Undergraduate Research Reports & Masters Dissertations

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://research.unilus.ac.zm/handle/123456789/445

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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 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.
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.
An Assessment Of The Effect Of Employee Motivation On Employee Retention At University Of Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2022) MUCHINDU MASOWE
Employee maintenance has received much attention over the years in most organizations greatly due to the fact that when an organization preserves its workforce, it reserves its standards of operations as well. This study sought to assess the effect of motivation strategies at University of Lusaka on employee retention. The study specifically set aim at investigating the effect salaries, working environment, bonuses and awards and training play on employee retention. The research was descriptive. Researcher collected primary data from 60 employees from the University of Lusaka in Lusaka district using questionnaires. The respondents were selected using probability sampling method as it is efficient, quick and cost effective. Pearson’s Correlation and Regression analysis was used to analyze the data through the use of SPSS. The results established that motivation (salaries, working environment, bonuses and awards, and employee training) has a significant effect on employee retention in organizations. The author based on the findings recommend that the Company could provide more incentives to increase employee retention. The author also recommended that Organizational management should recognize employees' efforts in order to encourage them to improve; in addition, recognition can be accompanied by prizes and bonuses, such as best employee of the year or month, among other things. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by establishing that (salaries, working environment, bonuses and awards recognition, and employee training and development) has a significant strong positive effect on employee retention.
Factors Affecting The Adoption And Usage Of Electronic Procurement In Councils: A Case Study Of Some Councils In Southern Province, Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2022) CHILEMO BERNADETTE
The government has been slow to adopt e-procurement and reap the benefits of this new technology for the public sector as a result of the lack of extensive and extended research and conclusions on the topic in the Zambian context. For the majority of Zambia, especially public institutions that play a big role in providing social services to Zambian citizens, addressing the adoption of this new technology has become another problem for the TOE (Technological, Organizational and Environmental) framework. In this study, the variables influencing the adoption and application of electronic procurement in council were evaluated. The descriptive survey research design was used for this investigation and the study had a sample size of 45. A few councils in Zambia's southern province, including Choma Municipal Council, Monze Town Council, and Livingstone City Council, were the target population and the study was a mixed research approach. Questionnaires were the main data collection tools. The study found that the council's readiness to adopt and use e-procurement was low because of limited financial and human resources, a lack of adequate IT infrastructure and a reliable internet connection, the lack of support from relevant stakeholders, and staff members' lack of technical knowledge and skills for e-procurement adoption. Since the study identified a lack of funding as one of the obstacles to implementing e-procurement, it is advised that organizations that intend to do so make appropriate financial resources accessible. In order to support organizations implementing the e-procurement system, the government must also give enough resources. Institutions must also create and maintain a strong IT infrastructure.
Perceptions Among Non-Governmental Organization Project Teams towards Gender Stereotyping at the Workplace: A perspective of selected NGOs in Lusaka District
(University of Lusaka, 2023) BANDA, Tissa
The main objective of this study was to explore and analyze the perceptions of project teams within selected NGOs in Lusaka District regarding gender stereotyping at the workplace. Specific Objectives were to determine the types of gender stereotypes that exist in the project teams; find out the factors contributing to gender stereotypes among project teams and describe the measures that organizations have taken to address the problem of gender stereotypes at workplaces. This research used a mixed method approach and adopted a concurrent triangulation research design. A total of 64 respondents was used as a sample size. Semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from the participants. Data was analyzed through descriptive and thematic analysis. The study revealed that diverse stereotypes rooted in personal experiences, societal expectations, unconscious biases, cultural backgrounds, and educational experiences. Communication breakdown, low morale, low quality, and productivity were identified as consequences. Leadership emerged as a critical factor, influencing stereotypes through championing diversity, setting inclusive policies, modeling behaviors, providing education, and addressing biases in decision-making. Team composition and diversity played a pivotal role in challenging or reinforcing stereotypes. Individuals' resistance or conformity was influenced by personal experiences, educational backgrounds, organizational culture, and personal values. Organizations implemented diverse policies, initiatives, and communication strategies to address gender stereotypes. The criteria used in resolution included collaboration, negotiation compromising, and smoothing. Respondents perceived their organizations positively in resolving gender stereotypes. Challenges included limited awareness, resistance, inadequate policies, organizational culture, leadership commitment, and resource constraints. Promising practices included diversity training, transparent decision-making, inclusive language, and celebrating achievements. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of gender stereotypes in project teams, emphasizing the role of leadership, diversity, and organizational initiatives. Recommendations to tackling gender stereotypes in the project teams include fostering awareness, addressing biases, and promoting inclusivity through policy interventions.
