Undergraduate Research Reports & Masters Dissertations

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://research.unilus.ac.zm/handle/123456789/447

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    Evaluation of the Implementation of Sanitation and Hygiene Programmes in Mwense District, Zambia
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) NYIRONGO, Albert
    Before and few years after Zambia got its independence in 1964, the sanitation crisis became more evident, this reviewed most of the people having lowly paid jobs and in eventuality led to low standards of living because of high illiterate levels. This resulted into a lot of adverse health effects such as diarrhea, cholera, dysentery and typhoid fever, mostly affecting children under the age of five years consequently leading to high mortality (WHO,2022. This study evaluated the implementation of sanitation and hygiene programs in mwense district, Zambia, were a mixed approach method was used which included both qualitative and quantitative methods. The study population was 772 people with a sample size of 58 household from both kampamba and mwenso village. A purposive sampling technique was in the study because not all the local people in the study area that did not have toilets. The research objectives included the following; to find out the households with improved sanitation and hygiene practices in Mwense District, to assess the effectiveness of existing sanitation and hygiene programs in Mwense District, to identify challenges faced during the implementation of the programs and recommend potential solutions for improvement in Mwense District. The findings provided critical insights for refining sanitation and hygiene strategies in Mwense District as the results showed that (42) 93.3% of the respondents had access to a sanitation facility while 2 (6.7%) did not have. The other findings showed that 15 (34.1%) said the programs were very effective in improving sanitation and hygiene inthe communities while 16 (36.4%) respondent that the programs are ineffective, 11 (25%) responded that the programs are neutral and 2 (4.5%) said the programs are ineffective. Lastly, the major challenge was inadequate funding and it was recommended that funding must be increased for sanitation and hygiene programs. Keywords: Sanitation, Hygiene Programs, Implementation, Evaluation, Public Health, Waterborne Diseases, Community Participation, Sustainability.
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    Investigating the Environmental Impact of the Sustainable Livestock Infrastructure Management Project (SLIMP) on Land Resources in Muchinga, Northern and Eastern Provinces
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) MBAMBARA, Zengani
    The study assessed the environmental impact of the Sustainable Livestock Infrastructure Management Project (SLIMP) on land resources in Muchinga, Northern, and Eastern Provinces of Zambia. The primary objectives were to: assess the impact of SLIMP activities on soil health and fertility; evaluate the extent of land degradation resulting from SLIMP infrastructure; and examine the effect of SLIMP on vegetation cover and plant biodiversity. A mixed-methods research approach was adopted, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data. The research employed an exploratory and experimental design, with a sample of 285 livestock farmers selected through stratified and purposive sampling. Data was collected using soil sample analysis and vegetation samples, questionnaires, key informant interviews, and direct observations. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, with statistical methods including descriptive statistics and findings presented in frequency tables, while qualitative data was analyzed through thematic analysis. Findings revealed that 65% of respondents reported improvements in soil health and fertility, attributed to SLIMP’s soil management practices. However, 18% raised concerns about soil compaction due to heavy machinery. Regarding land degradation, 72% reported minimal impact, although 28% in areas near infrastructure development observed significant soil erosion, with an average erosion severity score of 3.8/5. In terms of vegetation cover, 50% of respondents noted positive effects, while 38% reported a decline in plant biodiversity, especially due to overgrazing. The study concluded that SLIMP had a generally positive impact on soil health and vegetation, although challenges such as soil compaction, erosion, and biodiversity loss persisted. Recommendations included: enhancing grazing management practices, strengthening land restoration efforts, and increasing training for local farmers to sustain and amplify SLIMP’s positive environmental outcomes.
