Undergraduate Research Reports & Masters Dissertations

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A Critical Examination of the Peace and Security Strategies employed by Law Enforcement Agencies in Community Administration: The Case of the Zambia Police Service and the Drug Enforcement Commission in Ng’ombe and George Compounds in Lusaka, Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2025) WAKUNGUMA, Namatama
This study investigated the strategies employed by law enforcement agencies, specifically the Zambia Police Service (ZPS) and Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), in addressing peace and security challenges in Ng'ombe and George compounds in Lusaka. Utilizing the case study research design, the study engaged a sample of 50 participants, with 25 individuals from each compound, selected through purposive sampling. The research focused on assessing the current strategies utilized by ZPS and DEC, exploring the effectiveness of community administration strategies in fostering peace and security, and identifying the challenges and limitations encountered by law enforcement agencies in implementing these strategies. The findings revealed multifaceted approaches employed by law enforcement, encompassing community policing initiatives, patrol and response mechanisms, intelligence-gathering, and drug control operations. Community administration initiatives emphasized engagement, awareness, and partnership-building, contributing to enhanced safety perceptions among residents. However, the study identified challenges such as resource constraints, trust deficits between law enforcement and communities, persistent criminal activities, procedural hurdles, lack of community engagement, and underlying socioeconomic factors that hampered effective implementation. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for tailored strategies, continued evaluation, community involvement, and resource allocation to improve security. The recommendations include strengthening community engagement, enhancing trust building measures, responsibly leveraging technology, adapting strategies to local contexts, allocating resources and training, continual evaluation, and promoting collaboration between community administration and law enforcement agencies. This study provides insights into the complexities of urban security and offers recommendations to enhance peace and security strategies in Ng'ombe and George compounds, contributing to safer and more resilient urban communities.
An Assessment Of Potential Negative Implications Of Transitioning To Solar Pv Energy On Solar Panels Waste Management At End Of Shelf Life In Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MUTALE, Valentine Palangwa
The transition to solar photovoltaic (PV) energy is gaining traction as a sustainable solution to address energy challenges and reduce carbon emissions. However, as the adoption of solar PV energy expands, it is crucial to understand the implications of this transition on waste management practices for solar panels at the end of their shelf life. This research aimed to assess the potential impending negative implications of transitioning to solar PV energy on solar panels waste management at the end of their shelf life in Lusaka. The study adopted a sequential explanatory mixed methods approach and design, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Questionnaires and interviews were used to acquire data from experts in the field. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted to analyze the data and disclose the experts' input. The results indicate a moderate level of solar PV adoption (59%) influenced by various factors, including the political environment (78% agreement, mean=3.97, std=0.98), economic situation (90% agreement, mean=4.42, std=0.79), technological advancement (78% agreement, mean=4.03, std=0.96), and climate change (82% agreement, mean=4.24, std=0.92). The study found that there is a significant lack of awareness among the general public regarding the proper handling and disposal of end-of-life (EoL) solar PV panels, with 87% of respondents lacking this knowledge. Additionally, there is a shortage of waste management infrastructure and recycling facilities that are equipped to handle the disposal of solar panel waste, as reported by 59% of respondents. The investigation revealed a lack of legislation or recommendations for the management of PV waste which has led to uncontrolled transportation and monitoring of solar PV waste within Lusaka and the other provinces. These findings led to the development of a proposed Strategic Framework for the management of solar PV waste in Lusaka, Zambia.
