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Clinical, hematological, and biochemical characteristics as well as treatments administered and predictors of survival in covid-19 patients hospitalized at selected central hospitals in Malawi : a retrospective study.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science in One Health Laboratory Diagnostic Sciences.COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). It can present as asymptomatic, mild, or severe pneumonia, with the latter exhibiting signs of multiorgan dysfunction and contributing to millions of deaths. Limited predictive laboratory markers for identifying COVID-19 severity across populations, including Malawi, delays timely intervention. Hence, this study assessed the clinical, hematological and biochemical characteristics, as well as administered treatments, and predictors of survival in COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Malawi. The study employed a retrospective design of 367 COVID-19 patients hospitalized between 2020 and 2022 at Mzuzu, Queen Elizabeth, and Zomba Central Hospitals. The data was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26. Numerical variables were checked for normality by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and compared between survivors and nonsurvivors by Mann–Whitney U-test. Categorical variables were compared by either Chi-square test
or Fisher’s exact test where applicable. Univariate and multivariate regression were conducted to ascertain parameters associated with survival during hospitalization. Statistical significance was defined as p< 0.05 for all tests. Of the 367 cases, 59.1% were survivors, with a median age of 44 years, and 40.9% were non-survivors, with a median age of 50.5 years. The majority (51.5%) were males. Overall prevalence of comorbidities was 51.2%, that included HIV (22.9%), hypertension (20.4%), and diabetes mellitus (15.8%). Predominant signs and symptoms were cough (83.1%), dyspnea (78.2%), fever (70.8%), and headache (60.2%). Hematological characteristics displayed elevated leukocytes, neutrophils, and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in non-survivors. Biochemical characteristics indicated high median levels of γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Markedly high levels of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), γ-GT, ALP, LDH, urea, and creatinine (Cr) were in non-survivors. Treatments administered included antibiotics, glucocorticoids, oxygen therapy, enoxaparin, omeprazole, vitamins, zinc, and nevirapine. Non-survival was associated with old age, low oxygen saturation, increased levels of ALT, Cr, LDH, and low albumin alongside hydroxychloroquine use. Thus, the findings suggest that COVID-19 patients who are elderly and present with high levels of ALT, LDH, and creatinine, as well as low albumin and oxygen saturation at the time of admission, should be prioritized for timely and appropriate intervention
Assessing the uptake of digital financial service (DFS) by micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in cross border trading in Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science in Operations, Project and Supply Chain Management.The purpose of the study was to investigate the uptake levels of Digital Financial Service (DFS) and its enhancement on operations of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in Zambia. The study’s presentation, analysis, and conclusion were based on three hundred (300) respondents which included two hundred and ninety one (291) registered MSMEs found in Lusaka that carry out cross-border trading, 1 (one) response from Financial Regulator (Bank of Zambia), six (6) responses from registered Commercial Banks and two (02) responses from Mobile Network Operators (Airtel and MTN Zambia) in Zambia. The data was analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The study revealed that 71.3% MSMEs interviewed acknowledged that Digital Financial Service (DFS) is important and facilitates effectiveness in conducting business and those that had access to DFS have had a good experience with the digital platforms. However, only 35% of the interviewed MSMEs were utilizing DFS in conducting their business across borders. Majority of the MSMEs are lagging in adopting digital financial services (DFS) due to lack of awareness of the innovative lending options and digital financial platforms that may enhance the operations of their businesses and improve their business performances. The study further revealed that there are barriers/challenges that limit the MSMEs in utilizing digital financial Services (DFS). These include, lack of knowledge of the many advancements that have been in the Digital Financial Service (DFS) sector, high transaction costs, deliberate government policy targeting
