Digital Policy Studies is an open-access, peer-reviewed interdisciplinary academic journal focused on the empirical, critical and intersectoral study of subjects related to digital policy and the fourth industrial revolution, cybersecurity, the digitalisation of politics, the digital economy, information and communication technology, the convergence of technology and society, new media and related topics. The Journal publishes research articles, review articles and policy commentary in designated sections. Published by the Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Johannesburg through UJ Press. ISSN: 2791-3597
Licensing information Creative Commons CC Attribution 4.0 International Public License © Author(s)
Linguistic Exclusion in South African E-Governance
Digital platforms offer new avenues for public service access, yet indigenous communities like Xitsonga speakers in South Africa face exclusion due to language barriers in e-government and ICT tools. This qualitative study investigates how integrating Xitsonga into digital spaces can enhance access to essential services, revealing that the current systems marginalise indigenous language users, limiting their government engagement. Framed through Decolonial Theory, Language Rights, and Ubuntu philosophy, the findings reveal that the current systems marginalise indigenous language users, limiting their government engagement. The findings underscore the need for inclusive digital policies and platform design to bridge the digital divide. The study contributes to debates on language equity, digital access, and equitable service delivery, offering actionable recommendations for policymakers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Janine Shout Ramothwa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Language’s centrality in technology, or the expression of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through language, should be evaluated to consider whether the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies in banking can be harnessed for equity or whether they risk perpetuating digital divides. A subset of Human Language Technologies (HLT) and Virtual Assistants (VAs) are conversational applications that use machine learning – the use of computers to draw patterns and inferences from large sets of data to provide human-like interactions to customers or users of the software on mobile apps or websites. While assertions that 4IR and its proponents (AI, machine learning, robotics) will have positive and radical impacts, it is crucial to question whether the Virtual Assistants (VAs) used in financial technologies (Fintech) will enable financial access by bridging language barriers rather than risking current forms of exclusion, disparity, and digital gaps. The aim of this paper is to evaluate whether the expression of language in Fintech can be harnessed to promote equity or worsen the digital divide. This is foregrounded by a Critical Discourse Analysis theory to highlight how language manifests in Fintech. Employing an interpretive qualitative methodology, data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus groups to unearth rich, contextual insights. Thematic analysis was used to unravel imaginaries surrounding VAs and to extract meaningful patterns. This paper demonstrates that, while great in theory, accommodating the rich diversity of languages spoken in South Africa often runs counter to the pressures of the market in practice. Therefore, this study looks to catalyse policy development that will ensure that HLTs, like VAs, incorporate indigenous languages. This can be achieved by subsidising the development of Free and Open-Source solutions for use in the financial sector. These policies and solutions can be developed in collaboration with local communities, who can provide valuable feedback on their experiences with VAs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sanele Khakhu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Incorporation of Shikomori to Improve ICT Comprehension, Access, and Uptake by Comorian Communities
Despite the transformative potential of ICT, the exclusion of Shikomori from digital platforms significantly undermines digital inclusion in the Comoros. This paper explores the incorporation of Shikomori, the indigenous language of the Comoros Islands, into Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to improve understanding, accessibility, and uptake within Comorian communities. Linguistic differences are acknowledged as a significant impediment to the adoption of ICT. It is posited in this discourse that by leveraging the familiarity and cultural relevance of Shikomori, the digital divide may be bridged and inclusive technological advancement fostered. In the Comorian context, the digital divide refers to the gap between not only urban and rural populations but also young and old users’ access to affordable and reliable internet and digital technologies, as compounded by limited digital skills and infrastructure. Digital transformation, on the other hand, focuses on expanding digital access and services, such as e-government platforms and quality internet networks to overcome this divide and foster socio-economic development. This study examines the development and implementation of Shikomori-localised ICT solutions in four key sectors; namely, tourism, administrative documents, education, and national telecommunications. In the tourism sector, the study examines the development of multilingual mobile applications that provide tourist information and navigation in Shikomori, thereby improving accessibility for local guides and community-based tourism initiatives. In the context of administrative documentation, it explores the digitisation of forms and documents in Shikomori with the objective of enhancing bureaucratic processes and fostering greater citizen engagement. In the field of education, the analysis of educational software and online resources in Shikomori is undertaken with a view to enhancing students' comprehension and knowledge retention. Moreover, the study investigates the implementation of Shikomori voice interfaces and text messaging services in national telecommunications to improve accessibility for individuals with limited literacy or fluency in official languages. The study integrates a linguistic-cultural relevance framework, postulating Shikomori integration as essential for achieving inclusive digital transformation with methodologies including linguistic analysis, user-centered design, and participatory development to ensure the solutions' effectiveness and cultural appropriateness. The findings emphasise the significant potential of Shikomori integration to democratise access to ICT, promote digital literacy, and empower Comorian communities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Issa Goba Roukiyat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the Impact of Centralised Translation Memory in OmegaT Translation Software