An Assessment Of Radio Programmes In Promoting Good Governance: A Case Of Radio Ichengelo Listeners In Kitwe
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MANJIMELA, Kapulu
This research report explores the impact of radio programs on good governance, focusing on Radio Ichengelo's listeners in Kitwe. Emphasizing the role of good governance in sustainable development, the study highlights radio as a potent medium for disseminating information and fostering civic participation. The primary objective is to assess how Radio Ichengelo's governance programs influence understanding, perceptions, and engagement with good governance principles among Kitwe's listeners, contributing to the discourse on the media's role in promoting good governance. Research questions focus on evaluating how Radio Ichengelo's programs leverage citizen engagement, participation in governance processes, transparency, and accountability through accurate information dissemination. Using a cross-sectional approach and qualitative methods like interviews and focus group discussions, the research gathers insights from a diverse sample of Radio Ichengelo's audience in Kitwe. Qualitative analysis extracts nuanced perspectives, emphasizing citizen engagement, empowerment, transparency, and impact on behaviour. Findings highlight the positive impact of Radio Ichengelo's governance programs, educating citizens, raising awareness, and empowering them to hold the government accountable. Key themes include the alignment between program content and audience expectations on good governance, providing a comprehensive view of the impact. Translating findings into actionable insights, recommendations target media practitioners, policymakers, and development organizations. Suggestions include content diversification, interactive formats, and tailored strategies to meet Kitwe's unique needs. Proposed strategies involve regular interactive sessions, mechanisms for citizen input in community dialogues, targeted civic education programs, collaboration with local institutions, and featuring an active panel of discussants for credibility. Inconclusion, this research contributes to understanding radio programs' role in promoting good governance. Radio Ichengelo's positive impact on citizen engagement, awareness, and empowerment underscores radio's potential as a tool for fostering civic participation.
An Investigation into the effectiveness of the Community Resource Board (CRB) in Game Management : A Case of Chaiwa Game Management Area, Kafue District
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MUBANGA, Catherine
The purpose of this study, was to investigate the effectiveness of the Community Resource Board in Game management, the case of Chiawa Game management area, Kafue District. The study applied single method which was qualitative approach. Case study research design was used in this qualitative research because of the nature of the target population. The total sample size of the study was 40 determined by the principle of saturation. It applied criterion sampling method and purposive to capture the participants. Data was collected through interviews by utilizing semi-structured interview guides as tools for data collection. The raw data that was collected through semi-structured interview guide was analyzed using thematic analysis by following Braun and Clarke’ (2006) 6 step process. Two theories were used in this study, the theory of collective action and the theory common pool resource to guide the research. The research results revealed that the Chiawa CRB maintain transparency in its operations through regular meetings with the local community members which allows them to openly take part in decision-making processes. The results also revealed that the CRB work with the traditional leaders by informing them to call for meetings where Chiawa game management programs are shared with the local community members. It was also revealed that the CRBs call local community members regularly for activity planning concerning Chiawa game management area. The results indicates that through CRBs in Chiawa, the local community members are able to play their role towards game management, the government also play it’s role and the conservation provides the services needed by working together for the benefits of the future generation. The findings also revealed that the Chiawa CRBs engage the local community in wildlife monitoring which triggers the sense of ownership and responsibility among local people in Chiawa chiefdom. It was also revealed that the CRB has enhanced communication channels between the local community and other stakeholders. The findings also shows that the Chiawa CRB is involved in awareness trainings within the community to inform the local community members about the dangers of pouching and other bad activities. It also revealed that the Chiawa CRB as a link ensures that local community members take part in the decision-making related to wildlife management. It was concluded that therefore, the Chiawa CRBs has effectively managed Chiawa game area by acting as a link between community members and the management in Chiawa game area. It was recommended that therefore, the government to support the CRBs with financial support so that they can continue to conduct education, awareness and capacity building programs if sustainable game and wildlife management was to be achieved in Chiawa and Zambia in particular. In the future the study proposed to conduct a mixed method so that variables on this topic can be measured since this was a pure qualitative. Keyword: Effectiveness, Community Resource Board, Chiawa Game Management
An Investigation of the Effectiveness of Civil Society Organisations in Promoting Good Governance in Zambia: A Case Study of Selected Civil Society Organisations
(University of Lusaka, 2023) ZIMBA, H'lupekile
This study aimed to assess the Effectiveness of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Promoting Good Governance in Zambia, with a primary focus on identifying governance issues addressed by CSOs and examining their activities in this regard. The central research problem addressed the perceived ineffectiveness of CSOs in promoting good governance in Zambia. The general objective was to explore the effectiveness of civil society organizations in promoting good governance in Zambia. Specific objectives included identifying governance issues addressed by CSOs in Zambia and examining the activities undertaken by CSOs to promote good governance in the country. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, incorporating desk research, semi-structured interviews, and questionnaires. The research findings underscored the effectiveness of CSOs in fostering open, accountable, and responsible governance structures in Zambia. Through an extensive literature review and empirical survey, the study highlighted the pivotal role of CSOs as indispensable tools for promoting informed decision-making, transparency, and government accountability. The survey results revealed unanimous agreement among respondents on the significant impact of CSOs in promoting good governance. The versatility and adaptability of CSOs were evident, with respondents reporting diverse specializations such as human rights, peace-building, poverty reduction, gender equality, and conflict resolution. This diversity showcased the multifaceted nature of CSOs' work and their critical roles in addressing various aspects of governance. In summary, this study provided valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of CSOs' work, their diverse areas of specialization, and the critical roles they play in promoting informed decision-making, transparency, and government accountability in Zambia. The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the effectiveness of CSOs in promoting good governance and emphasize their importance as agents of positive change in the Zambian context.
