Browse
Recent Submissions
Item The impact of remittances on the rural household poverty in Namibia: A case of Ohangwena constituency, Ohangwena region(University of Namibia, 2023) Kashimba, Emilia FlorianaMigration is a global concern that impacts the socio-economy of any country. Migration occurs at international and internal levels. It is known to put pressure on a country's resource allocation when proper planning has yet to be done; it may affect development. A large portion of migration involves internal migration from rural to urban areas for economic reasons. In some countries, migration is also known as a strategy to reduce poverty in rural areas through remittances. This thesis sought to investigate the impact of remittances on rural household poverty in Namibia, and a case study in the Ohangwena constituency, Ohangwena region, was conducted. The study's objectives were to identify the nature of remittances sent by migrants to the rural household, to explore the uses of remittances in the rural household, and to investigate the impact of the remittances on the rural household. The study used a qualitative approach to collect data. A sample of 20 rural households was selected using a snowball sampling procedure. Data was collected using an interview guide through key informants per rural household. The study revealed that many rural households receive cash, food, materials, goods, and equipment remittances. The study also found that remittances are used to improve the living standards of the rural household, as most participants have mentioned buying food for consumption in the household as one of the primary uses of remittances. Others were paying bills, agricultural purposes, improving housing structures, and many more. The findings have also revealed that remittances positively impact the rural household as they have enhanced many rural households after migration, such as improved employment rates, food security, income, health, and education, and the household's general well-being. One of the study recommendations is for development planners to mainstream migration in development plans to improve rural poverty and achieve rural developmentItem An investigation of land reallocation conflicts in local authorities in Namibia: A case study of Omuthiya town council(University of Namibia, 2023) Shiindi, Job DhimbulukwaThis study examined land reallocation challenges between landowners and the OTC to make recommendations for improving land reallocation process. This was accomplished by assessing how land is reallocated within the OTC and how it affects community members. Understanding land reallocation dispute is critical to ensure inclusivity of every Namibian and fair participation in land reallocation process. The study was conducted through a qualitative research design. Primary data was collected through interview guides. The interviews were administered to (8) staff members of the OTC, and fifteen (15) community members affected by land reallocation. The respondents were selected through purposive sampling, which is a non-probability sampling technique. Data was analysed using content analysis. The study found that, community members understand land reallocation process. The findings provide reasons to why land reallocation conflict exists between OTC and community members. The conflict is mainly because of inadequate compensation, unfair treatment of landowners by OTC employees, unclear land reallocation procedures and lack of cooperation and information sharing to residents whose land was earmarked for development. The study concludes that, land reallocation is very beneficial to OTC because of generated income that leads to urbanisation. The study recommends for revision of current compensation policy and guidelines to ensure fair compensation through a model. There is a need to capacitate implementing agencies, community members and compensation guidelines and policy. This means embarking on education and communication programmes to maximise effective communication between OTC and community membersItem Documenting a creative process: rust as means to create innovative textiles for fashion/art(University of Namibia, 2022) Claasen, ChakirraThis practice-based research follows and documents an individual creative process. Rust was used as a means to create innovative textiles which were used to create a collection of garments and accessories that challenges the dual identity of fashion as art. This research consists of a practical as well as a theoretical component aimed at producing a reference of the creative process for the fashion, textile and art industries in Namibia as there are limited resources and the fashion industry needs to be innovative as well as creative. This study’s creative process was compared to Wallas’ four stages of creativity that includes preparation, incubation, illumination and verification. Wallas’ theory was also compared to other existing theories on creativity. These theories were then compared to this studies documentation of the creative process in order to create a theory that can be applied by Namibian artists and designers from a Namibian perspective. The creative process was documented to highlight the challenges and practice that a designer follows in order to create new and authentic design outcomes. For the practical component, this study followed a creative process that involved textile manipulation and rust dyeing that formed part of a collection of garments and accessories that were exhibited in a gallery as fashion/art. The preparation and production of garments and the exhibition were documented through a series of extensive photographs that in turn formed the data that is discussed in the thesis with regards to the creative process. The research highlights the importance of