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
AI-enabled sign language interpretation in E-learning: A structural modelling of the perspectives of African sign language interpreters
(Springer Nature, 2026) Adigun, Olufemi Timothy
The development of artificial intelligence-enabled sign language interpretation (AIenabled SLI) is changing the dynamics in the sign language interpreting space and
there have been various arguments for and against the use of AI-enabled SLI, especially for academic use. Leveraging on the importance of artificial intelligence
for persons who are Deaf or hard of hearing, this study brought to forward the
perspectives of professional sign language interpreters from Sub-Saharan Africa
about AI-enabled SLI. Framed by the technology acceptance model, a total of 412
sign language interpreters from 12 African countries participated in the study and
responded to the e-questionnaire. The survey responses were analysed using structural equation modelling. The findings revealed that perceived benefits (PB), perceived risks (PR) and perceived trust (PT) had a significant positive relationship
with future perspectives (FP) about AI-enabled SLI. It was also found that while
PB had a negative but direct relationship with cultural influence (CI), PT was found
to be positively significant with CI. This study could not establish any significant
mediative influence of CI in the relationship between PB, PR, PT and FP about
AI-enabled SLI among African SLIs. Therefore, CI has not been found to have any
influence on FP about AI-enabled SLI among African SLIs. Based on the findings,
appropriate recommendations were made
Perceptions and barriers to disclosure of HIV status of children by caregivers at Donkerhook clinic, Windhoek, Khomas region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Lomboleni, Ndinomukulili N.
Children HIV disclosure remains a complicated process influenced by caregivers’
perceptions, emotional readiness, stigma, and access to support systems. This study
investigates the factors affecting caregivers’ decisions regarding HIV status disclosure to
children, with a particular focus on barriers, facilitators, and the role of structured
disclosure programs. Grounded in the Social Ecological Model (SEM), the study applied
a qualitative research design, using in-depth interviews with caregivers and healthcare
providers at Donkerhoek Clinic, a local health facility in Windhoek, Namibia. Thematic
analysis was conducted to identify key patterns in disclosure practices, emotional
responses, and support mechanisms. Findings indicate that while some caregivers
recognize the benefits of early disclosure, many opt for a delayed or phased approach due
to concerns about the child's mental ability to understand their diagnosis, fear of emotional
distress, and societal stigma. Limited access to structured disclosure counselling and
inconsistent healthcare support further hinder disclosure efforts. On the other hand,
caregivers with access to healthcare-led disclosure programs and peer support groups
reported greater confidence and improved disclosure outcomes. The study also highlights
that stigma remains a persistent barrier, emphasizing the need for community-driven
interventions to promote positive disclosure environments. These findings highlight the
necessity of integrating structured disclosure frameworks into children's HIV care
services. Strengthening healthcare provider training, increasing caregiver support
networks, and developing culturally sensitive disclosure strategies can facilitate timely
and effective disclosure. Future research should explore children’s post-disclosure
experiences and the long-term psychosocial impact of disclosure on their well-being. By
i
addressing these gaps, the study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of
children's HIV disclosure changing aspects and informs policy recommendations for
improved disclosure practices in Namibia
Experiences of patients lost to follow up during tuberculosis treatment in Oshakati district, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Shingandji, Petrus K.; Shilunga, Anna P.K.
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern affecting over 10.8 million
people in 2024. Loss or lost to follow up (LTFU) during TB treatment is a pressing issue
hindering the success of TB treatment worldwide. LTFU may lead to a prolonged TB
infection, relapse, and multidrug resistance, and may contribute to treatment failure.
Despite advancements in TB treatment, many patients still experience interruptions in
their TB treatment, leading to higher rates of LTFU during TB treatment, which negatively
impact both individual health outcomes and broader public health efforts. Oshakati
District is a significant contributor to the national TB burden with a growing concern of
patients LTFU during TB treatment.
The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of patients LTFU during
TB treatment in Oshakati District, Namibia. Ethical principles were applied throughout
the conduct of the study. A qualitative design was adopted using a combination of
exploratory, descriptive and phenomenological approaches. A non-probability, purposive
sampling technique was used to select 11 participants who met the inclusion criteria of the
study. A semi-structured interview was used to collect the data, and a tape recorder was
utilized. Data were thematically analyzed and the findings were presented in themes and
sub-themes.
