Undergraduate Research Collection

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A Critique of The Use of The Prerogative of Mercy in Zambia Vis a Vis The Independence of The Judiciary and The Fight Against Corruption
(2023) CHIRWA, Niza
This thesis is premised on the prerogative of mercy vis a vis the independence of the judiciary and the fight against corruption. The study focuses on the laws in Zambia which provides for the prerogative of mercy powers and how the use of this power has impacted on the independence of the judiciary and the fight against corruption. The purpose of this research was to ascertain how the exercise of the mercy power has impacted on the independence of the judiciary and the fight against corruption in Zambia. The methodology of this research is as follows; this research was a qualitative mode of research as data was collected from both primary and secondary sources which include, local and foreign legislation, textbooks, journal articles, internet sources and textbooks. The design of this research is blended between historical and narratives. The research is couched as a descriptive one as it shall describe how presidential clemency has impacted on the independence of the judiciary and the fight against corruption. The data collected was analyzed using narrative data analysis. The major findings of the research were that Zambia does not have laws that protect an abuse of the use of the prerogative of mercy powers. And as such, it has been very easy to misuse this power by successive presidents because of luck of laws to make the holder of power accountable. This has resulted in the eroding of judicial independence and the fight against corruption through the use of this power.
A study to determine the factors contributing to the rise in malaria prevalence in Mumbwe District of Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2023) LUMAI, Robert
Malaria 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.
Adherence to Occupational Health and Safety Practices at Konkola Copper Mines, Chililabombwe District Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2023) NALWAMBA, Patience Mbughi
In 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.
An Assessment of Menstrual Hygiene Management among Adolescent School Girls in Mazabuka District and the Impact on their Education
(2023) MOONDE, Linda
Adolescence is a time of transition from childhood to maturity, and during this time, various changes such as menstruation take place. Menstruation is the regular flow of blood through the vaginal cavity that coincides with the shedding of the uterine mucosa. (Oyebola, 2002). Menstruation is a normal and healthy physical process for girls and women in their reproductive years however managing it presents a number of difficulties that are primarily brought on by negative cultural perception. Menstrual cycle is stigmatized in most societies and possesses hindrance to women and girls especially where participation in community activities is concerned. Menstruation tends to demoralize young girls and burden them with emotions of guilt, humiliation, and worthlessness, especially for those who may not know how to maintain the best hygiene which affects their school performance. The objective of the study was to assess the menstrual hygiene management among adolescent school girls in the district and its impact on their education. A quantitative cross-sectional study was used to conduct this research; data was collected through self-administered questionnaire which was then analyzed using SPSS version 16, the sample size (91) was obtained using Yamane formula. The study made use of multi-stage and random sampling methods in the selection of study participants. It was found that the largest number of respondents (57.3%) had family members more than five while the least number of respondents (42.7%) had family members less than 5, additionally 66.3 % were able to purchase sanitary pads while 33.7 could not manage. In relation to their knowledge on menstruation 100 % of the respondents had knowledge on the importance of bathing during menstruation however, 85.4% of the girls said menstrual blood was unclean, and 2.2% were not sure. 96.7% of those surveyed said agreed that hormonal changes in the body were to blame for menstruation. One-fourth of the respondents were not sure of the origin of menstrual blood, while 55.5% named the womb, 15.6% the abdomen, and 13.3% the bladder. The findings also indicate that 57.3% of the respondents were not frowned upon discussion of periods, 25.3 % gave correct answer about presence of harmful substances in their menses. Due to cultural differences 17.8% of the respondents did not bath regularly while on periods consequently, 37.1% demonstrated that they were missing from school because of feminine cycle and 43.8% detailed that they missed school because of period for 1-4 days in a month. More than half (51.6 %) of the respondents missed game or play because of period, while 27.3 % of the girls concurred that feminine cycle impeded them from walking far. Majority (57.6%) also indicated lack of menstrual resources such as water, 51.7 had no access to soap and 67.3 of the respondents were not able to purchase disposable sanitary pads. It was concluded that social factors affect knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to menstrual hygiene management among adolescents in peri-urban schools, Culture, lack of knowledge and economic reasons have greater impact on menstrual hygiene among school going children, hence government and key stakeholders need to put up measures into ensuring that schools have a girl-friendly environment, where resources like running water, soap, and sanitary facilities are available.
