JHIA Africa Thesis Bank
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Analysis of Meteorological Variability and Tendency Over Bilate Basin of Rift Valley Lakes Basins in Ethiopia
No full textClimate change has become a challenge for the globe and impacting various systems. This study evaluated the seasonal
and annual variabilities and trends of rainfall, temperature, and potential evapotranspiration for the period 1985–2019 over
Bilate basin of Rift Valley Lakes basins in Ethiopia. Twenty rain and eleven temperature gauge stations datasets were used.
Coefcient of variation and precipitation concentration indices were used for variability analysis, whereas Mann–Kendall
test and Sen’s slope estimator were used for trend detection and magnitude. The short and main rainy seasons characterized
the basin with a bimodal rainfall pattern. Variability indices revealed dry Bega season with signifcant rainfall variability. In
the dry season, higher relative variability is exhibited in the upstream north and lesser in the downstream south which fips
in the main rainy season. Internal climate variability evaluation with indices showed a weak correlation with the observed
rainfall variabilities for seasons. Inter-annual and seasonal anomalies characterize inconsistent wet and dry years, which
uncertainly impact climate-sensitive rainfed agriculture. The areal weighted average rainfall shows negligible declining trend
(α=0.05) with a magnitude of 2.45 mm/year and 2.60 mm/year for annual and Belg, respectively. The minimum average
temperature was relatively more variable than the maximum average temperature. Most of the stations established warming trends either negligible or signifcant. Potential evapotranspiration exhibited less variability with negligible trends in
the majority of the stations. Therefore, rainfed agricultural practices and water resources use in the basin should adapt with
supplementing measures to respond to uncertain variabilities and minor changes
Relational Implication of Education on Socio-economic Integration of Refugees in Zambia: A Case of Mantapala
No full textDespite many efforts undertaken by governments, non-governmental organisations and
international organisations such as the United Nations (UN) to uplift the lives of refugees,
socio-economic vulnerability and integration of refugees remain a challenge in many host
countries. Zambia, being a signatory to the 1951 UN Convention relating to the status of
refugees, its 1967 Protocol and adhering to the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR), set
up Mantapala refugee settlement in order to allow refugees to co-exist with the local
population, giving them an opportunity to engage in gainful economic activities such as
employment, business and agriculture. Moreover, the 2017 Refugee Act (Part IV, no. 41,
42, 43) granted refugees with formal educational qualifications that are legally recognized
in the country and have work permit, the right to choose a trade, occupation or profession.
Bearing that in mind, this study aimed at assessing the relational implication of education
on socio-economic integration of refugees in Mantapala refugee settlement of Zambia. The
study investigated categories of levels of education among refugees, their economic
activities, employment opportunities and challenges behind educated refugees’ access to
employment. In doing so, the researcher used a cross-sectional research design. By using
questionnaires and interviews, quantitative and qualitative data was obtained and analysed
by the use of SPSS and thematic analysis that in turn helped to establish significant
relationship between the variables that were under investigation. In addition, the African
indigenous philosophical theory of ubuntu; which puts emphasis on solidarity, relationship,
collective responsibility, and inclusivity, served as a lens through which the analysis and
recommendations for policy formulation and implementation were viewed. The results of
the research revealed that, while education played an important role to improving socioeconomic
integration of refugees in Zambia, several factors hampered this process. They
included expensive fees to obtaining work permits and certifying educational
qualifications, limited employment opportunities in the refugee settlement, lack of proper
documents among refugees and indeed, lack of trust for refugees in the labour market. It is
therefore recommended that, to speed up socio-economic integration of refugees,
particularly those with formal education, there is need to reignite the African values of
solidarity, collective responsibility and reduce fees for the acquisition of work permits and
validation of foreign certificates for refugees. The researcher further proposes the
importance of employment based on meritocracy. At the same time, he emphasises the
significance of embracing technology through the use of Digital Educational Qualifications
Data Space (DEQDS) and enhancing research on African indigenous insights in addressing
current challenges such as the refugee crisis
Surface Analysis and Visualization from Multi-Light Image Collections
