MASTER'S THESES

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    Factors contributing to delays of selected government construction projects in Lusaka, Zambia
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) MAKUBALO, William
    In Zambia, most government projects are finished beyond the original time frames that were established. Project delays hinder growth, have enormous financial consequences for society, and damage the reputations of those involved in carrying out the initiatives. The country's backlog of projects has seen a rise in funding in recent years, but the people who stand to gain from these projects don't care that the infrastructure gets completed. This study set out to investigate the causes of the delays in government construction projects in Lusaka, Zambia. The research design used in the study was descriptive, and it combined quantitative and qualitative approaches. All stakeholders in the construction industry based in Lusaka made up the study population. Using a census, the researcher selected all the potential participants from the study population, from which 71 successfully completed the closed ended questions. Stakeholder involvement, project budgeting and fiscal management, and project management practices comprised the three primary categories into which the study divided the causes of delay. Regression and theme analysis were utilised in the study to analyse the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Delays in government construction projects can stem from various factors such as inadequate project planning and management, leading to budget overruns, design errors, procurement issues and bureaucratic red tape and administrative inefficiencies. The World Bank's research highlights the above challenges, which can impact project timelines and delivery schedules. Regarding the hypotheses tested, it was found that there was no significant relationship between project management practices and delays in government construction projects, nor between stakeholder involvement and project delays. However, there was a notable correlation between project budgeting and fiscal management and delays, indicating that effective management of financial resources could mitigate project delays in government construction endeavours. Government construction projects in Zambia often face delays due to weak project planning, bureaucratic procedures, and external factors like weather, limited resources, and labor conflicts. The World Bank's research highlights these challenges, which can impact project timelines and delivery schedules. The study found that project management practices, including planning, initiation, execution, monitoring, control, and closure, are crucial for project success, with prepared plans being a foundational element. Rigorously prepared plans are foundations for project success according to several studies. It was discovered that stakeholders’ such as clients’ payments for the contractor's labour caused delays which have a negative impact on the project timeframe. Studies found that contractor's lack of experience, inadequate administration and oversight of the project site, and insufficient funding to begin the job are stakeholder related causes of project delays. Prior research indicates that financial management and project budgeting play a role in the delays that occur in building projects. All initiatives in the public sector should utilise efficient project planning and commencement procedures. Adopting and consistently implementing best practices for project management throughout the organisation will help achieve this. Additionally, this study suggests emphasizing implementation efforts to guarantee that plans are carried out successfully to completely achieve goals. According to the terms of the building contract, the customer must honour payments made to contractors in a timely manner. At the implementation stage, the client and users must make sure there are enough financial resources for the project to prevent work from stopping on-site owing to cash flow issues. To reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, the government should give employees greater authority and reduce the hierarchy of the organizational structure. This would ensure that decisions are made by people other than those at the top. Key words: Construction Delays, Project management practices, budgeting and fiscal management, stakeholder involvement
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    Determining the critical success factors for the Public-Private Partnership in health service delivery at the University Teaching Hospital
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) KOSITIMU, Mwang'a
    Zambia, like numerous other governments worldwide, is struggling with the escalating expenses of healthcare and the growing need for healthcare services while dealing with limited financial resources. Zambia dedicates itself to delivering high-quality healthcare services to its population, recognising health as a crucial area for the nation's well-being. Governments are increasingly utilising Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) to address the challenges of limited healthcare resources and improve outcomes. The private sector's participation is partly driven by the prevailing perception that public sector bureaucracies are inefficient and unresponsive. It is believed that market processes can enhance efficiency and provide cost-effective, high-quality services. The study employed a mixed method paradigm approach to gather data. The research employed both qualitative and quantitative research paradigms. Quantitative data were obtained through the use of research questionnaires that had closed-ended questions, while qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews that included open-ended questions. The analysis revealed that the health sector was in dire need of improvements, as supported by 70% of respondents. Similar to other government organisations, it lacked the financial capacity to undertake these initiatives. The study utilised descriptive statistics to analyse the quantitative data. The results revealed a mean value of 0.22, which was evenly distributed across all thematic areas. The data collected from