An Investigation Of The Role Of Cooperatives In Job Creation For Youths In Chipata District, Eastern Province.
(University of Lusaka, 2023) SAKALA, Sithembile
This study aimed to explore and analyze the extent to which cooperatives contribute to the creation of employment opportunities for youth in Chipata District. It employed qualitative research methods using interviews and focus group discussions and used a phenomenological research design to understand events by describing participants knowledge and experiences. The findings revealed that cooperatives of Chipata District were crucial in providing jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities for youths. The political and economic situation proved conducive enough for the cooperatives to develop and flourish in the study area. However, these cooperatives were not doing enough to create jobs for the youths in the wake of massive unemployment in the district. This underperforming was due to lack of established structures, operational plans, management problems, low participation of members due to inadequacy of cooperatives to address their needs and problems by their organization, inadequate capital, lack of technology and, infrastructure. Therefore, the study recommends the promotion of self-help (village banking) groups to enhance capital, promote partnerships among cooperatives, provide financial support for cooperative development that can be accessed by young people, government to provide a well-tailored curriculum on formation and management of cooperatives, promotion of synergy between Government, NGOs, and cooperatives as this enhances development and sustainability.
Challenges faced by women in livestock farming in Mwembeshi Ward of Chilanga District, Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2025) LONGWANI, Melisa
This study is aimed at investigating the challenges faced by women livestock farmers in Mwembeshi Ward in Chilanga District, Lusaka Province, Zambia. This was a quantitative cross-sectional study. The sample size was 275. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data in an interview with the respondents. Data was entered in excel sheet and analyzed using SPSS version 13. Frequency tables and graphs were used to present and analyze the study results. The results revealed that most of the households kept poultry, followed by goats and pigs. The reasons for keeping these livestock where that they were easy to keep and that they had ready market. Majority of the women farmers expressed that they kept these animals for both home consumption and for commercial purposes. The main activities that they carried out in rearing these livestock at household level were cleaning piggery/poultry/barns and feeding the livestock. The main challenges that hindered women farmers from participating fully in livestock production were; spouse dominance, household chores, animal disease outbreaks, water shortages, inadequate knowledge on livestock production, inadequate financial assistance, and inaccessible markets. The study recommends the need to intensify extension programs especially on livestock production and making sure that women participate. The government needs to empower women through loans so that they can fully participate in livestock production as well as building better roads and market infrastructure for women to feel safe when trading. The government also needs to be having regular trainings and workshops for women entrepreneurs in livestock farming. Most importantly the government needs to develop policy to support women in livestock faming.
The contribution of micro enterprises to sustainable rural livelihood: A case of Mulobezi district
(2016) CHISHIMBA, Hanson C.K.
The purpose of this study was to ascertain the contribution of micro enterprises to sustainable rural livelihood in Mulobezi district of Zambia. Findings of this study reviewed that micro enterprises play a vital role in promoting sustainable rural livelihood, contributing to employment creation, wealth creation, poverty alleviation and income generation.
