UNAM Gā-aisib Repository
The UNAM Gā-aisib Repository serves as a central platform to preserve and showcase the university's scholarly output.
Communities in the Gā-aisib Repository
Select a community to browse its collections.
Recent Submissions
Collective security in the context of SADC: An analysis of SADC intervention in Mozambique
(University of Namibia, 2025) Namwaapo, Malakia; Iroanya, Richard Obinna
This study was undertaken to examine the concept of collective security as applied in the
context of SADC with specific reference to its intervention in Mozambique. These
entailed examining collective security mechanisms such as the Organ on Politics, Defence
and Security Co-operation (OPDSC), and Mutual Defence Pact (MDP). The study was
guided by a Security Community Theory developed in 1957 by Karl Deutsch and his
associates in its attempt to explain collective security. The theory aimed at the possibility
for states to settle differences and gain peace through common values and interests and
focused on the pluralistic security community. This exploratory study employed a
qualitative research approach and a case study research design. Data were mainly
collected by using a semi-structured open-ended interview guide. Moreover, policy
documents, books, journals and online articles were also accessed and evaluated to guide
the research plan and in triangulating the research findings. In addition, the study used a
purposive sampling technique to select the appropriate participants, and as such, a sample
size of 29 participants was used in the study. From data analysis, among others, it was
found that the lack of political will among some member states to respond swiftly and
decisively to security threats in the region was a challenge. As such, the study recommends
that member states must reaffirm their commitment to the principles of collective security
and should demonstrate unwavering political will and cohesion to intervene promptly to
address security threats effectively. Finally, based on the complexities surrounding
collective security in the context of SADC concerning its intervention to address conflict
in the region, a further study focusing on investigating the role of external factors, such as
international donors in influencing the collective security initiatives of regional
organizations are recommended
An analysis of the implications of the Russia Ukraine war for Namibia’s economic security
(University of Namibia, 2025) Shipia, Phoenix M. N.; Iroanya, Richard Obinna
Geopolitical conflicts have a negative impact not only on the countries in conflict but also
on global peace and stability. This study aimed to analyse the implications of the RussiaUkraine War for Namibia’s economic security. The research utilised qualitative methods,
specifically interviews and document analysis, as its primary instruments. Respondents
were drawn from: the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation; the Ministry
of Finance; the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs; the Ministry of Industrialisation
and Trade; and the National Planning Commission of Namibia. A total of 20 respondents
participated in the study, engaging in semi-structured interviews that allowed for in-depth
exploration of their perspectives.
The study was guided by the main research question: What are the main economic security
implications of the Russia-Ukraine War for Namibia? Secondary research questions
included: To what extent does the disruption of the global supply chain, because of the
war, affect the Namibian economy? To what extent does the conflict impact Namibia’s
exports to Ukraine and Russia? How can Namibia manage economic security threats
posed by the Russia-Ukraine War?
The findings reveal that the Russia-Ukraine War compromised Namibia’s economic
security by contributing to local commodity price increases and affecting local food
production due to shortages of fertilizers that were traditionally sourced from Russia.
Disruptions in the global supply chain significantly impacted Namibia, necessitating the
search for alternative routes for exports and imports. The study identified diversification
and the promotion of local production as effective strategies for the Namibian Government
to manage the economic threats posed by the Russia-Ukraine War
The use of excessive police force and its implications for personal security: A case study of the Wanaheda police jurisdiction, Windhoek
(University of Namibia, 2025) Wimmerth, Gerhard Clemens; Iroanya, Richard Obinna
The Namibian Police Force (NamPol) has over the years received considerable
backlash for members' actions, particularly regarding the use of excessive force against
community members when performing operational duties. The issue of the police’s
use of excessive force has emerged as a grave concern in contemporary society,
especially in the context of growing public scrutiny and demands for police
accountability. The excessive use of force not only undermines the legitimacy of police
authority, but it instils fear and anxiety among community members, which may result
in a collapse in the relationship between the police and the communities they are
mandated to serve. Most law enforcement agencies have policies that guide the use of
force and firearms in maintaining law and order. These policies describe an escalating
series of actions to resolve police-citizen encounters, which include situations that
necessitate the use of force. This thesis focused on investigating the personal security
implications associated with the police’s use of excessive force. Thus, the study
interrogated whether the use of excessive police force undermines the capacity of the
State to protect community members from physical harm or violence. A qualitative
research approach was undertaken in this study and it used a case study approach. The
data was obtained using semi-structured face-to-face interviews which were conducted
at Wanaheda Police jurisdiction in Windhoek, Namibia. Data was analysed using