An assessment of the effects of climate change on human health: A case of Bangweulu Constituency
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MWELWA, Tresina M
A study was undertaken in Bangweulu Constituency with the aim of assessing the effects of climate change on human health. The research was anchored on the following specific objectives: to identify the common climate change related hazards in Bangweulu Constituency; to find out the common climate change impacts in the study area and to find out how the health sector is negatively impacted by climate change in the study area. The study adopted a qualitative methodology with a sample of 60 respondents from three wards of Chimana, Mano and Katansha that were drawn using a non-probability sampling. In terms of data collection methods, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were used. Data were analyzed using thematic approach and reflected the objectives, alongside triangulation with literature review. The study's findings indicated that climate change has led to increased occurrences of diseases such as malaria, scabies, waterborne illnesses, respiratory issues, and malnutrition due to poor nutrition. The study observed that the damage floods were causing to the environment, infrastructure such as roads, health facilities and bridges impacted so heavily on the development of the health sector. The study concluded that all these were consequently affecting the performance of the health sector in addressing the disease outbreaks caused by climate change. In view of the findings, the study recommended that government needed to develop a robust climate-health model for quantifying the relationships between climate variability and disease prevalence in flood prone areas like Bangweulu. Investigate the effectiveness of the implementation of mitigation and adaptive measures of climate change in the country and also assess the effectiveness of targeted public health programs in addressing and mitigating the impacts of climate change related health hazards, such as increased vector-borne diseases and heat-related illnesses, in the Bangweulu constituency.
An assessment of the impact of the supplier and buyer relationship on production performance in an organisation: A Case Study of Ufudu Zambia Limited.
(University of Lusaka, 2025) KALUBA, Rhoda
This research endeavoured to evaluate the impact of the supplier and buyer relationship on production performance in an organization. This study’s main theoretical concept was the transaction cost theory, which stipulates that the optimal organizational structure is one that maximizes economic efficiency by minimizing exchange costs amongst business players. For buyer- supplier relationship to be sound, there is a need to ensure that there is clear and open communication which is very essential in fostering a strong supplier-buyer relationship, both parties should establish effective lines of communication and ensure that expectations and requirements are clearly communicated. Generally, organizations must endeavor to establish good relationship with business stakeholders and it is that relationship which will see many company objectives achieved. Descriptive research design composed of both qualitative and quantitative approaches was used. A sample size of 100 respondents, made up of Ufudu employees and suppliers was purposively selected, 50% of 200 approximated individual staff and suppliers all together was used. According to this survey, Ufudu was working with suppliers to foster innovation and ongoing development. However, some participants expressed dissatisfaction with the degree of cooperation being encouraged; arguing that more needed to be done by both Ufudu and suppliers to improve buyer-supplier relations. It was determined by some respondents that Ufudu faces difficulties in putting the buyer-supplier relationship concept into practice. They stated that problems occasionally arise that impact the goals, trust, and communication between Ufudu and suppliers, which in turn makes the concept difficult to implement and negatively impacts Ufudu’s production performance. It is therefore recommended that Ufudu must work around promoting quarterly relationship assessments and evaluations, and ensure to share experiences surrounding issues of delayed supply of raw materials to ensure that suppliers make an adjustment accordingly, address communication and ensure goals are shared and that every side recognize the goals influencing operations in a given company, this will help each stakeholder find a better way of playing their role without any delays and without affecting production performance of Ufudu.
