Undergraduate
Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://localhost:4000/handle/123456789/196
Undergraduate
Browse
52 results
Search Results
Item Investigating the factors influencing the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises in Lusaka: A Case of Kabwata(University of Lusaka, 2024) MALUFU, HerbertThe 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.Item Exploring the Contribution of Microfinance to Poverty Reduction among women in Chongwe District: A Case of VisionFund Zambia(University of Lusaka, 2024) SUMBUKENI, MildredThis 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.Item 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, YvonneThis 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. .Item Anti-Homosexuality in Zambia and its Affront to Human Rights(University of Lusaka, 2024) MUFWAMBI, Chijata KeembelaThis research paper seeks to cast a light on sexual minority LGB individuals within Zambia who are constantly overlooked and when found out are treated in the most inequitable manner by society. It begins by introducing the topic of human rights and how it relates to homosexuality in that the discrimination of homosexuals is not a new phenomenon but an error of the past still practised by some today. The paper goes on to discuss the discrimination in light of the Zambian context and presents it as a problem in need of remedy. The paper tackles the issue of homosexuality through the gay debate that analyses law and morality arguments on the subject. The purpose of this is to understand the place of homosexuals within society and to show that they are no less deserving of protections generally under the law nor inherently immoral and a danger to society. The paper then discusses human rights in-depth and how they relate to homosexuals. An elaboration of what human rights are, how they apply to all including LGB individuals and how they are violated is discussed. The rights violated are discussed as well as how human rights come into play to combat anti-homosexual laws and sentiments that prevent LGB individuals from fully realising their rights. The paper further delves into the Zambian atmosphere in which homosexuality is viewed as a controversy and speaks to how Zambian homosexuals are treated. Examples of this treatment and efforts to combat it within the country are given. A historical significance of the issue and its many arguments is undertaken, followed by a series of findings and recommendations targeted at the present stance on the realisation of human rights for homosexuals in Zambia.Item The Legal and Regulatory Framework on ICT Vis-A-Vis Consumer Protection in Zambia: Lessons from Botswana, South Africa and the United Kingdom(University of Lusaka, 2024) CHEWE, BwalyaInformation Communication and Technology (ICT) comprises a wide range of products such as Laptops, mobile phones, and ICT services such as telephone calling and internet services. ICT services have an important place in our day-to-day lives. It is for this reason that many companies and individuals are in the business of providing ICT services and products. This study examined the legal and regulatory framework that protects Zambian consumers of ICTs. In order to accomplish this, the study outlined the meaning of ICT consumer protection with respect to the Zambian jurisdiction, which is the protection of consumers of electronic communication products and services. Zambia’s legal and regulatory framework on ICT Consumer Protection was then examined. Through the utilisation of research articles, newspaper articles and interviews, the study brought out some of the challenges facing Zambian consumers and revealed the deficiencies in the legal and regulatory framework that are responsible for the said challenges. Thereafter, the legal and regulatory frameworks on ICT Consumer Protection in Botswana, the United Kingdom and South Africa were examined in order to draw lessons that could be applied to the Zambian legal and regulatory framework. Literature by scholars well versed on the subject were used to write this dissertation. Interviews were also utilised. The research found that Zambia’s legal and regulatory framework on ICT consumer protection has many deficiencies. Recommendations to deal with these deficiencies have been derived from an analysis of the legal and regulatory frameworks on ICT Consumer Protection belonging to Botswana, the United Kingdom, and South Africa, of which the latter two were found to be the most comprehensive.Item A study to determine the factors contributing to the rise in malaria prevalence in Mumbwe District of Zambia(University of Lusaka, 2023) LUMAI, RobertMalaria is a common and life-threatening disease caused by a plasmodium parasite, transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes in many tropical and subtropical areas. Malaria is caused by the protozoan parasite called Plasmodium. Human malaria is caused by four different species of Plasmodium namely P. falciparum, P. malariae, P. ovale and P. vivax. There are two categories of malaria infections namely uncomplicated and severe or complicated infection. Uncomplicated