An Assessment on the Effect of Motivation on Employee Performance in the Public Sector in Ndola, Zambia.
(University of Lusaka, 2023) CHONDOKA, Carol
The success or failure of a corporation hinges largely on its workforce, underscoring the pivotal role played by human resources in driving prosperity, productivity, and overall performance within an organisation. One could define motivation as the engine that propels someone to perform or behave a certain manner. The relationship between organisational personnel and management is described as poor, leading to potential demotivation among employees due to a lack of a socially appealing work environment. This can negatively affect their performance, as the organisation may not meet their needs for love, belongingness, and affiliation, ultimately impacting the effectiveness of the public sector. Employing a descriptive quantitative approach, the research utilized a probability design with simple random sampling to gather opinions from 150 public sector employees in Ndola's central business district. The collected data underwent analysis using SPSS version 27, primarily relying on primary data obtained through a well-structured questionnaire administered to respondents. The findings highlighted a significant correlation between factors such as remuneration, staff welfare, rewards, promotion, and employee performance. The study concluded that effective management efforts to motivate staff are crucial for enhancing their performance. It is therefore important for organisations to improve their staff welfare programs and effectively work on implementing mechanisms for gathering employee feedback. Organisations should work at optimizing the remuneration practices and perform a regular evaluation of the remuneration structures. Despite limitations associated with sample specificity and self-reported data, this research contributes to our comprehension of motivation's role and provides valuable insights for future studies in the realm of motivation and employee performance.
The Causes Of Cybersecurity Breaches On Mobile Banking Service Providers. A Case Of Amalgamated Banks Of South Africa(ABSA)
(University of Lusaka, 2023) MUYUYA TWAAMBO MABUTI
In an era where digital financial transactions have become the norm, the security of mobile banking platforms is paramount. This study embarked on a comprehensive exploration of the implications of cybersecurity breaches on ABSA's mobile banking operations in Lusaka, focusing on three critical dimensions: user trust, user engagement, and the financial performance of the banking operations. Employing a mixed-methods approach and gathering data from 284 respondents, the research unearthed significant insights into how cybersecurity breaches not only undermine user trust but also lead to decreased engagement and bear financial consequences for the institution. Key findings indicated a notable decline in user trust and engagement correlated with the frequency of cybersecurity incidents. Financially, breaches necessitated increased spending on security measures and compensations, impacting ABSA's bottom line. Despite these challenges, opportunities for strengthening trust and security emerged. The study concludes with targeted recommendations aimed at fortifying cybersecurity frameworks, enhancing user education, ensuring transparent communication, and developing robust financial contingency strategies. These recommendations are pivotal for ABSA and similar institutions to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity in mobile banking, ensuring a secure, trustworthy platform for users. This research contributes to the broader discourse on cybersecurity in financial services, offering a foundation for future investigations and actions aimed at enhancing resilience and user confidence in mobile banking platforms.
Determining the critical success factors for the Public-Private Partnership in health service delivery at the University Teaching Hospital
(University of Lusaka, 2023) KOSITIMU, Mwang'a
Zambia, like numerous other governments worldwide, is struggling with the escalating expenses of healthcare and the growing need for healthcare services while dealing with limited financial resources. Zambia dedicates itself to delivering high-quality healthcare services to its population, recognising health as a crucial area for the nation's well-being. Governments are increasingly utilising Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) to address the challenges of limited healthcare resources and improve outcomes. The private sector's participation is partly driven by the prevailing perception that public sector bureaucracies are inefficient and unresponsive. It is believed that market processes can enhance efficiency and provide cost-effective, high-quality services. The study employed a mixed method paradigm approach to gather data. The research employed both qualitative and quantitative research paradigms. Quantitative data were obtained through the use of research questionnaires that had closed-ended questions, while qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews that included open-ended questions. The analysis revealed that the health sector was in dire need of improvements, as supported by 70% of respondents. Similar to other government organisations, it lacked the financial capacity to undertake these initiatives. The study utilised descriptive statistics to analyse the quantitative data. The results revealed a mean value of 0.22, which was evenly distributed across all thematic areas. The data collected from the field followed a normal distribution, with the standard deviation fluctuating around the mean, as indicated by the calculated standard deviation of 0.17. The kurtosis fell within the normal range and exhibited a right skew, with all values in the range of +/-1.0 across the thematic areas. This indicated that the obtained data followed a normal distribution with no outliers. The study also identified key determinants of success for implementing Public Private Partnerships (PPP) in the health sector. These determinants include: strict adherence to the terms and conditions of the agreement; establishment of a transparent and efficient procurement process; appropriate allocation of risks in the agreement; effective coordination and cooperation among stakeholders; and active involvement of the private sector. Subsequently, the study established a framework by incorporating the Critical Success Factors. Key Words: Critical Success Factors, Public Private Partnership and Healthcare Givers
Assessment of the Factors Affecting Customer Purchasing Behavior in Selected Telecommunications Companies in Lusaka Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2024) MUSONDA, Kafula