An exploration of factors leading to improper electrical waste disposal in Matero, Lusaka Province
(2022) PEREIRA, Owen
E-waste refers to electrical/Electronic gadgets that are discarded or no longer of use by the purchaser (Sansa-Otim et al. 2012). The rapid climb in electronic and IT trade has increased the volumes of e-waste in Zambia. In most urban areas, “due to uncertainty of the ways to treat e-waste, when electronic products reach their end life, electronic junks lie unattended in shops, offices, homes, etc and is commonly mixed with family waste, that is finally disposed of at waste disposal points which may be hazardous as the e-waste is not sorted and separated.” In this context, the research aims to explore the factors that lead to improper disposal of e-waste in Matero. The study utilized a qualitative approach and made use of a cross-sectional study design, data was collected through interview guides and was analyzed through themes and coding. The sample size was 31 and the sampling technique used was purposive sampling. The data collected was analyzed thematically (Thematic analysis). It was found that (6%) had attended primary education, (65%) had attended secondary education and (29%) attained tertiary education. Despite majority attaining some level of education, majority of the participants had little or no knowledge on e-waste management. Knowledge on e-waste was highly dependent on the level of education. The study also revealed that most participants were not aware about e-waste, whereas only a few had an idea on what e-waste was and social factors such as knowledge and education played a pivotal role in management of e-waste as most participants did not know what e-waste was, as e-waste was treated like any other waste. Furthermore, most participants stated that economic factors such as income and infrastructure influenced the management of e-waste, as it was highlighted that the indiscriminate disposal of e-waste is because of the lack of adequate infrastructure and that income is the reason why there is more e-waste in the area and people don't mind the management of e-waste because they know less about its effects as they are only trying to earn a living by dealing with it. Lastly it was noted that personal factors such as attitudes tend to influence the behaviour and practice of waste management in Matero. The study concluded that social, economic, and personal factors do indeed play a pivotal role in influencing the proper management of e-waste in Matero.
An Investigation into factors contributing to Noise Induced Hearing Loss among miners at Chibuluma Mine PLC in Kalulushi District, Copperbelt Province
(University of Lusaka, 2023) MULENGA, Ackride
Noise induced hearing loss has been reported amongst the three top occupational health diseases within the mines in Zambia. One’s occupation is widespread risk factor, the strong evidence linking it to a significant health outcome loss. In Zambia any employee diagnosed with Noise induced Hearing Loss restricted to low noise level working areas and or is medically discharged from the Mining Sector if an alternative place of work cannot be found. It is therefore imperative that the factors responsible for Noise Induced hearing Loss are identified and make recommendations to reduce the impacts. A qualitative, phenome logical, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was applied in order to explore and describe the factors that contribute to noise induced hearing loss. A purposive and convenience sampling was used to select the participants in this study. Therefore, interviews, observation, documentation and virtual materials were used to collect data. Probing questions were asked to follow up, seek clarity and obtain more information through an interview guide. All the interviews were captured on a voice recorder and field notes were taken on observable behaviours. The following themes emerged: experiences and challenges faced by employees in the work environment, noise hazards and health employees, hearing protective device factors and management and leadership factors. The study reviewed that employees were faced with different challenges in their work environment. The challenges included the nonexistence of noise hazards, implementation of screening tests and maintenance and repair of faulty equipment. Such challenges were perceived to be some of the contributing factors NIHL at Chibuluma Mine Plc. The results of this study indicated that induced hearing loss was caused by a combination various contributing factor. Failure to apply the guidelines, polices and procedure from the department of mines resulted in employees developing noise induced hearing loss. The employees also reported that the employer takes time to repair broken protective hearing devices.
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, Yvonne
This 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. .
Anti-Homosexuality in Zambia and its Affront to Human Rights
(University of Lusaka, 2024) MUFWAMBI, Chijata Keembela
This 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.
Assessing Factors associated with Stress among Nursing Students at Choma College of Nursing in Choma District
(University of Lusaka, 2023) HAZEMBA, Natasha
Stress 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.
Assessing the knowledge and attitudes associated with abortion among female students at the University of Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2025) NAMBEYE, Temwa
Abortion is an issue of public health concern as there are millions of induced abortions being recorded each year globally. The biggest problem about abortion is that most of them are unsafe and they contribute to 13% of maternal related deaths worldwide. There have been efforts to address unsafe abortion such as the introduction of comprehensive abortion care by the World Health organization, however, there is still a large number of women who resort to unsafe abortion due to different factors. In Zambia, abortion was legalized under the termination of pregnancy (TOP) act but despite this intervention, comprehensive abortion care remains inaccessible to most women in Zambia. To assess the knowledge and attitudes associated to abortion among female students at the University of Lusaka. This was a qualitative study conducted at the University of Lusaka, Leopards hill campus and convenience sampling was used to select the sample. Data collection was done by carrying out in-depth interviews and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Results of the study indicate that female students the University of Lusaka have sufficient and good knowledge on the causes of abortion and the consequences of unsafe abortion. The results revealed that most of the female students had adequate knowledge on the legality of abortion in Zambia and that they have a positive attitude towards safe abortion. The factors in the conceptual framework that were associated to the knowledge and attitudes that one would have towards abortion were discussed and they include age, level of education and religion. The results of the study indicate that knowledge and attitudes towards abortion were related to age, level of education and religion.
