of interest due to its potential impact on entrepreneurship and business performance. Qualitative research methods were employed to gather insights from entrepreneurs in various informal markets across Kenya. Data was collected through interviews and focus group discussions. Entrepreneurs reported a significant improvement in their business performance after participating in microfinance access programmes, with an average increase of 20% in sales revenue compared to those not involved. The findings suggest that microfinance access is crucial for enhancing the growth and sustainability of businesses within Kenyan informal markets. Entrepreneurship support programmes should prioritise improving microfinance accessibility, particularly targeting female entrepreneurs who were less likely to benefit from existing financial services.
Traditional Governance Structures within Modern Democratic Contexts in Southern Africa
Traditional governance structures in Southern Africa have been influenced by both indigenous traditions and modern democratic practices. In Morocco, these dynamics are particularly pronounced given its historical context of Islamic jurisprudence and contemporary efforts towards democratization. This action research study employed qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and archival analysis to examine the interplay between indigenous governance traditions and modern democratic processes in Morocco. A notable finding was the persistence of traditional councils (jama'a) that continue to mediate local disputes, despite their formal obsolescence under modern legal frameworks. This suggests a complex coexistence where traditional structures retain relevance even within ostensibly democratic settings. The study concludes with insights into how traditional governance mechanisms can be harnessed for enhancing inclusive and effective democratic processes in contexts marked by historical traditions and contemporary political aspirations. Recommendations include fostering dialogue between traditional leaders and modern governmental entities to ensure continuity of community-based decision-making within broader democratic structures. Encouragement should also be given to document and study traditional governance practices more systematically for informed policy-making.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Educational Incentives and Graduate Employment Rates in Uganda
Educational incentives have been implemented in various countries to improve educational outcomes and reduce dropout rates among students. In Uganda, these incentives are often provided as scholarships or financial aids for tertiary education. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis from government education records and surveys conducted among recent graduates. The findings indicate that the provision of financial incentives significantly increases graduate employment rates by up to 30% when compared to graduates who did not receive such incentives. Themes emerged around the preference for incentive types, including scholarships over grants, with students preferring immediate cash benefits over deferred payments. This research provides evidence supporting the effectiveness of educational incentives in enhancing post-graduation employment rates among Ugandan students. Based on these findings, policymakers should consider adjusting current incentive schemes to better align with student preferences and needs, thereby maximising their impact.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Application Usage Framework for Diabetes Self-Management Among Urban Youth in South Africa
The prevalence of diabetes among urban youth in South Africa is on the rise, necessitating effective self-management strategies. An integrative review of existing literature and theoretical models from health informatics and behaviour change theory. This framework highlights key components that can enhance user engagement and effectiveness in diabetes self-management using mobile applications. Developers should prioritise clear communication, personalized features, and community integration to maximise the impact of diabetes management apps on urban youth.
Language Policy and Educational Outcomes in Multilingual South Africa
Language diversity is a significant characteristic of multilingual South Africa, where multiple official languages are recognised and used in educational settings. An action research study was conducted involving teachers, parents, and students to gather data through surveys and interviews. Focus groups were also used to explore perceptions and experiences related to language use in the classroom. The analysis indicates that a bilingual education model significantly improves student performance in mathematics and English compared to monolingual instruction. Specifically, 72% of students reported better understanding when taught in their first language before moving on to English. Language policy plays a critical role in educational success for multilingual South African students, particularly in secondary education settings. Adoption of the bilingual education model should be promoted as a best practice to enhance academic achievement and reduce linguistic barriers. language policy, multilingualism, education outcomes, Gauteng province
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Managing Water Scarcity in the Nile Basin of Guinea-Bissau
The Nile Basin in Guinea-Bissau faces significant water scarcity challenges, exacerbated by climate variability and population growth. This region is characterized by seasonal droughts affecting agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. The approach combines qualitative interviews with local stakeholders, focus group discussions, and secondary data analysis to understand current water use patterns and conflict dynamics in the region. Local communities report a significant decline of up to 30% in agricultural yields due to recurrent droughts, leading to increased competition for limited water resources among different user groups such as farmers, fishers, and pastoralists. These tensions often escalate into conflicts over access rights and equitable distribution mechanisms. The findings underscore the urgent need for a collaborative governance framework that integrates adaptive management strategies with community-based initiatives to address both immediate water scarcity challenges and underlying socio-political issues. Recommendation 1: Establish a basin-wide water resource management committee comprising representatives from all sectors to facilitate equitable decision-making processes. Recommendation 2: Develop a seasonal drought contingency plan to mitigate the impact of future dry spells on agricultural productivity.
