Criminology and Forensic Studies

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7765

This discipline area provides expert knowledge to deal effectively with crime, victimisation and conflict and to promote a democratic and just society with a human rights ethos as set out in the South African Constitution and Bill of Rights and other relevant international legal frameworks and treaties. It introduces students to biological, psychological and social dimensions of criminal behaviour and explores the application of these approaches to an understanding of the diversity of criminal behaviour. The critical evaluation and application of theories to different categories of crime and criminal behaviour provide students with the opportunity to explore and analyse individual and social influences on criminal behaviour. Not only is the multidimensional nature of conflict studied but analyses refer also to the functioning of the major tiers and role-players of criminal justice recognising the importance of judicial pluralism together with emerging forms of justice such as restorative justice. Current scholarly debates surrounding the workings and outcomes of the system and its component parts are analysed and evaluated and theories and perspectives of punishment, justice and crime reduction are appraised providing a critical understanding and specialised knowledge of the evolution, elements, aims and applications of punishment within a local and international human rights framework, focusing also on the gendering of crime and victimisation and minimum standards for child justice reform as well as structural interdicts to ensure state delivery. The importance of the crime case study method is furthermore highlighted with the presentation of material to the criminal justice system informed by scientific rigour. Analyses refer inter alia to the credibility of behavioural evidence, pre-sentence evaluations and victim impact statements.

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 24

A criminological inquiry into life insurance fraud in KwaZulu-Natal: an exploratory study.
(2023) Mthethwa, Nomathamsanqa.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Abstract available in PDF.
An examination of the social context of sexual victimisation of female students in institutions of higher learning in KwaZulu-Natal (Durban)
(2022) Makhaye, Mandisa Samukelisiwe.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Sexual victimisation is a serious violation of human rights, as well as a safety and public health concern. It does not only occur in one dimension or among a specific race group, but it affects all classes, races, settings, and circumstances. The aim of the study is to uncover the social context of the phenomenon of sexual victimisation in three selected institutions of higher learning in KwaZulu-Natal (Durban). The study's objectives are to investigate the nature of sexual victimisation against female students in Durban's selected universities; to determine the contributing factors to sexual victimisation against female students; to investigate the effects of sexual victimisation on female students; to investigate the lack of reporting of sexual victimisation by female students; and to evaluate the usefulness of current strategies for policing sexual offences in the selected universities. The Routines Activities Theory and the Integrated Theory of Sexual Offending guide the research. Both theories explain sexual victimisation in terms of the victim and the perpetrator, highlighting the explicit factors that contribute to the prevalence of sexual victimisation. A total of 46 participants were purposively sampled from three universities in Durban, and data was collected through interviews and thematically analysed. According to this study, incapacitated sexual victimisation is more common on campus than forcible rape, in which perpetrators use threats or physical force. This could be attributed to both the victim's and the perpetrator's excessive alcohol consumption and drug use. Victimisation can lead to social withdrawal, trauma, depression, and poor academic performance. Furthermore, some victims are infected with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), while others become pregnant. Furthermore, the study discovers that Student Representative Council (SRC) and lecturers abuse their power by requesting sexual favours from female students in exchange for securing a residence or grades. Statistics on sexual victimisation are unreliable because young female students are reluctant to report sexual victimisation to authorities. Some of the reasons for non-reporting include a fear of secondary victimisation and a lack of trust in institutions. According to the study's recommendations, the curriculum should include sex education to instil an understanding of consent and to foster dialogue and consistent awareness of sexual victimisation within the institution. Additionally, policies should be efficiently implemented according to the stipulated objectives. Furthermore, the study recommends upgrading security measures, establishing a gender-based violence (GBV) centre, capacitating security personnel to deal with cases of sexual victimisation, and forming a partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to encourage a transparent and efficient investigation process. Finally, institutions should implement an online reporting portal to create a safe space for victims to report.