The objective of the study was to examine the factors influencing customer purchasing behavior within selected telecommunications companies in Lusaka, Zambia. With substantial investment and intense competition among mobile service providers in Zambia, the market has experienced significant growth in recent years. Operators in this sector offer a diverse array of advanced products and services to attract customers. The implementation of mobile number portability by the regulatory authority in April 2006 has allowed consumers to switch service providers while retaining their phone numbers. However, despite market growth, operators such as Airtel, MTN, and ZAMTEL have faced obstacles hindering their efforts to capture a substantial market share. Moreover, there is a trend of customers switching providers due to various reasons, reflecting challenges in maintaining customer loyalty. The study, employing a descriptive design with a survey of one hundred participants using questionnaires, aimed to address these dynamics. The findings revealed that demographic variables such as age, income, family size, education, and gender significantly influence consumer behavior within Lusaka's telecommunications sector. Telecom companies adapt their offerings to cater to specific demographic demands, a strategy crucial for customer retention and acquisition in a competitive industry. The statistical analysis indicated a significant relationship between customer satisfaction and purchasing behavior, with a p-value less than 0.05. Furthermore, the study identified a correlation of 0.675 between customer purchasing behavior and customer satisfaction with the mobile operator. Income emerged as the most influential determinant of customer behavior highlighting the importance of understanding customer satisfaction in retaining clients. The study recommends that telecommunication operators should seek to improve the customer satisfaction by providing best products and services to their subscribers. The telecommunication companies should make sure that, all the products and services are available for both people with low income and people with higher income.
Assessing the Effect of Change Management on Employee Performance at TOPFLOOR LTD In Lusaka, Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2024) KAUMBA, Grace
This study assessed the effect of change management on employee performance at TopFloor Ltd in Lusaka, Zambia. Despite implementing various change initiatives, the company has experienced suboptimal results, indicating a gap between change management practices and their effectiveness. This research sought to address this issue by examining the impact of key change management dimensions on employee performance. The study had three main objectives: to determine how communication strategy affects employee performance, to assess the impact of employee involvement and participation on performance, and to investigate the effect of training and skill development on employee performance at TopFloor Ltd. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. A sample of 133 employees was surveyed using structured questionnaires, and key informant interviews were conducted with senior staff members. The study utilized descriptive statistics, correlational analysis, and multiple regression to analyse the quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative insights. The findings revealed strong positive correlations between all three change management dimensions and employee performance. Change communication showed a correlation of r = 0.78 (p = 0.001), employee involvement r = 0.82 (p = 0.001), and training and skill development r = 0.71 (p = 0.001). Regression analysis indicated that these dimensions collectively explained 76.2% of the variance in employee performance (R² = 0.762). Employee involvement emerged as the strongest predictor of performance (β = 0.40, p = 0.001), followed by change communication (β = 0.35, p = 0.001) and training (β = 0.28, p = 0.01). Descriptive statistics revealed generally positive perceptions of change management practices, with mean scores ranging from 3.32 to 4.48 on a 5-point Likert scale. However, areas for improvement were identified, particularly in ensuring consistent communication across the organization and providing opportunities for skill development and career growth. Based on these findings, the study recommends that TopFloor Ltd enhance the consistency and timeliness of change communication across all organizational levels, increase opportunities for employee involvement in decision-making processes, and tailor training programs to individual employee needs and long-term career development goals. These recommendations aim to further improve the effectiveness of change management practices and, consequently, enhance employee performance during periods of organizational change
An Investigation of the Relationship between Occupational Stress and Employee Performance: A Case of INDO Zambia Bank
(University of Lusaka, 2024) NZALA, Yvonne
The study aimed to investigate the relationship between occupational stress and employee performance at the Indo Zambia Bank. Quantitative methods were used relying on objective measurements and statistical analysis of data collected through questionnaires. Of the 189 questionnaires distributed to employees of the Indo-Zambia Bank, 180 were returned, corresponding to a high response rate of 95.23%. The main goals of the study included evaluating the correlation between workload and employee performance at Indo Zambia Bank; exploring the relationship between task ambiguity and employee performance; analysing the impact of time pressure on employee performance at Indo Zambia Bank; and studying the link between role conflict and employee performance within the same bank. The study provided solid evidence indicating that professional stress significantly affects employee performance. It highlighted a strong negative correlation (-0.91) between work stress and employee performance. The correlation coefficient of -0.91 reveals a strong negative relationship between work stress and employee performance. As work stress increases, performance tends to decrease significantly. This suggests a consistent inverse association between the two variables, highlighting the detrimental impact of work stress on productivity. Addressing and reducing work-related stressors could lead to significant improvements in employee performance. According to the results, an increase in occupational stress is directly linked to a notable decrease in employee performance at Indo Zambia Bank. This negative correlation underscores the need for the organization to focus on reducing professional stress to create an optimal work environment for employees. Therefore, the study recommends that the management of the Indo Zambia Bank re-evaluates and reorganizes the distribution of workloads among employees. The study identified that high workloads are a major factor in occupational stress, having a negative impact on employee performance. Furthermore, management needs to establish a regulatory framework focused on employee well-being. The framework needs to include guidelines for stress management programs, regular assessments of working conditions, and incentives for organizations committed to the welfare of their employees.