No full textMulti-Light Image Collections (MLICs) are stacks of photos of a scene acquired with a fixed viewpoint and a varying surface illumination that provides large amounts of visual and geometric information. Over the last decades, a wide variety of methods have been devised to extract information from MLICs and have shown its use in different application domains to support daily activities. In this thesis, we present methods that leverage a MLICs for surface analysis and visualization. First, we provide background information: acquisition setup, light calibration and application areas where MLICs have been successfully used for the research of daily analysis work. Following, we discuss the use of MLIC for surface visualization and analysis and available tools used to support the analysis. Here, we discuss methods that strive to support the direct exploration of the captured MLIC, methods that generate relightable models from MLIC, non-photorealistic visualization methods that rely on MLIC, methods that estimate normal map from MLIC and we point out visualization tools used to do MLIC analysis. In chapter 3 we propose novel benchmark datasets (RealRTI, SynthRTI and SynthPS) that can be used to evaluate algorithms that rely on MLIC and discusses available benchmark for validation of photometric algorithms that can be also used to validate other MLIC-based algorithms. In chapter 4, we evaluate the performance of different photometric stereo algorithms using SynthPS for cultural heritage applications. RealRTI and SynthRTI have been used to evaluate the performance of (Neural)RTI method. Then, in chapter 5, we present a neural network-based RTI method, aka NeuralRTI, a framework for pixel-based encoding and relighting of RTI data. In this method using a simple autoencoder architecture, we show that it is possible to obtain a highly compressed representation that better preserves the original information and provides increased quality of virtual images relighted from novel directions, particularly in the case of challenging glossy materials. Finally, in chapter 6, we present a method for the detection of crack on the surface of paintings from multi-light image acquisitions and that can be used as well on single images and conclude our presentation
Youth Vulnerability to Political Violence in Kenya: The Case of Mathare Youth Militiazation in Electoral Process in Nairobi, (2013-2017)
No full textThe study sought to analyze Youth Vulnerability to Political Violence in Kenya: The Case of Mathare Youth Militiazation in Electoral Process in Nairobi 2013-2017. The research took place across the six wards in Mathare Constituency; Kiamaiko Ward, Mabatini Ward, Mlango Kubwa Ward, Ngei Ward, Hospital Ward and Huruma Ward. The research population was credible since the Constituency experienced political violence during the 2013-2017 electioneering period. Political violence is largely fomented by youth militia groups, who are mobilized from the vulnerable youth cohort. The study adopted descriptive research design. Purposeful sampling and random sampling methods were used in data collection. A sample of 111 respondents were drawn from; youth, civil servants, community based organizations (CBO’s), community leaders, political leaders and the constituents at large.
The study adopted a mixed method approach. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software, while Qualitative data was analyzed from the emerging major themes. This method informed objectivity in research findings, conclusions and recommendations. The research findings revealed that, vulnerable youth remain as agents of political violence, at the behest of political leaders at the grassroots. Subsequently, Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms (ADR) remain largely unutilized in conflict prevention, during the electioneering period.
The study recommends that; there is an urgent need to spur equitable wealth creation, so as to emancipate the many unemployed youth from destitution. Further, a multisector approach is required to curb the existence of youth militia groups
Community Media and Crime Prevention in Nairobi: A Case Study of Pamoja FM in Kibra Informal Settlement
No full textThis study sought to find out the extent to which Community radio (Pamoja FM) contributes to crime prevention in Kibra informal settlement. The study was focused on Pamoja FM and its programming, mostly on peace programs that the radio airs and the effect it is having on the audience (fans from Kibra informal settlement). The study was also keen to find out other ways besides broadcasts the radio has engaged in to prevent vices such as crime in the community. The location of the study was in the five wards in Kibra constituency namely; Lindi, Makina, Woodley/Kenyatta/Golfcourse, Laini Saba and Saran’gombe wards, Nairobi County. The key research problem was on the types and levels of crime in Kibra informal settlement and the role of community radio Pamoja FM in collaboration with other stakeholders on preventing crime or managing their levels. The theoretical framework of the study was premised on the social action theory as postulated by Anderson & Meyer, (1988). Social action theory was found to be more explanatory, practical and normative in the understanding and analysis of the research problem.