An exploratory study of violent behaviours perpetrated against homeless people: a case study of Durban Central Business District.
(2023) Mthembu, Nosipho Nombulelo.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.
Abstract available in PDF.
An exploratory study on the partnership between private security industry and the South African Police Services to combat crime in South Africa, Durban.
(2022) Phakathi, Sinethemba.; Mbhele, Nkosingiphile Modeccai.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Abstract available in PDF.
Counterfeit pharmaceutical products in South Africa: a criminological examination.
(2023) Nihal, Trevonia.; Jagganath, Gerelene.
This study focused on the criminological examination of counterfeit pharmaceutical products in South Africa. The researcher proposed six objectives for this study, and they are as follows: to determine the extent of counterfeit pharmaceutical products being produced in South Africa; to examine how South African police officers are trained to detect counterfeit pharmaceutical products; to examine and investigate the legislature that South Africa has in place to deal with counterfeit crime; to investigate how the internet facilitates criminal organizations that deal in counterfeit pharmaceutical products; to determine the factors that contribute to the influx of counterfeit pharmaceutical products in South Africa; and to investigate the public health interventions that South Africa has in place to protect citizens against counterfeit pharmaceutical products. The researcher utilized the rational choice theory and the general strain theory as the theoretical underpinning of this study to explain the phenomenon of counterfeit pharmaceutical products in South Africa. These theories proved to be relevant as they allowed the researcher to understand and explore the research phenomenon in the context of South Africa, where the study is based. The study employed an exploratory research design and utilized the qualitative research method. The sample size for this study comprised of twenty-five (25) police officers, of whom fourteen were from the Commercial Crime Branch in Prospecton, and eleven (11) were from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) in Durban Central. The researcher used the purposive and snowball sampling technique to select the respondents for the study. The researcher chose these techniques as they proved helpful in selecting those respondents that were most relevant and knowledgeable regarding the topic under study. To gather data, the researcher employed one-on-one semi-structured interviews and utilised an interview schedule of predetermined questions emanating from the existing literature on the phenomenon. The collected data was transcribed and then thematically analyzed to produce an interpretable report. In conducting this study, the researcher adhered to all the ethical considerations as stipulated by the Ethics Committee within the University of Kwa-Zula Natal and obtained permission from the relevant gatekeepers. The researcher informed the respondents that their participation was voluntary and ensured confidentiality and anonymity to each respondent through the informed consent form. Findings: the study finds that counterfeit pharmaceutical products are not necessarily produced in South Africa but are brought into the country as a result of porous borders, scarcity of law enforcement at the borders to prevent counterfeit pharmaceutical products from entering the country, high demand for more affordable pharmaceutical products and the opportunity to financially benefit from the fear, panic and desperation surrounding sickness as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. The study finds that 60% of the respondents indicated that they received either formal or informal training, with some stating that they received both. The study finds that the legislature surrounding counterfeit crime is limited in that it permits much leniency towards counterfeiters by imposing a fine rather than a term of incarceration for the accused counterfeiter. The study finds that the internet facilitates criminal organisations by allowing counterfeiters to operate anonymously and behind layers of encryption, thus making it challenging for law enforcement to trace and identify them. The study finds that while various factors cause an influx of counterfeit pharmaceutical products in the country, the most contributing factors are unemployment that leads to poverty, demand for affordable pharmaceutical products, profitability, and lenient legislation and its poor enforcement. The study finds that 84% of the respondents were unaware that South Africa has any public health interventions currently to protect citizens against counterfeit pharmaceutical products. Recommendations: The researcher recommends that future researchers research the effects of counterfeit pharmaceuticals on chronic medicine users and the dangers that ingesting it might have on an individual who requires the legitimate version. The researcher recommends to law enforcement that all police officers receive some induction on counterfeit products but with greater focus on products that could result in a fatality, such as counterfeit pharmaceutical products. The researcher recommends that the South African government, together with the relevant role players (such as the Department of Health), implement functioning and effective approaches to create awareness of counterfeit products and pharmaceutical products specifically. The researcher strongly recommends that the community continuously educate themselves on the harms of counterfeit pharmaceuticals and the effects of ingesting substandard medicines on the human body. Under the assumption of providing relief to a medical condition, the consumption of counterfeit pharmaceuticals can result in more illness instead of relief from it. The researcher recommends that individuals visit registered healthcare providers or hospitals to ensure that they receive treatment with medication that is authentic and safe for human usage.
