Masters Degrees (DCME)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (DCME) by Subject "Namibia"

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    An analysis of water demand and quality within the Iishana-system, Namibia
    (University of Namibia, 2025) Eino, Junias; Busari, Afis Olumide
    The Namibian people, particularly those living within the Iishana system, which is a subset of the Cuvelai Basin, often encounter recurrent floods and droughts. After each rainy season, the Iishana system dries up gradually, hence, water for both agricultural and potable purposes becomes crucial. To enhance water availability, this study evaluated water demand and quality within the Namibian Iishana system, considering planned infrastructure developments and the rehabilitation of existing systems. This study employed a physical interaction, as well as the administration of questionnaires, to determine the population per-capita demand within the Iishana system. A thirty-year population projection was used to estimate future water demand. Moreover, the hydrological data (daily rainfall and temperature) from 2012-2021 were incorporated. As the water quantity and quality are inseparable, ten water samples were collected for Water Quality Index (WQI) and Multivariate Statistical Analysis using Minitab (21.2). The Piper diagram generated using Grapher (20.2.321) further classified water types. The current rural population and livestock water demand were estimated to be 2,479 and 4,282 m3 /respectively. Projected demand forecasts for 2033 (0.9 Mm3 /year), 2043 (0.5 Mm3 /year), and 2053 (0.1 Mm3 /year) indicate a declining trend, due to outmigration. More so, water availability is found to be affected by climate change, making it insufficient to meet demand. Climate data analysis showed a rising temperature trend, with annual precipitation (310 mm) far exceeded by evaporation (2,500 mm), resulting in water level drops and poor quality. The WQI scores (81.30-320.65) classified the water as unsuitable for human consumption. The Principal Component Analysis (APA) identified key influences: soil formation, mineral dissolution, microorganisms, and agricultural runoff. The Piper diagram classified 100 % of the sampled water as Na+ -K + water types, indicating salinisation. The water crisis in the area demands urgent, coordinated action to balance supply enhancement with quality control. Therefore, it is crucial to harvest flood and rainwater by expanding the size of natural pans in the study area for use during dry periods. Water treatment for pans can augment the water supply for the rural population
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    An investigation on non-motorised transport in small- and medium-sized towns in Namibia: Planning and policy paradigm shift
    (University of Namibia, 2025) Chomore, Kevin Sebastien; Ambunda, Robert
    Non-Motorised Transport (NMT), including walking and cycling, is an important yet underdeveloped mode of transportation in many developing countries, including Namibia. Small- and medium-sized towns in Namibia, such as Tsumeb and Walvis Bay, lack the planning and policies required to promote NMT, despite its potential to improve sustainability, safety, and mobility. This study aims to investigate the current state of NMT provision, challenges, and opportunities to improve its availability in Tsumeb and Walvis Bay. A mixed methods approach was adopted to thoroughly assess NMT infrastructure conditions, user experiences, and planning tools and approaches by policy makers in Tsumeb and Walvis Bay. Primary data was collected through NMT infrastructure assessments, engagements and user surveys with policy makers, and stakeholder interviews with NMT users, while secondary data was sourced from existing policy documents and academic literature. Descriptive analysis was conducted to assess NMT infrastructure and user trends, and a thematic analysis of the qualitative data from interviews with NMT users in Tsumeb and Walvis Bay was conducted to identify challenges and potential solutions. Quantitative data from policy maker surveys were analysed using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to understand the planning and implementation perceptions, policies, and strategies in the study towns. The study findings reveal inconsistent and poorly maintained NMT infrastructure in both towns, including unpaved sidewalks, obstructed pathways, and a lack of designated bike lanes. These limitations forced NMT users to share roadways with motorised vehicles, raising safety concerns. Inadequate policy support, funding limitations, and poor implementation of traffic laws further intensified these challenges. The study recommends a phased strategy by developing NMT facilities that prioritise accessibility, inclusivity, and safety. Improved stakeholder engagements and strong policy frameworks are required to create sustainable and equitable transportation systems in Namibian towns. This study offers useful insights for policy makers and planners on strategies to effectively incorporate NMT into urban mobility policies in Namibia