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    Assessing Sustainable Practices in Managing Mineral Processing Residues: An Analysis at Mopani Copper Mines, Mufulira District
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) MAMBO, Namasiku Yvonne
    Environmental sustainability is a crucial concern in the mining industry, particularly in Zambia, where mining plays a significant role in the national economy. This study examines the sustainability of mineral processing water disposal at Mopani Copper Mines, focusing on four key environmental practices: pollution prevention techniques, resource efficiency practices, ecosystem protection measures, and waste minimization strategies. The study aims to determine how these practices influence sustainable water disposal and contribute to minimizing the environmental impact of mining activities. A quantitative research approach was adopted, utilizing a structured questionnaire to collect data from 120 respondents working at Mopani Copper Mines. The analysis involved descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression modeling to assess the relationship between environmental practices and sustainable water disposal. The findings revealed that resource efficiency practices and ecosystem protection measures had the most significant impact on sustainable water disposal, while pollution prevention techniques and waste minimization strategies also played a role but with less pronounced effects. The study concludes that improving resource efficiency and ecosystem protection initiatives is critical in achieving sustainable mineral processing water disposal. It recommends increased investment in advanced water recycling technologies, enhanced pollution monitoring systems, and stricter enforcement of waste management policies. Future research should explore the long-term effectiveness of these environmental practices and examine their broader impact across the Zambian mining sector. Keywords: Environmental Sustainability, Mining, Water Disposal, Resource Efficiency, Pollution Prevention, Waste Management, Ecosystem Protection
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    Optimization of Patient Flow at the Outpatient Department ofUniversity Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) MUYUNDA, Mubita
    This study investigates the factors contributing to inefficiencies in patient flow at the Outpatient Department (OPD) of University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka, Zambia, aiming to propose solutions to optimize service delivery. Tertiary healthcare facilities like UTH face significant challenges such as long waiting times, overcrowded waiting areas, and inefficient triage systems contributing to delayed care and increased strain on resources. Despite the critical importance of efficient patient flow for quality healthcare delivery, little has been done to optimize this process in Zambia. This research aims to fill this knowledge gap by exploring the specific challenges faced at UTH's OPD. The objectives aim at investigating factors contributing to patient flow inefficiencies and developing recommendations for improvement capturing the perspectives of healthcare providers and patients. The research uses a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative methods such as in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with quantitative data from surveys and observations aiming for a comprehensive understanding of patient flow dynamics. The study's population consists of 50 healthcare providers and 1,000 patients from UTH’s OPD, with a calculated sample size of 322 participants. Data collection involves surveys, interviews, focus groups, and documentary analysis. The study revealed inefficiencies that included bottlenecks identified at registration, consultation, and pharmacy stages. Long waiting times, averaging 30-60 minute sat registration and over an hour at the pharmacy were found. Patient satisfaction was low, with 75.1% expressing dissatisfaction with the registration process. Healthcare providers highlighted staffing shortages and poor coordination as challenges. Recommendations: Increase staffing levels, implement technology-driven solutions, and improve resource allocation. Engage healthcare workers as key stakeholders in these undertakings so as to enhance healthcare service delivery in hospitals. Keywords: Optimisation; Patient Flow, Outpatient Department, University Teaching Hospital, Bottlenecks, Waiting Time, Efficiency.
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    Assessing the Effectiveness of Waste Management Units Garbage Collection Systems in Kabwata Constituency,in Lusaka City, Zambia
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) CHONGO, Chisomo
    Globally, effective waste management is a cornerstone of sustainable urban development, mitigating public health risks and minimizing environmental degradation. However, many cities, especially in low- and middle-income countries, face persistent challenges in achieving efficient garbage collection systems. Effective waste management systems are critical for ensuring urban cleanliness, public health, and environmental sustainability. This study employs a structured qualitative case study design to assess the effectiveness of waste management units in delivering garbage collection services in Kabwata Constituency, Lusaka City, Zambia. The research focuses on evaluating operational efficiency, community satisfaction, environmental sustainability, and compliance with national waste management regulations. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, direct field observations, document reviews, and thematic analysis of responses from residents. The findings reveal systemic inefficiencies within waste management units. Operational challenges include irregular garbage collection, reported by 60% of respondents, and limited service coverage, with under 75% of households availed services. Community dissatisfaction with inconsistent collection schedules and the lack of environmentally sustainable practices were prominent concerns. Additionally, the study highlights inconsistent adherence to national waste management policies, particularly in low-income areas. The study concludes that while waste management units fulfill a vital role, their effectiveness is hindered by logistical and structural barriers. Recommendations include enhancing operational capacity through investment in equipment, expanding service coverage to underserved areas, and promoting sustainable practices in waste management operations. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the systemic challenges faced by urban waste management units and offers actionable recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance service delivery and environmental outcomes in similar urban contexts. Key Phrases: Effective waste management, Garbage collection systems, Operational efficiency, Environmental sustainability, Community satisfaction, Policy enforcement.
