UNAM Gā-aisib Repository
The UNAM Gā-aisib Repository serves as a central platform to preserve and showcase the university's scholarly output.
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Recent Submissions
Performance and efficiency of public sector in independent Namibia
(South Asian Journal of Macroeconomics and Public Finance, 2023) Shafuda, Christopher; De, Utpal Kumar
An analysis of the performance and efficiency of the Namibian government’s interventions after the end of the colonial era has been made in this study for the period 1990 to 2015. Using the Afonso et al. public sector performance (PSP) and public sector efficiency (PSE) method and the Stochastic frontier analysis (SFA), the findings reveal a sluggishly improving efficiency in the public sector in Namibia. However, some performance indicators showed significant improvement, while others did not record any substantial improvement. Progress is recorded in government efforts and programmes to reduce inequality and poverty, but the outputs moved at a plodding pace. Programmes and policies to reduce unemployment failed to produce the expected outcomes. Additionally, technical progress has been very slow since independence, as reflected by the technical efficiency parameter. The findings suggest a need to improve the public sector’s performance and efficiency to ensure stability and accelerate growth in the previously colonized economies with the same features as Namibia
Fish species composition, fish sizes and diversity in the Kamutjonga floodplain, Kavango river, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2023) Libala, Stellah Naumi; Hay, Clinton
Floodplains are amongst the most productive aquatic environments on earth providing valuable
ecosystem services to communities such as being a valuable protein source for marginalized
communities. This study ultimately aims to provide information on the fish species composition,
fish sizes and species diversity in the Kavango River’s Kamutjonga floodplain as a basis to provide
management advice to ensure the sustainable use of the fisheries. The fish species composition
and relative abundance were assessed in the Kamutjonga floodplain along the Kavango River
between February and April 2017, February to June 2018 and February to June 2020. Fish
sampling was carried out once weekly using a seine net. A total of 2924 fishes were collected in
2017, 1678 fishes in 2018 and 4461 in 2020. The catch per unit effort (CPUE) by number was
higher in 2017, followed by 2018 and lastly 2020. 31 fish species from 10 families, 37 species
from 11 families and 31 species from 9 families were identified in 2017, 2018 and 2020
respectively. The Cyprinidae family was most prominent in the catches in 2017 and 2020, whereas
the Cichlidae family dominated the catches in 2018. According to the index of relative importance,
the most important species according to number in 2017, 2018 and 2020 were Oreochromis
andersonii comprising of 47.7%, 27.1% and 49.6% of the total catches, respectively. The total
weight of fishes collected in 2017, 2018 and 2020 were 6.404 kg, 5.963 kg and 11.456 kg
respectively. The two most important fish species according to weight throughout the sampling
period were O. andersonii (2.990 kg in 2017, 2.300 kg in 2018 and 6.273 kg in 2020) followed by
Hydrocynus vittatus (1.546 kg in 2017, 1.915 kg in 2018 and 1.076 in 2020). The highest weight
of fish was found in 2020, however, the catch per unit effort (CPUE) by weight was highest in
2018, followed by 2017 and then 2020. The majority of Oreochromis andersonii sampled were
between the length classes 41 mm to 50 mm (n = 489) in 2017, 61 mm to 70 mm (n=89) in 2018
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and 31 mm to 40 mm (n=606) in 2020. The majority of Coptodon rendalli sampled were found
between the length classes 51 mm to 60 mm in 2017, 21 mm to 30 mm, 41 mm to 50 mm in 2018,
and 41 mm to 50 mm in 2020. The majority of Hydrocynus vittatus sampled were found between
the length classes 51 mm 59 mm (n = 54 mm) in 2017, 71 mm to 80 mm (n = 48) in 2018 and 31
mm to 34 mm (n = 68 mm) in 2020. This study found no significant difference in fish species
diversity between years. The water level of the Kamutjonga floodplain had an influence on the
catch rates, however, the water temperature did not affect the catch rates (catch per unit effort by
number) in all the three years of sampling
The implication of translanguaging on the linguistic competencies of deaf students
(Frontiers, 2025) Adigun, Olufemi Timothy; Mathosa, Mots’elisi; Anyanwu, Chikodi Joy
The language competencies of the deaf students are key to various academic
discourses that are associated with the learning outcome of deaf students and
social interaction between deaf individuals and non-deaf members of society.