Assessing the knowledge, attitudes and practices on malaria interventions among Mansa residents in Luapula Province
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MWEWA, Tom M
In Zambia, Northern, North Western, Muchinga, and Luapula Province are the region’s most susceptible to the disease due to the excessive rainfall they have in those seasons. The prevalence in the province of Luapula is 600 to 700 cases per 1000 population annually. The highest rate of malaria in Luapula Province has been recorded in Mansa and it was found that Mansa had a total population of 257,517 with a total of 189,407cases of which 86% were laboratory confirmed and recorded in the year 2015. The qualitative research was conducted with a case study design and data was collected through in-depth interviews and questionnaires (N = 20) focused on pregnant women, mothers of under-five children. The results showed that most participants had knowledge about Malaria prevention intervention and positive attitudes towards them. In spite of this few participants were still not aware and had prioritized other means of dealing with malaria. The majority of study participants had awareness of malaria or were well informed about it, however some participant’s attitudes and practises were contrary to the matter. Health institutions offer free malaria treatment and routine IRS spraying, but because of unfavourable experiences and a lack of awareness, the initiative has not been able to get the necessary full coverage.
Assessing the level of effort made by teachers at Chilenje Basic School towards the fight against COVID-19.
(2023) SINYINZA, Saul
COVID-19, which is caused by a virus commonly known as SARS-CoV-2, was first discovered in December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, China (Caruso, 2020). Since then, it has continued to spread worldwide, and Zambia documented its first case of “Covid-19” on 18th March “2020. The virus spreads from infected persons in small liquid particles through the mouth or nose whenever they speak, breathe, cough, sneeze, or sing.” The rapid spread of the pandemic has a negative effect on various human activities, such as economic and educational activities, including people’s way of life. The impact of COVID-19 affected the educational sector in schools, colleges and universities were subsequently closed. This study used a qualitative approach method and an investigative case study design to analyze a data sample of 10 respondents. The respondents were chosen using a data saturation purposive sampling procedure, data was collected from Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and In-Depth Interviews (IDI) using the interview guide, and data was analyzed using thematic analysis. According to the findings of this study the respondents were trained on the need to provide supportive services during Covid-19, the teachers received training on technologies to help them communicate with different stakeholders, sensitization on Covid-19 as well as how to practice and ensure physical distancing among students. It was found that wearing of face masks, handwashing and checking of temperature were successfully and effectively employed while physical distancing was not effective. Among the challenges were weakness in social prevention and risk communication, lack of proper inequality as well as poor economic situation. Teachers are part of key stakeholders in the fight of epidemic diseases such as the Covid-19, for them to effectively contribute towards the fight of Covid-19 they require support from the government and other partners such as parents who are critical in the sense that the pupils respect the guidance from the teacher they are required to work together.
Assessing the Mental Health Care and Theraphy Service Delivery at Lewanika General Hospital, Mongu
(2022) SIMANDI, Monde
Access to mental health services is a serious issue worldwide, but it is particularly acute in underdeveloped nations like Zambia. Mental disorders, despite their importance in the comparison to other maladies such as infectious conditions, the global burden of disease receives less attention at the global, regional, and local levels. The objectives were to identify systems of treatment for mental illnesses, explore local concepts about mental illness and how these influence access to mental health services and to find out the experiences of people in accessing mental health services at Lewanika hospital in Mongu. A qualitative study was used in this research Study design It's exploratory because it goes further into an issue that hasn't previously been completely studied, with the purpose of identifying priorities, generating operational definitions, and refining the final. The study population was drawn from the residents of Mongu .An upper limit of 15 participants was used in the study according to the recommended number for qualitative type of research Data collection technique. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data obtained, which involved use of services has also been hampered by stigma from health care practitioners, the community, and family members. Lack of prioritising of mental health services in primary and certain secondary health institutions, as well as a lack of or limited awareness of mental health disorders, have contributed to the stigma. Despite its neglect, excellent mental health benefits everyone, thus these barriers must be overcome.The provided information that might be valuable in resolving obstacles at three levels: policy, facility, and individual, based on the research conducted. It can also help with the implementation of mental health policies because the roots of these impediments have been identified.