The approach of the study was a combination of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The research employed two methods of data collection, namely; Questionnaires and In-depth interviews. As for the quantitative research method, a sample of 71 respondents took part in the study. The sampled respondents’ included fans of Pamoja FM in Kibra informal settlement. With regards to qualitative approach, 14 key informants took part in the study which included Pamoja FM radio staff and key stakeholders that work in collaboration with Pamoja FM who included; assistant chief of Sarang’ombe ward, assistant county commissioner, a religious leader, Youth Initiative group leader and head of the Pamoja FM welfare listener group. The study proved that community radio, in collaboration with key stakeholders in Kibra informal settlement, plays a role in influencing behaviour change with regards to engagement in crime. The study could not conclusively state that levels of crime in Kibra informal settlement has reduced because of Pamoja FM and its educative programs, but from the data collected, there seemed to be some good level of recognition of the role of the radio positively impacting the community. The study contributes to media influence through the social action theory and further explored if it really contributes to attitude and behaviour change. The study further contributes to looking at community radio (Pamoja FM) as a social transformation agent that in collaboration with other key stakeholders, has and continues to inform and educate the community on the consequences of crime and the importance of living in peace
Mobile Banking and Its Effect on the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks: A Case Study of Selected Banks in Narok Town, Kenya
No full textThe purpose of this study was to analyze mobile banking and its effect on the financial performance of commercial banks, a case study of selected banks in Narok town. The study was guided by the following research objectives to: establish the effect of mobile banking withdrawals and deposits on financial performance of banks; establish the effect of mobile banking loans on the financial performance of banks; establish the role of mobile banking fund transfers on the financial performance of banks; evaluate the effect of mobile banking payment of bills on the financial performance of banks. The study adopted descriptive research design where selected banks in Narok town were studied. The population under the study included management team, head of departments and bank staff of selected banks in Narok town. The study was guided by the financial intermediation theory, modern economics theory and the diffusion of innovation theory. Purposive sampling technique was used to select head of departments while simple random sampling technique was used to select bank staff. The primary source of data was through questionnaires. Data analysis was performed through SPSS version. Descriptive statistics was expressed as frequencies and percentages while inferential statistics was presented through regression analysis. Output of the findings was presented in form of tables and figures. The study found out that mobile banking withdrawals and deposits had a positive and significant relationship with financial performance; Mobile loans, mobile fund transfers and mobile payment of bills had a positive and insignificant relationship with financial performance taking into account significance level is 0.05. The study concluded that customers can access efficient and accessible financial services via mobile banking
Satellite Based Exploration of Land-Use Dynamics, Drought Susceptibility, and Land Suitability in Central Highlands of Ethiopia
No full textLand use land cover is dynamically changing in Ethiopia, with far-reaching implications on recurrent droughts and land suitability status. The central highlands in particular are recognized for a unique precipitation pattern, intensive cultivation, periodic droughts, and land degradation. The study intends to use satellites (mainly Landsat) to map land-use dynamics, drought susceptibility, and agricultural suitability and comparative analysis in Basona Werana district
(Woreda). The land use land cover seemed to be dominated by cultivated land with approximately 74.34 percent (3/4th) of the area in 2021. Non-dominant LULC types share the rest 25.66% in the
following percentage. Shrub and Bush (15.37%), Forests (5.2%), Built-up and settlement (2.87%), Wetlands (1.22%), and water bodies, pasture land, and bare land collectively account for 1% of the area. While cultivated land, grassland, shrubland, built-up and settlement areas, and water bodies have had rising land cover change trends over the last 32 years, forests, bare land, and wetlands have witnessed a decreasing trend. The Vegetation Condition Index (VCI) and Normalized Difference Drought Index (NDDI), among other indices, were used to estimate historical and non-temporal droughts respectively. While VCI estimated that extreme drought
conditions affected 30.18%, 7.34%, 22.55%, and 1.77% of the area in 1989, 2000, 2010, and 2021 respectively, NDDI estimated it to be 35.91%, 40.58, 39.23, and 53.87% in those same years. To see the real context of cropland suitability constraints such as elevation, slope, soil type, Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), and river proximity were weighted by various degrees of influence. The result demonstrates 5.35% of the area is highly suitable, 49.9% is moderately suitable, 28.72% is marginally suitable, 13.46% is less suitable and 2.56% is not suitable for agriculture. In this particular study, UAV imagery was particularly useful for ground-truthing satellite-based classification. It does, however, have
