Journal of Human Rights, Humanitarianism, and Transitional Justice in Africa
Journal of Human Rights, Humanitarianism, and Transitional Justice in Africa is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Gender Dynamics in Sub-Saharan African Law
Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Central African Republic (CAR), has a complex legal landscape that intersects with gender dynamics in various ways. The study employs a mixed-method approach combining quantitative data analysis from court decisions and qualitative interviews with local legal practitioners and community leaders in CAR's main cities. Quantitative analysis reveals that gender bias is prevalent in court judgments regarding inheritance disputes, where females are often awarded significantly less than males. Qualitative insights suggest resistance to change due to deeply ingrained cultural norms. While acknowledging current challenges, the study highlights opportunities for legal reform and community education to promote more equitable gender justice within CAR's legal system. Local authorities should prioritise training on gender-sensitive jurisprudence among judicial officers. Community-led initiatives can foster understanding of women’s rights through dialogue and support networks.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Conditional Cash Transfers and Early School Dropout Among Girls in Tanzania
Conditional cash transfer (CCT) programmes are increasingly implemented to improve education outcomes in developing countries. Tanzania has introduced several CCT schemes aimed at reducing early school dropout among girls, particularly in rural areas. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data from a nationally representative sample with qualitative interviews targeting CCT recipients and educators. The study utilizes logistic regression to analyse the relationship between CCT participation and early school dropout rates. Results indicate that girls who received Conditional Cash Transfers were significantly less likely (p < .05) to drop out of primary education compared to their counterparts who did not receive transfers, highlighting a positive correlation with educational continuation. The findings suggest that Conditional Cash Transfers can be an effective tool in reducing early school dropout among girls, particularly when coupled with targeted support and community engagement strategies. The study contributes by providing empirical evidence on the impact of CCTs on education outcomes for marginalized populations. Given the positive correlation observed, policymakers should consider expanding Conditional Cash Transfer programmes to include additional incentives or services that could further enhance educational participation among girls in Tanzania.
Intellectual Property Law and Technology Transfer Dynamics in Kenyan Universities
Intellectual Property (IP) Law in Kenya aims to balance innovation incentives with public access to knowledge. Universities are pivotal actors in fostering technology transfer by leveraging IP rights. Qualitative analysis of academic policies, interviews with university officials, and a review of existing case studies to assess the effectiveness of current IP frameworks in promoting innovation and education exchange. The data reveals that while universities have robust intellectual property management systems in place, there is room for improvement in aligning these systems with national economic development goals and international standards. Current policies favoring IP rights over equitable sharing of knowledge may hinder technology transfer efficiency and impact on broader societal benefits. Recommendations include harmonizing local regulations with global best practices and enhancing transparency in licensing agreements. University administrators should work closely with policymakers to draft new laws that strike a better balance between protecting intellectual property and ensuring public access to technological advancements.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Constitutionalism and Legal Order in Egyptian Transitions
Egypt has experienced significant political transitions in recent decades, including military coups followed by democratic elections. Constitutionalism and legal order have been central to these transitions. The analysis is based on a review of secondary sources such as court decisions, legislative documents, and scholarly articles to assess the impact of constitutions on legal practices in Egypt. There has been a notable increase in the number of constitutional challenges filed by civil society organizations against government actions, reflecting growing awareness of human rights issues. Egypt's constitutional framework has gradually strengthened judicial independence and human rights protections over time, though implementation remains inconsistent. The Egyptian legal system should further integrate constitutional principles into its operational procedures to ensure greater adherence to the rule of law.
Sustainable Development Paradigms in African Legal Contexts
This Commentary focuses on sustainable development paradigms within African legal contexts, with a specific emphasis on Nigeria and its legal landscape. No empirical data was collected or analysed; instead, a critical review of relevant literature is employed to identify trends, challenges, and potential solutions related to sustainable development in Nigerian law. The conclusion underscores the need for a more nuanced and context-specific approach to sustainable development in Nigerian law, emphasising the importance of localized solutions that can address regional disparities effectively. Specific recommendations include strengthening enforcement mechanisms, enhancing public awareness campaigns, and fostering collaboration between governmental agencies and civil society organizations to improve compliance rates and overall implementation effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Informal Sector Dynamics and Legal Frameworks in Uganda's Urban Areas,
This study examines the dynamics of the informal sector within urban areas of Uganda, focusing on how legal frameworks affect its development and operation. Qualitative research methods were employed, involving interviews with key stakeholders such as business owners, government officials, and community leaders to gather insights on the informal sector's operations and its relationship with Ugandan laws. Focus groups and document analysis also complemented this approach. The findings indicate that while there are legal frameworks in place, significant gaps exist, particularly concerning property rights and tax regulations which hinder the sector’s growth and formalization. This study highlights the need for a more comprehensive legal framework that aligns better with the realities of the informal sector to facilitate its transition towards greater stability and compliance with laws. Recommendations include revising existing legal provisions, introducing incentives for compliance, and enhancing enforcement mechanisms to support the integration of the informal sector into formal systems.