The study identified two themes and eleven sub-themes. Findings revealed that TB
patients lost to follow-up in Oshakati District faced intertwined social, economic,
psychological, and systemic barriers. Financial hardship, stigma, weak support systems,
pill burden, side effects, and limited health literacy significantly undermined treatment
i
adherence. Disengagement from care was often a reflection of survival struggles and
social exclusion rather than unwillingness. The Health Belief Model was utilized to
interpret the findings. The study concluded that the experiences of patients LTFU during
TB treatment were multifaceted.
The study recommends strengthening TB care through patient education, expanded and
accessible services, financial support, and stigma-reduction campaigns. Nurses and
Community Health Workers should provide culturally appropriate guidance, counselling,
and peer support to enhance adherence. Future research should replicate similar studies in
other districts to compare experiences of patients lost to follow-up during TB treatment.
It also acknowledges limitations related to methodological constraints, participant-related
challenges such as reluctance or bias, and difficulties in accessing certain individuals or
settings
Knowledge, attitude and practices of mothers on the prevention and management of Diarrhoea in children under five years, Otjiwarongo district, Otjozondjupa region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Shilongo-Munenguni, Wilikka; Iita, Hermine
This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding diarrhea prevention and
management among mothers of children under 5 years in Otjiwarongo district in the
Otjozondjupa region, Namibia. The specific objectives were to assess the general knowledge,
attitudes and practices of mothers about diarrhea prevention, and management; to determine
mothers' attitudes towards diarrhea prevention and management; and to explore mothers’
practices towards the prevention and management of diarrhea in children under five years in
Otjiwarongo district, Otjozondjupa region. Employing a quantitative approach using a cross-
sectional study, the study utilized simple random sampling to select 390 mothers from
Otjiwarongo district clinics and Health Centers. Responses were analyzed using one-sample chi
square tests. The findings revealed significant gaps in knowledge and practices regarding the
prevention and management of diarrhea. Approximately 39.1% of mothers lacked understanding
of diarrhea as a condition, and 61.1% were unaware of common causes, impacting their ability to
prevent and manage diarrhea effectively. Additionally, 49.2% did not recognize the role of
hygiene, while 41.2% underestimated the importance of hand washing. Knowledge of oral
rehydration therapy (ORT) was deficient in 43.6% of the respondents. Furthermore, 40.4% did
not prioritize medical attention, and 45.6% were unaware of the benefits of exclusive
breastfeeding. Poor dietary practices were evident as 42.6% had limited knowledge about
appropriate nutrition during diarrhea episodes. Vaccination knowledge was lacking in 42.2% of
mothers, with substantial gaps in understanding proper waste disposal (42.6%) and clean water
importance (48.9%).These findings underscore the need for enhanced education and
interventions by the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Otjozondjupa Region Health
Directorate. Strategies should include targeted mothers education programs, improved access to
i
clean water, and promoting breastfeeding and vaccinations. Education on hygiene, sanitation,
and child nutrition is crucial to improve health outcomes for children under five years.
Addressing these gaps can significantly reduce the incidence of diarrheal diseases and improve
child health in this vulnerable age group
Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis among adolescents in secondary schools, Grootfontein district Otjozondjupa region
(University of Namibia, 2025) Mutangara, A.M.; Shilunga, A.
Adequate knowledge, attitude, and practice of HIV Pre-Exposure
Prophylaxis (PrEP) are crucial for HIV prevention, especially in regions with high
infection rates. Despite its life-saving potential, there remains a glaring gap in school
based PrEP education in Namibia, leaving adolescents under-informed and vulnerable.
This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding HIV PrEP among
adolescents in secondary schools in Grootfontein district, Otjozondjupa region, Namibia.
Methodology: The study used a quantitative, cross-sectional design, 341 learners were
sampled from three secondary schools. Non-probability judgmental sampling selected the
schools, followed by stratified random sampling to select the learner’s respondents.
Results: The findings showed that most respondents were females (62.2%), aged 15-19
years (79.5%). About 54.5% had never heard of HIV PrEP, and only 15.2% knew that
PrEP is specifically for HIV-negative individuals. While 49.5% recognized PrEP as an
antiretroviral treatment for HIV Prevention, 39.9% were unsure. A majority (39.3%)
understood PrEP’s use when at risk of HIV, and 45.2% would feel comfortable discussing
PrEP with healthcare providers. Additionally, 42.8% indicated they would recommend
PrEP to a friend or partner, with 51.6% agreeing it is essential for adolescents to have
access to PrEP.
