UNAM Gā-aisib Repository

The UNAM Gā-aisib Repository serves as a central platform to preserve and showcase the university's scholarly output.

Gā-aisib, a term from the local Khoekhoegowab language meaning “wisdom".
 

Recent Submissions

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Statistical modelling of the association between dietary diversity, dietary patterns and non-communicable diseases in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2024) Mbongo, Laina Tulipomwene; Kazembe, Lawrence
Globalization coupled with urbanization has placed a significant pressure on the food systems of many developing countries. This has led to lifestyle changes that have become one of the most important influences on dietary patterns. The nutritional transition has affected the dietary pattern and nutrient intake greatly and has led to a rise in the purchases and consumption of processed and convenience foods. Analysis in nutritional epidemiology typically examined diseases in relation to a single or a few nutrients or foods. However, people do not eat isolated nutrients. Instead, they eat meals consisting of a variety of foods with complex combinations of nutrients. The high degree of inter-correlation among nutrients as well as among foods makes it difficult to attribute effects to single dietary components. Dietary patterns can influence health and the risk of developing chronic conditions. Therefore, to gain full understanding of the relationship between diet and the development of non-communicable diseases (NCD), it is desirable to use several methodological approaches. The main objective of this study was to explore the linkages between dietary patterns, dietary diversity and prevalence of non-communicable diseases. Specifically, the study aimed at: (i) applying count models on dietary diversity in Namibia, (ii) using bivariate count modelling approach in analyzing convenience and non-convenience consumption food preference in Windhoek, (iii) applying copula joint modelling of food insecurity indicators with application to food insecurity prevalence (FIP), household dietary diversity score (HDDS) and months of inadequate household food provisioning (MIHFP), (iv) fitting multiple indicators-multiple-cause modelling to examine the relationship between foods consumed and non-communicable diseases. The analysis used two representative survey data, namely the AFSUN-HCP Household Food Security Baseline Survey (2016) and Namibian Household and Income Expenditure (NHIES) of 2015/2016. The study focused on dietary diversity by using different count models. The household dietary diversity score presented a mean score of 6.5, suggesting a moderate diverse diet, with less consumption of food made from beans/lentils; eggs; fruits/vegetables and more consumption of starch food. Determinants for household dietary diversity included educational level, sex of head of household and main source of income (p-value <0.005). The study further used bivariate iii modelling approaches to analyze the food consumption patterns. The results found that, whereas the consumption of food monthly was more on the non-convenience foods, the purchases of convenience was frequent on a weekly basis and in multiple food sources. Moreover, the study employed copula joint modelling of food security indicators. The findings show that AIC of the untruncated (conditional/marginal) Poisson regression model was lower and thus proved to fit the data better. The Frank Copula and Bivariate Normal Copula best fitted the data of establishing the relationship between HFIP and HDDS, and between HFIP and MIHFP respectively. Lastly, we analyzed multiple indicators-multiple causes examining the relationship between foods consumed and non-communicable disease. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Structural Equation Models (SEM) were used as data reduction methods to derive dietary patterns. Fruits, foods such as condiments/tea/coffee and potatoes, yams, cassava, or any foods made from roots and tubers accounted for majority of the variation. The study concluded that the usage of appropriate methods for specific data types is very critical. Generalized Poisson Regression models through the usage copula approaches are best to analyze jointly two outcomes in order to test for significant relationships between high-level hierarchical effects (e.g., random effects). Specifically, the bivariate normal and the Frank Copula were found to fit the data best. The unique nature of the bivariate normal model is that it does not allow for a different dependence structure between the outcomes while the frank copula does not have tail dependence and it can model both positive and negative dependencies as the normal copula. SEM and PCA’s were used as data reduction methods. Lastly, the study concludes that food and nutrition insecurity is a major threat to the development of the country and the study recommends for strengthened advocacy for consumption of healthy and diverse diets in the country in order to slow down and arrest proliferation of non-communicable diseases
