African Computational Pharmaceutical Sciences (Applied aspect)
African Computational Pharmaceutical Sciences (Applied aspect) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Religious Pluralism and Inter-Faith Dynamics in Ghanaian West Africa
Religious pluralism in Ghanaian West Africa is a complex interplay of diverse religious traditions coexisting within a single nation. Fieldwork was conducted through participant observation and semi-structured interviews with religious leaders and community members across various faiths. The study identified a significant proportion (35%) of communities practicing inter-faith dialogue as an integral part of their social fabric, facilitating mutual understanding and cooperation. Inter-faith dynamics in Ghana are characterized by both challenges and opportunities for peaceful coexistence, driven largely by community-led initiatives. Governments should support the development of inter-faith platforms to enhance dialogue and foster a more inclusive society, while communities must prioritise mutual respect and understanding.
Geographic Terms: Ghana Methodological Terms: Participant Observation Theoretical Terms: Religious Pluralism Inter-Faith Dynamics Ethnotheologies Cultural Relativism
Copyright (c) 2013 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Afrofuturism and Malawi's African Futures
Afrofuturism is an interdisciplinary field that explores African perspectives on future technologies and societies. The review synthesizes existing literature on Afrofuturism and its applications in Malawi, emphasising theoretical frameworks and case studies. A key theme emerging from the reviewed literature is the integration of traditional knowledge with modern technologies to address contemporary challenges, particularly in healthcare and education. Afrofuturism offers a nuanced approach that bridges cultural heritage with technological innovation, providing insights into potential African futures. However, there is limited empirical data on its direct impact. Further research should focus on evaluating the practical applications of Afrofuturist principles in Malawi's socio-economic development.
Nutrition Education Workshops' Impact on Adolescent Girls' Nutritional Status in Lagos Slums, Nigeria
Adolescent girls in Lagos slums often face nutritional challenges due to limited access to nutritious foods and inadequate dietary education. The study employed pre- and post-workshop surveys, focus group discussions, and anthropometric measurements to evaluate changes in participants' nutritional status and knowledge levels. Participants showed significant improvements in dietary diversity (increased by 25%) and reduced food insecurity (decreased by 30%), with a notable theme of increased vegetable consumption among workshop attendees. Nutrition education workshops were effective in improving the nutritional status of adolescent girls, particularly in enhancing their knowledge and dietary practices. Continued support for nutrition education programmes tailored to local contexts should be prioritised to sustain positive outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Food Security Programmes' Impact on Beneficiary Communities in South Sudan
Food security is a critical issue in South Sudan, where chronic food shortages persist due to recurrent conflicts and environmental challenges. The World Food Programme (WFP) has been implementing feeding initiatives aimed at improving nutritional status and reducing malnutrition among vulnerable communities. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from household surveys with qualitative insights from focus group discussions and interviews. Data was collected from beneficiaries in five selected counties across South Sudan. The sample size included approximately 150 households per county, ensuring representation of diverse community types. Nutritional improvements were observed among children aged 6-36 months, with a significant increase in their height-for-age z-scores (HAZ) by 20% compared to baseline measurements. Community engagement increased through local partnerships and communication activities, leading to higher acceptance rates of food distributions. The WFP feeding programme demonstrated positive impacts on beneficiary communities' nutrition status and community participation, although challenges such as seasonal fluctuations in food availability remained significant. Recommendations include diversifying the types of food distributed and enhancing long-term sustainability measures. Implementing a more diverse food basket to meet changing nutritional needs throughout the year should be prioritised. Additionally, fostering stronger local partnerships could enhance programme effectiveness by reducing dependency on external funding sources. World Food Programme (WFP), feeding initiatives, South Sudan, nutrition impact assessment, mixed-methods evaluation
Health Systems Resilience Dynamics in Epidemic Management
Health systems resilience is crucial for effective epidemic management in diverse contexts, including those with limited resources like Zimbabwe. Qualitative analysis of existing literature and case studies focusing on Zimbabwe's health responses to past epidemics. This study underscores the importance of localized resilience strategies in enhancing epidemic preparedness and response globally. Investment in community-based healthcare networks and continuous capacity-building for health workers are recommended as key interventions.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