Conclusion: The study found significant links between demographic factors and HIV
PrEP-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Despite positive attitudes, gaps in
knowledge and practice persist, underscoring the need for targeted, school-based sexual
education interventions
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards prostate cancer screening amongst men in Zambezi region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Buchane, Melody Namasiku; Sheehama, Jacob
Prostate cancer is a major health issue worldwide, including the Zambezi Region of
Namibia. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices
regarding screening of PCa among men in Zambezi region. A quantitative cross-sectional
descriptive approach was used, with 391 men from all six constituencies of the Zambezi
Region. Respondents were selected through a multi-stage sampling method, combining
stratified random and cluster sampling. Data were collected via a self-administered
questionnaire. The analysis employed descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and Chi
square tests to examine the prevalence of various knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP)
indicators. On the other hand, inferential statistics was used to identify correlations
between KAP and screening behaviors.
The results showed that respondents had moderate knowledge of prostate cancer and a
generally positive attitude (49.9%) toward screening. However, this knowledge and
attitude did not appear to influence actual screening practices, which were low at just
4.1%. Statistical analysis (p-values of 0.927 of knowledge and 0.692 of attitudes) revealed
no significant differences in knowledge and attitudes across constituencies. Additionally,
the analysis showed no relationship between knowledge and screening practices and
between attitudes and practices. However, there was a significant relationship between
knowledge and attitudes. Education level was found to be significantly associated with
knowledge, while other demographic factors showed no significant correlation. The study
concluded that knowledge and attitudes alone do not significantly impact screening
practices. It recommends further research into psychological factors influencing screening
behavior, as well as a qualitative study to explore barriers to screening of PCa
The perceptions of National Youth Service participants on the programme’s impact in job creation in Namibia: A case of Windhoek youth
(University of Namibia, 2025) Karukua, Marliza; Kamwanyah, Ndumba J.
This qualitative study examined the perceptions of participating Youth aged 16-35 on the
impact of National Youth Service (NYS) programs on job creation in Namibia. The NYS
initiative aims to equip young Namibians with skills and experiences that enhance their
employability and entrepreneurial potential. The study is driven by the gap in literature which
shows that despite a decade’s worth of studies focused on youth, there was a significant deficit
in involving them in a participatory manner in order to obtain their views and feelings
qualitatively. A qualitative research design was utilized to collect data through an interview
guide. Fifteen youth who completed the NYS two-year skills program, participated in semistructured, audio-recorded interviews. To interpret the data, the researcher applied inductive,
thematic data analysis to transcribe and code data to extract themes. Findings revealed that
while most participants recognized the NYS programme’s positive impact on their professional
and personal growth, and valued the opportunity to acquire new skills, there were significant
challenges in job opportunities. The alignment of the NYS curriculum with market demands
was considered adequate; however, the involvement of stakeholders, particularly the private
sector, was deemed crucial for the success and improvement of NYS programs. Participants
acknowledged that the programs of NYS has evolved over time, enhancing its effectiveness
and participant satisfaction. The study concludes with recommendations to optimize the value
of the NYS programme’s in fostering sustainable employment for Namibian youth. These
include the need for stronger industry linkages, improved mentorship, and continuous
monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. This study contributes to the broader discourse on
youth employment strategies in developing countries and underscores the importance of
tailored interventions in addressing youth unemployment
A critical analysis of the public signage of the commercial and non-commercial signs in Eenhana town, Ohangwena region
(University of Namibia, 2025) Kamati, Shiwaovanhu S.; Mungungu-Shipale, Saara
This study analysed the public signage of commercial and non-commercial signs in
Eenhana Town, Ohangwena Region. The linguistic landscape of Eenhana Town, situated
at the core of the Ohangwena Region in Namibia, presents a complex and insufficiently
explored issue in current scholarship. The primary challenge lies in the visual
representation of linguistic diversity through public signage, particularly concerning the
coexistence of official and indigenous languages. Despite constitutional provisions such
as Article 3(1) of the Namibian Constitution designates English as the language of official
communication in Namibia, there remains a conspicuous absence of specific policies
addressing the linguistic landscape in Namibia. The chief objective of the current enquiry
was to explore the nature of language(s) and linguistic forms used on billboards as part of