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.
Analyzing the Impact of Unregulated Electronic Waste Disposal: A Case Study on Laptop Disposal at ZESCO Limited Head Office in Lusaka.
(University of Lusaka, 2024) YALUSA, Yvonne
This study scrutinized the electronic waste disposal practices at ZESCO Limited Head Office, revealing alarming trends that necessitate immediate attention. The prevalence of conventional disposal methods, particularly the substantial volume of laptops ending up in undesignated places, signals an urgent requirement for a fundamental shift in electronic waste management strategies. The alignment of these practices with global and regional challenges faced by developing nations underscores systemic issues inherent in unregulated disposal. Environmental and health implications, such as the potential for soil and water contamination and health risks for individuals involved in improper disposal, emphasize the critical need for structured and sustainable practices. ZESCO's current electronic waste management, characterized by unregulated disposal and limited recycling facilities, demands intervention. The absence of clear regulatory frameworks exacerbates these challenges, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive policies to guide responsible e-waste management. This research underscored the urgency of reassessing and restructuring ZESCO Limited's electronic waste management practices to align with international standards, mitigate environmental and health risks, and promote responsible practices. Immediate action is imperative to address the regulatory gaps and ensure the organization's commitment to environmentally sustainable electronic waste management. .
Exploring the Contribution of Microfinance to Poverty Reduction among women in Chongwe District: A Case of VisionFund Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2024) SUMBUKENI, Mildred
This study aims to establish Vision Fund's MFI services for Chongwe women, investigate the sustainability of women's livelihoods, and assess challenges and successes in poverty reduction through microfinance services. The study adopted a quantitative methods approach and used a descriptive study design. The population of the study consisted of female loan recipients from Vision Fund Zambia residing in Chongwe district. The study used purposive sampling technique and data was collected using structured questionnaires. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between microfinance and poverty reduction among women in Chongwe district. The study found that Vision Fund provides diverse MFI services to women in Chongwe District, such as microcredit, financial literacy, savings, entrepreneurial training, community banking, technology use, and programs for healthcare and education. Women expressed high satisfaction, especially with microcredit and technology. Microfinance positively impacts women's livelihood sustainability, affecting income, business, confidence, savings, literacy, overall well-being, education access, and community development. Examining challenges and successes revealed positive aspects like saving, empowerment, community inclusion, flexible repayment, effective poverty reduction, community engagement, network establishment, and potential for long-term poverty reduction. The study recommended that: Vision Fund should continue and expand its successful microcredit services, leveraging the high satisfaction reported by women; there is need to enhance financial literacy programs to further empower clients in making informed financial decisions; there is need to address challenges related to community-based banking services to improve accessibility, especially in remote areas; and there is need to strengthen community engagement initiatives to address social issues related to poverty.
Investigating the factors influencing the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises in Lusaka: A Case of Kabwata
(University of Lusaka, 2024) MALUFU, Herbert
The study sought to establish the factors affecting the growth of small and micro enterprises (SMEs) in Kabwata Lusaka. The study employed a descriptive case study design to achieve the objectives. The target population under study was the 30 SMEs owners in Kabwata market. The study used a structured interview guide to collect the required data. And data was analyzed thematically. The data collected was coded, quantified and analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Participants reported access to finance and lack of managerial skills experience as the key socio-economic factors affecting the growth of businesses in Lusaka. The other key factors that were found to affect SMEs are: access to business information, access to corruption, business location and government policy and regulations. The study concluded that access to finance and availability of managerial skills and experience are the key socio-economic factors affecting the growth of businesses in Lusaka district. These two have the potential of leading to improved business performance. The other key factors that were found to affect growth of micro and small enterprises in Lusaka district are: access to business information, government policy and regulations, corruption inflation rate, networking and collaboration.