The role of Information Communication Technology (ICT) is crucial in language development. As the technological era evolves, it is important for the language space to keep up with current trends. Computer Assisted Translation (CAT) tools are still inadequately designed for African indigenous languages, which hinders their precision, usage, and digital participation, ultimately perpetuating linguistic disparities. Using a corpus-based translation approach, the study aims to explore the impact of centralised translation memory in OmegaT translation software, specifically in the Xitsonga language. CAT applications are used to enhance, accelerate, enrich, and deepen language skills. A qualitative research approach was adopted which comprised desktop research of secondary materials. A comparative analysis was used for analysing data as it involves a direct comparison that methodically examines the OmegaT translation memories and translated documents to identify their similarities and differences. Inconsistencies were noted in the terminologies used by different translators due to the absence of centralisation of translation memories and glossaries. The lack of translation equivalents in the standardised terminology list indicates that the terms have not been included for development; it is essential to welcome new words into the corpus and offer definitions for these terms to support the evolution of language and terminology. Centralised translation memory could lead to reduced translation time and quicker turnaround for translation projects. It is recommended that OmegaT should include a sharing feature or a repository for storing translated terms, and this should be facilitated by Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, as they carry the mandate.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hlamalani Dollence Baloyi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Use of Vernacular on Social Media for Citizen-Based Monitoring of Municipal Service Delivery in South Africa
In South Africa, citizens are increasingly using social media to monitor and report failures in municipal service delivery. While Citizen-Based Monitoring (CBM) is gaining traction in public sector reforms, its application through social media remains informal, fragmented, and largely unrecognised by municipal authorities. A notable feature of these practices is the use of African indigenous languages, allowing citizens to articulate grievances authentically within their cultural contexts. Guided by Digital Public Sphere theories and the Uses and Gratifications Theory, this study examines how citizens employ digital platforms - particularly through vernacular expression - to participate in public deliberation, seek accountability and fulfil information, expressive, and community-oriented needs. Using a qualitative design, the research combines content analysis of vernacular posts from municipalities with strong social media presences and in-depth interviews with government officials, community-based organisations (CBOs), and community radio representatives. The findings show that indigenous language use amplifies marginalised voices, enhances accessibility, and fosters communal legitimacy around service delivery grievances. However, municipalities often lack the linguistic capacity, digital tools, and institutional frameworks to monitor or respond effectively to vernacular complaints. Meanwhile, community radio and CBOs play intermediary roles without formal support. The study contributes to digital governance, language justice, and participatory democracy scholarship by proposing a framework to formalise vernacular CBM. Key recommendations include developing multilingual digital engagement strategies, formally partnering with community media, and investing in African-language natural language processing (NLP) tools. Recognising vernacular citizen monitoring practices offers a pathway to more inclusive, responsive, and linguistically representative local governance aligned with South Africa’s democratic ideals.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lesedi Senamele Matlala https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is vital for promoting economic participation and growth. However, the prevalence of English as the main language of ICT presents a significant hurdle for many individuals, especially in Africa, hindering their full involvement in the digital economy. Language is essential for understanding and interaction, and as industries increasingly move to digital platforms, integrating South African indigenous languages into ICT has become necessary for wider participation. Despite extensive research emphasising the need to incorporate African languages into ICT, highlighting key advantages and challenges, a considerable gap remains in examining practical approaches for implementation and a focus on a country perspective with South Africa as one of the examples. This qualitative study aims to explore the reasons behind the slow uptake of South African indigenous languages in ICT and suggest potential strategies for their integration. Data was gathered through a desktop review. The findings reveal a strong demand for incorporating African languages into ICT; however, there is limited investment to support this initiative. The study also highlights issues with language translation, as many African languages lack support from commonly used translation tools, underscoring the need for greater involvement from South African indigenous language speakers in the development and application of these tools. Additionally, the motivation to embrace South African indigenous languages is often insufficient, as many South African language speakers may not fully appreciate the value of their languages due to the longstanding prevalence of English in global communication. The research suggests that highlighting the significance of these languages, enhancing their perceived worth, employing South African indigenous language speakers for ICT development, and securing increased investment are crucial steps for successful integration.