MSMEs in cross border trading and security concerns, Despite the sensitization that the Service providers of DFS are advancing, the channels of communication being used on product information which is mostly institution website is not accessed by the MSMSEs in cross border trading. The study recommends enhanced information dissemination to cross border traders by DFS would enhance the uptake of DFS by MSMEs. The study also revealed that most of the service providers do not have targeted policies for MSMEs, as most of their policies are blanket type that cover a wide base of clients despite their different needs. This observation was also extended to the DFS regulator (Bank of Zambia) which lacked targeted policies on MSMEs. Deliberate capacity building in digital skills and digital entrepreneurship for MSMEs to be done by DFS providers and other relevant stakeholders. In conclusion, the study revealed the there is low uptake of DFS by MSMEs resulting in inefficiencies in the operation(s) of MSMEs in cross boarder trading
Microbial quality of spices sold in open air markets in Lusaka district.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science in One Health Food Safety.Spices refer to dried parts of plants used in food to enhance flavor, add color and make food more acceptable. As a result spices are widely used in the food industry where they may carry a large number of bacteria and mold that could contaminate the food. The objective of this study was to establish the presence and levels of microbial contamination in spices sold in open air markets in Lusaka District. The spice samples were collected randomly from various markets and subjected to bacterial quantification followed by culture, isolation and identification of bacteria and fungi. Thirty nine (39) different types of spices were identified. Almost all the samples had a total bacteria plate count of colony forming units (cfu/g) above 1 x 105. The total coliform count ranged between 1.0 x 102 and 5.0 x 106 cfu/g while the highest E. coli count was 3x104.cfu/g. For Staphylococcus, the range was between 1.0 x 102 and 1.5 x 106.cfu/g while some spices and spice blends had coliforms without detecting E. coli. The predominant bacteria were Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus species while the molds included Mucor genera and Aspergillus species. Some of the organisms identified like Salmonella, Listeria, Staphylococcus, E. coli, Bacillus, Mucor and Aspergillus are of concern as they may be implicated in life threatening invasive
infections especially in immune compromised individuals. This study determined that spices and spice blends have a high microbial load depicting a
microbiological problem. Under favourable conditions, these microorganisms may become vegetative and multiply to infective and toxic levels thereby resulting in illnesses. It is therefore recommended that regular checks must be conducted for microbiological contaminants through surveillance so that control along the supply chain can be enhanced beginning from the import entry points
An investigation into the implementation of electronic records management systems in government ministries in Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master’s degree of Library and Information Science.The study investigated the implementation of Electronic Records Management Systems (ERMS) in government Ministries in Zambia. A survey research design was used combining both quantitative and qualitative research techniques. The objectives of the study were to; establish the extent to which government ministries were implementing Electronic Records Management Systems (ERMS), determine the knowledge levels of registry and IT staff on ERMS, establish the factors hindering ministries from implementation of ERMS in Ministries and ascertain whether there is a policy framework for the implementation of ERMS. The sample size was 118 comprising of 30 key informants and 88 respondents (registry clerks and officers). Both purposive and random sampling methods was used to draw the above stated sample. Interms of data collection, a questionnaire and interview guide were used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data from key informants and respondents. The quantitative data was analysed using a specialized statistical software called Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS V26) while the analysis of qualitative data was done using thematic analysis approach. Findings of the study have shown that, the government ministries in Zambia have not implemented ERMS as confirmed by 76% of respondents. Most of the respondents (63%) are of the view that they are not knowledgeable about ERMS this was confirmed by key
informants who also indicated that their knowledge on ERMS was inadequate. The findings have also shown that there is no comprehensive policy framework as indicated by 82% of respondents to guide the implementation of ERMS in government ministries. The major factors hindering ERMS implementation government ministries include, financial constraints, equipment limitations and the absence of a comprehensive policy framework and lack of knowledge among staff on ERMS as was the case in other countries such as Kenya and Tanzania. Based on the findings, the study recommended that government should develop a clear policy framework, allocate sufficient funds, and implementing an extensive staff training
program to enhance ERMS implementation in Zambia
The role of the army in advancing national development : an in-depth analysis of the Zambia Army’s contributions to infrastructure, healthcare, education, and civilian projects.