the field followed a normal distribution, with the standard deviation fluctuating around the mean, as indicated by the calculated standard deviation of 0.17. The kurtosis fell within the normal range and exhibited a right skew, with all values in the range of +/-1.0 across the thematic areas. This indicated that the obtained data followed a normal distribution with no outliers. The study also identified key determinants of success for implementing Public Private Partnerships (PPP) in the health sector. These determinants include: strict adherence to the terms and conditions of the agreement; establishment of a transparent and efficient procurement process; appropriate allocation of risks in the agreement; effective coordination and cooperation among stakeholders; and active involvement of the private sector. Subsequently, the study established a framework by incorporating the Critical Success Factors. Key Words: Critical Success Factors, Public Private Partnership and Healthcare Givers
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    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
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    Knowledge and acceptability of HIV Pre - exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) among adolesecnts in Lusaka District, Zambia
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) KUMWIMBA, Mutombo Yvonne
    This study aimed to assess HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness and uptake among adolescents in Lusaka District, Zambia. With a high HIV prevalence in the region and adolescents being a vulnerable population, understanding their awareness and attitudes toward PrEP is crucial for designing effective HIV prevention strategies. A mixed-method survey was conducted among 120 adolescents in Lusaka District, Zambia. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, capturing information on PrEP knowledge, acceptability, HIV risk perceptions, and key demographic characteristics. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data, and chi-square tests were performed to explore associations between key demographic characteristics and PrEP acceptability. The findings revealed that 70% of the participants had prior PrEP knowledge, but there were misconceptions about its purpose, with some equating it with antiretroviral drugs. While there was willingness of PrEP use as an HIV prevention method, concerns were raised about its effectiveness, safety, and suitability for individual circumstances. Younger adolescents (15-19 age group) were more likely to consider using PrEP than older adolescents (20-24 age group). Gender was also associated with PrEP acceptability, although further exploration is needed. Participants demonstrated awareness of HIV risk and expressed worry about acquiring HIV, but misconceptions about the effectiveness of condoms in preventing HIV were evident. The study revealed the need for focused awareness campaigns to improve accurate PrEP knowledge and dispel myths surrounding its use. Addressing concerns about effectiveness and safety is essential to promote PrEP acceptability among adolescents. Tailoring interventions to different age groups and genders can enhance PrEP uptake. The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive sexual education and risk reduction strategies to address HIV risk perceptions. These insights have implications for public health interventions aiming to increase PrEP uptake and reduce the burden of HIV/AIDS among adolescents in the Lusaka District, Zambia.
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    Exploring disparities on COVID-19 Vaccine availability in selected rural and urban health facilities: A case of Chilanga and Lusaka District
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) CHIBI, Mpela
    The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on global health, causing widespread illness, death, and economic disruption. In response, the global community has rallied to develop and distribute effective vaccines to protect people from the virus. The pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of widespread vaccination to prevent the spread of the virus and protect public health, this could only be achieved with a proper health system (CDC, 2021). However, there is growing evidence of disparities in Covid-19 vaccine availability between rural and urban, posing significant challenges to achieving equitable vaccine distribution and uptake. The study was a descriptive cross sectional study design. It was conducted in six selected health facilities, three where located in Lusaka central district and the other three in Chilanga district respectively of Lusaka province. The study was conducted on 50 key health staff at selected health facilities and focal staff members at district health offices who were in charge of covid-19 vaccine campaign program. The primary data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires while secondary data was collected through desk research. The study findings indicated that majority (66%) of the hospitals had confirmed of vaccines availability at their health facility in Lusaka central and less in Chilanga district. At the time of study 50% facilities in Lusaka central had Covid19 stocks while 34% in Chilanga district facilities had covid19 and 16% had no covid19 vaccine stock. Lack of suitable transport for distribution was associated to stock out at facility level. While, reporting and requisition of Covid19 stock at Chilanga district health office was done monthly according to the demand. Long waiting time for approval, unavailable stock and lack of transport at provincial level affected the availability of covid19 vaccine in the facilities. The study shows some disparities between Lusaka urban health facilities and Chilanga rural health facilities with COVID 19 vaccine availability. COVID 19 vaccine was available in urban facilities as opposed to rural health facilities. Lusaka district was well stocked with mostly with all vaccine types, while Chilanga district had stock outs with some facilities having only 3 out of 4 vaccine types. The factors that contributed to this disparity were transport availability, storage facility, frequency of ordering and delivery waiting time.