Copyright (c) 2026 Busisiwe Thabisa Sibizo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Introduction to the Special Issue ‘African Languages in the Digital Age’
The rapid pace of digital expansion across Africa has sparked important questions about the future of African indigenous languages. These questions serve as an entry point for deeper reflection, critical inquiry, and strategic thinking about the role these languages should play in public life, education, knowledge production, and technological innovation. Despite being central to the cultural identities and everyday practices of millions of speakers across the continent, African indigenous languages remain at a margin in the digital epoch. Nonetheless, viewed positively, this epoch has a strong potential of gradually opening new spaces in which these languages can be used, developed, refined, revitilised, and preserved. This special issue titled, “African Languages in the Digital Age”, is an attempt to discuss how digital technologies are transforming indigenous African languages ecologies, and how these languages provide platform for the digital landscape to be challenged and reshaped. It brings together interdisciplinary scholarship that critically investigates the link between language, technology, and issues of participation, transformation, use, and access. The issue covers peer-reviewed articles that touch on the following themes:
Copyright (c) 2026 Sizwe Zwelakhe Dlamini https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Opportunities, Benefits, and Challenges of Using Artificial Intelligence in the Teaching and Learning of IsiXhosa Poetry
IsiXhosa poetry holds significant potential for cultivating critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. However, its pedagogical implementation is often hindered by reliance on rote learning and lecture-based instruction, which restricts the higher-order cognitive engagement required for interpreting poetry. Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) provides a useful framework for analysing this pedagogical tension by viewing teaching and learning as mediated activity systems involving subjects (students and educators), tools (instructional technologies), rules, community, and division of labour. Guided by CHAT, this study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) can function as a mediating tool within the isiXhosa poetry learning activity system, identifying its opportunities, benefits, and contradictions. A systematic literature review synthesised global scholarship on AI in education, higher education, and language education to identify AI tools that could be integrated into isiXhosa poetry pedagogy. Studies were analysed through the lens of CHAT to evaluate the transformative potential and systemic tensions arising from AI adoption. The study provides a framework for selecting and integrating AI tools in isiXhosa poetry instruction, and it offers evidence-based recommendations for educators and policymakers to support the responsible adoption of AI in African-language literature education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lukhanyo Elvis Makhenyane, Nozuko Zukiswa Gxekwa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Fourth Industrial Revolution and Women in Zimbabwe
The world of work is undergoing a revolutionary change which has brought forth technological advancements, artificial intelligence (AI) and the use of ‘big data’. There has been a lot of debates regarding the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and how it will be received in developing countries especially in Africa. However very little attention is being given to how women fit into this process. This paper provides a nuanced analysis of the opportunities, threats and challenges posed by the 4IR for women in Zimbabwe. This paper will give an analysis that is specific to Zimbabwean women and how they fit into the 4IR. Automation in productive sectors is placing women’s employment at risk, as they are largely found in low-skill professions. It can be noted that in specific female-dominated industries, technology will reduce jobs. Achieving optimum gender equality is still far from being reached as women are constantly marginalized in Zimbabwe, hence the other misgiving in is that the 4IR, like the previous revolutions, will further entrench gender inequalities. This is based on the observation that most women are unlikely to benefit from technological advances, as they do not possess the skills to compete in the emerging knowledge economy. At the same time they are likely to experience the same improvements in the quality of life as everyone else. The paper’s main research question is what are the threats and opportunities that the 4IR brings to Zimbabwean women. This question will be answered through the use of qualitative research methodology. This study will also provide various recommendations on how to make the 4IR conducive for women in Zimbabwe so that they fit into the process without facing challenges.
Copyright (c) 2023 Valerie Rumbidzai Jeche https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Special Issue - Digitalisation and governance, legislative oversight, and service delivery in Africa
African governments remain seized with the permanent goal of achieving development and a better standard of living for their citizens. Government is responsible for formulating public policies that address societal issues and delivering much needed basic services such as water, sanitation, electricity and waste removal, all of which are crucial to the affirmation of human dignity and facilitating an acceptable standard of living. The delivery of basic services is also crucial to creating an enabling environment for local economic development because businesses need such services to function and continue executing economic activities in a given subnational jurisdiction. Moreover, governments can enable economic development through sound development planning, policymaking, resource allocation, implementation, and the monitoring, review and evaluation of the performance of such plans and policies vis-à-vis their goals of economic stimulation. The process of digitalisation as a product of the Third and Fourth Industrial Revolutions presents important opportunities for governments to improve the efficiency of their processes and systems and drive socio-economic change.