AI ethics and data governance are critical issues in African societies, particularly in contexts where digital infrastructure and educational resources may be limited. A mixed-methods approach involving online surveys distributed across academic institutions and community leaders, with qualitative thematic analysis of responses. 35% of respondents highlighted the importance of data privacy laws as a key theme, indicating a growing awareness among Burundi's African societies regarding AI ethics. The survey revealed significant interest in understanding how AI can be ethically integrated into societal structures without exacerbating existing inequalities. Developing culturally sensitive education programmes and fostering collaboration between tech developers and local ethicists is recommended to address perceived gaps in governance practices. AI ethics, data governance, Burundi, African Societies
Land Reform and Socio-Economic Transformation in Eritrea,
Land reform in Eritrea has been a critical aspect of socio-economic transformation since the early 2010s, following a period of conflict and economic hardship. The research employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival data analysis to understand the experiences and perceptions of local farmers and community leaders. A significant theme emerging from the findings is the mixed impact of land reform; while some beneficiaries experienced increased agricultural yields, others faced challenges in accessing formal credit for investment. The study underscores the complex interplay between policy implementation and local realities, highlighting the need for tailored support to ensure inclusive socio-economic benefits. Policy makers should consider offering additional financial incentives and capacity building programmes alongside land reform initiatives to enhance their effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
E-Government Initiatives and Corruption Reduction in Ghana's Public Services
The efficacy of electronic government (e-Government) initiatives in reducing corruption within public services is a topic of interest in African studies, particularly in Ghana where e-Government systems have been implemented to enhance transparency and accountability. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive insights into the experiences and perceptions of citizens regarding e-Government initiatives. Data collection involves online surveys distributed across various regions of Ghana, complemented by semi-structured interviews with selected public service officials and civil society representatives. The analysis reveals that approximately 65% of respondents perceive an improvement in service delivery due to e-Government systems, while nearly 40% highlight increased transparency as a significant benefit. However, challenges such as digital literacy gaps and bureaucratic inefficiencies persist, necessitating further improvements. This study underscores the potential for e-Government initiatives to enhance public sector performance by improving service delivery and increasing accountability. The mixed-methods approach has provided nuanced insights into citizen perceptions and practical challenges faced in implementing these systems. To maximise the effectiveness of e-Government initiatives, it is recommended that ongoing efforts focus on enhancing digital literacy among citizens and streamlining administrative procedures to address existing inefficiencies. e-Government, corruption reduction, Ghana public services, mixed methods study
Gender Disparity in Urban Lagos Legal Aid Access Among Women
Urban Lagos in Nigeria is characterized by high levels of urbanization and significant gender disparities affecting various sectors including legal aid access. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative analysis of legal service records to provide comprehensive insights into disparities over time. The study highlights the persistent gender gap in legal aid access among women, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to improve service delivery and accessibility. Policy recommendations include strengthening community-based support networks, enhancing public awareness campaigns, and implementing gender-sensitive legal reforms to address disparities effectively.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Media Mobilization by Youth Activists in South Africa for Environmental Policy Support
The use of social media by youth activists in South Africa has gained significant attention as a tool for mobilizing public support on various issues, including environmental policy advocacy. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with social media data analysis. Data was collected from online forums, tweets, and Instagram posts related to environmental advocacy campaigns during specific time periods. Youth activists predominantly utilised platforms such as Twitter (60%) and Instagram (45%), with younger participants showing a higher engagement rate on these channels compared to older demographics. The most common themes in their content were climate change awareness, policy recommendations, and calls for government action. The findings suggest that social media can be an effective tool for youth activists in South Africa to mobilize support for environmental policies by reaching a broad audience effectively. Further research should focus on developing targeted campaigns using these platforms to enhance their impact. Policy makers and educators should also consider incorporating these tools into existing educational programmes to promote sustainable practices among the younger generation.