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    Exploring the effects of service user fees in accessing health care services at Nchanga Morth General Hospital in Chingola, Copperbelt Province
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) BANDA, Musonda
    This study delves into the ramifications of service user fees on the accessibility of healthcare services at Nchanga North General Hospital, located in Luapula. Its primary objectives encompassed various facets: examining the correlation between user fees and healthcare access, elucidating the influence of service user fees on the social standing of the population, evaluating the impact of service user fees on the caliber of healthcare services, and investigating the consequences of service user fees on the utilization of healthcare services. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the impacts of service user fees on the accessibility of healthcare services. To address this objective, a qualitative exploratory approach was employed, enabling the collection of insights from personnel within the official capacity, management staff, and in-patient caregivers. The principal data collection instruments encompassed in-depth open-ended interviews with workers and management, as well as a focus group discussion involving in-patient caretakers. These activities were carried out at Nchanga North General Hospital. Research questions were derived from the established objectives. Data gathered was manually scrutinized and analyzed using Content analysis techniques to discern patterns, trends, and meaningful insights. The investigation unveiled several influential factors shaping the impact of service user fees on healthcare service accessibility. These factors encompassed: inadequate awareness regarding user fees, impediments faced by economically disadvantaged individuals in healthcare access, discernible improvements in healthcare service quality, diminished operational efficiency, alterations in individual social standing, suboptimal revenue generation, limited familiarity with service exemptions, and instances of political interference leading to unwarranted healthcare utilization. In light of these findings, the study concludes with a series of recommendations. Firstly, it underscores the significance of conducting community assessments of social status prior to policy implementation. Secondly, it suggests the recalibration of user fee structures to align with community income levels, thereby fostering affordability and flexibility. Additionally, the study advocates for investments in comprehensive information dissemination efforts. Lastly, the paper recommends governmental exploration of alternative financing mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of the healthcare system. Key words: access to health care services, user fees, quality, efficiency and social status.
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    Factors affecting COVID -19 vaccine uptake among ART patients: A cross sectional study at Kapata Urban Clinic in Chipata District, Eastern Province
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) PHIRI, Lenia
    This cross-sectional study was conducted at Kapata Urban Clinic in Chipata District, Eastern Province, and it explored the factors that affect the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among ART patients. The primary aim of the study was to address the lower vaccination rates among PLHIV, who were at a higher risk of severeCOVID-19 outcomes. Although COVID-19 vaccines had proven effective in combating the pandemic, the study revealed that only 60% of ART clients at Kapata Urban Clinic had been fully vaccinated, falling short of the 70% target required for achieving herd immunity. The theoretical framework employed in the study was the Health Belief Model (HBM), which explains how individuals' beliefs and attitudes influence their health behaviors. To collect data, the study utilized a mixed methods design, involving the administration of structured questionnaires and conducting semi-structured interviews. The key findings of the study indicated that 66.2% of PLHIV on treatment at the clinic had received vaccination. Additionally, 72.4% of the sampled patients at Kapata Urban Clinic had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, reflecting a vaccination rate higher than the national average. Factors influencing vaccine uptake included time constraints, medical reasons, limited access to transportation, concerns regarding side effects, and a lack of information about the vaccine. Based on these findings, the study recommended intensified community outreach campaigns, informative radio programs, and the involvement of healthcare providers to address these concerns and enhance vaccine acceptance among PLHIV. The study's findings were intended to serve as a guide for authorities in developing interventions aimed at improving COVID-19 vaccine uptake among this vulnerable population.