Crime and victimization: an exploratory study into the lives of homeless youth in eThekwini Metropolitan Precinct.
(2024) Myaka, Msizi Asanda.; Maweni, Vuyelwa Kemiso.
Homelessness is one of the most global challenges characterized by its ongoing expansion and enduring nature. Its exacerbation is masked by predictable and unpredictable events like natural disasters or death of a parent/guardian, which makes it hard to eradicate or lessen. Employing qualitative research methods, this study explored the crimes and victimizations experienced by the homeless youth of Durban Metropolitan precinct. This study applied exponential nondiscriminative snowball sampling technique to select participants, with data being collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Data was analysed using inductive thematic analysis. The thesis employed a theoretical incorporation of strain theory and deviant place theory. The study explored the experiences of twelve (12) participants, divided into two (2) subgroups, namely the homeless youth and NGO personnel. Four main themes surfaced around the concept of crimes and victimizations experienced by the homeless youth of Durban. The themes were drug use as a push and pull factor, the relationship shared by the homeless youth, community and law enforcement involvement, and sexual abuse and violence. Sexual abuse like rape, and acts of violence like stabbings were found to be a part of the main reasons the homeless youth get victimized in the study. The homeless youth participants highlighted drugs as the major influencer behind the criminal acts like theft that some of the homeless youth engage in. The relationship the homeless youth have with each other was another highlighted reason as to why the homeless youth get victimized, and engage in crime. The homeless youth maintain interpersonal connections with selected few people, but as a whole they are not a united cohesive community entity. The NGO personnel interviewed were from the Denis Hurley Centre. The NGO participants highlighted the services provided to the homeless youth such as health care provision and food assistance, and the challenges confronted by the NGOs. The participants also highlighted that the eThekwini municipality still provides limited support to the NGOs with helping the homeless population of Durban.
Darker shades of brown: managing race relations culture among military police in South Africa.
(2024-03) Akpan, Udoh James.; Steyn, Jéan.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.; Sihlobo, Mfuneko Merriman.
This study investigates the intricate connections between race and police culture, exploring how solidarity, isolation, and cynicism vary among military police officers in South Africa: Blacks and Whites. Adopting a quantitative approach, the research examines how racial identity shapes officers' experiences within the force, potentially influencing their sense of belonging, professional detachment, and disillusionment. Using a survey format, the researcher employed a non-experimental ex post facto (cross-sectional) design. This study employs descriptive analysis to describe characteristics that exist within different variables. The study established in general that SANDF MPOs have attitudes in support of police culture themes of solidarity and isolation but do not have a police culture of cynicism according to race variables. However, the study also finds that, in more than half of the SANDF MPOs, the respondents evinced attitudes in support of the police culture theme of cynicism. Statistically significant differences, differences of kind, and differences of degree were found in relation to all race categorical dependent variables (Blacks and Whites). The study provides an empirical peek into military police culture, allows for comparisons between public police culture and military police culture, and contributes novel knowledge to broader police culture in general.
Effectiveness of audio-visual aids in the teaching of listening comprehension in Government Day Secondary School, Gwagwalada, Nigeria.