Examining the Impact of the Decentralisation Policy on Democratic Processes in Zambia: The Case of Ndola District
(University of Lusaka, 2024) CHANSA, Annie
This study examined how Zambia's decentralisation policy impacts democratic processes in Ndola District, addressing the inadequate understanding of how effectively local governance structures promote genuine democratic participation and improve service delivery at the district level. The research aimed to assess the effectiveness of decentralized service delivery systems, evaluate decentralisation's influence on social cohesion, analyse relationships between citizen empowerment and democratic participation, and determine how citizens' awareness moderates decentralisation outcomes. Following a pragmatic philosophy, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys of 327 residents with qualitative interviews of key informants from Ndola City Council. The findings revealed significant relationships between decentralisation components and democratic governance, with service delivery emerging as the strongest predictor (β=.395, p<.001), followed by citizen empowerment (β=.378, p<.001) and social cohesion (β=.342, p<.001). Correlation analysis demonstrated strong associations between service delivery and democratic governance (r=.684, p<.01), while citizen awareness significantly moderated these relationships (ΔR²=.064, p<.001). Qualitative findings indicated that ward-level service centres improved response times from 72 to 24 hours, though resource constraints affected implementation quality. Ward development committees enhanced community collaboration, though participation varied across wards. Key informants reported transformed decision-making processes through participatory budgeting initiatives, despite technical capacity limitations. The study recommends strengthening ward-level service delivery capacity through increased resource allocation and technical training, enhancing community engagement frameworks with structured participation guidelines, establishing comprehensive empowerment programs focusing on participatory planning, and developing systematic awareness programs using multiple communication channels and local languages. These findings contribute to understanding how decentralisation influences democratic governance and inform policy refinements to enhance local democratic processes.
Investigating Entrepreneurship And The Human Development Paradigm- A Capability Approach. A Case Study Of Saturday Market Entrepreneurs In Chipata District
(University of Lusaka, 2024) KANENE, Mutinta
This study investigated the role of entrepreneurship on human development and capabilities, focusing specifically on entrepreneurs at the Chipata Saturday market in Zambia. Utilizing the Capability Approach (CA) as the theoretical lens, the research examined how entrepreneurial activities enhanced individual capabilities and contributed to the broader welfare of society. The study adopted a qualitative methodology, using detailed interviews and a validation focus group feedback workshop to gather comprehensive insights from entrepreneurs. It revealed that entrepreneurship played a significant role in improving living standards, notably in areas such as housing, education, and health. The findings indicated that successful entrepreneurship allowed individuals to pursue lifestyles of their choosing and significantly expanded their agency. However, the study also uncovered several challenges that limited human development, including restricted access to market outlets, institutional and regulatory constraints, and the influence of traditional and cultural norms. The research concluded by offering nuanced recommendations for tailored government support, improved infrastructure, legal reforms for gender equality, and collaborative efforts between the public, private, and civil society sectors to provide training and support networks for entrepreneurs, fostering an environment that promotes their success and societal welfare.
Investigating the Effectiveness of Coordination Mechanisms among Stakeholders in Agricultural Extension in Katete District of Eastern Province, Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2025) CHIKOMBA, Patrick
Stakeholders in Agricultural Extension Service (AES) acknowledge the importance of coordinating their activities to achieve the outcome of the interventions to improve food security and livelihood. Although stakeholders have recognized the importance of coordinating extension service little research has addressed the existing coordination mechanisms and their effectiveness in the agricultural extension service. The purpose of the study sought to understand and establish the effectiveness of the coordination mechanisms of stakeholders involved in agriculture extension service in Katete district. The study employed descriptive survey research design. Target population was a total of 219 respondents which comprised of 3 senior agriculture extension staff, 16 senior representatives of the private sector, 50 extension officers and 150 Agricultural Farmer Community Volunteers. Purposive sampling was employed to select respondents with knowledge and experience working in the extension service. The study was guided by the following objectives: to establish the existing coordination mechanisms among stakeholders in the delivery of AES in Katete district, to establish the effectiveness of the stakeholder coordination mechanisms in place are in the delivery of AES to the farmers within Katete district and to identify the key challenges experienced by stakeholders in the coordination of extension delivery in Katete district. With regard to existing coordination mechanisms, the study established that there was the presence of mechanisms in the extension service for coordination of stakeholders. Data from interview underwent thematic content analysis to extract key themes, issues, and narratives and excel was used to generate the figures. However, it evidently established that the mechanism revolved around joint meetings and workshops. About 46.7% and 32.1% of the respondents felt the mechanisms were ineffective and effective respectively. Based on the in-depth interviews with key informants, the study deduced that funding, inadequate technical capacity, lack of clear operational framework for guidance and absence of the coordination structure among others were challenges noted. Limited use of ICT posed a challenge for information sharing. The study recommends that the coordination mechanisms be designed to integrate activities at all levels, use of ICT and M&E to ensure information sharing and development and strengthen a clear operational framework to ensure active participation of all stakeholders and facilitate the harmonization and alignment of intervention to avoid duplication of activities and conflicting extension service messages to the farmers.