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    Exploring factors influencing the usage of water from shallow hand dug wells as opposed to tap water in Chazanga Compound, Lusaka
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) WAMUNYIMA, Lilian
    A shallow well is a hole which has been dug, bored, driven or drilled into the ground for the purpose of extracting water. According to World health organisation (2020), about 1.1 billion people worldwide lack access to improved water supply and water sources. A report by (Hunter, 2018) indicated that, about 20% of the world's population lacked access to safe drinking water. Therefore, this study sought to explore factors influencing the usage of water from shallow hand dug wells as opposed to tap water in Chazanga compound, Lusaka. Methods: The researcher employed a quantitative approach. The sample size was 39 using a convenience sampling. Structured questionnaires were used and the data was analysed using SPSS version 16 as well as excel. 5(13%) of the residents had river as their source of water, 30(77%) of the residents had shallow hand dug well as their source of water. 2(5%) of the residents the distance was 10m, 2 (5%) of the residents the distance was 100m and 30(79%) of the residents the distance was 1km. 4(10%) of the residents had high income level, 5(13%) of the residents had medium income level and 30(77) of the residents had low income level and 30(77%) of the residents liked tap water and 9(23%) didn’t like tap water. The community had no knowledge about the negative impacts of using water from shallow dug wells on human health and general public health. Shallow hand dug wells are an affordable source of water for washing clothes, flushing toilets/latrines and irrigation among informal settlements in Chazanga. It is also clear that most residents are aware of the health risks from microbial contamination of such water and use it for purposes other than drinking and cooking. The Lusaka city council should conduct regular maintenance of these facilities to ensure their longevity and sustainability. The municipality must implement strategies that incorporate water for productive use in the water distribution plan, as this will foster community development. Handwashing and personal hygiene are important considerations for curtailing the spread of diseases in the municipality. The Lusaka Department of Water Affairs should educate rural communities about the construction, use and maintenance of public pit latrines in line with the environmental health regulations of the country.
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    Effectiveness of the Implementation of Road Safety Quality Management Systems - Case of Lusaka Main Roads
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) NAMUKOKO, Brenda
    Countries are concentrating on building sustainable systems for managing roads since road safety is a priority. In Zambia, the growth in traffic accidents that cause fatalities, injuries, and property damage has made road safety a challenge. Although Zambia's system for improving road safety is in place, there has not been a corresponding drop in the number of incidents that happen on the roads, especially in Lusaka. This research was aimed at analyzing the effectiveness of the implementation of the road safety quality management system in Lusaka. The study was on the Lusaka city main roads, engaging motorists and regulators of road transport in Zambia. That is, Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA), Ministry of Road Development Agency, Ministry of Finance and National Planning and Zambia Police (ZP). This study adopted a mixed methods approach and applied a descriptive research design, employing interviews and questionnaires to collect data. Findings reveal that road safety was mainly acquired through available institutions (49%) and shared informally (60%) and experience (60%) and media (51%). Motorist have adequate road safety knowledge (63%). The important behavioral factors significant to road safety management were: not wearing seatbelts (94.5%); consuming illegal substances (76.4%); mobile phone usage (81.8%); ignoring signage (83.6%). The T2 was ranked most unsafe in Lusaka (47%). The respondents agreed there was a significant relationship between road safety management and the reduction of road accidents in Lusaka (76%). The study recommends a multi-institutional, coordinated framework for implementation of road safety management systems in Zambia with the aim to reduce road traffic accidents on the roads. The study demonstrates that there are workable approaches that can be undertaken to improve road safety in a growing city such as Lusaka. Keywords: Road Safety Quality Management System, Road Accidents, Road User
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    Risk management practices in the tendering process of building projects in the Zambian construction industry: A case of local contractors in Lusaka
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) KAOMA, Brian
    This study aimed at exploring the risks associated with building projects during the tendering process. The research determined the probability and impact of the explored risks on building projects if not managed during the tendering process. Furthermore, the research aimed at proposing a risk management framework using both internal and external technical input risk factors. Ultimately the research sought to find out the maturity levels of organizations in managing risks. The Methodology of the study followed a mixed method technique in which the questionnaire survey and interviews were used as data collection instrument. The study sample size was 87 out of target population of 109; the research had 80% response rate comprising technical personnel in the companies. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the research findings. The research findings revealed that at tendering stage, building projects are exposed to more risks and these risks include the level of competition, Weather and Environmental Conditions, Clarity of bidding documents, Resource availability (Finance, material, labour), Project site location, Perception and experience of the estimator, Actual direct cost, Payment system, Time delivery, Fluctuations in exchange rates and project scope. The study findings revealed that these risks have a likely chance of occurring during the tendering process through the composite mean of (1.69 ~ 2) and that all the risks have the capability to impact building projects through the composite mean of (1.74 ~ 2). Lastly most contractors that participated in the study describe the maturity of the organisation risk management as aware (43.7%) denoting that they use scattered approach to risk management. Therefore it was recommended that contractors should involve professionals during tendering to price the works and government professional bodies should be proactive during the tendering process of building projects. And finally the researcher developed a Risk management framework that should be adopted in Zambia for Building projects at the tendering stage. Key Terms: Tendering process, Risk Management, Risk maturity, Building projects