(2024-12) Adeyiga, Abisoye Adedoyin.; Akpan, Udoh James.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
This study examined the effectiveness of audio-visual aids in the teaching of listening comprehension in Government Day Secondary Schools, Gwagwalada, Abuja. The quasi-experimental design was adopted. Three research objectives, questions, and hypotheses were raised to guide the study. The population comprised all the 630 SS2 students in Government Day Secondary School, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria. One hundred (100) students were sampled for the study. The Students’ Listening Comprehension Test (SLICOT) was used as the instrument, and the instrument was pilot-tested with a reliability index value of 0.75. The chi-square was used to test the hypotheses. The research revealed that there is significant difference between the performance of students taught with audio-visual aids and those taught without the aids in the three levels of listening comprehension: literal, inferential, and critical. The study concluded that audio-visual aids help in the teaching and performance of students in listening comprehension. The study, therefore, recommended that audio-visual aids such as radio, cassette, flash card, speaker, television, projector, and other audio-visual materials should be made adequate and accessible for the effective teaching and learning of listening comprehension in secondary schools during the teaching and learning period.
Effects of livestock theft on the livelihood of people in rural communities: a case study of AmaCwerha Traditional Authority in Alfred Ndzo District, Eastern Cape Province.
(2024) Nogwaza, Balisa.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.
Abstract available in PDF.
Empathy, remorse, and restoration of dignity contributing to reduced recidivism: assessing the role of restorative justice in promoting offender rehabilitation and reintegration in Durban.
(2024-11) Mpofu, Zandile Faith.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.; Akpan, Udoh James.
This study aims to determine whether restorative justice (RJ) programmes can help reduce recidivism and facilitate the effective reintegration of offenders into society by encouraging empathy, regret, and the restoration of their dignity. The research investigates the lived experiences of key informants and community members in Cato Manor, South Africa, using a qualitative methodology approach. The significance of restorative justice (RJ) programmes in fostering possibilities for regret among offenders and a feeling of community connection was demonstrated using thematic analysis. These results support the Social Bond Theory (SBT) and Reintegrative Shaming Theory (RST), indicating that restorative justice (RJ) can promote accountability and lower recidivism rates. Families must take an active role in helping offenders get back on track and reintegrate into society through therapy and support services. To guarantee the efficacy of RJ programmes and to ensure that they address the unique requirements of the community, the study highlights that there is a necessity of involving community members in their design and evaluation. RJ programmes can provide a route to a more efficient and compassionate judicial system by emphasising communication, healing, and reintegration; this will ultimately lead to safer and more equitable societies. The study’s conclusions advocate for a comprehensive strategy to lower recidivism, one that includes active community involvement in RJ efforts, family assistance, focused interventions, and career counselling for ex-offenders.
Examining fake news on WhatsApp messaging in the political ecology of Ado-Ekiti and Akure, South-West Nigeria.
(2024-12) Akpan, Udoh James.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.; Adeyiga, Abisoye Adedoyin.; Ojolo, Tolulope Lembola.; Hosea, Patrick Olayiwola.
WhatsApp is a major communication and social media tool in Ado-Ekiti and Akure, Southwest Nigeria, and it is popular in the urban and rural areas. All ages and groups use the digital platform to disseminate information. Aside words, it has attractive features like photographs, voice notes and videos, and that has increased its wide used. However, the political class and their supporters have also exploited these benefits to spread misleading information. Fake news has become a phenomenon in Nigeria, and the carriers of this fake news have mobilised WhatsApp with all its attendant features for smear campaign and to spread the so-called fake news against their opponents. This is rife in Ado-Ekiti and Akure. This study investigates the dangers of using WhatsApp digital platform to spread fake news. The study adopted a qualitative approach and a random sampling method to recruit and conduct semi-structured interviews with male and female residents of the twin-cities of Ado-Ekiti and Akure that are above 18 years. The study concluded that the government will have to strengthen digital media laws by instituting an independent body that will regulate and prosecute people who use the platform to cause damages to people, especially their political opponents, thereby protect the public from being assaulted with fake and misleading information that has consequences.