Assessment of Awareness and Attitudes towards Non- Communicable Diseases among Kabwata Residents in Lusaka, Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2023) KAMANGA, Kazamawa
The steady rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide is a key challenge on the global health agenda. The World Health Organization (2018b) estimated that 41 million of the 57 million deaths in 2016 were due to NCDs, the majority of which (78%) occurred in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The prevalence of major NCDs including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing, and they remain a challenge for both high-income countries (HICs) and LMICs. In Zambia, Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a significant public health concern, as they are in many other countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs are estimated to account for approximately 31% of all deaths in Zambia. The four main types of NCDs in Zambia are cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes. Most studies that have been conducted in Zambia on NCDs have largely focused on quantifying the disease burden and the associated risk factors with little or no focus on the community awareness. A cross sectional study was conducted, and a total of 110 participants were randomly selected. Data was collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using Microsoft excel and STATA version 14.0. The variables that were considered during the analysis included awareness, attitudes and risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases. The results showed that most of the participants had heard about NCDs (53%) and were aware of the risk factors associated with these diseases (85%). However, only 42% of the respondents had received information on prevention and management of NCDs. The study also revealed that most of the participants had a positive attitude towards NCD prevention and management, with 86% indicating a willingness to change their lifestyle to prevent NCDs. Limited number of respondents were aware about NCDs related complications, risk factors and its treatment. In addition, attitudes of respondents about NCDs were favorable and thus suggesting some level of understanding about NCDs. Overall, the study highlights the need for increased education and awareness campaigns on NCDs in Kabwata. This will help to improve the knowledge and attitudes towards NCDs and ultimately reduce the burden of the disease in the community.
Assessment of awareness of health implications caused by the use of shisha smoking among at the University of Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MUSONDA, Twaambo
Shisha smoking has become increasingly popular among university students in Zambia, despite evidence of its adverse health effects. However, little is known about the awareness of these health implications among this population. This qualitative study aims to assess the awareness of health implications caused by the use of shisha smoking among students at the University of Lusaka. A qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews was used to collect data from 20 university students who were regular shisha smokers. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling, and interviews were conducted face-to-face. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Various key themes emerged from the data analysis following in line with the three research focus areas: (1) The level of awareness among students at the University of Lusaka regarding the health implications caused by the use of shisha smoking, (2) Where the students get or access the Shisha from; (3) How students at the University of Lusaka perceive and respond to the use of shisha smoking? Most participants had some knowledge about the health implications of shisha smoking, with some believing that shisha was less harmful than cigarettes. However, the study found that social and cultural factors such as peer pressure, perceived social status, and cultural traditions influenced the uptake and continuation of shisha smoking. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and education about the health implications of shisha smoking among university students in Zambia. Interventions should address misconceptions about the relative safety of shisha compared to other forms of tobacco and also take into account social and cultural factors that contribute to its popularity. These findings may inform future public health campaigns and policies aimed at reducing the prevalence of shisha smoking among university students in Zambia. Keywords: Shisha smoking, health implications, awareness, university students, Zambia.