following a creative process in order to create new and authentic Namibian design identities that have an impact locally as well as abroad even though each creative process can be unique to the individual.Item A study of Vakwangali traditional clothing for fashion creation in Namibia(University of Namibia, 2020) Caley, Maria A.The need to explore the Vakwangali traditional clothing as an inspiration for designing fashion clothing arose from acquired knowledge and understanding that intersections exist between traditional clothing and fashion design. It also began from observations that while such intersections seem to have resulted in the development of fashion clothing from traditional clothing among, for example, Ovaherero and Aawambo of Namibia, it is puzzling as to why the same have not occurred among Vakwangali of Kavango West region. Traditional clothing of Vakwangali has a rich history that is embedded with value and meaning. However, this rich cultural heritage is not reflected in their everyday wear. The main objective of this study was to explore various Vakwangali traditional clothing and styles over time; in order to explain the lack of transformation of Vakwangali cultural clothing from traditional clothing styles to fashion clothing. In addition this study aimed to suggest initiatives to transform Vakwangali traditional clothing into fashion through an exhibition fashion collection. Data was collected through interviews with key informants to gain in-depth knowledge regarding Vakwangali traditional clothing and its influence through a narrative style. Additional archival documents, regarding early establishment of mission work and schools, showed the influence of Christianity and colonial rule on Vakwangali traditional clothing including its transformation. Artefacts were also observed at the Maria Mwengere Museum in Rundu and Owela Museum in Windhoek to record details on craftsmanship of Vakwangali traditional clothing needed for fashion design. In addition, the online BAB Photography archive was studied to gain visual references to guide the designing process of the Vakwangali Fashion Collection. The study found that besides the various Vakwangali clothing, which included leather aprons for men and women, different hairstyles and ornaments were used to adorn the body. The study also found that there existed different styles between gender and social status. Generally, factors such as trade, Christianity and changing of livelihood contributed to the lack of transformation of Vakwangali traditional clothing into fashion. Further, the study revealed that Vakwangali are longing to restore the value and meaning that was embedded into the traditional clothing and are open to initiatives of reviving Vakwangali traditional clothing. This study created possible ideas for transforming Vakwangali traditional clothing into fashion from which Vakwangali fashion collection was created. The study recommended that different projects should adopt the suggested styles for different occasions.Item A camelthorn and a rhinohorn: A laboratory theatre experiment of crafting and staging a dramatic event in namibia(University of Namibia, 2019) Ndjavera, DavidThe purpose of this study was to satisfy the quest of uplifting the practical skills and the theoretical background of Namibian untrained actors. This research was structured to address both practical and theoretical components of the theatre process using laboratory theatre principles. The approach, the pursuit of quality theatre, resulted in the production of a play A Camel thorn and a Rhino horn. The challenge of the research was highlighting the need of the Namibian practising performing artists who had a backlog in systematic training/education in performance studies, which contributes to their limitations when performing as actors. Laboratory Theatre provides the artist through practical experiments, (ex peri = beyond boundaries) scientifically based answers pertaining to the theatrical/dramatic elements of playwriting (a wright is a maker e.g. shipwright = a maker of ships; playwright= a maker of plays). This practice-led research and implementation thereof followed and documented the creative process of staging A Camel thorn and a Rhino horn. Significant variables were identified in the study and where possible linked to a literature review. The findings of the study validated the laboratory theatre strategies developed before and during the exploration process. As an ongoing process, it introduces the artist to new and systematic approaches to theatre making. Actors experienced and gained insight and knowledge and the envisaged objectives were obtained. Participants’ testimonies recorded through interviews after the final presentation of the play attest to that. The theme to stage production allowed the researcher to critically engage the dramatic experience of the participants in the laboratory theatre process. The study recommends further utilisation of laboratory theatre elements in future dramatic events.Item A study of Sipelu music and dance among the Masubia people of the Zambezi region of Namibia(University of Namibia, 2017) Karumazondo, EmmanuelThis study examined Sipelu music and dance among the Masubia people of the Zambezi region of Namibia. The main objective of the study was to determine the meaning and beliefs attached to Sipelu music and dance. It also investigated how Sipelu music and dance related to other Masubia cultural elements. The study, furthermore, explored how the Masubia people managed to preserve and transmit Sipelu music and dance knowledge and practice within their community. Interviews were conducted in the Zambezi region with four Sipelu dance groups comprising group leaders, costume makers, song makers and dancers. Photos and video clips of the singing