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    Assessment of Factors Associated with Climate Change Adapatation by Farmers in Kawambwa District
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) MUSHINGE, Micheal
    Climate change is a big challenge for farmers everywhere, especially in tropical regionslike Africa. It is evident that climate change is adversely affecting agriculture, and it has become the new norm and caused by human activities. Climate change is especially challenging in Africa, with aspects such as weak policies, limited technology, poverty, severe weather events, and economic hardship making the continent particularly susceptible. This study was conducted to assess climate change adaptation among small-holder farmers in Kawambwa District. This study employed a mixed-methods approach. The study used multistage sampling technique. In the first stage, 3 agricultural camps were selected purposively from 29 camps. Then 301 farmers were randomly selected from 3 agricultural camps. The study targeted small-holder farmers within Kawambwa District. A structured questionnaire and semi-structured interview guide were used for data collection. The quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS to execute descriptive statistics and regression analysis on factors associated with adaptation strategies. Thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data to identify patterns and themes that emerged from the interviews. The study established awareness of climate change and various adaptation strategies among farmers in Kawambwa District which included crop diversification (70%), use of improved seeds (18.39%), conservation agriculture (3.99%) and irrigation (9.9%). Finance (p=0.01), access to climate information (p=0.04), experience (p=0.02) and institutional support (p=0.08) were identified as vital enabling factors of adaptation. Financial, institutional, and infrastructural constraints limit farmers’ ability to implement climate change adaptation strategies. Specific interventions, like extension services, infrastructure and financial resources need to be put in place to improve resilience of farmers against climate related shocks. Keywords: Climate Change, Adaptation, Climate Change Adaptation Practices, Smallholder Farmer, Vulnerability and Agricultural Extension
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    The Effects of Climate Change on Urban Wash Systems in Zambia's Chirundu District: Assessing Vulnerabilities and Exploring Non-Revenue Water Management as an Adaptation Strategy
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) KUNDA, Melody Chama
    The objectives of this research was to assess the vulnerabilities of WASH systems in Chirundu district to climate change as well as to explore the potential of Non-Revenue Water (NRW) management as an adaptation strategy. Therefore, a case study of Chirundu’s urban area was conducted using the mixed methodology. Chirundu’s urban area is currently experiencing a drought caused by the El Niño which has worsened the water supply situation. Chirundu is experiencing water scarcity which is also affecting sanitation and hygiene. With the projected increase in temperature and lowered water supply, this situation is seen to worsen over the decades if resilience against climate change is not strengthened. Vulnerabilities were said to include, diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery and typhoid. Additionally, the old water supply infrastructures make WASH vulnerable to climate change. With the water crisis and scarcity due to climate change, it is important that water losses are avoided. Water losses also puts a financial strain on water utility companies as there is lost revenue which prevents the expansion and sustainability of the water utilities. This study found that NRW is high with the highest percentage at 67% and an average of 32.57% experienced by the water utility Southern Water and Sanitation Company (SWSC) Chirundu in 2024 mostly attributed to leakages and low metering ratio. The ratio between the total water billed and total production was found to be 1:1.60, with the total water produced being twice as much as the total water billed. This coupled with the highpower consumption expenses with a total of Three Hundred Seventy-Seven Thousand Thirty-Three Zambian Kwacha (ZMW 377,033) for the period of January to August in 2024 indicates the unsustainability of their operations especially in the face of climate change. Innovative methods such as SCADA could be used to reduce NRW.