Copyright (c) 2024 Bhaso Ndzendze https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Great Decoupling: China, America and the Struggle for Technological Supremacy
In 12 substantive chapters, the author provides a comprehensive diagnosis of the state of play of the relationship between China and the US, up to the Trump-Xi period. The book’s thesis is that the two countries, the largest in the world across a number of measures (most importantly economic and military) are headed for an inevitable divergence, fuelled by misunderstanding, misalignment, and competing ambitions. This, of course, is nothing new and has been the subject of many academic and journalistic commentaries. But where Inkster stands out is in his focus on technology, an artefact important to every civilisation, and one which becomes a motivation and a weapon for integration or divergence. The book’s title gives a clue as to which camp Inkster falls within. This is no mere new cold war, he argues (though much of his argument fits squarely with much of that burgeoning and increasingly attention-worthy literature). That analogy misses a lot that is different in the US-PRC formation compared to its US-USSR example. It is more akin to the UK-German pre-WWI and US-Japan pre-Pearl Harbour situations; add to that the fuel of the narrative of the century of humiliation, authoritarian rule, and ingenuity and you have a highly motivated government and society in China.
Information and Communication Systems (ICTs) have widely affected the world of governance which has led to a growth in e-governance in African countries. Public institutions have slowly adapted ICTs in order to achieve new levels of efficiency and more effective means of service delivery. These technologies continue to strengthen not only communication with society, but also further fosters the accountability and transparency of governments and government officials. A common dispute against ICTs in Africa is based on the knowledge that some African countries have a questionable ICT readiness due to weak infrastructure. For instance, Frans and Pather (2021:1) elaborate on the costliness of data in a country like South Africa which has easily led to numerous households having minimal access to the internet. Furthermore, due to high levels of poverty and rural areas in some African countries, many people do not have access to smartphones, nevertheless data or internet connection. However, in this time, the Covid-19 pandemic has accentuated the need to be 'in the know' for many people, which has thus led to a high demand for ICTs in countries (Frans and Pather, 2021:1). With the assistance and utilisation of secondary sources, this paper aims to highlight the benefits that come with incorporating ICTs in government as a mechanism to foster a relationship between government and its people. Through the consideration and incorporation of governance principles such as accountability, transparency, decision-making and participation, this paper will elaborate on how these principles can be achieved in African countries through the use of ICTs in governance. This research will further observe the following countries as case studies: Ghana, Rwanda, Egypt, Kenya and South Africa. The study analyses these countries’ approaches in incorporating ICT and how it has benefitted them and will further benefit them. It will explore various aspects that determine a country's ICT readiness whilst further considering the risks, limitations and benefits that an incorporation of ICTs in governance brings. Keywords: ICTs, Technology, Governance, Governments
Copyright (c) 2024 Noluthando Mncwango, Thando Mncwango https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Multiple authors have come to view Africa as a victim of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), a continent which has not been able to take part as one of the driving forces of this technological advancement. This is more so true when considering the state of the African continent during the first, second and third industrial revolutions where Africa's role had been of a more minimal nature. This assumption is however not true when considering how multiple countries in Africa have embraced and entrenched technology into the daily operations of their government institutions during the 4IR. Furthermore, it can be identified that the introduction of the 4IR has only led to an increase in the efficiency and effectiveness of African governments and their institutions in the act of service delivery. This illustrates that not only is the African continent ready for this revolution but that it has also been able to take advantage of it. This paper aims to illustrate the growing potential of digitalisation and e-government in African states. It will do this by providing an observation of the development that technology has fostered better service delivery using five African states as case studies, namely South Africa, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda and Tunisia. It aims to analyse the transformations that have taken place from the periods of 2000 to 2022 whether they be an increase in the overall quality of the services provided, or a reduction in time required for the execution of those said services. The paper uses secondary sources as a mechanism to analyse the impact that the introduction of technology has had on government systems in the five African countries. The main focus will be on the ministries of home affairs, finance, education, transport and health and how the incorporation of technology into these departments and departments that are of similar interests in the other countries has assisted in the improvement of the effectiveness of service delivery of these departments.