and dancing were also taken to strengthen/validate observations. The main findings reveal that Sipelu music and dance are social activities that takes place throughout the year at different social gatherings in the community. The dance is performed by the dance groups for the King at his palace or when he visits the communities in their villages. Dancing also takes place at weddings, political rallies, beer parties or school meetings but never at a funeral. Each Sipelu group composes its own songs, making its repertoire completely unique from the other dance groups. The composed songs and dances symbolise unity, always addressing social issues in the community. The songs and dances mainly express happiness, sadness, praise or social comments. The dance groups admitted that Sipelu was slowly becoming extinct, hence their efforts to teach the dance to school learners, as well as out-of-school youth. Although Sipelu is mostly practised among the Masubia, it was discovered that the Mafwe people, in the neighbouring kingdom, also practised the same dance. The study finally revealed that Sipelu was not just a dance, but a significant, respected and well-structured cultural practice of the Masubia people of Namibia.Item A visual and theoretical interpretation of sculpted paper as metaphor for the fragility and vulnerability of the human being(University of Namibia, 2015) Nel, RikaThe purpose of this practice-led research was to explore paper as a metaphor for the fragility and vulnerability of the human being. This research focused on child abuse and gender inequality. Research on this theme is of topical value as it is a countrywide, as well as a worldwide phenomenon. This research was undertaken through a literature review, by analysis of relevant artists’ work (particularly those artists whose work engaged with the specific themes of metaphor, the body, memory and remembrance, social commentary, or whose work utilised paper, text, and light as creative materials), and the practical and technical procedures employed in works of art. The literature indicated that although there were certain similarities in the work of other artists, my work was unique in interpretation and execution. None of the artists referenced in this thesis work solely with paper as their medium, nor have they engaged as deeply with paper as a metaphor for the human being. My focus was on developing a personal technique of using paper as a medium of expression and creativity. I used a conceptual approach expressed through an appropriate material, which in this research was paper. I found that through the use of the very fragile medium of recycled tissue paper the fragility of the human form could successfully be expressed. Various other types of recycled paper were also used to express the historical background of the theme of abuse. The art works created for the exhibition (as partial fulfilment of this thesis) also illustrate that paper can be used as a medium for fine arts and not only for crafts. Through my art exhibition the aim was to make the viewer aware of the fragility and vulnerability of the human being and that people should not be silent about abuse and violence, as has been the case for many generations. Although I was making a social comment it is not the role of the artist to offer solutions to these issues.Item Occupational stress in the Namibian Police Force: An exploratory study from a psycho-spiritual perspective(University of Namibia, 2016) Kangunga, Michael L.The aim of this study was to explore the actuality of stress among the Namibian Police Force members by investigating the causes and impact it has on members and the organisation itself. The study identified possible effective ways of coping with stress in the Namibian Police Force. The purpose of the study was to assist and guide the Namibian Police Force members to deal with stress related problems from psycho-spiritual perspectives. A mixed research methodology of qualitative and quantitative approaches was used by means of interviewing twenty (20) police force members as well as a survey. It was vital to combine the two research methodologies because the qualitative approach produces a richer understanding of many social phenomena that cannot be achieved through other observational approaches. The interview guide was used to make the interview easy and to guide both the researcher and the interviewees. The study participants were asked what they thought could be the causes of stress among the Namibian Police Force members. They responded by emphasising the nature of the work in the police force, as well as the conditions in the force. The results of the study show that the professional services needed in the police and provision of study materials should be expanded to the entire force membership. The study was conducted in the Khomas and Kunene regions. The motive for choosing these two regions was that the vastness of Namibia (a total land area of 823, 290 square kilometers) and the limited resources on the part of the researcher. In addition, the Khomas region is the researcher’s operational area and in the case of Kunene region, it is one of the areas perceived to have high levels of stress in the country. Another reason for opting for the Kunene region is that the members of the force in this part of the country experience lack of facilities that are the contributing factors to stress levels.Item The challenge of HIV and AIDS to the church from ethical-theological and biblical perspectives(University of Namibia, 2004) Samuel, EstevaoIn this study we address the crisis of AIDS as it continues to be a great challenge to Christians everywhere. How should we think, speak, and act as Christians, after you have discovered that your spouse, or your child, or a brother or sister or father