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Analysing the communication strategies the government is using in implementing the re-entry policy in Zambia’s education system : a case study of Chongwe district.
Full text linkThesis of Master’s degree of Communication for Development (MCD).Zambia's Re-entry Policy was introduced in 1997 to allow girls who become pregnant to return to school after giving birth. The policy's goal is to prevent young mothers from being excluded from education and to prevent girls from dropping out of school after giving birth. Despite the policy
being introduced 27 years ago, many young girls have continued to drop out of school due to challenges encountered in their pursuit for education. The purpose of this study is to analyse the communication strategies the Government of the Republic of Zambia is using in implementing the Re-entry Policy in Chongwe district of Lusaka Province. This study used the qualitative approach to analyse the communication strategies the government
is using to implement the Re-entry Policy in Zambia’s education system. Purposive and random sampling were both used in this study to help the researcher rely on her own judgement when identifying and selecting the individuals, cases, or events that can provide the best information to
achieve the study’s objectives. In this study, the sample consisted of three (3) Head Teachers, three (3) Guidance and Counselling Teachers, three (3) Teachers, three (3) teen mothers and three (3) parents or guardians of the teen mothers. The sample also consisted of twenty (20) pupils of which ten (10) were girls and the other ten (10) were boys. The total number of participants in the study was thirty-five (35) participants all picked from the selected five Primary and Secondary schools in Chongwe district and from the community. The findings indicate that the Government had not employed specific communication strategies targeting the implementation of the re-entry policy in the country. The findings were also clear on
the fact that despite the introduction of the Re-entry Policy, there were no clear messages delivered through appropriate platforms tailored for diverse audiences on the Re-entry Policy. On the part of the Guidance and Counselling Teachers, the findings indicate that most teachers were not getting
proper guidance from the Ministry of Health concerning means and ways of communicating the policy to the pupils. This study recommends that the Government, through the Ministry of Education should embark on awareness raising activities on the Re-entry Policy using Television, Radio, Newspapers, and various Social Media Platforms
An analysis of the effectiveness of the inventory management and control system in councils: a case study of Nchelenge town council.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science in Operations, Projects and Supply Chain Management.This study examines the effectiveness of the inventory management and control system at Nchelenge Town Council, focusing on its operational efficacy, challenges, and potential improvements. The research is driven by the need to address significant issues such as data inaccuracies, stockouts, and demand forecasting difficulties, which have hindered the council's ability to efficiently manage its inventory and ensure consistent service delivery. The primary objective is to assess the current inventory management system, evaluate its effectiveness through key performance indicators (KPIs) such as accuracy rates, order fulfillment times, costeffectiveness, and stockout rates, and propose actionable recommendations to enhance its functionality. Employing a qualitative research design, the study utilizes semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) with 24 key personnel from various departments within the council. These data collection methods provide in-depth insights into the strategic and operational dimensions of the inventory management system. Thematic analysis is employed to identify recurring patterns and themes, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the system's strengths and weaknesses. The findings reveal that while the council has implemented a robust infrastructure with advanced technological tools such as inventory tracking software, barcode scanners, and RFID tags, significant challenges persist. Data inaccuracies and forecasting difficulties are identified as major impediments to the system's effectiveness, leading to operational inefficiencies and service disruptions. However, the study also highlights successful strategies such as Just-In-Time Ordering and Cycle Counting, which have proven effective in reducing excess stock and improving inventory accuracy. Based on the findings, the study recommends several measures to enhance the inventory management system at Nchelenge Town Council. These include the implementation of stringent data validation protocols, the adoption of advanced demand forecasting models, seamless system integration, continuous staff training and development, and the exploration of IoT and RFID technologies for real-time inventory tracking. These recommendations aim to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and responsiveness of the council's inventory management practices, ultimately leading to better service delivery and resource utilization. The implications of this study extend beyond Nchelenge Town Council, offering valuable insights for other local government councils facing similar challenges. By adopting the proposed strategies and leveraging technological advancements, councils can significantly enhance their inventory management systems, reduce operational costs, and improve their capacity to meet community needs effectively.
Keywords: Inventory Management, Local Government, Data Accuracy, Demand Forecasting, Just-In-Time, IoT, RFID
Effectiveness of strategies utilised by financial institutions in addressing the financing needs of women entrepreneurs: case study of in Lusaka district of Zambia.
