Undergraduate Research Reports & Masters Dissertations
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://research.unilus.ac.zm/handle/123456789/447
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Item Exploring Food Hygiene Practices Among Street Food Vendors in Lusaka: A Phenomenological Study(2026) MOOKA, EstherThe study explored food hygiene practices among street food vendors in Lusaka using a qualitative phenomenological design. The research aimed to assess food handling practices, evaluate vendors’ knowledge and perceptions regarding food hygiene and safety, and examine how access to clean water and sanitation facilities influenced hygiene practices. A total of 15 street food vendors were purposively selected from three major markets Soweto Market, City Market, and Kamwala Market. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that while 73% of the vendors practiced regular handwashing and 67% covered cooked food during display, only 40% consistently separated raw and cooked food items. Furthermore, 60% reported reusing cooking oil multiple times, and 53% stored food in open containers, exposing it to dust and flies. Access to clean water was a major challenge, with only 33% of the vendors having access to tap water near their vending area, while 40% depended on shared boreholes and 27% carried water from home. In terms of sanitation, 47% had access to public toilets, whereas 53% operated in areas without sanitation facilities. Regarding knowledge and perceptions, 80% of the participants had not received any formal training on food hygiene, relying instead on personal experience or advice from fellow vendors. Despite this, 67% expressed awareness that poor hygiene could lead to illness, although most associated cleanliness with attracting customers rather than preventing foodborne diseases. Environmental and infrastructural challenges, including poor waste disposal and limited regulatory oversight, contributed to inconsistent hygiene practices. Only 27% of the vendors reported having ever been inspected by health authorities. Consumer influence played a notable role, with 60% of vendors acknowledging that customers preferred purchasing from visibly clean stalls. The study concluded that improving food hygiene among street vendors in Lusaka required a multi-sectoral approach involving training, provision of clean water and sanitation facilities, and regular inspections. It recommended that the Lusaka City Council and Ministry of Health implement vendor training programs, install mobile handwashing stations, and strengthen enforcement of existing food safety regulations.Item Assessing the influence of Socio demographic factors on stunting among underfive children in Chabanyama Compund, Chingola: A cross-sectional study(2026) MUWOWO, AgnessStunting among under-five children is a persistent public health concern in Sub Saharan Africa, including Zambia, contributing to impaired growth, cognitive deficits, and poor school performance. Socio-demographic factors such as parental education, household size, employment status, and maternal age have been identified as key determinants of child nutritional status. This study aimed to assess the influence of socio-demographic factors on stunting among under-five children in Chabanyama Compound, Chingola, Zambia. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 262 under-five children and their caregivers. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and child health records. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize socio-demographic characteristics, while Pearson’s Chi-square tests were applied to examine associations between stunting and socio-demographic variables. Statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05. The study found that 52.3% of the children were female, and the majority of mothers (44.3%) had attained secondary education. Most households (68.3%) had four or more members, and 58.8% had an average monthly income of less than 5000 ZMW. Stunting prevalence in the study population was 20.6%. Chi-square analysis revealed no statistically significant associations between stunting and maternal education (p = 0.352), paternal education (p = 0.315), maternal age at childbirth (p = 0.447), maternal employment status (p = 0.326), paternal/guardian employment status (p = 0.789), household size (p = 0.342), number of children under five (p = 0.926), or household income (p = 0.103). Stunting in Chabanyama Compound is moderately prevalent, but socio demographic factors such as parental education, maternal age, employment status, and household size did not show significant associations with stunting in this study. These findings suggest that other factors, including feeding practices, access to health services, and environmental conditions, may play a more prominent role in influencing child nutritional outcomes. Multi-sectoral interventions targeting nutrition education, health service accessibility, and household food security are recommended. Keywords: Stunting, Under-five Children, Socio-demographic Factors, Household Size, Parental EducationItem Assessing Health Insurance (NHIMA) coverage of retired patients and their access to health care at Levy Mwanawasa Hospital(2026) CHANDA, Bupe MubangaIn Zambia access