Copyright (c) 2024 Thando Mncwango, Noluthando Mncwango https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Empowering Societal Digital Transformation at the Local Level
Digital transformation has revolutionised the way businesses operate through the utilisation of technology. Digital tools enable citizens to access government services quickly and at their own convenience, whilst also facilitating more efficient and effective administrative processes. While many national governments have embraced digital tools, the same cannot be said for local governments, particularly in developing nations as they have not yet taken advantage of the benefits of digitalisation. Whereas some experiences of digital transformation have a top-down approach, this paper shares the experience of a collaborative and participatory process of design and development of a Digital Strategy for Pemba Town Council, in rural Zambia. The aim was to enhance service delivery to its citizens by harnessing the potential of digital tools for a five-year period (2022-2026). Pemba Council faced challenges due to a lack of basic Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure and ICT-enabled systems. Guided by Andrew’s (1971) model of strategy formulation and implementation, and employing an action research methodology, the study engaged the local community and the council through focused group discussions and key informant interviews to understand their challenges, explore solutions to improve service delivery, and finally to develop a digital strategy for the council, the first of its kind. The study noted that while digitalisation for the council could be hampered by challenges such as the digital divide, digital literacy, infrastructure challenges, lack of human resources, among others, both the council and community stakeholders displayed enthusiasm for the process. The study underscores the crucial role citizens play in shaping local decisions, and therefore the need for their engagement in such processes that affect how they engage with local authorities. The paper also presents a guide on how to engage citizens and government officials to develop a participatory digital strategy that is adapted to local needs, infrastructure and context. The study not only contributes to scholarship on digitalisation and its potential to improve service delivery, but is also useful for local governments operating in similar contexts as Pemba Town Council and seeking digitalisation.
Copyright (c) 2024 Kabaso Kabwe, Channel Zhou, Luiza Jardim, Ekaterine Surguladze https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Usability of e-Government as a Mechanism to Enhance Public Service Delivery in the South African Government
In the digital age, the electronic government has emerged as a transformative mechanism for ameliorating service delivery, promoting transparency, and promoting citizen participation. South Africa is rich in diversity and evolving in its socio-economic landscape, and it encounters unique difficulties in providing services to the society. The difficulties in service delivery are an important difficulty for the Government of South Africa because this problem spreads from local to national governments. Consequently, these often lead to countless issues, including protests concerning service delivery that usually result in property losses. Therefore, the introduction of e-government serves as a tool to foster efficient and effective service delivery. The purpose of this paper was to identify current barriers, successes, and areas for amelioration in the execution of digital government in South Africa. Therefore, the main focus was on the use of electronic government as a tool to ameliorate service delivery in South Africa. This paper identified the several current difficulties and successes of digital government practices across South Africa to seek preventive and corrective measures to ensure that the usage of e-government can be efficient and effective in delivering public services. The researcher employed a qualitative methodology and relied heavily on secondary data to generate a rich grasp and knowledge of the lessons learned from e-government practices in South Africa. The outcomes of this paper indicated that South Africa has made significant progress in implementing digital government initiatives. Although successful digital government initiatives are being implemented in South Africa, problems such as digital divisions, ICT personnel shortages, limited digital literacy, resistance to technological innovation and infrastructure limitations continue to exist. If these barriers and difficulties are not addressed adequately, the future of the South African digital government is at risk, and the implementation of electronic government initiatives to foster effective service delivery will be a mere dream.
Copyright (c) 2024 Simon Matome Nkgapele https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Understanding Digital Rights in An Era of Digital Politics in Africa
As more African countries connect their citizens to the Internet and other digital technologies in a bid to improve services, questions are being asked about the protection of human rights for nationals online. The wake of the COVID-19 pandemic forced many countries on the continent to search for alternative ways to provide services. Varying national shutdowns also impacted democratic processes like elections and accompanying actions such as voter registration and campaigning. This paper aims to assess the trends and challenges around the implementation of digital rights and propose the way forward for scholars and practitioners promoting digital rights. Data was collected using desktop research to identify and assess common themes and differences across the continent. The results show that as technologies continue evolving at a fast pace, it is fundamental for African governments to reassess and adapt their laws to maintain and protect the rights of their citizens online.