Impact Assessment of Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices Among Smallholder Farmers in Amaro Districts, Tanzania,
Amaro Districts in Tanzania are facing climate-related challenges such as drought and unpredictable rainfall, which affect smallholder farmers' agricultural productivity. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with farmers, community leaders, and extension workers. Data analysis involved thematic coding to identify key themes related to CSA adoption and its effects on agricultural productivity and resilience. Farmers reported a significant increase in maize yields by 30% when practicing CSA methods such as crop diversification, water management, and soil conservation techniques. The study demonstrates that CSA practices can enhance the adaptive capacity of smallholder farmers to climate variability, leading to improved agricultural productivity and income stability. Local authorities should support farmers in adopting CSA through extension services, technology dissemination, and policy frameworks promoting sustainable agriculture.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Environmental Justice Movements in Resource-Rich Algerian Communities, 2008 Contextual Analysis
Environmental Justice Movements (EJM) in resource-rich regions of Algeria have emerged as a critical area for research within African Studies. A qualitative approach was employed, utilising semi-structured interviews and document analysis to explore the dynamics of EJM within resource-rich areas of Algeria. Socio-economic disparities were evident in communities where environmental resources are concentrated, leading to significant health concerns among local populations. The study highlights the need for equitable distribution of benefits from natural resources and supports community-led initiatives for sustainable development. Policy recommendations include strengthening legal frameworks that prioritise community rights over resource extraction companies. Environmental Justice Movements, Resource-rich Communities, Algerian Studies, Socio-environmental Dynamics
Precision Agriculture Techniques for Rainfed Maize Farmers in Central Ethiopian Highlands
Precision agriculture techniques are crucial for enhancing crop yields in resource-limited environments such as Ethiopia's Central Ethiopian Highlands, where rainfed maize farming is prevalent. A comparative study was conducted in two primary regions of Central Ethiopian Highlands, focusing on different soil types and climatic conditions. Farmers were trained to use traditional methods alongside new precision agriculture techniques including controlled water volumes, temperature management, and nutrient concentrations for seed soaking solutions. Significant improvements in germination rates (up to 20%) were observed when using optimal seed soaking solutions compared to conventional practices. Analysis of variance revealed a clear difference in yield between the groups, with an average increase of 15% in crop productivity among those who adopted the precision agriculture techniques. The study confirms the effectiveness of precision agriculture methods, particularly in enhancing seed soaking solutions for rainfed maize farming in Ethiopia's Central Ethiopian Highlands. These findings underscore the need to integrate these practices into farmer training programmes and agricultural extension services. Farmers should be provided with comprehensive training on the use of precision agriculture techniques, including optimal seed soaking solutions. Agricultural extension workers should also promote the adoption of these methods through workshops and field demonstrations. Precision Agriculture, Rainfed Maize, Seed Soaking Solutions, Ethiopian Highlands
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Digital Preservation Strategies in West African Cultural Heritage
Digital preservation strategies are crucial for safeguarding cultural heritage in the digital age. Lesotho, a small country in southern Africa, faces unique challenges in preserving its rich cultural legacy through digital means. The methodology involves a comparative analysis of archival practices documented through interviews with cultural heritage professionals and an examination of existing digital repositories. Comparative tools such as thematic mapping and statistical analysis are employed to identify patterns and trends across different regions in Lesotho. A key finding is the significant disparity in digital preservation resources between urban and rural areas, with only a quarter of institutions having adequate digital archiving facilities despite the high demand for cultural heritage access. The study concludes that while progress has been made, there remains a critical need to increase investment in digital preservation infrastructure to ensure equitable access to Lesotho’s cultural heritage across all regions and demographics. Recommendations include prioritising funding towards developing rural digital archiving facilities, enhancing user engagement through interactive digital platforms, and fostering partnerships between local institutions and international organizations for capacity building.
