University of Zambia Online Research Repository
Not a member yet
8755 research outputs found
Sort by
A study of the factors influencing bank loan performance in Zambian commercial banks.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Business Administration – Finance.This study investigates the relationship between macroeconomic indicators and the NonPerforming Loan (NPL) Ratio in Zambia over a two-decade period (2003–2022/23). The research was motivated by the persistent challenge of high NPLs in Zambia’s banking sector, which undermines financial stability, restricts credit availability, and stifles economic growth. In analysing data from the Bank of Zambia’s Financial and Other Statistics Booklet and BOZ Annual Reports (2004–2023), the study assesses how key macroeconomic variables including inflation, GDP growth, interest rates, and exchange rate volatility- influence loan performance. Semistructured interviews with six banking experts further explore institutional and borrower-level factors contributing to NPLs. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis disclose that high inflation and exchange rate volatility significantly increase loan defaults, while lower lending rates enhance repayment capacity. Both economic contractions and rapid GDP growth periods correlate
with elevated NPL ratios, which suggests that macroeconomic conditions alone cannot fully explain NPL dynamics. The study also identifies critical non-macroeconomic drivers, such as weak credit monitoring, corruption, and inadequate loan recovery mechanisms. The findings have important implications for policymakers and financial institutions. They highlight the need for a multi-pronged strategy combining macroeconomic stability, tighter regulatory oversight, and institutional reforms to curb NPLs. Recommendations include establishing dedicated loan recovery units, forming asset management corporations, and strengthening credit vetting through a national credit reference bureau. Ultimately, this study emphasizes that sustainable reductions in NPLs require sound economic policies and systemic improvements in governance, risk management, and legal enforcement to ensure long-term financial sector resilience in Zambia
Prevalence and factors associated with malaria amongst under-five children in Senga hill district, Northern province Zambia.
Full text linkThesis of Masters of Science degree in One Health Analytical EpidemiologyMalaria is one of the major public health problems in developing countries like Zambia. Under-five years of age children are the most vulnerable group affected by malaria, accounting for 61% of all malaria deaths worldwide. Despite efforts to reduce the mortality and morbidity, the disease is still a prominent health problem in Senga Hill District. The District is described as a high risk area for malaria in the country. Knowledge of malaria prevalence and associated risk factors among under-five children in the district is insufficient. This study, therefore, was undertaken to assess the prevalence of malaria and associated risk factors amongst Under-Five Children in Senga Hill District, Northern Province, Zambia. Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among under-five children in Senga Hill District from November 2022 to August, 2023. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on hypothesised risk factors from the guardians or parents of children through face to face interview. A Care StartTM Malaria Rapid diagnostic test which can detect histidine-rich protein 2 of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase of P. vivax was used to diagnose malaria. Bivariate analysis was used to determine associations between categorical variables, while for multivariable,
binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of malaria among under-five children in the district. A total of 216 under-five children took part in the study. The overall prevalence of malaria was 31.9%. Correct use of ITNs (OR = 0.089, 95% CL = 0.034, 0.232, p = <0.001), those households that reported IRS had been done (OR = 0.375, 95% CL = 0.178, 0.789, p = 0.010) and those that reported having a single mosquito net (OR = 0.137, 95% CL = 0.141, 0.891, p = 0.003) had significantly reduced odds of underfive children being positive to malaria, than those that had not. Male children had significantly higher odds (OR = 3.035, 95%CL = 1.518, 6.068, p = 0.028) of being malaria positive than females. The local authorities and other concerned bodies should focus on the regular and proper use of ITNs and changing attitudes towards ITNs as malaria prevention and control measures
Challenges to accessibility of emergency medical services among rural residents in the Otse cluster, Mahalapye district, Botswana.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science in Emergency and Trauma Nursing.Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are essential for timely medical intervention and improved patient outcomes, yet access to these services remains limited in rural settings. In Botswana's Otse Cluster, Mahalapye District, rising mortality rates and delayed emergency care highlight potential challenges in EMS accessibility. This study aimed to explore the challenges affecting accessibility to EMS among rural residents in the Otse Cluster to identify factors contributing to service delays and propose potential strategies to improve equitable emergency care delivery. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, using purposive sampling to select participants with relevant knowledge of EMS challenges. Data were collected through ten focus group discussions (FGDs) involving 89 rural residents and five unstructured interviews with healthcare providers serving the Otse Cluster. The sample size was determined by data saturation, ensuring that the information gathered was rich and comprehensive. Data were coded using ATLAS.ti software and analysed thematically. The study findings revealed three main themes: infrastructure and resource constraints, community awareness and education, and strategies to improve EMS accessibility, supported by eight subthemes including staff and supply shortage, poor transport and communication networks and limited public knowledge of EMS. The findings expose systemic and multifaceted barriers to EMS access, suggesting that targeted policy reforms, infrastructure improvements, community engagement, and innovative low-cost EMS solutions are necessary to enhance
emergency healthcare delivery and reduce preventable deaths in Botswana.