Exploring family communication as a strategy to counter misinformation about COVID-19 and vaccine hesitancy in Durban, South Africa.
(2024-12) Akpan, Udoh James.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
The global pandemic of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is unprecedented in scale and speed and has literally changed urban and rural behaviours in various countries and the global economy. The world became aware of COVID-19 in January 2020 as a concerning, though a limited outbreak of pneumonia in Wuhan, China. The first cases were noted on 26 December 2019 and the World Health Organisation (WHO) was notified by 31 December of the same year. On 30 January 2020, WHO declared Covid-19 as a public health emergency of global concern. The impact of the disease was unique in different families, and these differences can be attributed to religious beliefs, cultural disposition, family values, norms, level of education, and health infrastructure. However, one of the main challenges in South Africa was communicating the impact of the virus through different health communication and public health programs articulated by government to inform and educate the citizens. The challenges range from cultural challenges to infomedics, to vaccine hesitancy. The paper, using secondary data and a case study approach, concludes that health providers, together with community leaders, need to adopt the concept of family communication, and encourage family bond building and cohesion through deliberate intervention programs in Durban as a major strategy. The paper also concludes that the media and curriculum developers in school should focus on promoting and teaching the importance of family cohesion as this will enhance trust, and simplified communication approach that can be expended in addressing the issues around the COVID-19.
Exploring the authenticity and adaptation of instructional materials in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms.
(Journal of African Languages and Literary Studies (JoALLS), 2024-04) Adeyiga, Abisoye Adedoyin.; Akpan, Udoh James.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.; Daramola, Iyanunioluwa Oluwatobi.
This paper explored the concepts of authenticity and adaptation of instructional materials in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms. The authenticity of instructional materials is a major and often overlooked factor in foreign language teaching. However, the adaptation of instructional materials is the process of adapting existing materials to a particular language learning context. The aim of this paper was to examine the benefits and limitations of both approaches. From an analysis of various theoretical approaches, it was found that there is an advantage to using both approaches when teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Materials should be authentic to the language and culture of the language in question, while at the same time taking into account certain considerations such as the students’ language proficiency level and the specific context of the class. The adaptation of materials should not lead to over-simplification, and both approaches should be used to ensure that the materials are appropriate for the learning context. In conclusion, the paper argued that both authentic and adapted materials have their advantages and disadvantages, and that an optimal solution is to strike a balance between the two approaches. It is important for language teachers to be mindful of the need to use materials that are both authentic to the language and culture, while at the same time taking into account the specific needs of the class. This paper has provided a brief overview of how authenticity and adaptation of instructional materials in EFL classrooms can be effectively managed.
Historical overview of pandemic in Africa and the implication of its interception on education.
(2024-03) Akinmolayan, Emmanuel Seun.; Nwokedi, Peace Ginika.; Chetty, Magavani Kantha.; Akpan, Udoh James.
Education, an essential need of every society, has been undergoing constant transformation. Over the years, its modes of knowledge-sharing have undergone various evolutions and adaptations. The recent outbreak of COVID-19 arguably marked the latest stage in this evolutionary process, raising awareness of the digital era in African education. Considering the impact of the different disruptions to education and they have has transformed pedagogies and other socialisation processes, this paper explores the different stages of educational evolution and its impact on teaching and learning. It also employed the Cultural Historical Activity Theory (thereafter, CHAT) as the theoretical framework to appraise the evolution of education in Africa. In addition, the paper also adopted a desktop research method to examine the different phases of education in Africa, from the indigenous system(s) of education to the online learning system. The conclusion reached recommends that government and policymakers should be better prepared and trained in the event of any subsequent or emerging disruption(s) to education.
How far is the East from the West? The role of social media and crisis communication approach in unifying the Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups in the political landscape in southern Nigeria: a review of issues around pre-1960, 1967-1970; 2014 and 2023 elections.
(2024) Akpan, Udoh James.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.; Usadolo, Sam Erevbenagie.
