MASTER'S THESES

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An Assessment of factors influencing the Abandonment of Public-Sector Construction Projects: A Case of Lusaka District in Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2024) MVULA, Alick
The purpose of this study was to assess factors influencing abandonment of public sector construction in Lusaka district. Specifically, the study sought to: establish the extent economic factors may account for abandonment of public sector construction projects in Lusaka district; investigate the extent financial factors may account for abandonment of public sector construction projects in Lusaka district; assess the extent political factors may account for abandonment of public sector construction projects in Lusaka district; and ascertain the extent human resource factors may account for abandonment of public sector construction projects in Lusaka district. The study employed a quantitative research design. The research involved a total sample of 333 respondents from National Construction Council (NCC), Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA), officials from Ministry of Infrastructure and Housing, Ministry of Works and Supply and Ministry of Finance and Lusaka City Council (LCC). A random sampling method was used to sample the respondents. Data was collected using a questionnaire. The data gathered was quantitatively analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The research found that 71.8% of abandoned public sector construction projects in Lusaka district are attributed to economic, financial, political, and human resource factors while the remaining 28.2% can be explained by factors not covered in this research. the four independent variables are all significantly and positively related to the dependent variable at the .01 level of significance. Human Resource factor has the most influence on the dependent variable ( beta = .319) followed by Economic factor (beta = .163), Financial factor came third (beta=0.155) while Political factor had the least influence on the dependent variable (beta=0.117). Based on the research findings, the research recommends that: government through the office of the Attorney General ought to be signing construction projects upon confirming availability of adequate funds for the construction projects; Institutions like NCC, EIZ and ZIA need to promote prudent financial management and inculcate good culture among their members to avoid project mismanagement and poor performance; and government through the Ministry of Finance should be releasing funds for construction projects right on time. Key words: Public sector, project construction
An Evaluation of The Role of Electronic Government Procument in Service Delivery in The Public Sector: A Case of Selected Public Sector Organisations
(2024) Kapambwe, Rosalyn Ngombe
The study was aimed at evaluating the role of electronic government procurement in service delivery in the public sector, with a focus on selected public sector organisations. The study focused on Ministry of Health (MoH), Ministry of Education (MoE), Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), Rural Electrification Authority (REA), Workers' Compensation Fund Control Board, and ZESCO Limited. The sample size comprised 30% of the targeted population, that is 30% of 100, which was roughly 30 respondents from the 6 targeted organisations. The study was guided by the following research objectives: to assess the extent of the adoption of Electronic Government Procurement systems for service delivery; to find out the effect of Electronic Government Procurement Systems on users’ service delivery; to determine challenges of Electronic Government Procurement Systems in service delivery in the public sector. In order to carry out the objectives of the study, the concurrent mixed-methods research design was utilised. In terms of adoption, the findings revealed that the majority of respondents (37.5%) indicated significant adoption of e-GP procurement systems in their respective organisations for service delivery. Furthermore, findings also showed that the majority of 58.33% strongly agreed that the e-GP system has made the procurement process in their organisations more efficient and transparent, highlighting positive outcomes in terms of effectiveness and openness. The predominant concern, as presented in the findings by 45.8% of the respondents, revolved around a deficiency in training and the failure to upload necessary documents for specific tenders. The findings of the study also revealed that e-GP systems have positively influenced various aspects within their organisations, including daily output, procurement efficiency, transparency, and supplier management. Positive correlations between e-GP usage and enhanced productivity, efficient procurement processes, effective supplier selection, and reduced processing time are evident. Well-implemented e-GP systems significantly contribute to operational efficiency, procurement effectiveness, and transparency, aligning with the broader empirical literature on electronic procurement. Identified challenges, such as deficiencies in training, document uploads, computer literacy, supplier paperwork, and system understanding, underscore the need for enhanced awareness, education, and training. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the successful integration and utilisation of e-GP systems in the context of public service delivery. This is not only imperative for efficiency but also for promoting transparency and fairness, aligning with broader e-government literature. Overall, the findings highlight the transformative potential of well-implemented e-GP systems in reshaping public service delivery in Zambia. The positive trajectory in adoption, the positive impact on users' service delivery, and the identification of challenges offer valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers. Addressing challenges through strategic training, awareness programmes, and user education will be instrumental in maximizing the benefits of e-GP systems. Key Words: Electronic Government Procurement, Public Sector, Adoption