Assessment of factors Influencing a Pregnant Woman's Choice of Place of Delivery in Chipembe: A Phenomenological Study
(2023) KALE, Richard Victor
The health of a mother contributes greatly to the health of the unborn child. All decisions a pregnant woman makes affect the unborn baby. About 2.4 million neonatal deaths were recorded in 2019 and 293 maternal deaths recorded in 2017 world over. It was estimated that 56% of maternal deaths were from Sub-Saharan Africa. In Chipembe community, pregnant women do not have the privileges that women who live in cities and big towns enjoy. The bad roads, poor modes of transport, lack of formal jobs, limited business opportunities, illiteracy, lack of formal private health care providers, lack of exposure etc. are few of the many barriers that hinder them from accessing care. These obviously affect their health seeking behaviour. Place of delivery is an important contributing factor to a safe delivery. Therefore, a pregnant woman must choose a place of delivery that will guarantee a safe delivery. This study sought to investigate factors which influenced pregnant women’s choice of place of delivery in Chipembe community. This was qualitative study approach, using a Phenomenological study design and data collection tools were a questionnaire, theme table and phone recorder. The sampling method employed the principle of saturation. The data were analysed using thematic analysis method. The most patronised place of delivery in Chipembe Community among the participants was Chipembe Mission Rural Health Centre. Factors that influenced participants’ choice of place of delivery included: the first-time-mother and multiparous-mother policy, which forced participants in the category to deliver from the Nyimba District Hospital or any other similar level Hospital or higher; Distance to the nearest health centre; HIV Positive status; Anaemia; Financial/Economic status; History of abortion; No delivery room in the local health centre; staff attitude; illiteracy; Having a friend who is a health worker; Gifts/incentives; Fear of complications; and many more. The study findings fit into the Three-Delay Model of health seeking behaviour by pregnant women. Factors such as lack of knowledge about their right to choose, illiteracy, parity etc. are typical examples of the first delay. The Second-Delay includes distance to the Health Centre, poor roads, and financial/economic status. The Third-Delay includes staff attitude, practitioner’s skill and others. Keywords: Place of delivery; pregnant women; Chipembe
Assessment of Knowledge, Perceptions and Attitudes on the Uptake of Covid-19 Vaccines among students of the University of Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2023) CHIPILI, Mulenga Cecilia
Lack of trust in recommended vaccines and providers, complacency regarding the value of immunisation, and perceptions of how simple it is to obtain can all have an impact. All of these are influenced by the environment (such as culture or history), as well as by the person and the vaccine in question. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes on the uptake of covid-19 vaccines among students of the university of Lusaka. The study employed a qualitative exploratory research design method using a purposive sampling approach which sampled 10 respondents. In-depth interviews were conducted to gather data. Study data were analysed manually using the thematic analysis technique. A total of 11 in-depth face-face interviews were conducted, between March and April 2023. Twelve overarching themes were identified: (1) Protection from illness and spread of the virus, (2) Peace of mind and social engagement, (3) Concerns about side effects, (4) Trust in science and evidence, (5) Personal choice, (6) Protection from illness and spread of the virus, (7) Peace of mind and social engagement, (8) Concerns about side effects, (9) Trust in science and evidence, (10) Personal choice, (11) Trust and Confidence, (12) Skepticism and Uncertainty. Generally, Students are knowledgeable on the types of vaccines used in Zambia and their importance to their health. They are also likely to get information from trusted sources. However, they are skeptical when it comes to the situation in Zambia. This study provides an initial evidence base of students’ knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines. The study emphasises that sufficient knowledge and awareness about COVID-19, trust in government measures, and adherence to safety measures, are necessary in stopping the spread of COVID-19 virus.
Assessment of Prevention and Control of Scabies in Kabipupu of Mufumbwe District
(University of Lusaka, 2023) CHISHA, Wallen
Scabies has the highest prevalence in hot, humid climates such as the Pacific and Latin American regions several studies reported prevention and control of scabies, however prevention and control of scabies remains to be accomplished. Scabies is a contagious skin infection caused by the infestation of a mite known as Sarcoptes Scabiei. The mite burrows under the skin and cause severe itching, which is especially intense during night time. Scabies is mainly transmitted through skin to skin contact, making family members and close contacts at higher risk.Scabies causes a host immune response which is intensely itchy. Scratching of the lesions can lead to secondary bacterial infections of the skin, such as impetigo this can have fatal consequences, such as septicaemia, Advances over the past 5 years indicate that mass drug administration, washing clothes and beddings with soap, not exchanging clothes of towels and avoiding staying in overcrowded homes are common effective strategies to control and prevent scabies from spreading. On the other hand once the diagnosis of scabies is established, not only the patient but also close contacts should receive treatment with either a topical medication (such as permethrin 5% cream) or a systemic drug (ivermectin) or both. Keywords: burrow, eggs, ivermectin, mite, permethrin, Sarcoptes scabiei, scabies, prevalence, contagious