The political climate of southern Nigeria is examined in this concept paper along with the ongoing conflicts between the Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups. The question "How far is the east from the west?" serves as a metaphor to highlight the historical and current obstacles to Igbo-Yoruba unification, reviewing the issues around pre-1960, 1967-1970; 2014 and 2023 elections. The paper explored the complicated history of these groups, including the effects of colonialism, their unique pre-colonial beginnings, and their common battles throughout the liberation fight, employing a methodical literature review. It subsequently looked at particular tense times, such as the Nigerian Civil War, and how these old differences still affect politics now, as shown by the results of recent elections. Beyond historical interpretation, the study suggested a fresh strategy for promoting Igbo-Yoruba unity. Based on the Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT), it made the case that social media may be a potent instrument for fostering cooperation and understanding when used wisely. Instead of focusing on the political elite, which is seen as a source of conflict, the study highlighted the vital role that dependable community leaders play. It suggested that apolitical stakeholders from both regions collaborate to plan and carry out intentional programmes that support socio-economic integration between the Igbo and Yoruba and encourage public discourse on common issues to cultivate a narrative of cooperation through social media. These stakeholders include traditional/cultural leaders, religious figures, women's groups, and academics. Using the SCCT paradigm and empowering these esteemed leaders, this study suggested a way to close the historical and current gaps between the Igbo and the Yoruba. Within the political environment of southern Nigeria, the "East" and "West" can get closer to a future of mutual respect and prosperity by using social media to shift narratives and promote cooperation.
Leadership disposition in African conflict areas and women inclusion in post-conflict resolution and peacebuilding: a comparative study of Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Liberia.
(2024-12) Akpan, Udoh James.; Ishabiyi, Anthonia Omotola.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.; Jali, Londiwe Sinenhlanhla.; Adeyiga, Abisoye Adedoyin.
Persistent conflicts across Africa highlight the importance of effective leadership and inclusivity in peacebuilding efforts. This comparative study examines leadership disposition and women's inclusion in post-conflict resolution within four African nations: Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Liberia. The paper draws on a comprehensive analysis of historical trends, gendered power dynamics, and the influence of prevailing masculinities on conflict and leadership. It investigates challenges and opportunities faced by women in mediation, peace negotiations, and post-conflict reconstruction processes. By shedding light on commonalities and nuances across these diverse settings, the study explores the barriers that hinder women's full participation and identifies the factors that empower women to become agents of positive change. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, advocates, and community leaders seeking to strengthen inclusive leadership models and leverage women's unique contributions to fostering sustainable peace and stability in conflict-affected regions throughout Africa.
Perceptions of community members on restorative justice programmes on offenders and victims of crime: a case study of Cato Manor in Durban KwaZulu-Natal.
(2024) Mpofu, Zandile Faith.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
Restorative justice programmes in South Africa have gained prominence as alternative approaches to traditional criminal justice systems, as they aim to address the needs of both the offenders and victims, while fostering community healing and reconciliation. This study explores the perceptions of community members regarding the impact and effectiveness of restorative justice programmes in the context of the Cato Manor located in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal. The study adopted a qualitative approach located within the interpretivist paradigm. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with a sample of 16 participants consisting of 12 community members residing in the Cato Manor community and four (n=4) community leaders who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis model. Data were collected to develop insights into community members' views, experiences, and attitudes regarding the impact and effectiveness of restorative justice programmes. Precisely, the study examined the community members’ perceptions of the benefits, challenges, and outcomes of these programmes for both the offenders and the victims of the crimes. The findings suggest that community members generally view restorative justice programmes positively, emphasising their potential in terms of promoting accountability, rehabilitation, and the reintegration of ex-offenders into the community. The participants highlighted the importance of involving the victims of crimes in the restorative process, providing opportunities for dialogue, restitution, and healing. However, limited access to resources, lack of awareness, and cultural barriers were identified as the barriers to the effectiveness of restorative justice programmes in the Cato Manor Informal Settlement. Additionally, the participants raised concerns about the need for greater community involvement, support, and capacity-building in these programmes to ensure the sustainability and success thereof. The study recommends that there is a need to increase community awareness and education on the benefits of restorative justice, improve resource allocation to support these initiatives, and foster stronger community involvement and capacity-building efforts to ensure the programmes' sustainability and success.