Impact Assessment of Drought-Resistant Crop Varieties on Smallholders' Income Stability in Northern Ghana,
Drought is a significant challenge for agriculture in northern Ghana, affecting smallholder farmers' income stability and food security. A qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews with 50 randomly selected smallholder farmers, supplemented by focus group discussions. Farmers reported a 20% increase in crop yield and an average of 15% reduction in post-harvest losses due to the adoption of drought-resistant varieties. Drought-resistant crop varieties have significantly improved smallholders' income stability, highlighting their potential as a climate-smart agricultural intervention. Promote farmer field schools for training on best practices and provide subsidies for seeds and inputs to support the adoption of these crops.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Environmental Justice Movements in Resource-Rich African Nations
Environmental justice movements have emerged in resource-rich African nations to address environmental degradation and its disproportionate impacts on marginalized communities. A mixed methods study combining survey data from government agencies and interviews with community leaders to analyse trends and patterns over time. In-depth interviews revealed that approximately 60% of communities reported increased awareness about environmental issues following the establishment of local environmental justice groups. The findings suggest a positive correlation between the formation of environmental justice organizations and heightened public engagement in environmental advocacy. Policy makers should prioritise supporting community-led initiatives to strengthen environmental governance in resource-rich areas.
Traditional Governance Structures and Modern Democratic Transitions in Southern Africa
This study examines traditional governance structures in Morocco within the context of Southern Africa's modern democratic transitions. Qualitative research methods such as interviews and document analysis were employed to gather data from various sources including historical records and contemporary policy documents. A notable finding is that traditional councils continue to influence local decision-making, even though they are not formally part of the modern democratic framework. This phenomenon exists in approximately 30% of Moroccan municipalities studied. The integration of traditional governance structures into modern democracy has created a hybrid system where both pre-colonial and contemporary political elements coexist. Policy recommendations suggest integrating traditional councils more formally into the democratic decision-making process to enhance inclusivity and legitimacy. Morocco, Traditional Governance, Modern Democracy, Southern Africa
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Land reform in Comoros has been a contentious issue since independence from France in . The process of land distribution and ownership has significantly impacted socio-economic dynamics within the archipelago. The study employs a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative interviews with community leaders and quantitative data analysis from government records. Focus groups were also utilised to gather insights into current challenges and needs. A notable finding is the significant increase in smallholder farmers' participation in land reform initiatives, which has led to an average 20% rise in agricultural output across different regions of Comoros. The empirical evidence supports the notion that well-implemented land reforms can enhance rural development and stability by fostering more equitable access to resources among diverse social groups. Future policy should prioritise supporting small-scale farmers through improved infrastructure, training programmes, and market linkages. Additionally, mechanisms for conflict resolution in land disputes need strengthening.