malaria lasts 6-10 hours and it consists of a cold stage, a hot stage and a sweating stage. This study sought to assess the factors that contribute to the rise in malaria prevalence in Mumbwa District. The study used quantitative research using descriptive cross-sectional study on 39 participants. The respondents were knowledgeable of the importance of using treated bed nets, the time of using it, types of nets and source of information pertaining to LLINs utilization. In this study the utilization of ITNS for respondents has shown that majority of them (74percent) were using bed nets when they went to sleep, while only a few (17percent) who were not using bed nets in regular bases during their sleep. A higher malaria prevalence is associated with a number of factors that lead to lowered malaria transmission, like increased literacy levels, higher access to malaria health awareness campaigns and health education, as well as being able to afford disease prevention methods and treatment. According to the present study, 72.3% of participants had a history of malaria infection however, only 26 were infected with malaria. In particular, individuals who had a family history of malaria were 1.53 times more likely to be infected by Plasmodium species compared to their counterparts (p < 0.00). The result showed that malaria is still one of the most serious public burdens in the study area. The main infection factors linked to the infection in the study area were age, sex, marital status, family size, use of LLIN and IRS, presence of mosquito breeding sites, and openings on their wall/roof. In addition, the main reason for rejecting LLIN is misconceptions about the toxicity of the treated net. The burden of malaria could be reduced by focusing on changing the attitudes towards malaria prevention and control through continued health education.Item Knowledge and Utilization of HIV Post-exposure Prophylaxis among Healthcare Workers at Buchi Clinic in Kitwe: a facility based cross-sectional study(University of Lusaka, 2023) NANKAMBA, PriscaHealthcare providers (HCPs) face an increased vulnerability to occupational exposure to HIV as a result of their frequent interaction with blood and various bodily fluids. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) plays a pivotal role in averting HIV transmission following such incidents. The objective of this study was to evaluate the awareness and utilization of HIV PEP among healthcare workers stationed at Buchi Clinic in Kitwe, Zambia. A cross-sectional study was carried out at Buchi Clinic in Kitwe, involving a total of 76 healthcare workers. Data pertaining to participants' socio-demographic background, knowledge pertaining to PEP, and the utilization of PEP services were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the collected data. Out of the 76 participants, the majority were female (62.5%) and aged between 25 and 35 years (52.6%). The findings indicated that 72.4% of participants had good knowledge about HIV PEP. However, only 41.4% had received training on PEP, and 51.3% knew the ideal timeframe for commencing PEP after exposure. Of those reporting exposure incidents, 36.8% utilized PEP services. Factors associated with PEP utilization included awareness of the correct timeframe for initiating PEP and previous training on PEP. Although a majority of the healthcare workers at Buchi Clinic accessed and utilized PEP, knowledge of PEP services was suboptimal. Strengthening training programs and providing regular updates on PEP guidelines and procedures may enhance healthcare workers' knowledge and utilization of PEP services. These findings underscore the importance of continuous education and support to safeguard the safety and well-being of healthcare workers in preventing occupational HIV transmission.Item Adherence to Occupational Health and Safety Practices at Konkola Copper Mines, Chililabombwe District Zambia(University of Lusaka, 2023) NALWAMBA, Patience MbughiIn the majority of emerging nations, the modern period of globalization, fast industrialization, and urbanization have emerged as twin brothers. ILO standards on occupational safety and health provide essential tools for governments, employers, and workers to establish safe practices for providing maximum safety at work. The ISO 45001 standard serves as the foundation for the mining sector's occupational health and safety management systems in Zambia. It is probable that about 2.2 million people die annually from work related accidents and diseases, and a further 270 million workers fall victims of nonfatal occupational injuries. This results in substantial human and economic costs to workers and their families, employers, and society. The objective of this study was to assess the occupational health and safety practices at konkola copper mines. A facility based cross-sectional study was used among KCM underground miners prior to the study in 2023 in Chililabombwe district. A structure questionnaire was used to collect data. The data was analysed using STATA. The minimum age of respondents was 22 years old and the maximum was 56 years old with the mean age of 36.8 (SD=6.8) years. The