to healthcare among retirees remains a major concern particularly regarding enrolment and utilization of the NHIS, despite the number growth limited empirical data exists on how retired individuals navigate through healthcare services at Levy Mwanawasa Hospital. In Zambia this transition poses additional challenges as retirees often struggle to have access to health services, although this scheme was introduced to promote equitable and affordable healthcare for all Zambian citizens. Despite a growing number of retirees joining NHIMA, empirical evidence remains limited regarding how patients navigate healthcare under this system, particularly with high volume public hospitals such as Levy Teaching Mwanawasa Hospital. This study adopted a qualitative method was used as an explorative and descriptive design to gain in depth insight into the lived experiences of retired patients aged 60 and above. Data was collected through interviews with purposively selected participants. Data was collected through interviews with purposively selected participants. The thematic analysis was used to analyze the data, well-structured questionnaires were administered to individuals that were willing to participate and express their perceptions, challenges and expectations in details, thematic analysis was also used to analyze the data that was collected. This study revealed a widespread of gaps in health insurance literacy among retirees, with many unsure about how NHIMA operates or how to access its benefits. Low literacy levels proved to be high and often resulted in confusion, delays and underutilization of services available. Additionally, retirees highlighted persistent systematic barriers which included drug stockouts, long waiting hours, perceived negative attitudes among healthcare workers and inconsistent communication. Although some patients acknowledged improvements in financial access due to the health insurance coverage. The Ministry of Health should allocate adequate funding to NHIMA-accredited facilities to prevent drug shortages and ensure timely procurement of essential commodities. The Ministry of Health should strengthen health insurance education for adults, both at community level and also during hospital visits. Furthermore, staff training on customer care and customer service health insurance processes in order to reduce misinformation by Strengthening, accountability mechanisms which will help address the necessary gaps and support progress towards universal health coverage.Item Identifying Demographic and Lifestyle Factors Associated with Obesity Among University of Lusaka Students in Lusaka, Zambia(2026) CHAMPO, DanielObesity is a growing public health concern among young adults in Zambia, particularly within university settings. This study investigated demographic and lifestyle factors associated with obesity among students at the University of Lusaka (UNILUS). A quantitative cross-sectional study involving 373 students was conducted using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Analysis was performed in STATA using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression at a significance level of p < 0.05. The prevalence of obesity was 22.25%, and 55.23% of students were either overweight or obese. High fast-food consumption showed a significant association with obesity (χ² = 7.49, p = 0.006). Logistic regression revealed that students who consumed fast food ≥5 times per week had 2.46 times higher odds of obesity (95% CI: 1.21–5.00, p = 0.013). Sleeping 7–8 hours per night reduced the odds of obesity by 45% (OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.30–0.98, p = 0.044). Demographic factors including gender, SES, and residence were not significant predictors in the adjusted model. Obesity among UNILUS students is substantially high at 22.25%, answering the first research question. The study further demonstrates that frequent fast-food consumption is the strongest behavioural determinant, with students consuming fast food ≥5 times per week having more than twice the odds of being obese. Adequate sleep (7–8 hours) was a significant protective factor. Overall, modifiable lifestyle behaviours rather than demographic characteristics are the primary contributors to obesity in this population. The university should prioritise interventions addressing fast-food intake, sleep hygiene, and campus nutritional environments. Future research should adopt longitudinal designs to better establish causal pathways.Item Exploring Mental Health Awareness and Support Systems Among University Students at the University of Lusaka(2026) MOYO, DavidMental health challenges among university students were recognized as a significant global public health concern, with particular resonance in low-resource settings. In Zambia, barriers such as cultural stigma, limited awareness, and perceived inadequacy of support systems were known to hinder help seeking behaviours. The University of Lusaka was identified as a context where preliminary evidence suggested a significant underutilization of existing support services. This study aimed to explore mental health awareness and support systems among students at the University of Lusaka, Silverest Campus. A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, with