Get PDFThesis of Masters of Defence and Security Studies.The study explores the multifaceted role of the Zambia Army in national development, with a focus on its contributions to infrastructure development, healthcare services, education, and other civilian-related projects. Traditionally seen as a security institution, the Zambia Army has expanded its scope to include socio-economic development activities, addressing critical gaps in underserved communities. This study utilized a qualitative research approach underpinned by the interpretivism paradigm. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including Zambia Army personnel, government officials, and project beneficiaries, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that the Zambia Army significantly contributes to infrastructure development, particularly in rural and remote areas, by constructing roads, bridges, and housing units that enhance connectivity and economic integration. In
healthcare, the Army plays a critical role in providing medical services through military hospitals, mobile clinics, and emergency epidemic responses, such as during the cholera and COVID-19 outbreaks. Furthermore, the Army’s involvement in education includes managing schools and vocational training programs that improve literacy and address skills gaps in Zambia’s workforce. These initiatives align with Zambia’s Eighth National Development Plan (2022–2026), which emphasizes inclusive and sustainable development. The study states examples such as, the Zambia Army having established military-led vocational training programs and secondary schools in underserved areas, thus, improving education. Further, Military-run technical institutions teach engineering, mechanics, and agriculture to civilians. Additionally, it was revealed that, Defence education strategies prepare military personnel for civilian careers and improve the national workforce. The study further shows through secondary sources that military-run schools enhance academic performance and character development by offering disciplined and structured learning settings. The findings show evidence that in marginalised populations, military schools have increased literacy and access to quality education. However, challenges such as resource constraints, limited inter-agency coordination, and the absence of comprehensive monitoring frameworks impede the Army’s ability to maximize its developmental impact. The study highlights the need for stronger collaboration between the Army and civilian institutions, enhanced policy integration, and increased resource allocation to sustain and scale its contributions. Drawing insights from international best practices, the study concludes that the Zambia Army possesses significant untapped potential to drive sustainable
development, particularly in addressing infrastructure deficits, healthcare disparities, and educational challenges. This research contributes to the growing discourse on military involvement in national development, offering practical recommendations for optimizing the Zambia Army’s developmental role. Future research could further explore the long-term socio economic impacts of military-led development initiatives
Growth and mortality of buka fish, lates stappersii (boulenger, 1914) in the southern part of lake Tanganyika, Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science in Tropical Ecology and Biodiversity.Population growth parameters and mortality rates of Lates stappersii were investigated for the southeast and southwest arms of Lake Tanganyika, Zambia from April, 2022 to August, 2022. Exploitation ratio was studied. Furthermore, water quality parameters were investigated. Fish samples were procured from purse-seine fishers in Mpulungu and Nsumbu sectors of the lake. A total of 1,526 specimens with 642 females and 884 males for both sites were collected, examined and analyzed. The von Bertalaffy growth model was used to determine fish growth. The FordWalford plots were used to estimate the von Bertalanffy growth parameters (Asymptotic length , and growth coefficient, ). Exploitation ratios (E) were computed from estimated mortality rates (total mortality coefficient, Z; natural mortality coefficient, M and fishing mortality coefficient, F). To test for statistically
significant differences, T-test analysis was used. It was established that there was no significant difference in growth parameters between samples collected from Mpulungu and Nsumbu areas of Lake Tanganyika. No statistical differences were observed in two of the water quality parameters;
dissolved oxygen and temperature between the two areas. There was a difference in water transparency between the two areas. It was Further observed that fishing mortalities and exploitation ratios were consistently high and not significantly different between the two areas. The study therefore, established that both areas are inhabited by the same population of Lates. stappersii. From these results it is recommended that a fishery management strategy should not redistribute or focus on increasing fishing units in Nsumbu area to those in Mpulungu because this will not
result in corresponding catch yields but will only increase the current overexploitation of the stock