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An evaluation of the social and economic impact of Non-Governmental 0rganisations in Namibia: A case study of Katutura youth enterprise centre and women’s action for development
(University of Namibia, 2024) Shililifa, Wycliff; Riruako, Hoze
Since gaining her independence, Namibia has witnessed steady growth in economic performance, expansion of industries and impressive expansion of social services. However, there remain wide disparities between income and wealth leading to extensive hunger and poverty. There has been an explosion of NGO activities aimed at alleviating poverty and reducing the gap between the poor and the rich, more importantly, shifting from welfare to sustainable skills development-oriented programmes directed at marginalised communities. Despite these developments, very little is known about the overall impact of NGO activities and very few details of specific project interventions are accessible in the public domain. This study is a meta critical evaluation of the socio-economic impact of the Katutura Youth Enterprise Centre (KAYEC) and Women Action for Development (WAD) training programmes on targeted youth in Namibia. This research unfolded within the context of the realisation that NGOs play a significant role in enhancing development among the youth in Namibia. A mixed methodological approach consisting of questionnaires, interviews and document analysis was employed to determine the effects of KAYEC and WAD training programmes on beneficiaries’ socio-economic development. The intellectual premise of this research was buttressed by viewpoints solicited from a sample of 100 students, comprising 25 participants from each of the four regions selected for this study. Structured questionnaires were administered with the selected participants, based on course, gender and age. Interviews were used to understand the impact of the training programmes as well as the challenges faced by beneficiaries of the KAYEC and WAD training programmes. The research employed descriptive and regression analysis to analyse the data. The results of the study established that KAYEC and WAD vocational and skills training programmes in bricklaying and plastering, ICT, office administration, needlework and tailoring contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of the beneficiaries. Moreover, the study reveals there is a significant improvement in financial status and improved access to social amenities (public buildings and other ii infrastructural facilities which are shared and become convergence spots for the local communities) as a result of the beneficiaries’ gainful employment after completing the training programmes. However, the results show a moderate impact on mechanic and horticultural skills
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The domestic military deployment of the Namibian Defence Force: 1990-2019
(University of Namibia, 2024) Showa, Veronika Nangula; Achu, Check Nicasius
The research focused on the analysis of the military domestic deployment in Namibia from 1990-2019. The study harnessed insights from the national security approach to ground the research. The study objectives were to investigate the nature of the deployment of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) in internal security operations in Namibia, to assess the challenges of deployment of the military in internal security operations in Namibia and to enhance the strategic efficacy of the NDF in their deployment in internal security operations in Namibia. The researcher used a qualitative approach that was exploratory by design. Moreover, thirty (30) participants were sampled for this study. Data was analysed through the thematic approach method. Research findings show that the nature of the deployment of the NDF in internal security operations in Namibia is characterised by dealing with National Security Threats, Joint Crime Prevention Operations and Response to National Disasters. Findings also showed that the challenges of domestic deployment of the NDF for maintaining and preserving internal security operations in Namibia include but are not limited to the lack of training, lack of proper orientation, lack of equipment, lack of clear strategies and tactics as well as limited budgets. Based on the findings, it is suggesting measures that emergency budgets, provision of training and civil operations orientation and provision of equipment be implemented
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Exploring pyschological effects of COVID-19 on life skills teachers in Windhoek: Experiences and coping strategies
(University of Namibia, 2024) Gqwede, Nonelwa; Shikongo, A. E. E.