Copyright (c) 2024 Maxwell Maseko https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effects of Digital Technologies on Africa’s Electoral Democracy
This paper uses a South African case study to closely examine how the recent explosion of digital technologies has impacted electoral democracy in Africa. It seeks to answer a key research question about the risks and benefits of using technology in elections on the continent. Although South Africa has not adopted e-voting, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) piloted the use of thousands of new voter management devices in the 2021 local government election. At the time, the IEC also said it had delivered its ‘most technologically advanced election’ yet. Despite embracing some of the technological changes, the IEC argues that it is not yet cost-effective to introduce new voting technology in South Africa. There is strong evidence from other African countries too suggesting that the constitutionality and feasibility of electronic voting devices is questionable. The integrity of elections can also be doubtful if the process is not inclusive of the population. Aside from a thorough literature review, this paper analysed a combination of official IEC statements and reports on technology and e-voting in South Africa, including public pronouncements on the use of digital technologies on the African continent. Insights from this work will benefit election officials, policymakers, scholars, and others interested in the advancement of research in this growing field of study.
Unveiling the Hidden Power of Water Services Development Plans
South African Water Services Authorities (WSAs) have been grappling with the challenge of providing sustainable water and sanitation services which is a product of the sector’s inadequate planning and practices systems. Consequently, many communities which are the end-users endure inadequate access to sustainable water and sanitation services. Thus, establishing effective planning mechanisms becomes crucial to ensure the provision of adequate and sustainable water and sanitation services, and this is the central problem of analysis and prescription for this paper. Notably, the paper recommends an already existing systems approach to local governance that takes advantage of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to drive the modernisation of water and sanitation planning processes which are the Municipal Strategic Self-Assessment (MuSSA) and the Water Services Development Plan (WSDP). Through an emic perspective, systematic search of literature, and document analysis, this paper examines the 2022 MuSSA reports of Western Cape and Gauteng, to identify the challenges faced by the provinces. The findings reveal deficiencies in the Western Cape's investment in asset renewal, infrastructure management, reduction of non-revenue water, and adherence to national standards. Similarly, Gauteng requires comprehensive reforms to address financial instability, asset management, and regulatory compliance. The paper also examines the progress of WSDP development in the 2022-2027 cycle, specifically focusing on the 2022-2023 financial cycle to assess WSAs' compliance. Results indicate that, of 25 WSAs in the Western Cape, only 10 have initiated WSDP development, while 15 lag behind. In Gauteng, only 2 of 9 WSAs have begun the process. Notably, both provinces are behind schedule, having been expected to initiate WSDP development in 2022. The findings of this paper, give an invaluable snippet of the water services planning mechanisms at the local government to ensure proper monitoring and adequate intervention at a local level whilst ensuring the streamlining of resource allocation and recommends that the national government reflects on its shortcomings of ensuring legislative compliance by local government.
Copyright (c) 2024 Luvuyo Jalisa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
“Women, Gender, and Financial Inclusion”
Much of the institutions that form part of governing structures in African countries reflect gendered perspectives of notions such as freedom and development, thus resulting in a skewed perspective on the development of a country. African women often play second fiddle in matters such as redress, redistribution, and financial inclusion. There is a need to ask why and how this can be remedied through policy transformation and implementation.
Copyright (c) 2023 Tinuade A. Ojo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
On the Failed State, Artificial Arguments, and Artificial Intelligence
The narrative of a failed South African state has gained currency among some prominent prophets of Armageddon as well as shadowy influencers who have penned an assortment of articles and editorials in this regard. The idea is propounded as a certainty at the high tea gatherings of lightly shaded Afro-pessimists, oppositionists, and patrons of local barber shops. Transitory moments and anecdotal realities are theatrically played out to fit a propensity towards tabloid absurdity. When violent crimes are televised live, when we witness extended hours of load-shedding, we as the elite pursue all avenues to avoid assuming responsibility for some of the current excesses of capitalism and governance failures. Instead, our common refrain is that the state has failed. There is another emergent plot point in this narrative which we do not address here, namely that of the national political scene moving from Ramaphoria to Ramaphobia (when I told a colleague four years ago that we should guard against sliding into Ramaphobia, she/he found this really objectionable).
Copyright (c) 2023 Busani Ngcaweni https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Digitalising Public Administration for Sustainable Development
Since their independence from colonial rules in the late 1950s and early 1960s, most countries in African continent have been sleepwalking in developmental realm due to a myriad of human security threats including internal conflicts, military dictatorships, public sector corruption and generational poverty among others. Consequently, the continent, in sharp contrast to others, failed to achieve some of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) set by the comity of nations at the turn of the 21st century. As all the African states pledged unwavering commitment to achieving other sets of global goals—the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set in 2015, —concerns over their actual capacity to achieve them by the target year (2030) are being raised. This is because they not only epitomise most of the challenges being confronted but also lag far behind in the global race for digitalisation, precipitated by 21st century digital revolution and widely regarded as an essential driver in governments efforts towards achieving national objectives. Using desk review of secondary data, this paper examines the instrumentality of digital technologies to the achievement of sustainable development in Africa, with specific reference to Nigeria. The SDGs serve as the basis for the analysis while system theory, emancipatory realism and Digital Era Governance model among other scholarly and expert perspectives provide reasoned lines of explanation. The paper concludes that digital technology is an indispensable mechanism to the achievement of sustainable development. It recommends that while curbing corruption and insecurity are considered Nigeria’s developmental priority, digital technologies should be used to accelerate their achievement and other lofty ideals.