Investigating the effectiveness of Coordination Mechanisms among Stakeholders in Agricultural Extension in Katete District of Eastern Province, Zambia.
(University of Lusaka, 2025) CHIKOMBA, Patrick
The purpose of the study sought to understand and establish the effectiveness of the coordination mechanisms of stakeholders involved in agriculture extension service in Katete district. The study employed descriptive survey research design. Target population was a total of 219 respondents which comprised of 3 senior agriculture extension staff, 16 senior representatives of the private sector, 50 extension officers and 150 Agricultural Farmer Community Volunteers. Purposive sampling was employed to select respondents with knowledge and experience working in the extension service. The study was guided by the following objectives: to establish the existing coordination mechanisms among stakeholders in the delivery of AES in Katete district, to establish the effectiveness of the stakeholder coordination mechanisms in place are in the delivery of AES to the farmers within Katete district and to identify the key challenges experienced by stakeholders in the coordination of extension delivery in Katete district. With regard to existing coordination mechanisms, the study established that there was the presence of mechanisms in the extension service for coordination of stakeholders. Data from interview underwent thematic content analysis to extract key themes, issues, and narratives and excel was used to generate the figures. However, it evidently established that the mechanism revolved around joint meetings and workshops. About 46.7% and 32.1% of the respondents felt the mechanisms were ineffective and effective respectively. Based on the in-depth interviews with key informants, the study deduced that funding, inadequate technical capacity, lack of clear operational framework for guidance and absence of the coordination structure among others were challenges noted. Limited use of ICT posed a challenge for information sharing. The study recommends that the coordination mechanisms be designed to integrate activities at all levels, use of ICT and M&E to ensure information sharing and development and strengthen a clear operational framework to ensure active participation of all stakeholders and facilitate the harmonization and alignment of intervention to avoid duplication of activities and conflicting extension service messages to the farmers.
Investigating the key drivers of increased adolescent pregnancies in Makululu Compound in Kabwe District.
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MICHELO, Mulubwa Mergan
This research report investigates the key drivers of increased adolescent pregnancies in Makululu compound, Kabwe District, utilizing a qualitative research approach with a phenomenological lens. The study engaged 34 participants, including 26 adolescent girls who were either currently pregnant or had been pregnant before, selected through snowball sampling, and 8 key informants from clinical staff, guidance teachers, ward councillors, and staff members from Restless Development Zambia and USAID DREAMS, chosen through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were analysed deductively, identifying emerging themes based on codes of interest. The findings revealed several significant factors contributing to adolescent pregnancies in Makululu, Kabwe district. Poverty emerged as a prominent issue, with most residents facing financial hardships and unemployment. This economic strain often leads young people to engage in transactional sex to afford desired lifestyles, such as owning smartphones and fashionable clothing. Early marriage, parental absence, alcohol consumption, and cultural factors also contribute to this issue. The prevalence of poverty and unemployment in Makululu creates an environment where young people are compelled to engage in risky behaviours such as transactional sex, to meet their basic needs and desires. This economic strain exacerbates the risk of adolescent pregnancies.
Investigating the Perception of Employees on the Enactment of the National Pension Scheme Authority (Amendment) Act No.1 Of 2023 In Zambia: A Case Study of Standard Chartered Bank Zambia Employees.
(University of Lusaka, 2024) NALONDWA, Temwani
Withdrawals from retirement accounts prior to retirement have become increasingly common over time. During the Covid-19 pandemic, several countries, including Chile, Peru, Australia, the United States, and Malaysia, permitted early withdrawals of pension funds. Nonetheless, the immediate and long-term consequences of such policies are understudied. Zambia recently enacted the National Pension Scheme Authority (Amendment) Act No. 1 of 2023, which allows for partial withdrawals from pension savings. This study sought to examine employees' perceptions of the National Pension Scheme Authority (Amendment) Act No. 1 of 2023, with a focus on awareness, decision-making processes, challenges, and overall perspectives on policy changes. A qualitative research design was used to gather in-depth information. Data were collected from 30 employees via interviews and questionnaires. Participants were chosen using stratified sampling to ensure a diverse representation. The data were analysed thematically, with findings presented as narrative quotes and summary tables. The National Pension Scheme Authority (Amendment) Act No.1 of 2023 was perceived differently by respondents, according to the study. While some employees viewed the policy as a chance to put more money to work, others raised fears about what it would do in the long run for retirement assets. These explanations correspond to reasons that varied across individuals rooted in financial distress, interest in the procedure per se and their own personal monetary goals. The policy highlighted NAPSA's need to increase its sensitization efforts as it provided financial flexibility. The measures in place include raising the awareness campaigns, and increasing an educational drive to make sure that employees are much better informed about what they stand to lose from taking their money early. Other ways might include decreasing pay-out turnaround times and highlighting portfolio diversification potential, boosting employee satisfaction with the policy engagement. This study touches on key concepts such as partial and premature withdrawal, policy evaluation, social security, and stakeholder perspectives.