Reviewing literature, theories and approaches of the influence of Christian evangelical activities in Nigeria and South Africa.
(2024-12) Akpan, Udoh James.; Adebayo, Rufus Olufemi.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.
This study investigated the complex effects of Christian evangelism in South Africa and Nigeria. The paper challengedmodernisation theories that predict a fall in religion with development by using liberation theology and deprivation theory to analyse the social implications and attraction of evangelical groups. Although these movements provide a sense of community and social support in areas with low government services and poverty, liberation theology offers a critical perspective on the "prosperity gospel" and how it could conflict with social justice. Drawing on contemporary literature, the study tried to go beyond basic narratives by investigating the social, economic, political, and gendered components of evangelicalism's effect. The goal of the paperwas to have a comprehensive understanding of the long-term effects of these movements on Nigeria and South Africa by examining how they engage with current systems and address social justice issues on contemporary issues such as prosperity gospel, and gender. The paper concluded that it is important for evangelical Christians to employ scriptures asa language of communication review how they engage with current social structures, and address social justice issues so that evangelical missions, activities, and evangelism will be impactful.
The complexity of women’s roles in Boko Haram terrorist activities in North-East, Nigeria.
(2024) Akpan, Udoh James.; Adeyiga, Abisoye Adedoyin.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.; Ishabiyi, Anthonia Omotola.; Abisoye Adedoyin.; Sazelo Michael.; Anthonia Omotola.
This concept paper examined the multifaceted roles of women in the Boko Haram insurgency in North-East Nigeria. Drawing on social movement theory and gender and power dynamics theory, the paper explored how women are both victims and perpetrators of Boko Haram's violence. It highlighted the ways in which women are influenced by the group's ideology and the challenges they face in resisting its control. The paper also discussed the importance of addressing the needs of women who have been affected by Boko Haram and promoting gender equality in the region. Addressing the challenges faced by women in Boko Haram requires a multifaceted approach that recognises the diverse experiences and needs of women within the insurgency. This includes providing support to women who have been abducted or forced into marriage, promoting gender equality within Boko Haram and addressing the root causes of the insurgency. By implementing these recommendations, it is possible to address the complex challenges posed by Boko Haram and to build a more just and equitable society in North-East Nigeria.
The effect of community policing forums within Glenmore and Umbilo communities in Durban, South Africa.
(2024-12) Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.; Snyman, Zipho Nomsasa.; Akpan, Udoh James.
This study explores the value and effectiveness of Community Policing Forums (CPFs) in Glenmore and Umbilo communities, in Durban, South Africa. Drawing upon both Broken Windows Theory (BWT) and Social Disorganisation Theory (SDT), the research investigates diverse community and CPF member perspectives through a qualitative approach. Findings reveal variations in CPF awareness, with some participants demonstrating strong knowledge while others lacking familiarity. This disparity aligns with the potential "information disorder" suggested by BWT and social fragmentation identified by SDT. The study highlights the importance of multi-pronged communication strategies, including social media, local media, and posters, to bridge awareness gaps and foster broader engagement. However, acknowledging SDT's insights, the research emphasises tailoring communication to reach diverse segments and address potential digital divides. Beyond awareness, the study underscores the need for deeper collaboration between communities and police, addressing root causes of crime, and empowering residents to participate in safety efforts actively. By moving beyond the limitations of BWT and embracing the holistic perspectives offered by SDT, CPFs can contribute to sustainable solutions for safer and more inclusive communities.

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