Research Agenda for Social Policy in Africa

Elgar Research Agendas outline the future of research in a given area. Leading scholars are given the space to explore their subject in provocative ways, and map out the potential directions of travel. They are relevant but also visionary.This forward-thinking Research Agenda identifies gaps and methodological weaknesses within social policy research on sub-Saharan Africa and signposts the key areas and approaches for future research, which are critical for the development of innovative and effective social policies.It explores how scholarly approaches to date have primarily focused on social risks, financial access to healthcare and cash transfers to alleviate poverty. In response, leading scholars, many based in Africa, spotlight neglected areas such as food security, land reform, housing, unequal citizenship, elite ideologies and digital welfare, establishing links with broader academic debates in other disciplines. They highlight the potential of indigenous farming knowledge and its role in participatory rural transformation, as well as adaptive and shock-responsive social protection. Investigating examples across multiple countries within sub-Saharan Africa, chapters underline the crucial importance of innovative ideas and approaches to help vulnerable populations increasingly impacted by climate change, conflicts and disease.A Research Agenda for Social Policy in Africa’s forward-looking approach and critical overview of scholarship and methodological questions make it a vital read for scholars and students of social policy, political science and African studies.