Keywords: Emergency Medical Services, rural healthcare, access to care, Otse Cluster, Mahalapye District, Botswana, community perceptions, challenges
The role of training and development in reducing employee turnover: a case study of CCCZ company.
Full text linkArticleCCCZ Company is a private limited company in Zambia founded in 1999. It is the leading poultry products processor in the country. CCCZ Company recognises the need to train and develop its
human capital as it is their greatest investment. It has therefore continued to invest heavily in training its employees with a view to creating a globally competitive and adaptive Human
Resource base to meet the ever-increasing citizen’s demand for quality service delivery. However, employee turnover is increasingly being seen as an organizational threat to its sustainability by
causing talent and knowledge loss thereby increasing hiring and training costs. The objective of the study was to investigate the role of training and development at CCCZ Company and to
assess how the Training and Development strategies have reduced the employee’s turnover at CCCZ Company. This study used both quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods. The
findings were triangulated from the two methods. Logistic regression analysis highlights that satisfaction (OR = 0.000123, p < 0.001) and strategy effectiveness (OR = 0.085, p < 0.001)
significantly reduce turnover, indicating that satisfied employees are highly unlikely to consider leaving. However, the working environment (OR = 4.364, p = 0.044) and inadequate resources
(OR = 191.62, p < 0.001) are strong predictors of turnover, showing that challenging conditions increase turnover risk. Qualitative findings reveal that retention strategies, such as mentorship
programs and flexible work hours, enhance job satisfaction but face challenges due to budget constraints and resistance to change. Overall, while training positively influences retention by
improving satisfaction and engagement, further improvements could strengthen its impact
Experiences of ICU nurses on interprofessional collaboration at Scottish Livingstone hospital, Botswana.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science in Critical Care Nursing.This study explored the experiences of intensive care unit nurses regarding interprofessional collaboration at Scottish Livingstone Hospital in Molepolole, Botswana. Using a descriptive phenomenological design, in-depth interviews were conducted with ten purposively selected Intensive Care Unit nurses. Thematic analysis revealed four key themes: nurses' lived experiences of interprofessional collaboration, facilitators of collaboration, barriers to collaboration, and coping strategies alongside recommendations for improvement. While nurses demonstrated a shared conceptual understanding of collaboration as a team-based, patient-centered approach, they reported being routinely excluded from decision-making processes, experiencing poor communication, and facing professional disrespect from other disciplines. Barriers, including hierarchical power dynamics, communication gaps, and staffing shortages, undermined effective teamwork. However, positive factors such as mutual respect, shared goals, Open Communication Channels, and inclusive ward rounds facilitated collaboration. To cope, nurses relied on emotional resilience, spiritual faith, peer bonding, persistent follow-ups, and documentation of incidents. Participants strongly recommended structured interprofessional education, clearer role definitions, inclusive leadership, and team-building initiatives to improve collaboration. The findings highlight the complex, often strained nature of interprofessional collaboration in resource-limited Intensive Care Units and offer practical insights for improving teamwork, professional relationships, and ultimately, patient care in Botswana.