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted the global education system, with teachers facing significant challenges. The present study, specifically, explored life skills teachers’ pandemic experiences, coping strategies, and the psychological effects on their lives. A mixed-method research design was used to investigate the psychological effects of COVID19 on life skills teachers in Windhoek, Khomas Region, Namibia. Data was collected through a semi-structured and online questionnaire from 17 life skills teachers in Windhoek. Data was analysed using Google Forms Data Analytics. The findings revealed a significant impact on the teachers' mental health, with stress, anxiety, and depression being common experiences. However, the teachers demonstrated resilience through various coping strategies, such as seeking social support, practicing self-care, and adopting positive attitudes. The study further found that teachers used various strategies to cope with the pandemic, such as personal resources, and organizational assistance as key influencers on their coping mechanisms. To mitigate the psychological effects of the pandemic on teachers, it is recommended that schools and policymakers provide adequate support and resources. This may involve formally promoting self-care practices, offering access to mental health services, and addressing organizational factors contributing to stress, anxiety, depression and burnout
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Anti-unmanned aerial vehicle detection system for airports: Aviation and national security perspective
(Journal of Transportation Security, 2024) Anghuwo, John Shivute; Imanuel, Peter; Nangolo, Sam Shimakeleni
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles gained significant popularity in the last decade as dem onstrated by their wide usage in various fields. From around the year 2001, the usage of unmanned aerial vehicles’ technology was mainly confined to law en forcement agencies such as the military, police, and customs. In the contemporary, terrorists have also been observed to be using unmanned aerial vehicles to attack aviation facilities. The current paper examines the levels of vulnerability of the Namibian airports to possible intrusion and attack from unmanned aerial vehicles, a situation that could pose a serious threat to aviation and national security. Adopting a qualitative research approach, the study made use of a questionnaire and semi structured interview guide to collect primary data from the participants. Microsoft Excel was used to analyse the data. The study establishes that Namibian airports are prone to attacks from unmanned aerial vehicles as there are no anti-unmanned aerial vehicle detection systems installed at all airports in the country. Thus, there is clear evidence that the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority and the Namibian Airport Company’s regulations and policies on aviation safety and security did not prioritise the installation of anti-unmanned aerial vehicle detection systems at all airports in Namibia. The paper suggests that, in order to enhance aviation safety and security, a joint civil/military Information Technology Unit, responsible for spoofing, detec tion, and the monitoring of illicit unmanned aerial vehicle operations should be set up and operations activated at all airports and other public infrastructures in Namibia
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An interpretive analysis of Namibian education policy and its link to citizenship education: A reflection on my doctoral encounters
(Taylor and Francis group, 2024) Shikukumwa, Tadeus
This book chapter presents the doctoral adventure and the influence of democratic citizenship education with a special focus on Namibian education policy. The journey comprised an interpretive study concerning Namibian education policy and its link to citizenship education. The primary intention on this doctoral journey was to present his discovery and understanding of the role of the new Namibian education policy, the National Curriculum for Basic Education 2015, in the development of democratic citizenship education. Furthermore, in this chapter, it reflects on strategies that are in place to ensure that learners in Namibia have access to democratic education. Moreover, the intent to reveal how the new Namibian education policy (i.e. the National Curriculum for Basic Education, 2015) contributes to democratic citizenship education. In addition, it aimed to discuss whether the new education policy would be effective in enhancing educational transformation in Namibia. In addition, a pragmatist interpretivist approach was used to conceptualise the progressive or transformative education that the new curriculum seeks to introduce
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An investigation into illicit drug trafficking and its Implications for national security: A case study of Khomas Region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2024) Hango, Metumo Nangula Olye; Mushelenga, Peya
The present study investigated drug trafficking and its implication for national security, using Khomas Region as a case study. Illicit drug trafficking is one of the variables that offer a bigger threat to a country's national security since it has evolved into an international problem that threatens international peace and security. In recent years, the smuggling of illegal narcotics has increased in Namibia. According to Lieutenant-General Sebastian Ndeitunga, Namibia is in serious jeopardy due to the alarming increase in drug trafficking, (De Klerk, 2018, p.6). Statistics from Namibian Police’s Drug Law Enforcement Division show that between 2017 and 2020, 7151 persons were detained in Namibia for drug-related crimes (Namibian Police, 2020). In addition, according to a declaration made by the Minister of Health and Social Services, Kalumbi Shangula, for the Commission on Narcotic Substances’ 64th Session, Namibia seized 843,892 kg of cannabis; 4,930 tablets of Mandrax; 1,072g of cocaine powder; 650 units of crack cocaine and 2,922 g of crystal meth in 2020. This study employed a qualitative research methodology, using a case study research design. The study found among others that, drug trafficking in Namibia could lead to the spread of small arms and other weapons; a high possibility of violence and extremism; a threat from international terrorism; a pervasive culture of corruption and other security challenges. Moreover, an additional burden on government spending to address the problem was uncovered in this study. Based on the findings, the study put forward the following recommendations. A strong legislative structure that addresses the problem is necessary to control and prevent drug trafficking; a public health and intelligence approach to raise public awareness of the threat of drug trafficking on the country’s national security is equally necessary. The Government should also derive ways to address the high unemployment rates among the youth to deter the majority of them from succumbing to the allure of drug trafficking in the country.