Methods to assist the deaf in building appreciable language capacities have been
encouraged in various studies. Hence, translanguaging has been found as a concept
that could influence the linguistic repertoire of deaf students but there is a dearth
of systematic review studies on the influence of translanguaging in deaf education,
this study therefore provided evidence on the implication of translanguaging
in the education of deaf students. Ten bibliographic databases were identified
and comprehensively searched for academic papers on translanguaging in deaf
education. Thirteen published articles were carefully selected for in-depth content
analysis from 5,937 academic papers. The findings revealed that there is a scarcity
of studies on translanguaging in deaf education in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study
showed that translanguaging serves as an inclusive fulcrum in deaf education.
Furthermore, findings showed that translanguaging can be delivered through a
multi-modal approach and such approach can significantly improve the language
capabilities of deaf students. Implications were advised for research, policies, and
practices of translanguaging in deaf education
Ready or Not? Preparedness of pre-service EFL teachers to inclusive education: A cross-cultural comparative study from Türkiye, Kazakhstan, and China
(Gist Education and Learning Research Journal, 2025) Yüce, Erkan; Köroğlu, Zeynep Çetin; Seitova, Meruyert; Adigun, Olufemi Timothy; Wang, Yongliang
This study tried to investigate pre-service English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers’
preparedness for inclusive education from a cross-cultural perspective. We used a quantitative
survey design and collected the data in a cross-sectional way from three Asian countries: Türkiye,
Kazakhstan, and China. We implemented a questionnaire measuring knowledge, attitudes, and
perceptions of pre-service EFL teachers regarding inclusive education to 694 pre-service EFL
teachers. We utilized the Kruskal Wallis test and Tamhane›s T2 test to analyze the quantitative
data of the groups in a comparative way. We found cross-cultural differences among the
countries concerning inclusive education. The perceptions subscale scores of pre-service EFL
teachers in Kazakhstan are significantly higher than those of pre-service EFL teachers in China.
The attitude subscale scores of pre-service EFL teachers in Türkiye are significantly higher than
those of the pre-service EFL teachers in China, while the scores of the pre-service EFL teachers
in Kazakhstan are significantly higher than the scores of the pre-service EFL teachers in China.
The knowledge subscale scores of pre-service EFL teachers in Türkiye are significantly higher
than those of pre-service EFL teachers in Kazakhstan, while the knowledge scores of pre-service
EFL teachers in China are significantly higher than the scores of pre-service EFL teachers in
Kazakhstan. Based on these results, we discussed the place of inclusive education in pre-service
EFL education from a cross-cultural perspective
Self-esteem, self-image and media advertisement as preditors of skin bleaching behaviour among undergraduate
(International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy, 2025) Balogun, Olaitan Johnson; Adigun, Olufemi Timothy; Joseph, Conran
This study examined media advertisement, self-image, and self-esteem as predictors of skin bleaching
behavior among Nigerian undergraduate students, grounded in Social Learning Theory. A crosssectional survey of 350 undergraduates (56.3% female) from five on-campus hostels used the
Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, an adapted Body Self-Image Questionnaire, and media influence
assessments. Multiple regression analysis examined predictive relationships. The findings reveal
media advertisements were the strongest predictor of skin bleaching behavior (β = 0.802, p < 0.001),
followed by self-image (β = 0.503, p = 0.001) and self-esteem (β = 0.107, p = 0.002). The model
explained 62.4% of variance. Currently, 25.4% of participants used skin bleaching products, 77.1%
had family history of the practice, and only 8.1% demonstrated adequate knowledge of health risks.
