Masters Degrees (DPBS)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (DPBS) by Advisor "Mitonga, Honore Kabwebwe"

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    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.; Mitonga, Honore Kabwebwe
    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
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    Pre-exposure prophylaxis low uptake associated factors among pregnant women attending Antenatal care at Intermediate Hospital Katutura
    (University of Namibia, 2025) Abner, Elina N.; Mitonga, Honore Kabwebwe
    This study explored the factors influencing the use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Intermediate Hospital Katutura. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combined quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to evaluate both the determinants of PrEP uptake and the participants’ understanding and acceptance of PrEP. The study was conducted on 150 participants using systematic random sampling for the quantitative data and 14 participants using purposive sampling for qualitative data. Data was used using structured questionnaires for quantitative data and in-depth interview for qualitative data. SPSS version 28.0 was used to analyse the quantitative data and thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. Quantitative analysis of 150 pregnant women identified significant associations between PrEP use and socio-demographic factors. Notably, employment status was a key predictor, with women in blue-collar jobs and those unemployed demonstrating significantly lower odds (ORs of 0.55 and 0.65; p=0.006) of PrEP uptake. Although higher age, gravidity, and parity showed trends toward lower uptake, these were not statistically significant at the 0.05 level. Additionally, women in their second trimester were significantly more likely (p=0.045) to adopt PrEP compared to those in their first trimester, emphasizing the influence of pregnancy stage on health behavior. Concerns about potential side effects are a major barrier, influencing the decision of 50% of the participants not to take PrEP, with only 25% disagreeing with this sentiment Qualitative findings highlighted social and cultural beliefs, perceived support from healthcare providers and partners, and barriers such as stigma, misinformation, and ii potential side effects impacting PrEP acceptance. The qualitative study used two themes: the perception of the pregnant women on the awareness of PrEP among pregnant women attending ANC at IHK and the perception of pregnant women on the acceptability of PrEP among pregnant women attending ANC at IHK Based on these results, the study recommends targeted awareness campaigns, enhanced healthcare provider training, support programs involving family and partners, and efforts to address financial and rural– urban disparities. Reducing stigma and misinformation, alongside ongoing program monitoring, are essential to bolster PrEP uptake and improve HIV prevention among pregnant women