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Learner support experiences of learners with learning difficulties at a resource school in Windhoek
(University of Namibia, 2024) Nghiilwamo, Paulina M.; Veii, Kazuvire R-H
This study aimed to explore the learner support experiences of learners with learning difficulties at a Resource school in Windhoek, Namibia. The study was informed by Vygotsky's Social cultural-historical theory of development, specifically the Zone of proximal development. The researcher employed a phenomenological research design to explore the participants’ experiences of learning support from their point of view. The sample was conveniently drawn, and participants’ views were explored through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Participants’ responses were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that learners receive different types of learning support delivered through individualised learning instructions and cooperative learning. Furthermore, findings showed that teachers provide a conducive environment for learning, and they employ various learning strategies to accommodate all learners with their various learning styles, such as visual, auditory and kinaesthetic. Although learners receive learning support to ease the learning difficulties they experience, the findings of the study reveal that learners are finding it difficult to develop long-term mechanisms that will help them cope with learning independently. The study recommends that teachers teaching at resource schools should collaborate with professionals and paraprofessionals to share expertise and resources that can be utilised in the classroom to maximise learning for learners with learning difficulties. The study further recommends that the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture should provide resource schools with the necessary learning devices and financial resources to provide and promote effective teaching and learning environments for learners with learning difficulties
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Assessment of the impact of tax reforms on the Namibia tax system
(University of Namibia, 2024) Ekandjo, Johannes Shapumba; Wealth, Eukeria
The study sought to assess the impact of tax reforms that were implemented from 2015 to 2021 on the Namibian tax system. The study was undergirded by the Theories of Distributive Justice and Limitation on Taxation and employed a sequential exploratory mixed-method research approach. Through purposive sampling, a total of hundred and fifteen (115) participants from the NamRA Domestic Tax Department and NamRA Legal Department participated in the study. Moreover, the study reviewed documents such as the Government Gazettes of Namibia on the Promulgation of Income Tax Amendment Act published from 2015-2021 and annual reports of the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises for the same period. The study administered a structured questionnaire to collect primary data on the impact of reforms on the three tax heads Individual Income tax, Corporation Income, and Value-Added tax. Consistent with other scholars, the study found that tax reforms in Namibia have improved the revenue mobilisation capacity, expanded the tax base, and enhanced public internal revenue generation. Value Added Tax Reforms in Namibia sought to boost the country’s manufacturing capacity and attract foreign investment to Namibia and these findings were in addition to those noted by researchers in other countries. Furthermore, the study findings indicated that Individual Income Tax reforms in Namibia tend to be positively correlated with revenue with a 2.92 correlation coefficient and p-value= 0.075, while Corporation Income Tax reforms are statistically insignificant and reforms on Value Added Tax were positively correlated with Value-Added Tax Revenue with a 2.85 correlated coefficient and p-value= 0.034. The study also confirmed that the powers and functions of NamRA were not fully utilised ii towards individuals, corporations’ income and Value Added Tax reforms on the Namibian tax system. The study further recommends the board of directors for NamRA to ensure that the agency exercises its duties and power to its full capacity by implementing internal control measures to ensure that individuals, corporations, and Value value-added tax reforms on the Namibian tax system are not stronger in words than in action.
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Structural credit risk modeling using Merton model and its default probability: A case study of commercial banks in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2024) Shaanika, Aina; Gnitchogna, Rodrigue
This research work presents a comprehensive study on commercial banks in Namibia, focusing on three main banks over the period from December 2011 to December 2021. The primary objective is to assess the credit risk position in the light of the Merton Structural credit Risk Model. The financial statements of these banks are analysed, specifically the balance sheets and statements of income, to extract relevant information for the computation of various ratios. The ratios examined include the working capital, total assets, retained earnings before interests and taxes ratio, and sales over total assets ratio. These ratios serve as risk factors for both the Merton Model and within the logit model framework. The Merton approach is utilized to estimate the default risk for the three commercial banks in Namibia, and the accuracy of these estimates is assessed using a range of different techniques. The efficiency of the estimates is assessed by testing the extent to which the predictive power of the estimates could be improved by incorporating other information publicly available in company accounts. The event of default is determined by the market value of the bank’s assets in conjunction with the liability structure of the bank. When the value of the assets falls below a certain default point, the firm is considered to default. Through this research, valuable insights into the financial performance and default risk of the commercial banks in Namibia are gained, contributing to a deeper understanding of the banking sector in the country