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
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.
Factors contributing to delays of selected government construction projects in Lusaka, Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MAKUBALO, William
In Zambia, most government projects are finished beyond the original time frames that were established. Project delays hinder growth, have enormous financial consequences for society, and damage the reputations of those involved in carrying out the initiatives. The country's backlog of projects has seen a rise in funding in recent years, but the people who stand to gain from these projects don't care that the infrastructure gets completed. This study set out to investigate the causes of the delays in government construction projects in Lusaka, Zambia. The research design used in the study was descriptive, and it combined quantitative and qualitative approaches. All stakeholders in the construction industry based in Lusaka made up the study population. Using a census, the researcher selected all the potential participants from the study population, from which 71 successfully completed the closed ended questions. Stakeholder involvement, project budgeting and fiscal management, and project management practices comprised the three primary categories into which the study divided the causes of delay. Regression and theme analysis were utilised in the study to analyse the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Delays in government construction projects can stem from various factors such as inadequate project planning and management, leading to budget overruns, design errors, procurement issues and bureaucratic red tape and administrative inefficiencies. The World Bank's research highlights the above challenges, which can impact project timelines and delivery schedules. Regarding the hypotheses tested, it was found that there was no significant relationship between project management practices and delays in government construction projects, nor between stakeholder involvement and project delays. However, there was a notable correlation between project budgeting and fiscal management and delays, indicating that effective management of financial resources could mitigate project delays in government construction endeavours. Government construction projects in Zambia often face delays due to weak project planning, bureaucratic procedures, and external factors like weather, limited resources, and labor conflicts. The World Bank's research highlights these challenges, which can impact project timelines and delivery schedules. The study found that project management practices, including planning, initiation, execution, monitoring, control, and closure, are crucial for project success, with prepared plans being a foundational element. Rigorously prepared plans are foundations for project success according to several studies. It was discovered that stakeholders’ such as clients’ payments for the contractor's labour caused delays which have a negative impact on the project timeframe. Studies found that contractor's lack of experience, inadequate administration and oversight of the project site, and insufficient funding to begin the job are stakeholder related causes of project delays. Prior research indicates that financial management and project budgeting play a role in the delays that occur in building projects. All initiatives in the public sector should utilise efficient project planning and commencement procedures. Adopting and consistently implementing best practices for project management throughout the organisation will help achieve this. Additionally, this study suggests emphasizing implementation efforts to guarantee that plans are carried out successfully to completely achieve goals. According to the terms of the building contract, the customer must honour payments made to contractors in a timely manner. At the implementation stage, the client and users must make sure there are enough financial resources for the project to prevent work from stopping on-site owing to cash flow issues. To reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, the government should give employees greater authority and reduce the hierarchy of the organizational structure. This would ensure that decisions are made by people other than those at the top. Key words: Construction Delays, Project management practices, budgeting and fiscal management, stakeholder involvement
Risk management practices in the tendering process of building projects in the Zambian construction industry: A case of local contractors in Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2025) KAOMA, Brian
This study aimed at exploring the risks associated with building projects during the tendering process. The research determined the probability and impact of the explored risks on building projects if not managed during the tendering process. Furthermore, the research aimed at proposing a risk management framework using both internal and external technical input risk factors. Ultimately the research sought to find out the maturity levels of organizations in managing risks. The Methodology of the study followed a mixed method technique in which the questionnaire survey and interviews were used as data collection instrument. The study sample size was 87 out of target population of 109; the research had 80% response rate comprising technical personnel in the companies. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the research findings. The research findings revealed that at tendering stage, building projects are exposed to more risks and these risks include the level of competition, Weather and Environmental Conditions, Clarity of bidding documents, Resource availability (Finance, material, labour), Project site location, Perception and experience of the estimator, Actual direct cost, Payment system, Time delivery, Fluctuations in exchange rates and project scope. The study findings revealed that these risks have a likely chance of occurring during the tendering process through the composite mean of (1.69 ~ 2) and that all the risks have the capability to impact building projects through the composite mean of (1.74 ~ 2). Lastly most contractors that participated in the study describe the maturity of the organisation risk management as aware (43.7%) denoting that they use scattered approach to risk management. Therefore it was recommended that contractors should involve professionals during tendering to price the works and government professional bodies should be proactive during the tendering process of building projects. And finally the researcher developed a Risk management framework that should be adopted in Zambia for Building projects at the tendering stage. Key Terms: Tendering process, Risk Management, Risk maturity, Building projects