Keywords: Experience of an ICU nurse, Interprofessional Collaboration, Scottish Livingstone Hospital, ICU Nurses
Prevalence of hypothermia and associated factors among neonates admitted to special care nursery at Raleigh Fitkin Memorial hospital, Manzini, Eswatini.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science in Neonatal Nursing.Neonatal hypothermia is an abnormal thermal state in which the neonate’s body temperature is less than 36.5 ̊ C. It remains a critical concern particularly in resource limited settings, contributing significantly to neonatal morbidity and mortality. While neonatal hypothermia is well documented globally, there is inadequate local data on its prevalence and contributing factors in Eswatini’s healthcare settings. This gap in knowledge limits targeted interventions for addressing hypothermia in the region. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of neonatal hypothermia and its associated factors among neonates admitted to the Special Care Nursery (SCN) of Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital (RFMH) in Eswatini. A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted with 274 participants, consisting of 137 neonates and 137 mothers, admitted to the Special Care Nursery (SCN). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and checklist, as well as through the medical records of the neonates. The body temperatures of the neonates were measured on admission and 24 hours post-admission. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Chi-square tests were applied to assess associations between categorical variables and hypothermia, with Fisher’s exact test used where necessary. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent variables significantly associated with neonatal hypothermia. The prevalence of neonatal hypothermia among the study participants was 69.3%. The analysis revealed several significant associations. Premature infants (28 – <37 weeks gestation) were more likely to be hypothermic compared to full-term infants (≥37 weeks gestation) (AOR = 3.34, p = 0.014). Additionally, delayed
initiation of breastfeeding (beyond the first hour post-delivery) was strongly associated with increased likelihood of hypothermia (AOR = 0.203, p < 0.001). Neonates not born at RFMH also had a higher risk of hypothermia (AOR = 0.096, p = 0.025), as did those with low Apgar scores (<7) (AOR = 0.222, p = 0.017). The study found a high prevalence of neonatal hypothermia (69.3%) in the SCN of Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital, with key factors
including prematurity, delayed breastfeeding initiation, low Apgar scores, and environmental influences. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, such as improved thermal protection, timely breastfeeding, enhanced neonatal care protocols and contributes to the limited local data on hypothermia, informing health policy and efforts to reduce neonatal mortality in Eswatini.
Key words: Prevalence, Neonatal hypothermia, associated facto
Determinants of patient-centred emergency nursing care in primary hospitals at Tutume and North-East districts, Botswana.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science in Emergency and Trauma Nursing.Patient-centred emergency nursing care is a holistic approach to emergency medical services that prioritizes the unique needs and values of each patient. This study assesses the determinants of patient-centred emergency nursing care (ENC) among emergency nurses in primary hospitals in Tutume and North-East districts, Botswana. Primary hospitals, often are the first referral point for patients in rural and semi-rural areas, play a vital role in delivering timely and appropriate ENC. Patient centred ENC is crucial for patient survival rates, morbidity, and overall healthcare outcomes. It involves rapid assessment, prioritizing lifethreatening conditions, coordination with healthcare teams, and addressing emotional, psychological, and social needs. It involves clear explanations, active listening, patient education, pain management, comfort, best practices, reassurance, and advocacy for patient rights. The study employed descriptive cross-sectional design, conducted on a total of 44 emergency nurses from three selected primary hospitals at Tutume and North-East districts, Botswana. Data was collected using a structured pre-tested questionnaire. Data analysis was performed
using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of patient-centred ENC. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results showed that only 77.3% of the respondents achieved in providing patient-centred ENC. Furthermore, the study revealed that 25% of the respondents had adequate knowledge
related to emergency care, only 13.6% of the respondents were aware of the availability of SOPs, and the availability of essential ENC equipment was also observed to be inadequate, with only 59% of essential equipment available at all centres. The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that only age was a significant predictor of patient-centred ENC (AOR: 45.69; 95% CI: 1.71–1222.39; p = 0.023). This study identifies that while a majority of respondents demonstrated competency in achieving the provision of patient-centred ENC, significant gaps in knowledge and awareness of SOPs were observed. Age was identified as a significant predictor of patient-centred ENC, highlighting the need for staff development opportunities, including training and mentorship programs, to improve ENC skills for younger nurses. The study's results highlight the need for healthcare stakeholders to address the knowledge gaps and inadequate infrastructure in primary hospitals at Tutume and North-East districts, Botswana.
Keywords: Emergency Nursing Care; Primary Hospitals; Botswana; Determinants; patientcentred Care
Stress and coping strategies among family members of patients admitted to the intensive care unit at Princess Marina hospital, Gaborone, Botswana.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science in Critical Care Nursing.Admission of a loved one to the Intensive Care Unit is a profoundly stressful experience for family members. The unpredictable nature of critical illness, the unfamiliar environment, and the potential for adverse outcomes contribute to significant psychological distress. Understanding the stress levels and coping mechanisms employed by family members is crucial for providing appropriate support and improving their overall well-being. This study aimed to assess the levels of stress and the coping strategies utilised by family members of patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Princess Marina Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana. A descriptive crosssectional study was conducted at the Intensive Care Unit of Princess Marina Hospital. A census sample of 58 family members of Intensive Care Unit patients was recruited. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire comprised of socio-demographic questions, the Perceived Stress Scale to measure stress levels, and the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory to assess coping strategies. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics to determine the prevalence of different stress levels and coping strategies. Chi-square was used to identify significant predictors of stress. The analysis was conducted at a 95% confidence interval with a significance level of 5%, using SPSS version 27. The study revealed that 79.3% (46/58) of respondents had a high perceived stress level, with a mean PSS score of 28.5 (±7.21). The use of adaptive problem-focused coping strategies was found in 77.6% (45/58) of respondents; while 93.1% (54/58) had adaptive emotion-focused coping strategies, and 79% (46/58) had adaptive avoidant coping strategies. The results showed that only problem-focused coping (p = 0.037) was statistically significantly associated with stress level among respondents, indicating that these factors have an influence on whether
respondents were highly stressed or not. This study highlights the critical need for Intensive Care Unit systems to prioritize family mental health through targeted coping support and systemic reforms. By integrating problem-focused strategies into culturally sensitive care frameworks, healthcare providers in Botswana and similar settings can mitigate the universal stress burden faced by ICU families, fostering resilience in highstakes environments.