thematic analysis in which themes and sub-themes were developed and were
considered to be the most suitable for this study. The responses and insights expressed
by the participants of the study provided a greater understanding of the impact and
implications of the use of excessive force, which is central to safeguarding personal
security and a more equitable and just society. The study provided recommendations
to the organisation in adopting comprehensive training programmes, reforming the
police culture, community policing initiatives and policy and procedural reforms to
improve those entrusted with the protection of the individual’s rights and freedoms,
the maintenance of law and order, and the prevention of crime and protection of life
and property
An evaluation of women’s role in peace negotiations: Case studies of Colombia and Sierra Leone
(University of Namibia, 2025) Ndahangoudja, Hendrina N. N.; Iroanya, Richard Obinna
This study examines the role of women in peace negotiations, specifically in Colombia
and Sierra Leone. Despite the recognised importance of their contributions to
peacebuilding, women’s involvement in formal peace processes remains limited. Using
an interpretivist research philosophy and a qualitative approach, this study analyses
secondary data from academic articles, reports, and testimonials to understand the
intricacies and trials women are faced with in peace negotiations. The findings reveal that
women bring unique perspectives shaped by their lived experiences of conflict,
emphasising human security and social justice. However, systemic barriers, including
cultural norms, institutional limitations and political exclusion, hinder their active
participation in high-level negotiations, that could result in peace agreements between
warring parties. The study identifies key themes such as the transformative potential of
grassroots movements, the importance of collaboration, representation mechanisms and
the necessity of institutional backing for gender inclusivity in peace negotiations. Based
on the study’s findings, the study offers recommendations to enhance women’s roles in
peace negotiations, including promoting gender inclusivity, supporting grassroots
movements, strengthening legal frameworks, training and capacity building for women,
as well as the enhancement of collaboration and networking. This study adds to the larger
discourse about gender and peacebuilding by emphasising the critical need of recognising
and appreciating women’s voices in the pursuit of long-term peace that is sustainable
The impact of remittances from male seasonal migrants on rural poverty: A case of Shanyashi village in Kavango east region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Likoro, Joseph Julius N.; Kamanzi, Adalbertus
The main aim of the study was to examine the impact of remittances on the households of
male seasonal migrants and to address rural poverty. A qualitative study was used to
determine the circumstances of the migrants before migrating, examine how they use the
remittances, and challenges of seasonal migration. The study used a theoretical framework
of “capability approach” where freedom to achieve well-being is important and be
understood based on what the people are able to be and do. The study was conducted on
residence of Shanyashi village in the inland of Kavango East Region in Namibia whose
views were captured through interviews. The study identified youthful men as the
prominent participants in seasonal migration who prefer to look for work in South Africa;
that the use of "ewallets" is common among seasonal migrants; that with the proceeds they
get from the seasonal migration, the migrants buy equipment, tools, building materials,
livestock, share with the family members; that the two main challenges faced are lack of
banking and scarcity of work for migrants. The study concluded that remittances have
contributed to the poverty alleviation of the people in the village and has made them
happier. The study recommended increased investment in agriculture, enforce the
implementation of minimum wages, banks considering expansion of banking to rural areas
and leveraging transaction cost and process across the borders, regulating migration
through the provision of traveling assistance and acquisition of required documents, and
capacity building for seasonal migrants to match the required skills
Exploring the effects of food bank initiatives in Namibia on poverty alleviation: The case of food bank beneficiaries in Windhoek, Khomas region
(University of Namibia, 2025) Mathias, Mukohongo; Venditto, Bruno
This study explored the perceptions of beneficiaries regarding the impact of food banks
on poverty reduction in Namibia, specifically within the Khomas Region. Hunger and
food insecurity are critical manifestations of poverty, often linked to a lack of access to
adequate resources and nutritious food. In response, many countries, including Namibia,
have established food banks to address these challenges. This study aimed to provide new
insights by examining the effectiveness of these programs in improving the socioeconomic status of beneficiaries, thereby reducing poverty levels. The study employed a
mixed research design, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods to gain a
comprehensive understanding of the subject. Data collection was conducted through semistructured interviews with a sample of 20 respondents. This sample included 15
beneficiaries of the food bank, 4 good Samaritans involved in the program, and 1
government official overseeing the initiative. The qualitative data gathered from these
interviews were analysed thematically, identifying key themes and subthemes that
emerged from respondents' responses. Quantitative data were presented and analysed
using descriptive statistics to provide a clearer picture of the food bank's impact. The study
revealed that while food bank beneficiaries appreciated the support received, there is a
need for additional assistance to tackle broader issues of poverty and inequality.