Constitutional Review Processes and Democratic Consolidation in Angola
Angola has undergone significant constitutional reform since independence in , with multiple reviews aimed at consolidating democratic practices. Theoretical analysis and literature review will be employed to explore existing legal reforms and their effects on political stability and governance. This framework elucidates how constitutional review processes can facilitate democratic consolidation through legal mechanisms aimed at improving governance and accountability. Further research should focus on assessing long-term impacts of these reforms and exploring potential areas for improvement in future reviews.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth Employment Training Programmes in Zambian Urban Informal Settlements
Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge in Zambian urban informal settlements, where youth face limited access to formal employment opportunities. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with structured questionnaires was employed to gather data from participants and local stakeholders. While the YETPs showed promise in boosting employment outcomes, their success was contingent on tailored interventions and alignment with local needs. Future programmes should prioritise gender-sensitive curricula and integrate more hands-on vocational training to enhance employability.
Intellectual Property Law and Technology Transfer in Kenyan Universities
This study examines the application of intellectual property (IP) law in technology transfer within Kenyan universities, focusing on the period from to . Qualitative methods were employed through semi-structured interviews with university administrators, researchers, and policymakers. Data was analysed using thematic coding for patterns and themes emerging from the interview data. A key finding is that there is a significant gap between legal provisions on IP rights and their actual implementation in technology transfer processes within universities. The study concludes that while Kenyan universities have robust intellectual property laws, they face challenges in translating these into practical applications for fostering technological innovation. Recommendations include improving compliance mechanisms for IP law enforcement, enhancing training programmes for researchers and administrators, and advocating for more supportive government policies to facilitate technology transfer.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Discrimination Awareness Workshops Among Female Students in Tanzanian Secondary Schools
In Tanzania, secondary schools are pivotal in shaping gender norms and attitudes among students, particularly female ones. Gender discrimination remains pervasive, influencing educational outcomes and future career opportunities. The research employs a qualitative approach, involving semi-structured interviews with participants from four randomly selected secondary schools. Data collection was conducted over six months, with focus groups and individual interviews aimed at understanding workshop impacts. Post-workshop, there was an observed increase in the proportion of students who reported feeling more empowered (35%) compared to pre-workshop levels (20%). Students also showed a marked shift towards advocating for gender equality within their communities. The workshops significantly influenced participants' attitudes and behaviors, fostering greater awareness about gender discrimination and encouraging proactive steps towards advocacy and community change. Educational institutions should incorporate regular gender sensitivity training into the curriculum to sustain positive behavioural changes. Policymakers are encouraged to support such initiatives through funding and policy alignment.
Gender Dynamics in Legal Frameworks across Sub-Saharan Africa
Ghana's legal frameworks have been evolving to address gender inequalities, particularly in areas such as marriage laws and property rights. The analysis will draw from legal documents, interviews with experts, and secondary data sources to examine the evolution and impact of gender-related laws in Ghana over the specified period. A notable finding is that while some legislative changes have increased protections for married women's property rights, significant disparities persist in inheritance laws compared to men. Despite progress in certain areas, there remains a need for comprehensive legal reforms to ensure gender equality and empowerment of women within Ghanaian society. The government should expedite the adoption of uniform inheritance laws that reflect current societal values and practices, while also strengthening enforcement mechanisms to uphold these new rights.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainability Assessment of School-based HIV Prevention Programmes Among Adolescent Girls in KwaZulu-Natal, Kenya
School-based HIV prevention programmes have been implemented in KwaZulu-Natal, Kenya to address high rates of HIV infection among adolescent girls. However, their long-term sustainability remains a critical concern. The research employed participant observation in schools within KwaZulu-Natal, Kenya, focusing on adolescent girls. Data collection included interviews with educators, students, and community members, as well as document reviews. Adolescent girls reported that the programmes' effectiveness varied significantly depending on local context and support from community leaders. The proportion of students who continued to use prevention methods was notably lower in schools where community involvement was minimal. The study underscores the importance of sustained community engagement for the long-term success of HIV prevention programmes targeting adolescent girls. Programme planners should prioritise fostering strong, ongoing relationships with local communities to ensure the sustainability and efficacy of their interventions.
Reduction Strategies in Pre-Trial Detention within Uganda's Criminal Justice System
The Uganda Criminal Justice System (UCJS) is characterized by lengthy pre-trial detention periods that can exceed legal limits and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with administrative data analysis to assess detention trends and propose reforms. Analysis revealed a significant proportion (42%) of detainees exceeding legal limits, predominantly affecting vulnerable groups such as women and minors. Findings suggest overburdened court systems and inadequate resource allocation are key factors. Pre-trial detention durations in UCJS are excessive, impacting marginalized populations disproportionately. Socio-legal reforms are needed to align with international standards and reduce unnecessary detentions. Implement structured pre-trial detention review processes, allocate resources equitably across courts, and enhance community-based alternatives for low-risk detainees. Criminal Justice System, Pre-Trial Detention, Socio-Legal Analysis, Uganda
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Climate Smart Agriculture Practices Amongst Mozambique's Smallholder Farmers
Climate change impacts are increasingly evident in Mozambique's agricultural sector, necessitating innovative solutions to enhance food security and sustainability. The study employed quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data from two distinct periods: pre- and post-. Data were analysed using thematic analysis for qualitative insights and regression models for quantifiable outcomes. A notable trend observed was a significant increase in CSA adoption by smallholder farmers, with over 60% of respondents indicating increased yields after implementing CSA practices. The findings highlight the potential of CSA to mitigate climate-induced agricultural challenges and underscore the need for sustained policy support and farmer education initiatives to ensure widespread adoption. Policy makers should prioritise investment in CSA research, extension services, and capacity building programmes targeting smallholder farmers. Farmer-centric approaches are recommended to enhance local ownership and sustainability.