or mother is infected with HIV? What difference should my faith make in the midst of such a sad situation? What goal should the Church have in times of HIV/AIDS? Why being involved as the Church in HIV/AIDS? If being involved what will be the specific contributions of the Church? More specifically, what should we do as the Church in times of AIDS? Many Churches and people of other faiths have responded constructively and with profound compassion to the HIV/AIDS crisis. Studies have been undertaken, religious leaders have issued pastoral letters, diaconal programs have been organised, and hospital chaplaincies have been expanded. However, traditionally, talking about sexuality has to a large extent been taboo and statements issued by African Churches are carefully formulated to avoid meaningful discussion on human sexuality. From such a background, we shall maintain that the Church need to consider a range of approaches appropriate to the situations of different individuals, a changing morality, rapid urbanisation, industrialisation, the influence of African or Western culture, the liberal or traditional attitudes towards sex in villages, towns and cities, the influence of alcohol and drugs as contributing factors for daily HIV infections, as well as the use of soldiers and mercenaries, who raped many women and girls in many countries that are experiencing civil wars. The study will conclude by maintaining that Christian faith is a faith in a God who loves life. God became human so that human beings may have life in its fullness. There is little doubt that in the AIDS situation today, God would be on the side of life. God would not necessary demand immediate moral perfection from people, who, for various reasons, cannot yet measure to that ideal. To put it differently, the Word of God raises the possibility of making use of objects to our disposal in the search towards solutions. Therefore, let us light our lamps and take our brooms (Luke 15: 8-10) and go into the world in the search to find answers to the question, which of the possible courses of action best expresses the best way of being ‘a Christ’ in times of AIDS? The answer to this question in the words of Bonhoeffer is that the Church “is only the Church when it exists for others.”Item The necessity of the second phase of Evangelization among Vambunza in the Bunya area of the northeastern parts of Namibia(University of Namibia, 2002) Phangwa, Innocent M.In this study we address the issue of the necessity of the second phase of evangelization among Vambunza people in the Mbunza area. Mbunza is an area in the Northeastern parts of Namibia. The majority of people living there are called Vambunza. The Mission Christianity has left the local people with unclear consciences. There is a tension between Christianity and culture. This is due to the fact that many cultural and traditional objects were never taken as a starting point of evangelization among the people of this area. This study aims at showing that the Vambunza culture and tradition, impefect as they are, are the manifestation and revelation of the presence of God among them. In this study some concepts will be suggested and encorporated in re-evangelizing them. The study aims at showing that there are many Christian values which could be explained easily by deriving examples from Mbunza tradition and culture,which was not the case in the first evangelization. This is an attempt to make the Church like a mirror in which Vambunza see themselves and recognize their true face and feel completely at home in their Christian faith. It is suggested that the Vambunza should appreciate being Christians, while not rejecting their African religious and cultural roots. The study suggests that the Vambunza should own Christianity in such a way that it becomes a genuine answer to the totality of the way of their life. Therefore, there is an urgent need to reconcile the Gospel and the Vambunza culture so that Christianity can become an inculturated part and parcel of their lives. The study will also underline new challenges, which would cause new methods and approaches of evangelization in the same area. The Church cannot simply continue with the same methods and approaches that they used 72 years ago when the mission station was founded. This study will challenge people to study more about Vambunza and to know more about their needs, beliefs, ethics and aspirations. The study will show the importance of Vambunza oral literature and oral tradition, which can help them to preach the Gospel within their own context as African Christians. This argument is developed and supported by five chapters. Chapter 1 will give background information about the study. This includes stating the purpose of the study, reasons for considering the study important, statement of the problem, the scope and limitations of the study. Chapter 2 shall deal with the Vambunza: their cultural, social and political life. Chapter 3 will be on the impact of Christianity among the Vambunza: both positive and negative ones. Chapter 4 is about the traditional and cultural concepts to be utilized in re-evangelization for a second phase of evangelization. Chapter 5 shall provide the conclusions and summary of the study.Item Diaconal ministry in Namibia: Challenges from the perspective of the Evangelical Lutheran church in the Republic of Namibia (ELCRN)(University of Namibia, 2001) Isaak, Cornelius F.This investigative and evaluative study aims at contributing to the ongoing dialogue on the necessity to have a diaconal ministry within the framework of the overall mission of the church under discussion (the ELCRN). A further aim is to present some workable proposals and recommendations for the revitalization of this much-needed ministry under the umbrella of the said Church