MASTER'S THESES

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Start date: 2020

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Now showing 1 - 10 of 99
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    Investigating Entrepreneurship And The Human Development Paradigm- A Capability Approach. A Case Study Of Saturday Market Entrepreneurs In Chipata District
    (University of Lusaka, 2024) Mutinta Kanene
    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.
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    An Investigation Of The Role Of Cooperatives In Job Creation For Youths In Chipata District, Eastern Province.
    (University of Lusaka, 2023) SITHEMBILE SAKALA
    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.
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    An Assessment Of Radio Programmes In Promoting Good Governance: A Case Of Radio Ichengelo Listeners In Kitwe
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) kapulu manjimela
    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.
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    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) Valentine Palangwa Mutale
    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.
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    Perceptions Among Non-Governmental Organization Project Teams towards Gender Stereotyping at the Workplace: A perspective of selected NGOs in Lusaka District
    (University of Lusaka, 2023) TISSA BANDA
    The main objective of this study was to explore and analyze the perceptions of project teams within selected NGOs in Lusaka District regarding gender stereotyping at the workplace. Specific Objectives were to determine the types of gender stereotypes that exist in the project teams; find out the factors contributing to gender stereotypes among project teams and describe the measures that organizations have taken to address the problem of gender stereotypes at workplaces. This research used a mixed method approach and adopted a concurrent triangulation research design. A total of 64 respondents was used as a sample size. Semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from the participants. Data was analyzed through descriptive and thematic analysis. The study revealed that diverse stereotypes rooted in personal experiences, societal expectations, unconscious biases, cultural backgrounds, and educational experiences. Communication breakdown, low morale, low quality, and productivity were identified as consequences. Leadership emerged as a critical factor, influencing stereotypes through championing diversity, setting inclusive policies, modeling behaviors, providing education, and addressing biases in decision-making. Team composition and diversity played a pivotal role in challenging or reinforcing stereotypes. Individuals' resistance or conformity was influenced by personal experiences, educational backgrounds, organizational culture, and personal values. Organizations implemented diverse policies, initiatives, and communication strategies to address gender stereotypes. The criteria used in resolution included collaboration, negotiation compromising, and smoothing. Respondents perceived their organizations positively in resolving gender stereotypes. Challenges included limited awareness, resistance, inadequate policies, organizational culture, leadership commitment, and resource constraints. Promising practices included diversity training, transparent decision-making, inclusive language, and celebrating achievements. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of gender stereotypes in project teams, emphasizing the role of leadership, diversity, and organizational initiatives. Recommendations to tackling gender stereotypes in the project teams include fostering awareness, addressing biases, and promoting inclusivity through policy interventions.
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    An Investigation Of The Relationship Between Occupational Stress And Employee Performance: A Case Of INDO Zambia Bank
    (University of Lusaka, 2024) YVONNE NZALA
    The study aimed to investigate the relationship between occupational stress and employee performance at the Indo Zambia Bank. Quantitative methods were used relying on objective measurements and statistical analysis of data collected through questionnaires. Of the 189 questionnaires distributed to employees of the Indo-Zambia Bank, 180 were returned, corresponding to a high response rate of 95.23%. The main goals of the study included evaluating the correlation between workload and employee performance at Indo Zambia Bank; exploring the relationship between task ambiguity and employee performance; analysing the impact of time pressure on employee performance at Indo Zambia Bank; and studying the link between role conflict and employee performance within the same bank. The study provided solid evidence indicating that professional stress significantly affects employee performance. It highlighted a strong negative correlation (-0.91) between work stress and employee performance. The correlation coefficient of -0.91 reveals a strong negative relationship between work stress and employee performance. As work stress increases, performance tends to decrease significantly. This suggests a consistent inverse association between the two variables, highlighting the detrimental impact of work stress on productivity. Addressing and reducing work-related stressors could lead to significant improvements in employee performance. According to the results, an increase in occupational stress is directly linked to a notable decrease in employee performance at Indo Zambia Bank. This negative correlation underscores the need for the organization to focus on reducing professional stress to create an optimal work environment for employees. Therefore, the study recommends that the management of the Indo Zambia Bank re-evaluates and reorganizes the distribution of workloads among employees. The study identified that high workloads are a major factor in occupational stress, having a negative impact on employee performance. Furthermore, management needs to establish a regulatory framework focused on employee well-being. The framework needs to include guidelines for stress management programs, regular assessments of working conditions, and incentives for organizations committed to the welfare of their employees.