Full text linkThesis of Masters of Business Administration in Finance.By supporting women with access to finance, would create a transformative social and economic impact on women with their families and society at large. The empowering of women creates opportunities for the families because, they place a higher priority on spending on food, health, education of children and their family’s wellbeing. In Zambian women entrepreneurs own more than one-third of the country’s small businesses and more than 40% of its microenterprises. However, despite their pivotal role in the Zambian economy the lack of (or inadequate) access to tailor-made financial products and non-financial services offered by financial services providers is an important factor constraining women, particularly from low-income countries, from investing and earning more and ultimately having more resources at their disposal. This study investigates the financial strategic measures implemented by financial institutions in Lusaka Zambia to support the financial needs of women entrepreneurs. The study’s objectives specifically explored the availability of financial products, assess the level of literacy and comprehension of financial products available for women entrepreneurs. It also focuses on examining the factors associated with access to finance among women entrepreneurs. Therefore a mixed-methods approach was employed, with a quantitative survey conducted among 202 women entrepreneurs and qualitative insights gathered through thematic analysis of institutional strategies from 15 key informants that were done at ABSA Bank, Stanbic Bank and Unify financial institution. However the findings reveal significant gaps in the financial products offered to women entrepreneurs, with most respondents reporting limited access to tailored financial products. Furthermore, a large proportion of participants indicated that, they had limited awareness of targeted outreach programs designed
for women entrepreneurs. However, the study also highlights systemic barriers, despite the growth of women-led enterprises in Zambia, access to tailored financial services remains a critical barrier including high collateral requirements and lack of financial literacy, which hinder access to
financial services for women. The chi-square (χ2) test results established the following factors to be associated with access to finance among women education (p> 0.05), sensitization on financial education (p> 0.05), time period of loan debasement (p> 0.001), application for the loan (p> 0.001).
Furthermore, recommendation among the participants in the study, 69.80% indicated that they would want to be provided with financial education to improve their business. About 11.39% indicated that they need access to finances with low interest rates to help boost their businesses. Among the participants 18.32% indicated that they would need value addition funds to improve their quality of the products. The study concludes that there is an urgent need for financial institutions to innovate products tailored to women entrepreneurs, increase the accessibility of financial services, and enhance awareness of available programs. Policy reforms that are inclusive in targeted interventions are recommended to address the systemic barriers and improve the financial access for women entrepreneurs in Lusaka. Furthermore, providing financial education services would help women entrepreneurs to improve their business and understand the market dynamics.
Keywords: Women Entrepreneurs, Financial Literacy, Access to Finance, Financial Products, Business Growt
Climate financing and planning nexus, a case of eastern province.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science degree in Spatial Planning.Climate change poses significant challenges to sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in countries like Zambia that are heavily reliant on natural resources. As Zambia scales up its climate response, Climate finance is a crucial climate change mitigation and adaptation element that can help achieve its development agenda and meet its obligations under the UNFCCC. This study examined the nexus between climate financing and planning in Eastern Province, Zambia, highlighting gaps in aligning climate financing with local strategic planning. A mixed-methods approach was employed, with data collected through key informant interviews and questionnaires from 51 respondents, including planners and policymakers. The study used Census sampling, which involved selecting planner in all local authorities across eastern province. This method was used to ensure accuracy and inclusivity of results because the population size was small. Convenient/purposive sampling was applied for qualitative data collection from key informants. Data analysis involved descriptive analysis for quantitative data and thematic analysis and verbatims for qualitative insights. Findings reveal a limited integration between climate financing options and local planning, suggesting a fragmented approach where climate financing is acknowledged but not systematically embedded within local planning. Limitations are attributed to centralized systems and lack of alignment with
national priorities. Other challenges include limited awareness and technical expertise among planners regarding certain multilateral and bilateral funding options, restricting access to climate finance, Institutional barriers, including complex application processes and existing literature, highlights that rigid, top-down financial structures limit local access to climate funds, hindering effective adaptation and mitigation efforts ((Adenle et al., 2017;
Dasandara et al., 2023; Funder and Dupuy, 2022; Gombera, 2023; Mungai et al., 2022; Price, 2021b). Strengthening capacity-building initiatives, simplifying financial processes, ensuring policy coherence, and promoting participatory planning at the grassroots level will improve financial accessibility and support sustainable development in eastern and Zambia at large.
Key words: Climate Finance, Climate Financing options, Planning, Nexus, Climate Chang
The role of Africans in the establishment and growth of the Seventh-day Adventist church in Zambia’s Luapula province from 1921 to 2021.