Assessment of geotechnical considerations for ground control and stability at Nkana Synclinorium copper mine Mopani Plc, Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Engineering in Rock MechanicsNkana Synclinorium Mine is in the Southern part of the Nkana mining license area in Kitwe. The mine has been an underground operation since 1930 when the first shaft was sunk at Central Shaft. Vertical Crater Retreat (CVR) and Sub-Level Curving (SLC) are the main copper ore mining methods used at the mine. Due to increase in mine depth by 137m, from 3510ft to 3960ft (1.070 to 1.207km), mining operations have been encountering geotechnical challenges related to ground control and ground stability. This study applied Empirical methods (Barton’s Q system, 1974, Bieniawski (1973) classification and Hoek, 1994) for rock mass classification. Scanline mapping of geological structures was done to identify joints, bedding planes, schistosity and folds. The mapping was carried out along the crosscuts or tunnel walls at a 1.50m grade line elevation with geological features being picked along a stretched 100m tape. Borehole cores were examined for geological formations, grain size, colour, joints, and RQD. The assessment of rock reinforcement and surface support elements like cable bolts and shotcreting were done by using pull tests and uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) tests. Pull Testing was done in selected mine excavations to provide a quantitative measure of the relative performance of different anchor systems and compressive strength tests on concrete cubes were used to assess the quality and strength of the material used in shotcreting underground. Collection of survey data for over-break and under-break in tunnels mined underground was done by the author with the assistance of mine surveyors. The Theodolite was the major instrument used. Numerical modelling using MAP3D and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) softwares was used to assess ground stability around underground excavations. Evaluation of design systems for ground support and pillars was carried out with the reviewing of current design flow charts in comparison with design charts from literature for other mines around the world. Results of study indicate that the rock mass ratings (RMRs) for the samples of Basal Quartzite (BQ), Foot Wall Conglomerate (FCON), South Orebody Shale (SOBS) and Hanging Wall Argillite (HWA) rock formations compared well with Barton’s Q system RMR ranges except for Foot Wall Sandstone (FSAN) which was out of range. All pull tests conducted at 3 sites had an average failure rate of 22.3% while compressive tests gave a high failure rate of 83.3%. Numerical analysis using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software indicate more stresses and displacement around the excavation before rock bolt support, and less stresses and displacement after rock bolts are installed around the same excavation. Over-break and under-break data did not show any correlation with mined linear meters of the tunnels. Geological factors like jointing, weathering and shearing as well as drill-and-blast challenges were attributed to over-break and under-break. In conclusion, folds and joints are major factors affecting ground and stability at Synclinorium mine, and the geotechnical database has insufficient data. The confidence of the current geotechnical database at Synclinorium mine needs to be improved through more data collection. Design excavation and ground support designs need to be improved and matched with the real situation underground. The key issues affecting drill-and-blast like varying powder factors in the shots, lack of pragmatic consideration of geological and geotechnical information in the design, and diligent adherence to the blast designs need to be addressed
Maximum likelihood estimation of parameters of truncated and censored gamma and exponential distributions using the expectation maximisation algorithm.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science in Statistics.This study aimed to determine the maximum likelihood (ML) estimates for the Gamma and Exponential distributions under conditions of left-truncated and right-censored data, employing the Expectation-Maximisation (EM) algorithm. Additionally, it sought to compare the performance of the EM algorithm with two alternative estimation techniques, namely the Newton-Raphson (NR) algorithm and the Stochastic Expectation-Maximisation (SEM) algorithm. Simulated left-truncated and right-censored data were generated from the Exponential and Gamma distributions. Performance comparisons among the algorithms were conducted based on simulations involving varying degrees of censoring, truncation, and sample sizes, utilizing metrics such as mean square error (MSE), bias, Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). The validation of AIC and BIC was assessed under both candidate models (Gamma and Exponential distributions) using the EM algorithm. All computations were performed using R-4.3 version. The EM algorithm consistently yielded estimates with low bias under moderate levels of censoring and truncation, indicating its accuracy in estimation. Comparison of the EM algorithm with the NR and SEM algorithms revealed similar estimates for larger sample
sizes. In terms of convergence speed, both the EM and NR algorithms converged faster than the SEM algorithm. Moreover, as the sample size increased, bias and MSE decreased for all three algorithms. Furthermore, the EM algorithm demonstrated superior performance in terms of MSE, bias,
AIC, BIC, and convergence speed. However, in scenarios with high levels of censoring and truncation, all three algorithms encountered difficulties in accurately estimating parameters due to data loss. Ultimately, the findings of this study are anticipated to advance statistical methodology and
enhance the accuracy of parameter estimation techniques for censored and truncated data scenarios.