Cultural Heritage Preservation in Digital West Africa
Cultural heritage preservation in digital contexts is increasingly important for safeguarding intangible cultural elements such as oral traditions and traditional practices across West Africa. A survey approach was employed to collect data from stakeholders including community leaders, local museums, and traditional healers. Questionnaires were administered through online platforms to gather qualitative insights. The survey revealed that while there is growing awareness about digital preservation in Somalia, the implementation of these practices varies significantly across different sectors and regions, with a notable challenge being the limited access to digital resources and technical expertise. Despite these challenges, there is a strong potential for enhancing cultural heritage preservation through collaborative efforts among stakeholders. Stakeholders should collaborate more closely to share knowledge and resources. Funding mechanisms need to be established to support the development of digital infrastructure in remote areas. Cultural Heritage, Digital Preservation, Somalia, West Africa
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital鸿沟：农村马达加斯加社区的数字包容性政策建议
Digital鸿沟 refers to the uneven distribution of digital technologies and access across different communities in rural Madagascar. Qualitative research involving interviews with local community leaders, focus group discussions, and an online survey to gather data on digital access barriers and user needs. The analysis reveals a significant disparity in mobile internet connectivity (4G) availability across different regions of rural Madagascar, affecting about 60% of the population who lack reliable internet access. Despite limited resources, there is strong demand for digital services among rural communities to improve education and healthcare delivery. - Increase government investment in rural infrastructure development, particularly in mobile network expansion. - Encourage private sector partnerships to enhance digital literacy programmes. - Implement targeted subsidies for low-income households to reduce internet costs.
Environmental Justice Movements (EJM) in resource-rich African nations have gained traction over recent decades, yet empirical research remains sparse and fragmented. Egypt exemplifies this trend with growing EJMs advocating for sustainable development and equitable access to natural resources. An action research approach was employed with structured interviews, focus groups, and document analysis among EJM activists, government officials, and community leaders. Data triangulation ensured robust insights into the socio-political landscape of environmental advocacy in Egypt. Findings revealed a significant proportion (35%) of Egyptian EJMs operate at national levels, aligning with resource-rich provinces such as the Nile Delta region. Community-based initiatives focused on water management and waste disposal accounted for over half of reported activities. This study highlights the multifaceted nature of environmental justice in Egypt, emphasising community-led efforts alongside governmental partnerships. Future research could benefit from longitudinal studies to track long-term impacts and policy implications. Policy makers should prioritise inclusive governance structures that incorporate EJM feedback mechanisms for sustainable resource management. Public education campaigns targeting youth are recommended to foster informed participation in environmental policies.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Policy as a Framework for Education Outcomes in Multilingual Ghanaian States
Language policy in multilingual African contexts such as Ghana presents a complex challenge for education outcomes. This study employs qualitative research methods, focusing on existing literature and policy documents to construct the theoretical model. This framework highlights the critical role of consistent language policies in supporting equitable educational access and success for multilingual populations. Policy makers should prioritise comprehensive, evidence-based language education strategies that integrate multiple linguistic resources effectively. Language Policy, Education Outcomes, Multilingualism, Ghanaian States
Traditional Medicine in Contemporary Nigerian Healthcare Systems
Traditional medicine has been a significant component of healthcare in Nigeria for centuries, blending with modern health systems to form a unique healthcare landscape. The study employed a qualitative approach, reviewing existing literature on traditional medicine in Nigeria alongside interviews with healthcare practitioners and policymakers. A key finding is the significant proportion (35%) of Nigerians who use both traditional and modern medical services for various health issues, highlighting the interdependence between these systems. The integration of traditional medicine into contemporary Nigerian healthcare systems presents a unique model that can be replicated in other African countries seeking to enhance accessibility and affordability of care. Policymakers should consider integrating traditional medicine into national health policies, fostering collaboration rather than competition between the two sectors.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Language Policy and Education in Multilingual Seychelles
Seychelles is a multilingual nation comprising diverse ethnic groups, each with its own language. Language policy in Seychelles aims to promote national unity and education while respecting linguistic diversity. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among educators and students across different regions of Seychelles. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews to assess perceptions and practices related to language policy implementation in education. The findings indicate that while Creole languages are increasingly incorporated into the curriculum, there is still a significant gap between official policies and actual classroom practice, particularly in rural areas where resources for bilingual education are scarce. Despite efforts to promote multilingualism in Seychelles' educational system, challenges persist regarding resource allocation and teacher training necessary to fully implement language policies effectively. The government should invest more resources into developing bilingual teaching materials and providing professional development opportunities for educators. Additionally, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of language policy implementation across all regions of Seychelles.