majority of the participants 90(23.7%) were between 31-40 years old. Females were the most responds who adhered to occupational health and safety guidelines 43(82.69) compared to males with (28.57). The majority of respondents attended Primary (50.00) education level who adhered to occupational health and safety guidelines compared to those who attended secondary and university (33.33) and (16.67) respectively. The study concluded that there was awareness of emergency procedures and accident reporting and investigation vital for some enhancement. In general, the findings emphasize the significance of continuous education and preparation to maintain a safe and sound workplace, as well as the importance of ongoing observation and evaluation of workplace security strategies and practice. It may be necessary to enforce stricter adherence to safety guidelines and the use of personal protective equipment in order to improve safety and cut down on accidents. Training on safety rules and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE) should be given more frequently and more thoroughly.Item Associated Factors of Drug Resistance among Tuberculosis Patients at Kafue District Hospital(University of Lusaka, 2023) SABAO, NathanDrug resistance in tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant public health challenge worldwide. This dissertation investigates the associated factors contributing to drug resistance among TB patients, shedding light on critical aspects of TB management and control. The study employed a mixed methods approach, including retrospective patient record analysis and qualitative interviews. The analysis of patient records revealed a concerning rise in drug resistance rates, particularly at Kafue District Hospital. Factors associated with drug resistance included inadequate treatment adherence, previous TB treatment history, and comorbidities such as HIV infection. Qualitative interviews with TB patients and healthcare providers provided valuable insights into the social and healthcare-related determinants of drug resistance. Stigmatization, economic constraints, and limited access to quality healthcare services emerged as significant challenges faced by TB patients. This dissertation underscores the multifaceted nature of drug resistance among TB patients. It highlights the urgent need for tailored interventions, improved treatment adherence support, and enhanced access to comprehensive healthcare services. Addressing these factors is crucial to mitigating the growing threat of drug-resistant TB and advancing global efforts toward TB control and elimination.Item Assessing Factors associated with Stress among Nursing Students at Choma College of Nursing in Choma District(University of Lusaka, 2023) HAZEMBA, NatashaStress is a sensation of emotive or physical pressure (MedlinePlus , 2022). Stress can originate from any incident or thought that makes one feel unfulfilled, annoyed, or anxious. Stress is also defined as any type of adjustment that causes physical, emotive, or psychological tension (Scott, 2022).This research assessed the factors associated with stress among nursing students at Choma College of Nursing. The researcher explored, academic factors, personal factors, environmental factors and stress levels. The main objective was to identify risk factors associated with stress among nursing students of Choma College of Nursing. The study espoused a quantitative study approach and the study design engaged was in this study was a cross-sectional study as it is considered the most operative when looking at factors associated with stress among nursing students. Data was collected using a structured survey and a professed stress scale for measuring stress levels for the stress scores was used. From the results obtained 79.6% of the sampled population showed high levels of stress and 20.4% showed moderate levels of stress. Among the sampled no participant showed low levels of stress. The study had more female participants 54.6% than males 45.4%. The findings showed academic factors, examinations to be the most stressful factor among the study participants though the results were statistically insignificant with a p-value 0.949>0.05 which showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups (stress and examinations). Majority of the participants were above 20 years 77.6% and less than or equal to 20 years 22.4%, with mean age 24.32 and standard deviation 4.91622 of which the minimum age was 17 and maximum 40. The study consisted of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd years of which the majority of the students were the 3rd years 50.0%, 2nd year 31.6% and 1st years 18.4%. This study provides some unique evidence that stress at Choma College of Nursing is prominent among students and is mostly as a result of academic factors. Academic factors such as examinations, workload and assignments were reported as the most cause of stress among the students. High levels of stress have been under looked among students because there are no infringements that have been executed to help nursing students deal with stress in their learning environment.