The findings highlight media influence as the primary behavioral driver, supporting Social Learning
Theory's emphasis on environmental factors and observational learning. Interventions must address
media messaging, regulatory frameworks, and health literacy rather than relying solely on individual
psychological interventions
Analysing the emerging trends and patterns of political competition in Namibia’s democratic landscape: Political party systems and political elitism perspectives, 1990-2024
(University of Namibia, 2025) Kulobone, Alberts Munyanya; Mude, Torque
Critically analysing the emerging trajectories of political party systems and the
concomitant political elitism that has ensued in Namibia constitutes the objective of
this study. In essence, the study analyses the evolving trends and patterns of political
rivalry within Namibia's democratic framework from 1990 to 2024. Namibia, one of
the relatively newest democracies in Africa, has seen significant changes and
developments in its political environment since attaining independence in 1990. To
examine the dynamics of party systems, the impact of regional and ethnic identities,
and the function of elite actors in forming political narratives and public policy, this
study employed a qualitative approach. Important conclusions drawn from this study
illuminate the emergence of opposition parties, the growing fragmentation of the
political landscape, and the enduring political elitism that prevents wider involvement.
Undeniably, these conditions are disingenuous to democratic consolidation in
Namibia.
To unpack the aforementioned dynamics, the study delves deeper into how historical
legacies and socioeconomic considerations impact these dynamics, offering insights
into Namibia's link between political struggle, political systems, and democratic
consolidation. The study found that while the South West Africa People’s Organisation
(SWAPO) has maintained its dominance since independence, new political parties like
the Landless People’s Movement (LPM), the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC),
and the Affirmative Repositioning (AR) have gained some traction, showing shifting
political allegiances. The study also found that political competition in Namibia
presents both opportunities and challenges. Although political competition has resulted
in broader representation and democratic vibrancy, it is characterised by deep-rooted
political elitism, limited internal democracy, and ethnicised voting patterns within
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parties. Additionally, neo-patrimonialism and clientelistic practices have continued to
undermine competitive multiparty politics in Namibia. The study further found that
the emergence of political parties has had different effects on governance and
democratic institutions. Although elections have largely remained peaceful and
constitutional, the dominance of a few elites has weakened institutional accountability,
undermined political participation, and hindered policy responsiveness
Jolly Phonics and Jolly Grammar: Impact evaluation in Namibia, 2025 report
(Genesis Analytics and University of Namibia, 2025) Zastrau, Elzeth; Jansen, Jessica Mary-Ann; Shikwaya, Renate Olga
This report presents the findings of an independent impact evaluation of the Jolly Phonics and Grammar programmes in Namibia, commissioned to assess the programme’s effectiveness in improving foundational English reading skills among early-grade learners. The evaluation focused on Grade 3 learners from the 2024 academic year, sampled from 100 schools equally divided between the Oshana region (which had been trained on Jolly Grammar 2 for Grade 3s) and the Oshikoto region (which had not received Jolly Grammar 2 training at the time of the survey). The study employed a Propensity Score Matching (PSM) approach to estimate average treatment effects on Early Grade Reading Assessment (EGRA) performance. Four primary models were employed, varying in their matching specifications to test the robustness of results. The evaluation also calls for improved monitoring and the incorporation of longitudinal study designs, including baseline assessments, to better track learner progress over time and attribute improvements to the Jolly programmes
Assessing healthcare accessibility and quality for Namibian learners under the National School Health Programme
(Namibia Educational Reform Forum Journal, 2024) Katangolo-Nakashwa, Ndasilohenda; Josua, Lukas Matati; Newaka, Ester
This study delved into the intricate landscape of analysing the National School Health Policy in
Namibia. By gathering data from the Khomas, Oshana, and Kavango regions, this research analysed
the perspectives of various stakeholders on the execution of the policy. Foucault’s theory of Power
Relations and Talcott Parson’s Social Action provided the appropriate theoretical conceptual tools to