An Investigation into the Relationship between Project Scope and Project Success among Non-Governmental Organisations: A Case Study of Nine Selected NGOs in Lusaka District
(University of Lusaka, 2024) MUKUKA, Bwalya
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between project scope and project success in the nine non-governmental organizations (Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), Care International, Zambia Land Alliance, CELIM NGO, PATH, Akros, Community Outreach Foundation, Save the Children International, and Equip Zambia) in Lusaka district, Zambia. The researcher adopted a mixed research approach (quantitative and qualitative methods). The research findings showed a positive relationship between project scope and project success among the nine NGOs in Lusaka district, Zambia. The study found that scope change, scope change, and scope change implementation influence project success. The study also found that the factors within project scope that significantly impact project success among the nine selected NGOs in the Lusaka district are: clear objectives, flexibility and adaptability, clear scope definition, resource allocation and effective planning, budget and timeline, effective project governance, risk assessment and mitigation, stakeholder involvement, monitoring and change controls, monitoring and evaluation, project management skills and soft skills, cultural sensitivity and contextual understanding, communication strategies, legal and regulatory environments, and staff size. Furthermore, the study found that the difficulties faced by nine selected NGOs in Lusaka district in project scope management include managing changing stakeholder needs, external factors, limited resources, unclear communication, a lack of skills, scope creep, clear goals, effective monitoring, budgeting, and time constraints. The study recommended that organizations that plan to manage project scope effectively and achieve success must enhance communication, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and change management skills. The study also recommended that organizations should implement effective scope change management to mitigate scope creep and clearly define inclusion and exclusion criteria for project activities in order to attain project success.
An Investigation of the Effects of Gender Based Violence against Men in Chilanga Township, Chilanga District
(University of Lusaka, 2024) KABONGO, David Dinanga
Gender Based Violence (GBV) is a serious health problem and a violation of human rights targeted at individuals or groups based on their gender. Although majority of the victims of Gender Based Violence are women, GBV against men has also been on an increase in the country. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of GBV against men in Chilanga Township of Chilanga District. The objectives of the study were to: find out the extent to which GBV against men is prevalent in Chilanga District; find out the levels of awareness among the people of Chilanga on the existence of GBV against men in Chilanga; find out the Socioeconomic effects of GBV against men in Chilanga and to; find out the extent to which GBV against men in Chilanga District negatively affects the economic and social wellbeing of victims' household. The study employed a qualitative approach as it was well-suited for exploring complex and sensitive social phenomena, such as GBV, as they allow for an in-depth understanding of the experiences, perceptions, and emotions of individuals involved. Twenty (20) interviews were conducted with men who had experienced GBV in Chilanga Township representing a 100% response rate with the help of a local advocacy group called Titandizane. Moreover, Key Informants (KI) interviews were also conducted with 4 representatives of the Zambia victim support Unit at Chilanga Police Station. The study revealed that GBV against men had numerous unpleasant effects which ranged from increased risk of mental health issues, economic implications, social isolation, and strained relationships with partners and family members to negative community perception. The findings underscore the multifaceted impact of GBV on men, revealing a significant correlation with heightened risks of mental health issues, economic consequences, social isolation, strained relationships with both partners and family members, and a negative community perception. The study underscores the urgency of addressing gender-based violence (GBV) against men through comprehensive strategies that acknowledge its diverse impacts. Recommendations include tailored policies, community awareness programs, and support services to foster an equitable society attentive to the holistic well-being of all members. Churches and neighborhood associations are seen as pivotal in guiding educators and counsellors to effectively address GBV. Proposing the replication of the study in different locations with larger sample sizes aims to validate findings and contribute to a broader understanding.
Analysis of Connection Fee Subsidies on Rural Electrification Projects in Zambia: Case of Chibombo District.
(2022) KAMBIKAMBI, Florence
The research analysed the connection fee subsidy on sustainable electrification of rural areas with respect to Chibombo district – Zambia where the connection fee subsidy mechanism has been implemented under the Electricity Services Access Project. The study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach. The results reveal that 938 beneficiaries had been connected, almost three-fold the initial target of 385. Additionally, the study established a statistically significant positive correlation between connection fee subsidy and an increase in electricity connections and sustainable electricity consumption levels. Also revealed is a negative correlation between high connection costs and rural electrification rates. Further, the study identified critical success factors including economic sustainability and institutional capacity, and recommends a sustainability framework for sustainable rural electrification.