in particular, but also to have a message to the Church of the Lord in Namibia. The assumption is made and the hypothesis developed that a diaconal ministry is without doubt part and parcel of the mission of the Church. This necessitates rethinking on the current problems encountered and a new look at the Church’s structures, plan of action and future vision - in view of the establishment of an effective diaconal ministry. The operating of an effective diaconal action is in line with the cross-bearing responsibility of the Church. Any ideas to the effect that the State ought to take over all responsibilities for the social needs of people after independence, is to belittle such a costly obligation and mission of the Church. The thesis thus argues that there is a great need and urgency to have an effective diaconal ministry, particularly in the ELCRN. This argument is firstly developed by giving a historical background of the Church under review, particularly its humble beginnings of which the missionaries laid the foundations - including the current dispensation and problems within the said ministry. The purpose is to show that evangelization in Namibia was started not only to ‘convert the heathen’ but to provide also in the bodily needs of the African people, and that this legitimate diaconal function of the Church should still be taken very seriously The biblical and theological basis of this ministry will be reviewed in Chapter 2, having Luke 10:25-37 as point of departure, backed by Mk. 16:15 and John 21:15-17, which is the Great Commission and Commandment respectively. Chapters 3 and 4 will cover a critical discussion of various insights gained from the extensive research done by the World Council of Churches on this subject. Arguments in these studies have again been based on the findings of workshops held in Africa, thus representing the African understanding of diakonia and the way of doing it. The impact of the Holy Spirit, an essential element in the mission and ministry of the Church, will be dealt with in Chapter 5. Chapter 6, is based on Crafford’s theological and professional analysis of a responsible church diakonate (a far cry from the soup-kitchen mentality within traditional approaches), and forms a prelude for Chapter 7, which will argue the case for a new vision within the diaconal ministry. In conclusion it is argued that the diaconal ministry is not really the business of only a few staff members at a central institution, but is in fact the total obligation and responsibility of all Christians nation-wide and for the purpose of this study, specifically for the overall Church membership of the ELCRN. Now is the time, the “kairos” for the clergy and laity of the church to join hands for this most important ministry.Item The necessity of the military chaplaincy with reference to the Namibian context(University of Namibia, 1999) Afunde, Werner S.INTRODUCTION: From early days soldiers have looked to the church for spiritual guidance and support and in the practice of their faith have found comfort and strength in all difficulties and dangers. The Old Testament often refers to priests accompanying troops into battle: “Before you engage in battle,” states Deuteronomy 20: 2 - 4, “that the priest shall approach and speak to the people”. Another well-known example is found in Joshua 6: 2 - 5. In this passage, seven priests each carrying a trumpet, and marched in front of the covenant box around the wall of Jericho daily for six days. They were followed by other priests carrying the ark of the Covenant and finally came the troops (soldiers). On the seventh day of the procession priests blew the horns. After the sound of the horns, the troops shouted, whereupon the walls collapsed and the city was taken.Item Socio-political and cultural identity in the visual arts in Namibia: A study of transitional and post-independent Namibian visual arts, focusing on John Muafangejo, Joseph Madisia and Ndasuunye Shikongeni(University of Namibia, 2015) Mtota, ErvastThe purpose of this study was to make a critical and in-depth analysis of the cultural identity and the socio-cultural statements of transitional and post-independent indigenous Namibian visual art. It aims to investigate how transitional and post-independent indigenous Namibian visual art is different from visual art developed during the colonial period, by focusing on issues of cultural identity and socio-political statements. For this purpose, three indigenous Namibian visual artists were discussed, namely; John Muafangejo, Joseph Madisia and Ndasuunye „Papa‟ Shikongeni. This is because the three artists are presumed to have produced art that embodies Namibian cultural identity and social commentary. The study used a review of literature, interviews with key participants, observation and interpretation of artworks as methods of collecting data. Artworks were also interpreted according to their metaphoric and symbolic expressions. The study found that transitional and post-independence indigenous Namibian visual artists have shifted from the Eurocentric influences of Namibian artists prevalent during the colonial period. Transitional and post-independence indigenous Namibian visual artists use their cultural backgrounds, traditional practices, fantasies, beliefs, socio-political environment and immediate surroundings as their sources of inspiration. In contrast, many Namibian artists during the colonial period used Eurocentric art training influences, the wildlife and landscapes as their sources of inspiration. The study therefore shows that Namibian visual art from the colonial period does not reflect Namibian peoples‟ historical and cultural identities and their aspirations for the future.Item Ngugi wa Thiong'o and Kenyan theatre in focus(2007) Van der Smit, Sussana Alletta