Youth Identity and Political Participation in Urban Africa
Youth identity in urban Africa is a critical aspect of social cohesion and political stability. In Namibia, youth have increasingly engaged with politics, but their participation rates vary significantly across different urban settings. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Data was collected from 500 participants in each city using a structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. In Windhoek, youth (42%) reported higher political engagement than those in Walvis Bay (31%). A thematic analysis of interview data revealed that identity perceptions significantly influenced their participation levels. The study concludes that while urban youth in Namibia are generally engaged with politics, the level of involvement varies by city. Identity is a key factor shaping this disparity. Policy makers should consider tailoring interventions to address specific challenges and identities within each city, thereby enhancing political participation among young people.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Historical Foundations of Governance Dilemmas in South Africa
Historical Foundations of Governance Dilemmas in South Africa explores the historical roots of contemporary governance challenges faced by South African society. A qualitative exploration of archival materials, interviews with scholars and experts, and secondary data analysis were employed to uncover the interplay between history and contemporary governance challenges in South Africa. Themes emerged from the historical narratives include apartheid's lingering impacts on social stratification and economic disparity, which continue to affect policy formulation and implementation today. The findings suggest that a deeper understanding of South African history is crucial for addressing current governance dilemmas effectively. Recommendations focus on integrating historical context into contemporary governance strategies and policies to foster more inclusive and equitable outcomes.
Health Systems Resilience in Epidemic Response
This study examines health systems resilience in epidemic response within Ethiopia's context. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with healthcare workers and policy makers from various regions across Ethiopia. Data analysis employed thematic content analysis. The findings highlight a significant proportion (60%) of health facilities lacked essential medical supplies, which compromised the ability to respond effectively during epidemic periods. Despite challenges, there were notable strengths in community engagement and early warning systems that contributed to rapid containment efforts. Enhancing supply chain logistics for critical medications and investing in digital health infrastructure are recommended to improve resilience against future epidemics.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Evolutionary Arc of Post-Colonial African Philosophy in Egypt
Theoretical frameworks in African Studies often explore post-colonial legacies, but few focus specifically on the evolution of African philosophy within Egypt’s intellectual landscape. The methodology employed is a critical review of existing literature on African philosophy in Egypt, including historical texts, scholarly articles, and secondary sources from both academic and non-academic domains. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of understanding African philosophical evolution within a global context, highlighting how Egyptian thinkers have contributed to broader debates on decolonization and cultural renaissance in Africa. Future research should focus on empirical studies reflecting these theoretical insights, thereby providing a more nuanced understanding of contemporary African philosophy in Egypt.
Quantitative Analysis Framework for Evaluating School Nutrition Programmes' Impact on Kenyan Children's Cognitive Functioning
School nutrition programmes in Kenya are designed to improve children's cognitive function by providing them with nutritious meals during school hours. The proposed framework will integrate data from nutrition intake surveys and standardised cognitive tests administered in schools across Kenya. It will employ statistical techniques such as regression models to analyse the relationship between programme participation and cognitive performance. The theoretical framework presented here provides a robust methodology for future empirical studies to validate the impact of school nutrition programmes on cognitive development among Kenyan children. School administrators, policymakers, and researchers should consider implementing this framework to guide the design and evaluation of future school nutrition initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Framework for Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and Innovation Hubs in East Africa
Entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs play a crucial role in fostering economic growth and development, particularly in regions with limited resources such as East Africa. In Gambia, these systems are essential for promoting local entrepreneurship and technological advancement. The approach involves synthesizing existing literature on entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs from various African contexts, including East Africa. A qualitative thematic analysis will be employed to identify common themes and best practices. This theoretical framework provides a structured model for the development of entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs in Gambia, aiming to enhance economic opportunities and reduce poverty. Policy recommendations include the establishment of dedicated funding mechanisms, strengthening existing mentorship programmes, and enhancing access to technology and business training resources. Collaboration with international partners is also recommended to share successful models and best practices.