Analysis of effectiveness of the law of agency on electronic commerce in Zambia: A study of ZAMPOST - Ndola Branch
(2016) AONGOLA, Henry Saboi
The study analysed the effectiveness of Law of Agency in relation to the electronic commerce at Zampost, Ndola, with the introduction of electronic business, products such as importation of Motor vehicles, Western Union money transfer, swift cash and many more other products. The findings concluded that the law of Agency was effective on electronic commerce at Zampost in Ndola District of Zambia.
Assessing the Critical Project Success Factors in the Road Construction Industry in Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2024) MUTAMBO, Chimwa Mwangonde
This study, conducted in Zambia, aimed to investigate critical success factors influencing road construction projects. Employing a positivist research philosophy, a deductive approach, and a quantitative research design, the study focused on project planning, stakeholders' involvement, project funding, contractor's capacity, and project monitoring and evaluation. Through inferential statistics using SPSS version 26, the study utilized hypothesis testing, correlation analysis, principal component analysis and regression analysis to explore relationships among variables. The research findings, based on a thorough analysis of the data collected from 115 respondents whose demographic composition has 62.6% male and 37.4% female road construction professionals. The highest number of participants had an undergraduate degree (36.5%) followed by professional qualifications at 24.1%, master’s qualification 20% while those with diploma qualifications were the least at 19%. The data revealed significant correlations and impacts of the identified factors on the success of road construction projects. This data was collected over a period of less than six months due to limited time, but the KMO values which were above 0.6 show that the sample was sufficient. Project planning, stakeholder involvement and contractor capacity were the aspects which were found to have an influence on road construction project success in Zambia. The findings show that success of Zambia's road construction projects was not significantly impacted by project finance or monitoring and evaluation. The results of this research will give policy makers and players in the road construction industry the areas to focus on or which will determine if projects will be a success. They also give players information which can be used to create tools which target ensuring that project planning, stakeholder involvement and contractor capacity are done thoroughly. It would be good for future researchers to investigate other critical success factors not explored in this study. Keywords: Critical success factors; road construction; project success; project management.
Assessing the Legal Framework and Institutional impediments in protecting the Rights of Street Children in Zambia: A study of Lusaka Urban
(2015) MULENGA, Oswald
This dissertation focused on assessing the legal a frame work and institutional efficacy in a bid to protect the rights of street children as enshrined in the Universal Declaration for Human Rights of 1948 and the African Charter of Human and Peoples Rights of 1981. The objective of this research was to audit and assess the laws which are child protection related. Inter alia, the major challenge discovered is the lacuna and discrepancy between effective law regime and the ineffective enforcement regime of the same. The study also reveals that to curb this iniquity there is need to adopt an institutionalized integrated purposeful legal approach.
The contribution of micro enterprises to sustainable rural livelihood: A case of Mulobezi district
(2016) CHISHIMBA, Hanson C.K.
The purpose of this study was to ascertain the contribution of micro enterprises to sustainable rural livelihood in Mulobezi district of Zambia. Findings of this study reviewed that micro enterprises play a vital role in promoting sustainable rural livelihood, contributing to employment creation, wealth creation, poverty alleviation and income generation.
The effectiveness of the SOMAP model to sustain rural water supply in Zambia: A case of Chongwe district
(2018) NKHOSI, Javan
This study explored the effectiveness of the Sustainable Operation and Maintenance Project (SOMAP) model implement in six rural districts of Zambia. This study targeted Chongwe district in Lusaka Province. The key findings of the study showed that the communities did not regularly contribute towards maintenance of hand pumps. The spare parts outlet did not have spare parts available all the time. There were no sub-district structures under the District Council to monitor and manage toolkits. Some communities were experiencing problems with inappropriate hand pumps installed. In hilly terrain, hand pumps were too stiff to operate. Water quality in some cases was poor rusty water resulting from corroded galvanised iron pipes used. Communities were reactive; they did not practice preventive maintenance such as basic greasing of the chains on the hand pumps.
Exploring the influence of The Electronic Queue Management System on Customer Satisfaction: A Case Study of ABSA Bank Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2024) CHIMFUTUMBA, Kabamba
The study looked at the factors that influence the satisfaction of customers at the bank and it covered a sample size of 204 customers at one of the Absa bank branches in Lusaka. Likewise, the study’s aim was to specifically explore the influence of electronic queue management systems on the customer’s satisfaction. The data was collected using a questionnaire and data was analyzed using the software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel. The main subject in this study was to discover how system capability, customer experience and system usability affects the customer’s satisfaction of the bank. In addition, the study’s goal was to add on to the body of knowledge on customer satisfaction and also to present a different perspective of knowledge which involves different people of different age groups. This study is of importance to the management of the various commercial banks as they can assess the importance of automated queue management systems and the influence this system has on their customers’ satisfaction. Similarly, this study can assist bank managers in implementing technological adoptions such as the EQM system to reduce long unbearable queues in the bank, improve productivity, and promote economic development by enhancing customer satisfaction. Customer satisfaction is the dependent variable of the research and the independent variables include system capability, customer experience and system usability. Moreover, the three independent variables were measured against the dependent variable. Ultimately, the research revealed that the independent variables and the dependent variable had a significant strong positive relationship.
