https://journals.rcmss.com/index.php/jggsda en-US Journal of Good Governance and Sustainable Development in Africa https://journals.rcmss.com/index.php/jggsda/article/view/1262 <p><em>Chieftaincy disputes in the Fako Division of Cameroon, particularly in Muyuka Sub-Division, have become a recurring issue, rooted in succession conflicts and legitimacy concerns within traditional governance structures. This study examines the effectiveness of existing resolution mechanisms and proposes strategies to harmonize traditional and modern governance practices. Using Conflict Transformation Theory and Legitimacy Theory, the research explores how conflicts may drive governance reforms and highlights the role of perceived legitimacy in sustaining traditional authority. A qualitative case study approach was applied, with data collected through in-depth interviews involving traditional leaders, community members, and government officials in Muyuka. Thematic analysis revealed that chieftaincy disputes are frequently exacerbated by unclear succession rules, the overlap of traditional and modern governance frameworks, and external political influences. Findings indicate that while traditional councils and government interventions attempt to resolve disputes, both systems face challenges in enforcement and cultural alignment. The study recommends an integrated approach, enhancing the resources and mediation skills of traditional councils, fostering collaboration between traditional and state institutions, and establishing codified succession guidelines. Regular public forums are also suggested to enhance transparency, community buy-in, and social stability.</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> Tambe Thomas Tabot Copyright (c) 2025 Tambe Thomas Tabot 2025-08-16 2025-08-16 9 2 1 21 https://journals.rcmss.com/index.php/jggsda/article/view/1267 <p><em>This study investigates the impact of family disputes on child care in polygynous households in Kamwenge District, Uganda, focusing on two key dimensions: domestic violence and socio-cultural factors. Polygynous family structures, while culturally entrenched, often present challenges for child welfare, including unequal caregiving, resource allocation, and psychosocial development. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 270 respondents through structured questionnaires and interviews, achieving a 90% response rate, indicative of strong engagement and relevance of the topic. Quantitative findings reveal that domestic violence significantly undermines children’s well-being, leading to emotional insecurity, neglect, and reduced parental attention, while socio-cultural factors, including community tolerance of polygyny, gender norms, and victim-blaming attitudes, limit reporting and perpetuate unequal treatment. Domestic violence was perceived as having a slightly stronger negative impact than socio-cultural factors, though both dimensions jointly influence child development. Qualitative insights highlight how competition among co-wives, patriarchal decision-making, and cultural acceptance of polygyny exacerbate household conflicts and resource disparities, further affecting children’s access to education, health services, and emotional support. The study recommends targeted interventions such as counseling, community sensitization, and child protection programs that address both immediate household conflicts and long-standing socio-cultural norms. By providing context-specific evidence, this research contributes to understanding the complex interplay between family disputes and child care in polygynous households and offers practical guidance for policymakers, local authorities, and NGOs seeking to improve child welfare in culturally sensitive ways.</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> Abeera Odetha Katuramu Copyright (c) 2025 Abeera Odetha Katuramu 2025-08-21 2025-08-21 9 2 22 37