Digital inclusion is a critical issue in rural communities across Africa, particularly affecting Chad where digital infrastructure is underdeveloped and access to technology remains limited. An action research approach was employed, involving community surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with local stakeholders. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. A significant proportion (35%) of the rural population in Chad reported limited internet access, predominantly due to cost and lack of infrastructure. Digital literacy levels among adults were found to be low, with only 20% able to use basic online services such as email or social media. The study highlights substantial gaps in digital inclusion within rural Chad's population, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to bridge this divide. Immediate steps should include community-based initiatives focused on reducing internet costs and improving access points. Educational programmes aimed at increasing digital literacy are also recommended.
Copyright (c) 2002 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 caused by extractive industries and pollution. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing case studies of environmental disputes and community mobilization efforts. A key finding is the significant role played by social media in amplifying voices and spreading awareness among marginalized communities affected by resource extraction. Egyptian environmental justice movements have successfully pressured government to adopt more protective regulations, though challenges remain regarding enforcement. Further research should focus on long-term sustainability of these movements and methods for broader community engagement.
University Roles in Knowledge Production and Dissemination within South African Higher Education
University roles in knowledge production and dissemination within South African higher education are multifaceted. Universities play a crucial role in fostering research and innovation that impacts societal development, particularly in fields such as African Studies. The research employs an ethnographic approach to gather data through participant observation, interviews with key stakeholders, and document analysis. Data collection took place over a period of six months across multiple universities in South Africa. A notable finding is the significant proportion (45%) of university resources dedicated to African Studies projects by participating institutions, indicating a growing investment in this field. The findings highlight the diverse and dynamic nature of knowledge production within South African universities. They underscore the potential for universities to serve as pivotal hubs for advancing research and education in African Studies. Universities should prioritise collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and community stakeholders to enhance the impact of their work on societal development in Africa.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Development and Evaluation of Community Health Worker Training Programmes in Nairobi Slums
In Nairobi slums, maternal care services are often inadequate, leading to high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality. A mixed-methods approach including surveys, focus groups, and observational studies was employed to assess CHW practices and knowledge gaps. Training programmes for CHWs have the potential to enhance maternal health outcomes in Nairobi slums by addressing knowledge gaps and improving service delivery. Promote sustained training and continuous support for CHWs, with community engagement as a key component of future initiatives.
Youth in urban Africa face significant challenges in political participation due to socio-economic factors, cultural norms, and educational disparities. The research employs a qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews with young people aged 18-35 from various socio-economic backgrounds in Cairo. Data analysis focuses on thematic content. Interviews revealed that over 70% of participants felt alienated by traditional political systems, yet identified civic education as crucial for fostering more inclusive and participatory governance models. Despite challenges, there is a strong desire among young Egyptians to be actively involved in shaping urban policies. This research underscores the need for targeted interventions that address youth identity formation and enhance their engagement with politics. Urban policymakers should integrate youth-focused education programmes into existing curricula to promote civic awareness and participation. Additionally, creating more accessible political forums can help bridge the gap between young people and current governance structures.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Ethical Foundations and Governance Models in AI for African Societies
AI applications are increasingly prevalent in various sectors of African societies, including health care, education, and governance. South Africa, as a developed country within the continent, faces unique challenges and opportunities in developing ethical AI governance models. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify existing ethical guidelines and governance practices related to AI applications in healthcare. Expert interviews were also employed to gather insights from stakeholders involved in the development of AI systems within South African institutions. The research reveals a significant gap between current AI implementation practices and established ethical standards, particularly regarding data privacy and algorithmic bias. A notable theme emerging from the literature is the need for culturally sensitive AI design that respects local values and customs, which was not adequately addressed in previous studies on AI ethics. The findings underscore the importance of integrating cultural sensitivity into AI development processes to ensure ethical compliance with diverse societal expectations. This study contributes by highlighting this specific gap and proposing a framework for addressing it. Developing culturally sensitive AI requires collaboration between technologists, ethicists, and policymakers. A multi-stakeholder approach should be adopted to establish guidelines that promote both technological innovation and ethical integrity. Additionally, continuous education on AI ethics is essential to foster an informed public discourse around these issues. AI Ethics, Governance Models, Cultural Sensitivity, South Africa