the linguistic landscape of Eenhana Town, in order to examine their communicative
potential to the target population as well as establish the attitudes of the target population
towards the linguistic landscape. A mixed-method approach was strategically employed,
synergising both qualitative and quantitative methodologies to achieve the comprehensive
goals of this study. A non-probability sampling approach was employed, acknowledging
the impracticality of examining the entirety of commercial as well as non-commercial
signage within Eenhana Town. The researcher purposively selected 20 signs, comprising
ten commercials as well an equal number of non-commercial signs (10) strategically
dispersed around the town. A total of fifteen sign readers from Eenhana were strategically
chosen through a snowball sampling technique. This research found that the language(s)
represented in the linguistic landscape inadequately reflect the authentic linguistic
practices observable in Eenhana. Furthermore, this investigation revealed that contrary to
the widespread belief that English functions as the principal professional language in
iii
Eenhana, speakers of indigenous languages encountered a considerable disadvantage due
to the overshadowing presence of English signage. There exists a compelling necessity
for an augmented representation of signage in indigenous languages. To promote
linguistic inclusivity, it is imperative for local authorities and stakeholders to actively
engage with the community, comprehending language preferences to guide policies that
honour diversity and acknowledge the intricate linguistic fabric
An expoloratory study on the contributing factors related to domestic violence against women with households in Oshakati
(University of Namibia, 2025) Kahima, Frieda N.; Ananias, J.
Domestic violence significantly affects women through physical and
psychological harm, leading to cycles of trauma and fear that disrupt families. As
a result, social isolation, financial insecurity, and the continuation of violence
over generations, which harms communities. This qualitative study aimed to
explore the factors contributing to domestic violence against women within
households. The study had three main objectives: to identify these contributing
factors in Oshakati, to examine the impact of violence on women's lives, and to
propose potential strategies for reducing domestic violence in the area. The study
focused on three groups: women who are victims of violence, men who
perpetrate violence, and frontline healthcare workers who assist both victims
and perpetrators. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling method,
and the sample size was determined by data saturation. Data was collected
through one-on-one interviews with victims and perpetrators and focus group
discussions with professionals. The study utilises inductive thematic analysis in
conjunction with Dedoose software to analyze data. The study concluded that
alcohol misuse, financial-related problems, unaddressed childhood traumas,
infidelities, and cultural beliefs are some of the contributing factors to domestic
violence against women in their homes. Thus, these women suffer from PTSD,
miscarriages, fear, and alcohol dependency. In order to mitigate this, raising
awareness of the availability of services to community members and the
provision of shelters may reduce domestic violence in the homes.The study
recommends the development of educational programs on the link between
alcohol abuse and domestic violence by social workers, police officers, and
ii
nurses. It suggests that the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication, and
Social Welfare enhance policies that support women’s financial independence
Social media use by rural communities in Namibia: A case study of the Anamulenge constituency in the Omusati region
(University of Namibia, 2025) Johannes, Gottlieb Ndeutapo; Akpabio, I.
This study sought to determine the level of social media use among the residents of
Anamulenge Constituency in the Omusati Region using a mixed method involving
qualitative (in-depth interview) and quantitative (survey) designs. The study employed
multi-stage cluster sampling by adopting systematic and random sampling to choose
settlements, houses and finally participants who use social media for the survey
component while interviewees were purposely chosen using the same criterion. A
survey questionnaire and interview guide constituted the research instruments. The
findings of the study were that Facebook is the most utilised social media platform by
the Anamulenge community members, followed by TikTok which speaks to these
platforms user-friendliness, not only to the community members but to public officials
who wish to communicate messages to the community; despite these social media's
popularity, a weakness was that it was being used for misinformation and
disinformation. However, their advantage is that it allows for timely communication
among residents of Anamulenge Constituency. Therefore, it is recommended that the
government enforces its social media use policy and use social media for government
information sharing in Anamulenge Constituency given its widespread adoption. It is
also critical to open up access to community members to make for interactivity and
engagement as well as aid the task of development. In this connection it is
recommended that more network towers be erected for stronger connectivity for
individuals to access the internet without difficulties