data collected through semi structured interviews and focus group discussions with 25 students. The analysis revealed several key themes: a limited understanding of mental health concepts, a significant gap in knowledge regarding available support services, multiple barriers to access (encompassing stigma, cultural beliefs, and confidentiality concerns), and the pervasive nature of mental health stigma within the student community. It was concluded that the current support system was ineffective due to poor awareness, deep-seated stigma, and a critical communication gap. The study recommended the implementation of a comprehensive awareness and anti-stigma campaign, the clarification of support service pathways, and the establishment of structured peer support programs to create a more supportive environment for student mental well-being. Keywords: mental health, awareness, support systems, university students, Zambia, qualitative research, stigmaItem Beyond Access: Unravelling the determinants of Family Planning Autonomy among adolescents in Matero, Lusaka(2026) CHIKUNDA, DorcasThis study was conducted in Matero Township of Lusaka district in Lusaka province. The general objective of the study was to investigate the determinants of family planning autonomy among adolescents in Matero. The study design used was case - control community-based cross-sectional study design with a quantitative approach to data collection. The target population of the study was all adolescents aged 14 – 21 years and who live in the selected study area. A total 384 participants were used as the sample size. Purposive sampling method was used to recruits participants. Adolescent boys and girls aged not above 21 years were identified by the researchers from each household and were selected to take part with their full consent. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the socio-demographic characteristics and the results were presented in tables and charts. Inferential statistics were performed by Chi-square at 95% confidence interval (CI) to assess the association between the interacting variables. Outcomes p < .05 were considered statistically significant. The study finding revealed that the rate of family planning autonomy among adolescents in Matero was 53.7%. The utilization of different family planning methods used by the adolescents in Matero vary as the most used FP method among adolescents in Matero is condoms (40.8%), followed by implants (20.2%), Oral contraceptive pills (15.0%) and hormonal patches (12.0%). The socioeconomic and demographic factors influencing FP autonomy among adolescents in Matero are older adolescent age, female gender, low level of education, being married and occupation while the social factors influencing FP autonomy among adolescents are access to FP services, living with a contraceptive user, being in a sexual relationship and having at least one child.Item An assessment of peer dynamics and parental influence on substance Abuse in youths of Mpatamatu, Luanshya district: A cross-section study(2026) Mpundu, EthelSubstance abuse among youth is a growing global concern, particularly in low-income and developing regions. In Zambia, like in many other parts of the world, adolescent substance abuse has emerged as a pressing issue with long-term implications for public health, education, and social development. Mpatamatu, a residential area in Luanshya, Zambia, faces a rising incidence of substance abuse among its youth. This research aims to assess the influence of peer dynamics and parental relationships on substance abuse behaviours in this community. Substance abuse during adolescence can be a consequence of various factors, but peer pressure and parental influence have been identified as two of the most significant contributors. Peer influence involves the impact that friends or peers have on an individual’s decision-making process, while parental influence pertains to how family relationships, values, and behaviours shape youth attitudes toward substances. Understanding these dynamics in the context of Mpatamatu can provide insights into the root causes of substance abuse and inform effective interventions.Item Assessing the role of traditional medicine in seeking healthcare in Chongwe, Lusaka, Zambia(2026) MASAMBA, Fred ChisambuTraditional medicine is an important component of healthcare in Zambia, over 65 (80%) of the global population, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, rely on it as a main source of medical care. In Chongwe, Lusaka, traditional medicine is usually used due to cultural beliefs, affordability and accessibility particularly among rural and less educated populations. Despite its prevalence, concerns continue concerning safety, efficacy and integration with modern healthcare systems. To identify the types of traditional medicines and remedies commonly used; To investigate the reasons for preferring traditional medicine over formal healthcare and to examine the impact of traditional medicine use on health outcomes. The study was conducted in Chongwe, Lusaka Province, Zambia. A qualitative phenomenological approach was used and purposive and snowball sampling was used, data was collected through interviews on 15 participants. The findings were analyzed