Copyright (c) 2023 Dr A. G. Umar Kari, Ismail H. Mshelia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Various scholars in the global north have explored information disorders and have been able to present findings on them and their implications on various sectors; unfortunately, this has not always been the case for the global South. This desktop study explores information disorders in South Africa during the July 2021 unrest in Gauteng and KwaZulu Natal between the 7-19 July. This paper demonstrates that information disorders on social media have been used as a catalyst for unrest; they are used to mobilize both those online and offline. This work shows how politicians and influential individuals used these disorders to facilitate and instigate civil unrest during July 2021. This work argues that people in political office and influential individuals should be aware of the responsibility of being influential and the consequences of their social media posts. The work further argues that despite various ways to counter these information disorders, the digital divide and literacy rate in South Africa make this challenging.
Copyright (c) 2023 Vhonani Petla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Using Blockchain Technology to Curb Voter Fraud in Nigeria
Blockchain is gradually changing the way in which data is stored, accessed and processed. Could this help Nigeria to achieve free, fair and credible elections? This study discusses how blockchain technology could be used in that country’s electoral processes – specifically, how it could prevent electoral fraud by providing a secure and transparent way of storing and accessing voting data. It reviews existing literature on the subject, and analyses current and potential applications of blockchain technology in ensuring electoral integrity. The study does not focus on the computational aspects of blockchain, but on its potential to curb electoral fraud in Nigeria. It also discusses the potential benefits and challenges of implementing blockchain technology in electoral systems in Nigeria, examines the various policy considerations and potential solutions, provides actionable recommendations, and suggests areas where blockchain could be effectively integrated into Nigeria’s current electoral system.
Copyright (c) 2023 Nelson Isibor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Value creation in the 4IR is customer-centric, interactive and hyper-personalised. Real-time consumer brand experiences, interactions and relations can be transformed into quantifiable data that can be monitored and tracked (‘datafication’). This study theorises that platform ecosystems, including millennials, converge on digital multisided platforms (MSPs), which are sociotechnical constructs that foment and generate significant value for platform owners and users. As value creation has risen as a digital economy business imperative, and a subject for academic research, the importance of millennials to brands warrants further investigation. This study aims to show how the interplay of social relations between millennials and brands, along with technology, are used to create value from the millennials’ perspective. To this end, it uses a consumer-dominant logic to explain and predict novel connections between key value creation constructs by millennial prosumers, including sole-creation, co-creation, collaboration, value destruction, value depreciation and value co-destruction. It presents three propositions that reimagine fit-for-purpose brands as interoperable constructs which exhibit complementarity, as well as the social dynamics of millennial interaction on digital MSPs. Findings indicate a cyclical value-interdependent relational system between millennials and brands, where millennial interaction leads to the creation or destruction of value. It also demonstrates how brands and platform owners can collaborate with millennials as an important and technologically savvy generation to co-create, capture and communicate value on digital MSPs.
Copyright (c) 2023 Caroline Azionya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Education, ICT, Teleconferencing, Networking and E-Learning
This paper seeks to examine Education, ICT, Teleconferencing, Networking And E-Learning with a specific focus on of Zimbabwe. The paper was based on qualitative research techniques. Challenges faced by women in their business in Zimbabwe were closure of business, exposure to rape, violence and robbery, financial losses, drop in their revenue, reduced remittances, reduced demand of goods and services, obstacles in logistics and shipping of products, challenges of acquiring raw materials, reduced worker productivity as well as technological challenges in the form of (limited e-banking and teleconferencing opportunities, huge data costs and lack of required technology. In terms of the effects of e-learning to women and girls in accessing education in Zimbabwe it was realised that, girls and women enjoyed benefits such as to exposure to online learning, reduced walking distances, exposure to educational opportunities such as scholarships. However, there were also adverse effects and these were limited access to online learning, lack of smartphones, lack of data, non- inclusive education, reduced long distance – learning via WhatsApp exposure to uncensored online material which exposed girls to online sexual predators. Policy recommendation wise, it was suggested that there is need for increased government funding towards ICT at all levels as well as prioritisation of all marginalised women.