Key words : Truncation, censoring, left-truncated, right-censored, maximum likelihood esitimation, expectation maximisation algorithm, stochastic expectation algorithm, NewtonRaphson algorithm, likelihood function, simulations, Gamma and Exponential distribution
Evaluating the effectiveness of touch DNA method for criminal investigations in Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Science in Molecular Biology.Touch DNA (trace DNA) is a forensic method for analysing DNA left at a scene of a crime such as shed skin cells and other biological material transferred from a donor to an object or a person during physical contact. This method of identification was pioneered by the British geneticist, Sir Alec John Jeffreys, who observed the similarities and distinguishing characteristics of DNA within a family in his lab in Leicester. The Zambian justice system has been making decisions to convict or exonerate crime suspects basing decisions on circumstantial evidence from either witnesses or confessions from the suspects after interrogation. This study aimed at establishing the potential application of touch DNA in criminal investigations in Zambia using established Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) from thirteen loci. DNA was extracted from twenty-one mobile phones which served to simulate crime scenes and twenty-one buccal swabs from participants which served as reference samples. DNA extraction was done using automated Qiacube Connect device, quantification was done using Rotor-Gene Q (Real-time PCR) followed by PCR-amplification while amplicons were sequenced by the Sanger dideoxy- chain-termination method in an AB 3500 xL Genetic Analyser. Of the twenty-one simulated casework samples, nineteen successful profiles were fully generated, while twenty DNA profiles from twenty-one simulated reference samples were successfully generated. A comparison of the results from simulated casework and reference samples established that touch DNA method could indeed be applied in forensic investigation in Zambia. The findings of this study support the suggestion that touch DNA could be incorporated in criminal investigations and could be used to link suspects to crime scenes in the country
Business accelerator interventions and MSME growth in Lusaka, Zambia.
Get PDFThesis of Master of Business Administration Management StrategyThe Zambian government and numerous stakeholders have been at the forefront of creating a conducive climate for MSMEs to thrive by implementing various programs and policies. Despite these interventions, the failure rate of MSMEs is alarmingly high and currently stands at 50% (Chilembo 2021). Business accelerator programs aim to improve the survival and success rate of MSMEs and consequently reduce the failure rate of MSMEs in the country. They have increased in number and popularity in the past 5 years. Considering that MSMEs are a key vehicle to national social-economic development, this study sought to assess the the influence of accelerator programs to the growth of the ventures they support. This study employed a mixed methods approach to
identify the support provided by business accelerators to MSMEs in Zambia, which type of support MSME’s found most valuable and to investigate the relationship between accelerator programs and MSME growth. The sample consisted of 5 Business accelerator firms and 50 MSMEs from
Lusaka. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used as instruments for data collection. The data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and presented in tables, bar charts and bar graphs. Some data was thematically and qualitatively analyzed. The study established that accelerator programs had a positive relationship to MSME growth. The findings indicated that the accelerator programs offered MSMEs interventions including capital, mentorship, training and networking. The study also concluded that training is the most beneficial intervention received by participants in acceleration programs. The study recommends need for increased capital funding for business start-ups and for purposes of expanding already established businesses. There is also
need to expand the training of new entrepreneurs in order to equip them with relevant skills that would enable them manage their businesses better, and steer their businesses in the right direction