Full text linkThesis of Doctor of Philosophy in Religious StudiesThis qualitative study examined the contribution of Africans to the growth and development of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Luapula Province, Zambia, over the period 1921 2021. The study documented the church’s history, explored the role of local Adventists, identified challenges faced, and extracted valuable lessons for future church growth. The study targeted Adventist Church leaders and members in Luapula Province’s districts. It used purposive and snowball sampling to select 57 participants. Data collection methods included interviews, focus group discussions, document analysis, and field observation. The study revealed that the SDA Church first established its presence in Luapula in September 1921 at Chimpempe near Kawambwa. In 1926, the Chimpempe mission station became the headquarters for the North-Eastern Rhodesia Mission Field, overseeing SDA churches in present day Luapula, Northern, Muchinga, and parts of Eastern Province (Mwami Mission and Chipata). This arrangement went on until 1943 when the Mission Field was absorbed into the Northern Rhodesia Field. In 1964, when Zambia gained independence, the Northern Rhodesia Field was renamed the Zambia Field. In July 1972, the Zambia Field was upgraded to a Union Mission, and divided into three mission fields: South, North, and West Zambia. The North Zambia Field, headquartered in Mansa, covered three provinces: Northern, Luapula, and Copperbelt. In 1988, the territory was reorganized, with Copperbelt Province being removed, leaving the North Zambia Field to cover only Northern and Luapula provinces. In 2006, the North Zambia Field was divided, with Luapula and Northern provinces becoming separate entities. Luapula was then renamed the Luapula Field. In 2016, the Luapula Field was upgraded to a Conference status, and became the Luapula Conference. Since 1972, the Conference has been managed by local Zambians except for a period (1972-1983) when White missionaries held the executive-secretary-treasurer position.
The study found that local converts played a crucial role in establishing and growing the SDA Church in five key areas (Chienge, Luapula Valley, Mansa, Loshi and Chifunabuli. They contributed as lay evangelists, pastors, teacher-evangelists, and literature evangelists, driving the church’s growth through various soul-winning activities. The study also found that local converts faced numerous challenges as they shared their faith in their communities. These challenges included administrative issues such as disputes over office locations, inadequate financial and personnel resources, and the emergence of splinter movements. The study highlighted a number of key positive lessons from the SDA Church’s history in Luapula: Local business leaders played a crucial role in establishing and growing the church. Emphasizing Adventism as God’s true movement was essential. Strict adherence to Christian standards was vital for the church’s growth and development. The study recommends that the SDA Church in Luapula finds a permanent solution to its long-standing issue of self-sustainability, a challenge it has faced since its establishment in 1921. The SDA Church’s three key pillars (self-governance, self-support, and self propagation) are unstable, with self-support being the weakest link. While churches have been growing numerically, the number of pastors to nurture and shepherd the growing numbers, one hundred years later, remains very small
Benthic macroinvertebrates as ecological health indicators in the Luapula basin for potential inter-basin water transfer to the Kafue basin.
Full text linkThesis of the Master of Science Degree in Integrated Water Resources ManagementWater scarcity is a global challenge, affecting sustainable development, human well-being and ecosystem health. In Zambia, the Kafue River Basin, an important economic and ecological resource, faces growing water demand that exceeds its natural supply and supply capacity, leading to resource allocation conflicts. In response, the government is considering inter-basin water transfers from the resource-abundant Luapula River Basin. However, such transfers could pose significant environmental risks to both basins. This study evaluated the ecological health of rivers and streams in the Luapula Basin using benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages and water quality parameters. The Luapula Basin was divided into three hydro-environmental zones using remote sensing techniques. Macroinvertebrate samples were collected from designated sites across these zones, with in situ measurements of physicochemical variables. Laboratory analyses of water samples followed APHA (1998) standards. Similarity Percentage (SIMPER) was used to assess macroinvertebrate compositional heterogeneity, the Zambia Invertebrate Scoring System (ZISS) and Shannon Diversity Index was used to evaluate river health and biodiversity and Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) was employed to determine how altitude and water quality influence macroinvertebrate distribution. Seasonal and zonal variations in biodiversity, stream health and water quality were tested using multivariate and univariate ANOVA, while Pearson correlation analyses explored relationships between biodiversity attributes and health indicators. Pollution-tolerant taxa, such as Decapoda, Odonata, Gastropoda and Hemiptera, dominated the macroinvertebrate community, while sensitive Ephemeroptera families were present seasonally, especially during the wet season. SIMPER analysis indicated spatial differentiation among zones, with dry and wet season dissimilarities of 56.67% and 63.33%, respectively. Most sites were classified as moderately impaired based on ZISS scores, with a few showing major seasonal impairments. MANOVA revealed significant inter-zone differences in biodiversity and health metrics (p < 0.05), driven by ZISS scores (p < 0.05) and taxa