Financial Inclusion: The Nexus between Renewable Energy Access in the promotion of Sustainable Solar Mini-Grids in Zambia
(2024) KAYAWE, Zia-Christie
This research delves into the urgent matter of energy access in Zambia, where 70% of the population lacks electricity, aligning with the United Nations 2030 sustainable development agenda, SDG7. It seeks to understand the role of financial inclusion in bridging the gap between renewable energy adoption and the promotion of sustainable solar mini-grid development, especially in the face of challenges encountered in country’s rural area. Adopting a comprehensive approach, the research integrates financial inclusion theories, renewable energy adoption models, sustainable development theories, behavioral economics insights and policy perspectives. Through the utilization of a mixed-methods approach and extended inferential analysis, the study provides a holistic view of the complex relationships involved in the interplay between key variables crucial for the scalability of solar mini-grid enterprise in the country. Statistical findings bring to light a significant 30% increase in technology purchase capacity during peak income seasons in appraised villages, showcasing a positive correlation between higher incomes and renewable energy adoption. However, an examination of the economic structure reveals a concerning lack of income diversification, with 85% of the population relying heavily on agriculture as the main income source. Further analysis of mobile connectivity identifies strategic opportunities for partnerships, while acknowledging that tariff mechanisms, though within budget constraints, may face challenges in meeting sustainability standards as the availability and usage indicators of mobile money services remains critically low. Financial inclusion emerges as a pivotal catalyst for renewable energy adoption, exerting a substantial influence on the success and sustainability of solar mini-grid projects. Despite challenges such as limited income diversification and financing barriers, solar mini-grid initiatives manage to align with local needs, demonstrating resilience and potential for holistic innovative solutions at a national level. To enhance the prospects of successful solar mini-grid implementation, the study recommends continuous research, innovative financing models, regulatory reassessment and deliberate community engagement policies. This research significantly contributes to the body of knowledge by providing updated perspectives for potential investors, offering essential insights for the Zambian government's initiatives, and presenting a model for addressing multifaceted challenges in scaling renewable energy projects. Keywords: Financial Inclusion, Sustainable Energy, Solar Mini-Grids, Policy Interventions, Zambia, Renewable Energy Access, Innovative Finance, Mobile Money, Green Economy
Impact of training on work performance: A case of Secondary Schools in Chipata district
(2016) KALYATA, Richard K.
The study focused on students’ performance relative to the declining passing rated from 2013 to 2015 at 60.2%, 55.9% and 57% respectively. The study followed a mixed methods approach. The findings were that the performance of grade 12 pupils had in the past three years been deteriorating. It was also noted that the training of teachers had a positive impact on teacher’s work performance. It was however revealed that the training policy was being implemented in a haphazard manner. This coupled with the inadequate training needs analysis, poor coordination, discrimination in availing training opportunities, and public officials undertaking training without due authority were some of the contributing factors.The study recommended that there was need to review the current methods and criteria for training and the use of performance indicators as the basis for effective monitoring and evaluation of training and development
The Management of School Libraries: A Comparative Study of Selected Private and Government Secondary Schools in Lusaka District
(2017) MWALE, Oscar G. L.
The study sought to evaluate The Management of School Libraries in Selected Private and Government Secondary Schools in Lusaka District-Zambia The findings of the study reveal that Libraries especially in government schools have challenges in their management. These range from; poor funding, lack of current and relevant books, expensive books on the market, no library computers, lack of trained librarian and poor library security. The study also established that the school head-teachers do not take a leading role in the management of the Libraries instead, they leave them to be managed by Teacher Librarians who receive no support from the school management. The study concludes that for School Libraries to be effective and provide quality Library Services, they need to be managed by trained personnel in Librarianship. The study recommends that; Ministry of General Education employ trained Librarians to manage the school libraries, Increase funding for Library operations, Schools to seek alternative sources of funding the libraries to ensure availability of current and relevant materials.