Keywords: Intensive Care Unit, Family Stress, Coping Strategies, Botswana, Perceived Stress, Adaptive Coping
Lived experiences of gestalt counselling techniques by students with peer relationship problems at a public university in Kitwe, Zambia: a hermeneutic phenomenological approach.
Full text linkThesis of Doctor of Philosophy in Guidance and Counselling.The study aimed to investigate the benefits of Gestalt counselling techniques in assisting students in addressing peer relationship issues at a public university. Specifically, the study examined the use of the empty chair and body language Gestalt counselling techniques in assisting students with peer relationship challenges, employing a hermeneutic phenomenological approach. An expert purposive sampling method was employed to select
four counsellors and criterion purposive sampling for the sixteen students who had received counselling that utilized the empty chair and body language Gestalt techniques. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and retrospective record reviews and subsequently analysed thematically. The results revealed that the majority of clients reported positive progress and were able to overcome their relationship challenges, while some experienced difficulty in engaging with the techniques. Factors contributing to the benefits of the empty chair technique included counsellor proficiency, the client's ability to employ their imagination, and the client's readiness to participate in the technique. Instances where the technique was less successful often stemmed from clients feeling uncomfortable with the method. The empty chair counselling technique was most employed in cases involving rejection, unresolved relationship challenges, the need for emoting, as well as intra and interpersonal conflicts. More findings showed that body language counselling techniques played a crucial role in the interaction between counsellors and clients, influencing the effectiveness of the counselling process. Positive results indicated that both counsellors and clients benefitted from enhanced communication and gained additional insights beyond verbal expressions, leading to increased awareness. Despite this, some participants experienced challenges and discomfort when the counsellor pointed out their body language. The study recommends that counsellors utilizing the empty chair technique and body language receive comprehensive training to enhance their benefits and ensure a comfortable experience for clients. Moreover, counsellors should incorporate culturally sensitive strategies when utilizing body language to enrich the counselling process.
Keywords Empty chair counselling technique, Gestalt Counselling, student Counselling, peer relationship
What should be taught in the Zambian secondary school history curriculum: perspectives of teachers, curriculum developers and learners in selected schools of Lusaka district.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Education in Curriculum StudiesThe main purpose of this study was to explore what should be taught in the Zambian Secondary School History curriculum content in selected secondary schools in Lusaka district. In this study, the qualitative method was used which employed phenomenology design. Purposive sampling technique was used to sample 64 respondents; 1 history curriculum specialist, 9 teachers of history, 9 heads of history section and 45 pupils. Interview guides and focused group guide were used to collect data. The objectives were; to explore which content knowledge is perceived by learners and teachers as not relevant in the history curriculum of the Zambian secondary school. To establish the content which should be retained and which one should be introduced in the history curriculum of the Zambian secondary school. To examine how to motivate learners’ interest in the study of history in Zambian secondary schools in Lusaka district. Data was analysed using themes. The findings of the study revealed that History should be taught in schools as it cultivates patriotism, develops lifelong skills, and promotes unity in culturally diverse societies like Zambia. Many topics in World History, Southern African History, and Central African History were found to be irrelevant, such as the history of China, Japan, and Italy, and non-Zambian kingdoms. Content that should be maintained and introduced includes Zambian history and
contemporary issues like land use and land disputes in Zambia. It was therefore, recommended that The Ministry of Education should allow learners to specialize in history, with a focus on Zambian history, and then choose either World History or Southern African History. Make history practical and inspiring, with teachers who can make the subject engaging. If the curriculum is maintained without specialization, irrelevant topics should be removed and more Zambian history content should be added. Overall, the research emphasizes the importance of teaching history in schools, particularly Zambian history, and recommends making the subject more engaging and relevant to learners