richness (p < 0.01). Taxa richness, ZISS scores and Shannon diversity were positively correlated, while evenness correlated negatively. Functional feeding group (FFG) analysis indicated a heterotrophic system dominated by gathering collectors, predators and scrapers, with limited riparian-shredder linkages and a prevalence of polyvoltine prey populations. Water quality showed significant seasonal variations (MANOVA: p < 0.001), with ANOVA identifying turbidity, hardness, calcium, magnesium, chloride, potassium and faecal coliforms as key drivers. The water quality index highlighted iron, turbidity and faecal coliforms as major contaminants, with seasonal improvements varying by zone. CCA linked dry-season macroinvertebrate assemblages to altitude, iron, sodium, chloride, potassium, turbidity, magnesium, and hardness. In contrast, wet-season assemblages were shaped by altitude, faecal coliforms, pH, potassium, conductivity, and dissolved solids. The study concludes that the Luapula Basin experiences moderate ecological impairment, with seasonal water quality fluctuations driven by natural and anthropogenic factors. Planned water transfers risk further ecological degradation, emphasising the need for comprehensive hydrological and ecological assessments to guide sustainable resource management.
Preventing contract termination pitfalls in construction projects: insights from the Ghanaian construction industry.
Full text linkJournal articlePurpose: Premature termination of construction contracts is a recurring problem that causes financial losses, delays, and strained stakeholder relationships. However, there is limited research on the specific causes of contract termination, particularly in Ghana, and practical solutions to prevent it are often overlooked. This study aims to investigate the pitfalls of contract termination in the construction industry and to propose effective prevention strategies based on empirical data. Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative research approach was adopted, employing a combination of purposive and random sampling techniques to gather data from 315 participants representing diverse roles within the construction sector. A structured questionnaire based on contract termination pitfalls was used, and data analysis involved descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques. Findings: The study identified several critical factors influencing contract termination, including prompt payment by clients, adherence to contractual terms, competent supervision, and effective dispute resolution mechanisms. Through factor analysis and SEM, two main constructs emerged: Proactive Contract Management Strategies (PCMS) and Contract Termination Risk Mitigation Measures (CTRMM), each comprising specific indicators crucial for preventing
terminations. Originality/value: This research contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence of contract termination pitfalls and effective prevention strategies within the construction industry. The study‟s multidimensional analysis approach, integrating quantitative techniques with Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), enhances the understanding of complex contractual dynamics and risk management in construction projects. Implications: The findings have practical implications for construction stakeholders, project managers, and policymakers. Implementing proactive contract management
strategies such as clear payment protocols, rigorous quality control, and effective communication channels can significantly reduce contract termination risks. The study underscores the importance of integrating legal frameworks, innovative techniques, and managerial approaches in contract portfolios to enhance contract performance and project success in the construction sector. Keywords Construction Contract Termination, Termination Pitfalls, Prevention Strategies, Risk Management, SE
Evaluation of the factors affecting mobile money operators credit access : a case study of Lusaka central business district.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Business Administration General.Zambia's government prioritizes finance access for economic growth. Mobile Network Operators offer expanded financial services, including credit. Research in Lusaka CBD examines factors influencing MNO credit access. It was a mono quantitative method approach. Sample size comprised 125 MNOs. Simple random sampling with a combination of purposive sampling were used to select respondents. Univariate and bivariate (chi Square statistical test were used) in Statistics Data (STATA) Version 14. The analysis reveals that individuals aged 25-29 and those with secondary or tertiary education are the most proficient users of mobile money services due to their tech-savvy nature and financial literacy. Young adults in the 25-29 age group, known as "digital natives," find mobile money convenient and accessible, embracing cashless transactions. Moreover, those with higher education levels demonstrate a deeper understanding of financial concepts, extending their use of mobile money to activities like savings and accessing microloans, leading to financial empowerment. These insights are crucial for financial industry stakeholders, guiding the design of more inclusive mobile money services and informing initiatives for enhancing financial inclusion. By leveraging these findings, stakeholders can tailor strategies and resources to meet the needs of different user groups. Policymakers can use this information to promote digital literacy and higher education, empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to benefit from mobile money platforms, thereby driving economic growth. The study concludes by making the following recommendations: Enhance digital literacy as one of the tools to expand access to mobile money as mobile money’s effectiveness hinges on age, education, accessibility, and trustability. It further suggests that, the Authority must strengthen security measures and tailor services to meet the needs of different age groups. Suggestions for future study: Conduct longitudinal analysis and comparative studies, explore user experiences through qualitative research, and assess the impact of policy interventions on mobile money adoption and financial