The Management of School Libraries: A ComparativeStudy of Selected Private and Government Secondary Schools in Lusaka District
(University of Lusaka, 2023) Mwale, Oscar
A library is central to learning and plays a key role in encouraging innovation, curiosity, and problem solving as it provides support for teaching and learning throughout the school. This calls for effective management of the school libraries in order for them to be able to provide necessary services to the school community. The study presents the problem in that provision of school library services is poor and uncoordinated, most of the libraries in government schools are in warn out buildings, their collections are irrelevant and outdated, lacking electronic facilities and services. These limitations exist amidst the school management which proves that there is poor management of school libraries. The study sought to evaluate the management of school libraries in selected private and government secondary schools comparing the two in order to establish the best methods to manage school libraries. The study employed a qualitative approach, and the sample was purposively selected from 6 secondary schools. 3 private schools; Lake Road School, international School of Lusaka and Rhodes Park School, and 3 government schools; Munali Boys School, Matero Girls School and Kabulonga Girls School located in different areas within Lusaka. In the study, critical purposive sampling was used and a sample of 168 research respondents comprising pupils, teachers, school librarians, and headteachers were selected from the mentioned schools. Primary data were collected using interview guides, focus group discussion and observation while secondary data was collected from various publications such as books, articles, journals and reports. Primary data was analyzed using thematic analysis, data was first transcribed from audio to text, then categories into major these. The findings of the study reveal that school libraries especially government school libraries have challenges in their management. These range from, poor funding, lack of current and relevant books, expensive books on the market, no library computers, lack of trained librarian and poor library security. The study also found that the school head-teachers do not take a leading role in the management of the school libraries instead they leave them in the hands of the teacher librarians who are not given the much need support from the school management. The study also revealed that for school libraries to be effective and provide quality library services they need to be managed by trained personnel in librarianship. The study concludes that a library is not just providing books and study space, it goes beyond to teach research skills, academic writing, corresponding assessments given to the materials available and computer skills. The study recommends that; Ministry of General Education employ trained librarians to manage the school libraries, increase funding for library operations, schools to seek alternative sources of funding the libraries and to acquire more relevant books that are current and in line with the schools‟ curriculums. Keywords: School Libraries, Public Schools, Private Schools, School Managers, Management
The role of microcredit in poverty reduction among rural households in Chibombo District
(University of Lusaka, 2025) CHILESHE, Mary Nsofwa
This study examines the impact of microcredit on poverty reduction in the low-income rural households of Chibombo, Zambia. Existing perspectives on microfinance's efficacy are conflicting, with advocates emphasizing its positive effects on income generation and financial stability, while critics warn of potential debt-related pitfalls. The research adopted a mixed method approach. A sample of 100 households was selected through stratified random sampling. For data collection the investigation deployed quantitative questionnaires and one-on-one interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze qualitative data on repayment challenges, while quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and linear regression models. The results on the impact of microcredit on household income revealed significant correlations, with a moderate positive relationship between the frequency of microcredit utilization and household income (r = 0.575), and between the number of years utilizing microcredit and household income (r = 0.427), both statistically significant (p < 0.001). Concerning the impact on asset acquisition, correlations indicated a positive yet weak relationship (r = 0.353) between the frequency of microcredit utilization and the purchase of moveable assets, with a highly significant p-value of 0.001. The correlation with the number of years utilizing microcredit was 0.181, indicating a weaker positive relationship with a marginally significant p-value of 0.065. In exploring challenges during microcredit repayment, respondents identified financial knowledge gaps, weather-related uncertainties, fluctuating incomes, delayed salaries, and high-interest rates. Inadequate loan amounts were a significant factor influencing successful repayment, with challenges in fixed payment schedules and high-interest rates emphasizing the need for more flexible terms. The failure to repay microcredit had profound consequences, leading to accumulated debt, stress, and strained budgets. Loan officers from MFI X declared that the firm faced challenges in loan recovery, including uncooperative customers, a costly legal execution process, and issues with asset liquidity. Measures to minimize loan defaults included collateral pledging, third-party credit guarantees, credit ratings, and collection agencies. The findings provided a robust foundation for understanding the multifaceted dynamics affecting the effectiveness of microcredit. The study recommends for Microfinance institutions (MFIs) to tailor loans to specific customer needs, to integrate comprehensive financial education programs and to implement flexible repayment structures aligned with income cycles enhance borrower empowerment and resilience. MFIs should also explore innovative risk mitigation, like weather-indexed insurance, contributes to successful and sustainable microcredit utilization for MFIs. The study suggests future research avenues in microcredit: exploring innovative risk mitigation, assessing long-term impacts of financial education, and investigating technology's role in delivery. These recommendations aim to enhance program resilience, refine education approaches, and leverage technology for improved accessibility, efficiency, and transparency in microcredit practices.