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    Assessing The Incidence And Risk Factors Of Postpartum Haemorrhage In Pregnant Women At Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) SEBIKIRI KEMO ONE
    Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality and an obstetric emergency that complicates 1-10% of all deliveries and require appropriate training for effective prevention, recognition and management. The aim of this study is to assess the incidence and risk factors of postpartum haemorrhage among pregnant women at Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching hospital. The main objective of the study was to determine the incidence of postpartum haemorrhage among patients delivering at Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital. This was a retrospective cohort study with a quantitative approach of 278 medical files. The data was analysed using SPSS version 26 and Microsoft excel and was presented in the form of frequency tables, bar charts, pie charts and histograms. The findings from an analysis of 203 medical records, revealed that 13.8% (28 cases) developed PPH. The majority of affected women were under 30 (82.2%), particularly those aged 25 to 29 (53.6%). Most PPH patients were Gravida 3 (39.3%) and Para 2 (35.7%). PPH primarily occurred at term (35.7%) and at 37 weeks of gestation (21.4%), with most deliveries being spontaneous vaginal births (89.3%). Prolonged labor emerged as the main clinical risk factor, affecting 35.7% of cases. The outcome was generally positive, with 92.9% of women discharged and only 7.1% resulting in death. Regression analysis indicated that age (p = 0.002) and gestational age (p < 0.001) were significant predictors of PPH, highlighting that younger and preterm patients are at greater risk.
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    Evaluating The Level Of Adherence To Safe Motherhood Practices Among Women Receiving Antenatal Care At Mtendere Clinic.
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) Kabwela Mildred
    This study aimed at evaluating the level of adherence to safe motherhood practices among women attending antenatal care at Mtendere Clinic. By exploring factors that influence adherence, including knowledge, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare services, this research wished to identify gaps in current practices and suggest interventions to enhance maternal and neonatal health outcomes. This study employed a cross section descriptive design for the assessment of the level of adherence to safe motherhood practices among women attending antenatal care at a specific point in time and the study will rely on the qualitative more than quantitative aspect to collect and analyze data. The study found that while awareness of safe motherhood practices was relatively high, actual adherence is limited and inconsistent. Key barriers to adherence include long waiting times, financial challenges, cultural beliefs, and inadequate family or spousal support. The findings emphasize the need for a multifaceted approach to improve adherence, one that combines health education, healthcare system strengthening, social support mechanisms, and culturally sensitive practices to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
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    Assessing The Efficacy Of Modern Medicine Compared To Herbal Medicine In Treating Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Patients At Levy Mwanawasa Hospital
    (University of Lusaka, 2024) MURAMBIWA MELISSA
    Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a growing public health concern in Zambia, with many patients turning to both modern and herbal treatments for management. Understanding the comparative effectiveness, adherence, and safety of these options is essential for improving patient outcomes. This study aimed to compare the efficacy, adherence, and side-effect profiles of modern and herbal medicines in managing T2DM at Levy Mwanawasa Hospital. A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among 50 T2DM patients, 30 using modern medicine and 20 using herbal remedies. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests (t-tests and chi-square). Qualitative data were obtained via open-ended questions and thematically analyzed. Modern medicine users reported significantly higher perceived effectiveness (mean score: 4.1) compared to herbal users (mean score: 2.9; p < 0.001). Adherence was also higher in the modern group (75%) than in the herbal group (40%; p = 0.018). However, the modern group experienced a higher frequency of side effects (50% vs 20%; p = 0.024). Qualitative findings revealed that cultural beliefs, cost, and perceived natural safety influenced herbal use, while modern medicine was favored for its reliability and clinical support. Modern medicine appears more effective and better adhered to in managing T2DM, though it is associated with more side effects. Herbal remedies are perceived as safer but less effective and inconsistently used. A culturally sensitive, integrative approach combining biomedical care with validated traditional practices may enhance diabetes management in Zambia.