Copyright (c) 2023 Freeman Munisi Mateko, Bernard Chingwanangwana https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Preparing African youths for the future of work
This study explores the far-reaching changes in the world of work due to the emergence of the digital economy against a background of rising income inequality, concerns about job losses and high levels of unemployment, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, More specifically, it explores the issue of how African governments and other stakeholders are preparing young people for the future of work. It comprises a case study of Rwanda. Data was collected from documents and in-depth semi-structured interviews, and analysed with MaxQDA. Rwanda has sought to become a knowledge economy, and has therefore developed a comprehensive policy framework and several programmes for equipping young people with digital skills. There are also more than 20 incubators and hubs fostering digital start-ups in Kigali. Several international organisations have started training programmes to support of the Rwandan government’s vision. The study finds that digitalisation could help to resolve sub-Saharan Africa’s employment problems through freelancing, labour outsourcing, and start-ups. However, there is a need for deliberate policies and programmes to prepare young people for the future of work. Rwanda is doing well in this regard, and other SSA countries should evaluate its model.
Copyright (c) 2023 Adio-Adet Tichafara Dinika https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
TecHedonism as metaverse in the future of Nigerian netizens’ sociopolitics
The hedonistic claim that the ultimate human motivation is the quest for pleasure and the avoidance of pain has been fundamental to philosophical discourses on human actions through different epochs. This reflects the fact that both pleasure and pain are central to existential realities. However, the contrasting nature of these phenomena reflects the need for coping mechanisms to overcome pain in order to attain pleasure. Therefore, this study applies the analytical method of critical discourse to explore Nigerian netizenship by creating a historical sociopolitical engagement through the comedy genre of entertainment. The study thus traces the transitions through different technological evolutions in the entertainment industry while positing that the Metaverse is the future of the sociopolitics of Nigerian netizens as a safer option for digital activism and for engaging in socioeconomic interactions.
Copyright (c) 2023 Philip Ademola Olayoku https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Armed drones and international humanitarian law
The militarisation of Artificial Intelligence Diplomacy has resulted in the development of heavy weapons that are more powerful than traditional weaponry, fail to distinguish between civilians and combatants, and cause unnecessary suffering. Superpowers and middle powers have made significant investments in digital technologies, resulting in the production of digital weapons that violate international humanitarian law and human rights standards, and complicate the achievement of global peace. Armed drones and militarised robots cause unnecessary pain and suffering to helpless civilians. These weapons have been used to combat terrorism, but, surprisingly, have not addressed issues of terrorism that affect post-Cold War international relations. As a result, the use of armed drones is causing more harm than is necessary to achieve the objective of war. There is a call for international artificial intelligence (AI) governance, as well as a need to understand the effects and serious threats that armed drones pose to international humanitarian law (IHL), as well as to peace processes in international relations and global cooperation. Scholars, policy-makers, human rights activists and peace practitioners should participate more actively in debates about the military application of AI diplomacy, in order to develop effective AI diplomacy rules and regulations. This serves to mitigate the risks and threats associated with armed drones on IHL and international human rights standards, which are the foundations of the post-modern world.
Copyright (c) 2023 Eric Blanco Niyitunga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The use of social media by three political parties during South Africa’s 2014 general election
Since the first democratic election in South Africa in 1994, electoral campaigns have changed significantly, largely due to social media, which now play a vital role in influencing voters throughout the world. This study examines the social media campaigns of three major South African political parties, namely the African National Congress (ANC), the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), prior to the 2014 general election. Data comprised interviews with members of Parliament (MPs) of all three parties, and an analysis of their Facebook pages, Twitter feeds and YouTube channels. The study finds that, while all three parties made active use of social media, the full potential of this form of communication was not exploited, as they continued to disseminate traditional political messages instead of interacting actively with voters.
Copyright (c) 2023 Samuel Umoh Uwem https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Law and Industry 4.0: Selected Perspectives on a New Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
The articles in the book, Law and Industry 4.0: Selected Perspective on a New Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (edited book by Mzukisi Njotini and Letlhokwa Mpedi) address the disruption that is currently experienced in the education sphere, especially for legal students, educators, and practitioners, due to the proliferation of the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and information communication technologies (ICTs).
Copyright (c) 2023 Edmund Terem Ugar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0