Mitigating Corruption Perception through Effective Communication Management in Public Construction Projects: A Case Study of The Lusaka-Ndola Road
(University of Lusaka, 2024) CHAPONDA, Janet
The study investigates the intricate relationship between communication management strategies and corruption perceptions within public construction projects. Drawing upon empirical data gathered from the Lusaka-Ndola Road project and aligning with established literature, the research explores the reasons behind corruption perceptions among stakeholders, prevalent communication management strategies, and perceived effective strategies to mitigate corruption perceptions. The study adopted an embedded mixed methods research approach. Quantitative data was collected from 75 respondents using purposive sampling and analysed using SPSS v27. Regression analysis was employed to examine the relationship between communication variables (Clarity, Frequency, Channels, and Stakeholder Engagement) and corruption perception. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires while Qualitative data was collected through both questionnaires and interviews until saturation was reached after 63 respondents and analysed using thematic analysis. Thematic analysis identified key factors contributing to corruption perceptions, including insufficient transparency, accountability gaps, inadequate communication, and perceived favouritism. Further, the study revealed diverse communication management strategies employed in the project, such as stakeholder meetings, digital platforms, and comprehensive reports, aligning with existing literature emphasizing their importance. Furthermore, stakeholders perceived strategies like enhanced transparency, stakeholder engagement, accessible documentation, independent audits, and ethical conduct programs as effective in mitigating corruption perceptions. Regression analysis highlighted a negative correlation between communication variables (Clarity, Frequency, Channels, Stakeholder Engagement) and corruption perception, underscoring the pivotal role of effective communication in mitigating corruption. The study’s recommendations include the need for stakeholders to bolster communication strategies and encourages future research on cross-cultural analysis, long-term impact assessment, technological interventions, behavioural analysis, and policy influences in combating corruption perceptions in construction projects. Key words: Communication, stakeholder, engagement, clarity, frequency, channels.
A perspective of corporate governance practices at selected private schools in Lusaka district
(2017) NYIMBILI, David
This study was carried out among the private schools of Lusaka District to determine the level of corporate governance practices in selected private schools. It also assessed the level of compliance towards the appointment of management boards in private schools and the mechanism used to appoint the boards. The research employed the mixed methods research approach, utilising the survey research design. The findings revealed that only half of the private schools had boards of management in place which was contrary to the Education Act of 2011. It was also established that there was no common mechanism to appoint the boards. However, the study discovered that there was a fair balance between executive and non-executive types of boards. There was also evidence that these boards of management were selectively practicing principles of corporate governance.
The Relationship between Five Project Management Knowledge Areas and Contract Performance
(2022) NGOMA, Thandiwe
This research assessed the relationship between five project management knowledge areas and the performance of public construction contracts in the Lusaka District. The project management knowledge areas of focus were Integration Management, Scope Management, Cost Management, Quality Management, and Risk Management. The study attempted to determine the relationship in terms of cost, quality, client satisfaction, and time. A sequential mixed-methods approach was used. The study through correlation analysis established the relationship between each of the five project management knowledge areas and the performance of public construction contracts. Thereafter, the study developed a framework by integrating the five project management knowledge areas with contract performance indicators to help enhance contract performance in the construction industry.
Risk Management in Toll Road Projects at Project Development Stage - Lusaka Province
(2020) LUNGU, Bwalya C.
The research aimed at identifying the risks associated with Toll road projects at the development stage. It also sought to determine the probability and effects of the identified risks. The findings reveal that, at development stage, Toll road projects are prone to a number of risks including; environmental clearance, lack of feasibility study, land acquisition and contract variations. The risks identified have a moderate chance of occurrence and effect. The study also reveals that despite the establishment of key infrastructure development institutions, the regulatory framework in Zambia is still weak. The study concludes that risk factors should be identified during the early stages to prevent possible delays and cost overruns during and after project implementation. The study recommends a Risk Management framework for adoption particularly at development stage and the need for key Toll road government agencies to review their efforts towards management and control of the projects to ensure desired outcome
Risky Sexual Behaviours and Their Correlates among College and University Students in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Meta-Analysis
(2022) LUNGU, Anderson
The study investigated the correlates of risky sexual behaviour among university and college students in sub-Saharan Africa. The results reveal that the incidence of sexual activity and many sexual partners among college and university students was relatively high with males being a risk factor for engaging in at least one hazardous sexual behaviour and having multiple sexual partners. The study concludes that risky sexual behaviour is still prevalent among university and college students. It recommends that educational institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa provide and implement adequate health education and behaviour change programmes aimed at men and those who abuse alcohol.

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