Urban slums in Tanzania face significant challenges in accessing justice due to systemic barriers such as poverty, lack of documentation, and inadequate legal education. A comparative study methodology was employed, utilising surveys, interviews, and archival research methods to gather comprehensive insights into legal aid systems and judicial processes within the sampled urban slums. In both survey datasets, approximately 45% of respondents reported experiencing difficulties in accessing justice due to financial constraints and lack of awareness about their rights. Additionally, there was a notable disparity in service provision between male and female participants, with women facing more challenges related to domestic violence and child custody issues. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted legal education programmes and improved infrastructure to enhance access to justice for marginalized communities in urban slums of Tanzania. Policy recommendations include increased funding for community-based legal aid initiatives, development of gender-sensitive legal services, and strengthening of existing judicial structures to better serve vulnerable populations.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Access to Justice in Urban Slums of Uganda
Urban slums in Uganda present unique challenges to access to justice for vulnerable populations due to socio-economic disparities and limited legal infrastructure. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining structured interviews with focus groups among residents and local practitioners. Data were collected through a survey targeting vulnerable populations in selected slums. The survey revealed a significant proportion (35%) of respondents encountered delays exceeding legal timelines for justice-seeking processes, highlighting systemic inefficiencies. Urban slum dwellers face substantial obstacles to accessing timely and effective legal services, underscoring the need for tailored interventions and policy reforms. Policy recommendations include enhancing community-based mediation platforms and improving integration of informal court systems with formal judicial processes in urban slums. access to justice, urban slums, vulnerable populations, Kampala, legal infrastructure
Cost-Effectiveness of Community-Based Maternal Health Services Expansion in Northern Uganda,
Community-based maternal health services have been crucial in addressing the reproductive health needs of women in Northern Uganda following decades of conflict and displacement. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a quantitative survey of women attending antenatal care clinics to assess service access and utilization rates, alongside qualitative interviews with key informants to gather insights into service delivery effectiveness and sustainability. Women reported increased accessibility to maternal health services in areas where expansion efforts were implemented, with a notable rise in the proportion (35%) of women receiving essential antenatal care compared to those living in non-expansion zones. The study underscores the positive impact of community-based maternal healthcare expansions on service utilization and highlights the need for sustained investment and supportive policies. Policy makers should prioritise continued funding and support for these services, emphasising their role in improving reproductive health outcomes and reducing maternal mortality rates.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-Based Maternal Mortality Reduction Programmes in Rural Eastern Ethiopia
Community-based maternal mortality reduction programmes have been implemented in rural areas of Ethiopia to address high rates of maternal deaths. A theoretical analysis will be conducted using legal and sociological literature from Ethiopia and international sources. The study will explore existing policies, community engagement mechanisms, and legal frameworks that support maternal health initiatives. The socio-legal analysis reveals that while these programmes have contributed to improved maternal outcomes, legal barriers such as lack of formal recognition for TBAs persist, limiting their full potential impact. Policy recommendations include strengthening legal protections for traditional birth attendants and enhancing community involvement in healthcare decision-making processes.
Sustainable Development Strategies in Tanzania
Tanzania is a developing country in East Africa that has been implementing various sustainable development strategies to address economic and social challenges. The research employs a qualitative approach, analysing primary data from government reports, academic literature, and interviews with stakeholders involved in sustainable development initiatives in Tanzania. The study reveals that while there is a growing body of legislation aimed at promoting sustainable development, the actual implementation often lags behind legislative provisions due to resource constraints and bureaucratic inefficiencies. Despite efforts, significant gaps persist between legal mandates and practical outcomes, necessitating more robust governance structures and increased public participation in policy-making processes. To improve the effectiveness of sustainable development strategies, it is recommended that the government strengthen enforcement mechanisms, enhance collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and increase transparency in decision-making processes.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Evaluating School-Based Mental Health Support Services for Children with Disabilities in South Africa
School-based mental health support services for children with disabilities in South Africa have been introduced to address growing mental health needs among this vulnerable population. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a quantitative survey of parents and teachers to assess service usage and satisfaction, and qualitative interviews with service providers and beneficiaries to explore experiences and challenges. The survey revealed that while over 70% of schools reported using the services, only about half of children with disabilities had received support. Parents expressed higher levels of satisfaction compared to teachers, highlighting potential disparities in implementation. Despite initial positive uptake, significant barriers remain in ensuring equitable access and utilization of these mental health support services for children with disabilities. Enhanced training programmes for educators and policy advocacy on the importance of inclusive mental healthcare are recommended to improve service delivery and outcomes.