The Socioeconomic effects of regulatory compliance costs on food processing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises: A Multi-Stakeholder Assessment
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MUSONDA, Chishimba
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, known as MSMEs, are crucial to Zambia's economy, making up 97% of businesses, contributing 70% to the GDP, and employing 88% of the workforce. However, these businesses face challenges, especially from the costs of meeting regulations, which hinders their growth, market reach, and financial health. Focused on 50 food processing MSMEs in Lusaka, the research adopts a qualitative approach, employing Google Forms for data collection from the respondents and Google Meet Interviews for qualitative insights from key informants. The research highlights the significant impact of regulatory compliance expenses on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), resulting in workforce downsizing and restructuring. Consumers exhibit a predilection for patronizing MSMEs owing to their affordability and interpersonal rapport with proprietors, thereby underscoring a proclivity towards supporting local businesses. Moreover, consumers demonstrate a discernible willingness to incur higher costs for food products to ensure their safety. Notably, the study uncovers a lack of strategies among MSMEs to mitigate these costs. Recommendations include proactively budgeting for compliance costs to avoid financial strain, leverage consumer preferences for affordability, and the consolidation of certain taxes into annual payments. Collaboration with private sector organizations is advised to enhance regulatory efficiency and leverage industry expertise. The study underscores the need for broader research encompassing a diverse MSME sample to enhance generalizability. Future research should explore additional facets beyond financial health, production, marketing and sales, business performance, and growth. Keywords: Regulations; Financial Health, Socio-economic wellbeing, Consumers, Affordability
Zambia's Membership in Regional Organisations: Impact on Foreign Policy and Regional Integration Efforts
(University of Lusaka, 2025) NYIRENDA, Nadi Chafwa
This study examines the relationship between Zambia's regional organization memberships, foreign policy, and regional integration efforts. The goal is to assess how membership in these organisations has influenced Zambia's foreign policy decisions and approach to regional integration projects. The project employed a qualitative case study research design. The analysis included a comprehensive review of literature on Zambia's foreign policy, membership in regional organisations, and initiatives at regional integration. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with important officials, diplomats, and experts. The study's conclusions showed that Zambia's attempts to integrate regionally and make foreign policy have been significantly impacted by its membership in regional organisations. First off, Zambia has been able to actively participate in regional diplomatic negotiations, allowing the country to advocate for its national interests at a regional level. Furthermore, this membership has facilitated the development of foreign policy plans that align with regional goals and priorities. As a result, Zambia has increased its influence in the region and successfully supported regional integration efforts, particularly in areas such as trade, infrastructure development, and peace and security. (Parliament. National Assembly, 2020). However, the report also pointed up some restrictions and difficulties with Zambia's participation in regional organisations. These include the various degrees of commitment that member nations have to regional integration, the varied and occasionally conflicting interests of member states, and the intricate and frequently laborious decision-making procedures found in regional organisations (Vandome, 2023). This study emphasises how Zambia's participation in regional organisations has a substantial influence on its foreign policy choices and attempts to integrate into the area. It emphasises how crucial it is for Zambia to actively participate in regional initiatives and how persistent efforts are required to improve regional cooperation and integration across the African continent.