using themes and narrations to give in depth experiences of participants. The results indicated that 70% of community members regularly used traditional medicine. Reasons for preference were accessibility, affordability, cultural inheritance and showed no interest to conventional healthcare. Healers diagnosed and treated illnesses using observation, touch and herbal remedies, often referring severe cases to hospitals. Healthcare workers noted risks such as non-disclosure, potential drug interactions and delays in seeking formal care but also stated support for regulated combination. The study showed that traditional medicine plays a critical role in Chongwe’s healthcare system which serves as a balancing element alongside modern medicine. Combination, supported by regulation, training and community education, is important for safe, effective and culturally responsive healthcare delivery. remedies, Keywords: Traditional medicine, healthcare seeking behaviour, Chongwe, Zambia, integration, herbal health outcomes, accessibility, cultural beliefs, regulation.Item An Assessment of Sexual and Reproductive health - seeking behaviours among female students at Chipata College of Nursing and Midwifery in the Eastern Province of Zambia(2026) TEMBO, IvertThis study was conducted to assess the SRH-seeking behaviours of female students at Chipata College of Nursing and Midwifery in the Eastern Province of Zambia. The study used a qualitative approach to collect diverse views on the SRH-seeking behaviours of the participants using in-depth interviews. Cumulatively, the sample size, which was purposely drawn from three study cohorts, was 24 female students, i.e., 8 from each study cohort. On SRH advice from parents/guardians, most participants, especially those from rural areas, did not discuss issues of SRH with their parents or guardians because of their perceived beliefs in cultural and traditional norms, but those from the urban areas discussed a lot about SRH matters with their parents/guardians. Regarding SRH services accessed, participants from rural areas appreciated the pregnancy prevention services, while those from urban areas appreciated the contraception services. Among service providers consulted, most participants consulted private health facilities on sexual and reproductive issues, followed by those who consulted their peers and a youth-friendly health centre. Regarding challenges participants faced, most participants said that negative attitudes from some healthcare practitioners were a big problem, followed by those participants who saw a lack of confidentiality/privacy as another problem. On recommendations, all participants made recommendations on how to improve the sexual and reproductive health services at the college, with the majority recommending an improvement in attitudes of some health practitioners, followed by a recommendation on adherence to confidentiality and privacy norms. SRH services at Chipata College of Nursing and Midwifery were a concern as they affected female students’ choices, which ultimately affected their lives morally and educationally. The Ministry of Health and cooperating partners should design and implement youth-friendly SRH policies that can create a more supportive environment for female students.Item Assessing the Factors Influencing Hypertension Self-Management Practices among Adults in Urban Lusaka: A Cross-Sectional Study(2026) KALYONDO, Jonathan MusondaHypertension remains a significant public health challenge in urban Lusaka, contributing to high morbidity and mortality, a trend evidenced by the steady increase in reported cases. Effective management is crucial, yet poor control indicates potential gaps in individual selfcare. To assess the factors influencing hypertension self-management practices among adults in urban Lusaka. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 151 adults diagnosed with hypertension. Convenience sampling was used to select Kanyama, Chawama and Matero Level 1 Hospitals while a stratified random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. SPSS version 25 was used to analyse data. Before data collection, ethical approval was obtained from university ethics committee and National Health Research Authority. The findings revealed a moderate overall knowledge level among participants (mean score of 67.9%), with a high standard deviation (20.63) indicating significant variability. While most respondents (90%) understood the general seriousness of the condition. Attitudes were moderately positive (mean 3.58), with strong agreement on seriousness, exercise, and medication importance. In conclusion a significant gap exists between what adults with hypertension in urban Lusaka know and how they actually manage the condition. High non-adherence rates are largely driven by structural barriers such as medication cost and accessibility, behavioural challenges like forgetfulness and low self-efficacy, and weak patient follow-up systems. To improve hypertension control, the study recommends sustained, targeted health education, stronger patient counselling to build confidence, and practical interventions to reduce barriers to medication adherence. Key Words: Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Hypertension, self-medication