inclusion
The role of the millennium challenge corporation compact project in improving equitable access to domestic water in Mtendere, Lusaka Zambia.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science Degree in Geography.Water is an essential component of life such that its sustainable supply is a global concern. Zambia is one of the developing countries working towards meeting the sustainable development goal number 6 by the year, 2030. The Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact project (MCC) is one of the projects designed towards this goal. The MCC focused on water supply and sanitation infrastructure investment and institutional strengthening in Lusaka, institutions like Lusaka city council and Lusaka water supply and Sanitation Company. This study was conducted to investigate the role of the Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact Project in improving equitable access to domestic water in Mtendere, Lusaka Zambia. Grounded on the principles of constructivism theory, the study applied a mixed method approach with both qualitative and quantitative analysis through the convergent parallel research design. Stratified sampling method was used to select 170 households from section; 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 of Mtendere East targeting household heads or available senior household members aged 18 years and above. Purposive sampling method was used to select four key informants; Area Councilor, 2 Officials from Lusaka water supply and sanitation company Mtendere branch, and 1 Official from Millennium Project Completion Agency. Semi-structured researcher administered questionnaires were used to collect data from respondents in Mtendere East while open – ended interview guides were used to collect data from key informants. Qualitative data collected was analyzed using thematic analysis. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics with the aid of STATA version 14 software and Microsoft Excel. The study found that before the MCC Compact project, the majority of the respondents used borehole water as their source of domestic water. Before the MCC Compact project, most households in Mtendere East hard no water and sanitation infrastructure. The study found that the current domestic tap - water supply in Mtendere East is considerably adequate with a few challenges of intermittent water supply and water shortage caused by inadequate water infrastructure and minor vandalism in some areas. The study also found that people in Mtendere East perceive the MCC Project to be a success, effective albeit with minor challenges such as higher water bills, water shortages and vandalism of water infrastructure. Residents of Mtendere East, except in section 10, have adequate domestic tap - water supply. The MCC Compact project provided and improved water and sanitation infrastructure though some residents still experience water shortage of which they use water sources such as boreholes and shallow wells. The study proposes that LWSC should conduct timely water and sanitation infrastructure maintenance in Mtendere
Impact of quality service delivery challenges on customer satisfaction in the banking industry : a case of Stanbic bank, Zambia.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Business Administration in Finance.Since Zambia's 1991 economic liberalization, there has been notable growth in the retail banking sector. The search for quality is perhaps the most important consumer trend in recent years because consumers are now more demanding than ever. In an era of rapid global change, customers have
diverse options, often relying on brand names for complex financial services. Hence it becomes imperative to delve into the challenges surrounding quality service delivery on customer satisfaction, with a specific case of Stanbic Bank Zambia Limited. Hence, the study explored the impact of the
service quality dimensions on customer satisfaction. The five dimensions of service quality that the researcher concentrated on include; tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, empathy and assurance. A mixed method approach was adopted, combining both quantitative and qualitative techniques. The study involved 340 bank customers that attended a questionnaire and 20 customers and bank staff (Key Informants - KI) who attended in-depth interviews. Data was analyzed using SPSS particularly running the coefficient correlation, regression analysis and ANOVA while using thematic analysis for qualitative data. The study found that the majority (43.8%) of customers were generally satisfied with the services at the bank. However, an aggregate of 171 respondents were either neutral or disagreed with being happy with services provided by the bank. The study also found that tangibility and assurance were the service quality dimensions that highly influenced customer satisfaction perception at Stanbic Bank. Tangibility had a positive influence on customer satisfaction (β=0.153) and a p-value (0.028) less than the selected level of significance (0.05) an indication that the influence of tangibility on customer satisfaction is significant while empathy, reliability, and responsiveness were less influential thus requiring improvement for the bank to effectively achieve greater customer satisfaction. The study concluded that customer satisfaction and loyalty were dependent on the quality of services the bank provided. The service quality dimensions requiring attention included Reliability, Responsiveness, and Empathy for the bank to improve customer satisfaction. The researcher recommends widening the scope to include more districts and banks in future studies