Government initiatives have been instrumental in reducing food insecurity; however, gaps
remain that need to be addressed to ensure equitable access to food and to improve living
standards. The study suggests integrating food assistance into poverty reduction
strategies, increasing funding, and enhancing partnerships with local food producers,
stakeholders, and public awareness campaigns to improve food bank effectiveness
The impact of the contributions of the post settlement support fund on the agricultural productivity of women: A case study of Oshikoto region
(University of Namibia, 2025) Onesmus, Sandra; Kamanzi, Adalbertus
Various organizations and institutions have been making efforts to eliminate
discrimination against women, by ensuring access to resources, while focusing,
prioritizing and developing legislations, policies and programmes that provide
opportunities to women. Among these legislations is the Agricultural (Commercial)
Land Reform Act, Act No. 6 of 1995 (ACLRA) that allows for the acquisition and
allocation of resettlement farming units. However, due to the non-freehold status of the
farms and the reluctance of commercial banks to provide financial credit to the
resettlement farmers, the Agricultural Bank of Namibia and the Ministry of Lands and
Resettlement created a Post Settlement Support Fund (PSSF) to provide financial
support to these farmers. Hence this study assessed the impact of the contributions of the
PSSF to the agricultural productivity of the women beneficiaries of the resettlement
farms in Oshikoto region, with the use of a qualitative approach to analyse and present
the relationship between the PSSF and their agricultural productivity. The study
revealed that the PSSF has not made any significant improvement to the agricultural
productivity of the majority of its beneficiaries due to various challenges affecting their
farming activities, i.e., no provision of agricultural related trainings and the size of the
farming units, etc. As a result of the findings, the provision of agricultural skills and
knowledge through training and extension services, as well as the investment in the
development and rehabilitation of farming infrastructure (water and fences) to ensure
that all beneficiaries have the necessary infrastructures to farm productively should be
prioritized
Investigating the impacts of backyard gardening on household incomes and food security in Namibia: A case study of Berg Aukas, Otjozondjupa region
(University of Namibia, 2025) Tyapa, Shaningwa Johannes; Nhitevelekwa, Romie
Many households in Berg Aukas have backyard gardens; however their impacts on household
income and food security have not been assessed. In addition, the direct impacts of backyard
garden on food security are under-researched. Therefore, this research sought to fill this gap by
investigating the impact of backyard gardens on household income and food security by using
Berg Aukas as the study area. The study used structured interviews and observation to collect
data. Study’s sample size was 35 participants of households practicing backyard gardening using
purposive sampling technique. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze the data. The
results revealed that backyard gardening is a viable source of income for households and an
important contributor to household food security in the area. All participants acknowledged that
producing and selling vegetables and fruits from backyard gardens has positively impacted their
household incomes and food security. Several factors influenced backyard gardening, include
land ownership, market access, the size of the land, household size, production and marketing
challenges. Additionally, the gender of the household head, their level of education, sources of
income, and the number of daily meals affected how backyard gardening impacted household
income and food security. The production and marketing challenges encountered included
transportation access, pest and disease control, inefficient water supply, market facilities, storage
facility and poor prices. To maximize the potential of backyard gardens as a source of income
generation and food security, the National Youth Services together with the line Ministry should
come up with policies or programs that can improve productivity of small scale vegetable
farmers through provision of seminars and workshops where garden household could be trained
to enhance their vegetable production skills in the area
Investigating the socio-economic implications of oil exploration and mining on communities in Kavango basin: A case study of Kawe community in the Kavango east Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Ndumbu, Aina M.; Nhemachena, Artwell
The Kavango Basin, spanning Kavango East and West, is a region of significant cultural
and environmental importance. In recent years it has become an area of significant interest
for potential oil mining by Reconnaissance Energy Africa a Canadian company exploring
for oil in the Basin. This study investigates the implications of oil exploration and oil
mining on communities in the Kavango Basin focusing on potential economic
opportunities and the range of environmental and social concerns. Guided by the resource
curse theory, this study explores how the discovery of oil may impact the socioeconomic
dynamics of the communities in the Kavango Basin. The study argues that while such
activities can offer economic opportunities, they also pose socioeconomic challenges that
must be addressed. Utilizing qualitative methods, the study collected data through semistructured interviews with community members and community leaders. The key findings
indicate that oil mining exploration and mining in the Kavango Basin could embody both
opportunities and challenges for local communities. Residents expressed significant
worries about environmental degradation, including water pollution and habitat
destruction which could impact their livelihoods. Social and cultural shifts are also
anticipated due to workforce influx and demographic changes. Based on these findings,
the study offers recommendations that promote responsible and sustainable practices in
oil exploration and mining in the Kavango Basin. Furthermore, it proposes strategies for
responsible oil extraction in the Kavango Basin, emphasizing environmental protection,
community engagement, equitable benefit distribution, and robust regulatory frameworks.
These insights may be of significant value to policies makers for the region’s oil
exploration and mining activities
Investigating community participation in development projects: A case study of Ondera irrigation project, Oshikoto region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Nambili, Ester S.; Nhemachena, Artwell
Community participation is widely regarded as a foundation of sustainable development,
particularly in projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of marginalized populations.
Effective participation ensures that development is inclusive, locally relevant, and more likely
to succeed in the long term. Historically, the failure of many development projects using the
top-down approach has highlighted the importance of community members’ active
participation in successfully achieving community development. Participation is actively
participating in problem identification, decision-making, choosing a community project,
planning it, implementing it, managing it, monitoring it, and controlling it. The purpose of this
study was to investigate community participation in the irrigation project at Ondera Farm, in
Oshikoto Region Namibia. The study used a qualitative research method to collect data, using
a case study design. The study used the participatory development approach as the conceptual
framework to understand community participation at Ondera farm’s irrigation project. The
study findings concluded that the project was initiated by an external stakeholder, the
government with little to no input from the community. The study also found that informationsharing and consultation about the project were minimal and often exclusive to a few
community members. The study recommended that thorough and inclusive consultation should
always be done with the development beneficiaries before planning of development
interventions commences to ensure that the right interventions are implemented