inherent limitations when it comes to addressing standardized drought indices and land suitability evaluations. Choosing the path of sustainable development would provide a long-term solution to
Basona Werana's drought susceptibility. In agrarian areas like Ethiopia, LULC and drought conditions must be closely monitored
The Catholic Church and the Zimbabwean Crisis: A Critical Reflection on the Catholic Church’s Response to the Plight of the Oppressed
No full textIn this thesis, I argue that the formation of consciences strategy adopted by the Catholic
bishops of Zimbabwe in response to the political and economic crisis in Zimbabwe has
not been sufficient in helping those who suffer oppression. The approaches of liberation
theology and the capabilities approach of Martha Nussbaum are compatible and can work
together to push Catholic social thought further on the subjects of solidarity and human
dignity. Therefore, there is need for the Catholic Bishops to also concentrate their efforts
on challenging oppressive structures and defending the capabilities of those who are
victims of political and economic oppression through advocacy. I rely on the framework
of Catholic social thought to demonstrate that it is appropriate for the Church to engage
in advocacy to liberate those who are oppressed
United Nations’ Security Stabilizations Intervention Towards Building Peace in the CAR: A Case Study of the PK5 District
No full textThis study seeks to examine the United Nations’ Nations’ Nations’ security stabilization intervention in the Central African Republic (CAR) as a strategy of realizing sustainable peace. The study takes PK5 district in Bangui as a case study, study, examining the different militarized, political and economic factors behind the challenge of restoration of state control and power in this this district. In the past PK5 district has been a centre of vibrant economic activity, but armed groups have rendered the area insecure fueling mistrust and hatred between communities. These self-defense armed groups now act as security guarantors whilst committing crimes in the presence of national and international authorities who have failed to resolve the conflict so far. This study is not limited to the intervention of the United Nations in the PK5PK5 district, district, district, it equally examine s the collaboration of the CAR government as a sovereign state with MINUSCA to protect the population and the entire territory. The adopted a cross –sectional research design, design, using both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection from a sample population of ninety (90) respondents who were selected through purposive sampling methods. The key informants included NGO members, members, government personnel, personnel, personnel, religious and community leaders and individuals from the PK5 community. The data collected was coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and the findings were presented as tables, tables, charts and narratives. The research findings show that that the main challenges facing conflict intervention in the CAR is the lack of institutional and military capacity of the state, as well as poor political leadership (diminished (diminished political good will) and ineffective conflict intervention mechanisms
Rethinking Healing and Reconciliation Process in the Postgenocide Rwanda: A Response from Ignatian Spirituality
No full textThe long-lasting interethnic conflicts and violence that marked the history of
Rwanda, and the genocide that followed in 1994, damaged the social fabric of Rwandans,
which is the core characteristic of their humanity. All Rwandans, regardless of their ethnic
affiliations, have suffered, and their wounds are still deep and fresh. Twenty-six years since
the genocide took place, different strategies of reconciliation have been employed by both
the government of Rwanda and the Church. However, those strategies have not given
satisfactory results as, today, many Rwandans cry over their unhealed wounds and longing
for authentic reconciliation, which may wave their social fabric and bring about the
harmony in their relations.
This study explores in which ways Rwandans can transcend the interethnic
divisions and conflicts, experience healing of their broken humanity, and embrace
reconciliation as a way of reconstructing unity and communion among them. There will be
no authentic reconciliation without the restoration of people’s humanity damaged by the
genocide and other violence, which have not been termed genocide. What then ought to be
done for the restoration of Rwandans’ humanity and bring about authentic reconciliation?
The study seeks conforming answers to this question. In doing so, the study offers the
Christian reconciliation, through Ignatian Spirituality, as a potential tool that Rwandans
need for authentic healing and reconciliation. Spiritual experience resulting from the
Spiritual Exercises can restore the damaged humanity of both the victims and wrongdoers
and be the source of genuine reconciliation. By experiencing God’s healing love through
the Spiritual Exercises, people can more readily experience inner freedom with respect to their wounds, which may in turn lead them to reconcile with their history. Once healed,
and freed interiorly, they may then expand God’s love to others, even ones they consider
‘wrongdoers’ or ‘enemies.’ Hence, over time, an authentic relationship will take place since
the relationship with God would be the guiding principle of all the relationships among the
Rwandans