unearth inequalities in the health policy implementation in Namibia. Power was considered a system
that was used to suppress learners from accessing quality health care. Methodologically, a mixed
approach was employed to unearth gaps in the challenges and successes of implementing the National
School Health Policy. Through interviews and focus group discussions, the study highlighted the
scarcity of essential resources and personnel dedicated to school health programmes, leading to
potential gaps in health service provision. The prevalent inequalities in the health sector emerged when
learners were insufficiently informed about their entitlements to medical care accessibility within the
school premises. Generally, there was a positive attitude toward the policy's implementation evidence
among stakeholders. Nevertheless, despite this attitude, inadequate accessibility of health care services
among learners was rampant in Namibia. Nonetheless, areas necessitating increased attention became
apparent, such as enhancing awareness across all groups involved in school health initiatives and to
pave the way for enhanced effectiveness, strategic recommendations were proposed such as addressing
the communication ambiguities. These included the enhancement of communication channels between
educators, administrators, and parents, ensuring ample availability of resources and personnel,
including an adequate number of trained nurses, with requisite governmental support. Moreover,
tackling barriers stemming from geographical distances or financial constraints that limit healthcare
access emerged as a crucial facet of policy improvement
An analysis of barriers to Public Sector innovation in Namibia
(Journal of Public Administration, 2022) Ouma-Mugabe, John; Matengu, Kenneth; Sifani, John; Lendevlo, Selma
This study is about barriers to public sector
innovation in Namibia. It is motivated by
the fact that while the Government of the
Republic of Namibia has adopted a wide
range of public policies and programmes,
and established institutions to promote the
efficiency and effectiveness of its public
sector, not much is known as to whether
these measures are enhancing innovation in
service delivery and public administration.
There is a paucity of evidence-based analysis
on public sector innovation in Namibia. The
study fills the gap and aims to stimulate further academic inquiry into this area. Based
on an online survey, face-to-face interviews,
and focus group discussions at regional
and national workshops, we identified and
analysed barriers to public sector innovation
in the country. The study recommends a
strategic policy framework and whole-of government institutional configuration to
spur on innovation in public service delivery and administration. It suggests further
research on the measurement of public sector
innovation, and detailed analysis of specific
barriers to innovation in public services
Effectiveness of maternity waiting homes in improving maternal and child health outcomes in Africa: A scoping review
(Journal of Global Health Science, 2025) Katangolo-Nakashwa, Ndasilohenda; Shilunga, Anna; Mahoto, Sylvia; Haufiku, Desderius; Alfeus, Anna; Iita, Hermine; Namidi, Mateus; Mitonga, Honore Kabwebwe
There is a strong correlation between the African continent's high maternal mortality
rates and the lack of access to birthing facilities. Maternity Waiting Homes (MWHs) offer
pregnant women in remote areas a secure place to stay near the time of delivery. This
scoping review aimed to systematically analyse the use, implementation, and effectiveness
of MWHs in improving maternal and child health outcomes in Africa. We systematically
searched electronic databases and resources, analysing 30 articles from 2010 to 2023 using
the Joanna Briggs Institute framework, guided by Arksey and O'Malley's 6-stage approach.
For transparency, we adhered to the modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic
reviews and Meta-Analyses framework for scoping reviews. MWHs were linked with lower
perinatal mortality and increased facility-based deliveries (adjusted odds ratio, 1.19; 95%
confidence interval [CI], 1.10–1.29) in 30 studies, the majority of which were conducted in
East Africa (relative risk, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.05–0.76). They offer clean settings, which mitigate
the danger of infection. However, they are constrained by socio-cultural obstacles and
a localised impact that lacks community integration, resulting in poor utilisation (10%–
50%). The successful reduction of maternal and perinatal mortality in Africa is contingent
upon the elimination of barriers to proactive utilization prior to labor and the integration
of MWHs with health systems. It is essential to adjust to local settings, such as those in
Namibia, in order to achieve a more extensive influence