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    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.
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    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) H’LUPEKILE ZIMBA
    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.
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    Balancing Regulations And Incentives For Foreign Direct Investment: A Case Study Of Zambia And The Democratic Republic Of Congo
    (University of Lusaka, 2025) MUNSHYA CHAWINGA
    This study examined the management of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the mining sectors of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with a particular focus on regulatory frameworks, incentives, and the balance between attracting foreign investment and safeguarding national interests. Through a comparative analysis, the research sought to assess the effectiveness of existing legal and regulatory frameworks in both countries, identifying key challenges, gaps, and inefficiencies in their FDI management practices. The research employed a qualitative methodology, relying on a review of primary and secondary sources, including statutory and legal instruments, institutional reports, case law, and scholarly articles. In addition, the study utilized case studies from Botswana, Rwanda, and Burkina Faso to highlight best practices in FDI management. The findings revealed that both Zambia and the DRC face significant regulatory weaknesses, including unclear tax provisions, excessive discretionary powers, inefficient enforcement mechanisms, and challenges in ensuring environmental protection and social responsibility. In Zambia, issues such as excessive bureaucracy and inconsistencies in investment incentives were identified, while in the DRC, fragmented tax regimes, inconsistent enforcement of the Mining Code, and poor transparency were prominent concerns. The study concluded that despite the potential of FDI to drive economic growth, both countries must implement comprehensive reforms to improve legal predictability, enhance regulatory clarity, and establish more robust enforcement mechanisms. Specific recommendations included simplifying tax systems, strengthening anti-corruption measures, improving environmental monitoring, and institutionalizing community benefit-sharing practices. Drawing on the experiences of Botswana and Rwanda, the study also advocated for greater transparency, streamlined administrative procedures, and a focus on long-term sustainability in FDI management. These reforms would not only boost investor confidence but also ensure that FDI contributes to the broader socio-economic development of Zambia and the DRC.
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    Assessing The Effect Of Change Management On Employee Performance At TOPFLOOR LTD In Lusaka, Zambia
    (University of Lusaka, 2024) GRACE KAUMBA
    This study assessed the effect of change management on employee performance at TopFloor Ltd in Lusaka, Zambia. Despite implementing various change initiatives, the company has experienced suboptimal results, indicating a gap between change management practices and their effectiveness. This research sought to address this issue by examining the impact of key change management dimensions on employee performance. The study had three main objectives: to determine how communication strategy affects employee performance, to assess the impact of employee involvement and participation on performance, and to investigate the effect of training and skill development on employee performance at TopFloor Ltd. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. A sample of 133 employees was surveyed using structured questionnaires, and key informant interviews were conducted with senior staff members. The study utilized descriptive statistics, correlational analysis, and multiple regression to analyse the quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative insights. The findings revealed strong positive correlations between all three change management dimensions and employee performance. Change communication showed a correlation of r = 0.78 (p = 0.001), employee involvement r = 0.82 (p = 0.001), and training and skill development r = 0.71 (p = 0.001). Regression analysis indicated that these dimensions collectively explained 76.2% of the variance in employee performance (R² = 0.762). Employee involvement emerged as the strongest predictor of performance (β = 0.40, p = 0.001), followed by change communication (β = 0.35, p = 0.001) and training (β = 0.28, p = 0.01). Descriptive statistics revealed generally positive perceptions of change management practices, with mean scores ranging from 3.32 to 4.48 on a 5-point Likert scale. However, areas for improvement were identified, particularly in ensuring consistent communication across the organization and providing opportunities for skill development and career growth. Based on these findings, the study recommends that TopFloor Ltd enhance the consistency and timeliness of change communication across all organizational levels, increase opportunities for employee involvement in decision-making processes, and tailor training programs to individual employee needs and long-term career development goals. These recommendations aim to further improve the effectiveness of change management practices and, consequently, enhance employee performance during periods of organizational change