UNAM Gā-aisib Repository
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Recent Submissions
Composition, spatial abundance, co-occurrence and host preference of mistletoes in the Central highland savanna of Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2021) Ondigo, Lilian K.; Kwembeya, E. G.
Aerial parasitic plants, commonly called mistletoes, are a polyphyletic group of
organisms with a common evolutionary ancestor. This study was aimed at determining
composition, spatial abundance within hosts, co-occurrence and host preference of
mistletoes in the central highland savannas. The study site was divided into four
sampling areas based on the presence of the distribution records of the species. Forty
circular plots were demarcated and for every infested host plant species within these
plots, canopy height, two diameter measurements at approximately 90", number of
mistletoes, mistletoe species were recorded. All non-infested plant species within the
plot were also identified and their abundances were recorded. Based on field records
and herbarium records, four mistletoe species were identified and mapped namely;
Oncocalyx welwitschii, Plicosepalus kalachariensis, and Tapinanthus oleifolius,
belonging to the Family Loranthaceae and, Viscum rotundifolium which belongs to
Family Viscaceae. A simple linear regression model established that canopy volume
accounted for 12% of the variation in mistletoe abundance (R2 = 0.12, p < 0.001).
However, canopy diameter was a better predictor of mistletoe abundance than canopy
volume and accounted 20% of the variation in mistletoe abundance within the host
canopy (R2 = 0.20, p = 0.0003). Canopy volume was a poor predictor because it might
have included branches of various sizes even those that do not support mistletoe
establishment. Also gaps within the host canopy as well as the extent and positioning
of branches might have led to an overestimation of the actual volume of the host
canopy that can potentially be infested by parasites. The results further revealed a
statistically significant relationship between mistletoe abundance and vertical canopy
position (x2 = 67.089, df = 6, p < 0.00 l) with most mistletoes occurring in the lower
and middle third of the canopy of the host plant. The presence of V. rotundifolium and
P. kalachariensis on the lower third of the canopy of the host plant could be explained
by habitat preference and deposition behaviour of the Red faced mousebird ( Urocolius
indicus). This means that the selection of this bird species for lower third of canopy
for nesting and roosting, results in defecating of seeds more frequently on this part. On
the contrary, the distribution ofT. oleifolius and 0. welwitschii in the middle third of
the canopy could have been due to perch preference of the Yellow-fronted Tinker
Barbets (Pogoniulus chrysoconus). It is possible they perch in the middle third of the
canopy because there is a low risk of predation. Also, it could be that the branches in
Factors associated with Measles-Rubella dropout status among children in Grootfontein district, Otjozondjupa region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2023) Shoombe, Taimi Namutenya; Honore, Mitonga Kabwebwe
Introduction: The prevention of child mortality through immunization is one of the most
cost effective and widely applied public interventions. However, a proportion of children
(20%), particularly in Namibia are not fully vaccinated with the recommended vaccines
due to unknown reasons. This study aimed to investigate the factors that are associated
with the Measles-Rubella immunization dropout in children seeking health care services
in Grootfontein district.
Methods: A community-based unmatched case-control study was conducted among
randomly selected parents/caretakers of children aged 12-23 months and with a total
sample of 300 participants (100 cases and 200 controls). The cases were parents/
caretakers of children who did not receive the first dose of Measles-Rubella immunization
and the controls were parents/ caretakers of children who received the first dose of
Measles-Rubella immunization. Data was collected and analyzed using Epi info version
7. Logistic regression for bivariate and multivariate analysis on risk factors was carried
out to determine the odds ratios at 95% confidence level and significance at a P-value of
0.05.
Results: Age of respondents (AOR=2.00, 95%CI=1.5 – 2.6, P-value=0.01); residential
address (AOR=2.00, 95%CI=1.0 – 3.4, P-value=0.02); quality services provided
(AOR=3.00, 95%CI=1.6 – 8.7, P-value=0.02), education level (AOR=2.00, 95%CI=1.5 –
2.3, P-value=0.02) were statistically significant associated with Measles-Rubella dropout.
To reduce immunization dropout, Grootfontein district needs to focus on strengthening
health education activities on immunization, create more outreach points to improve
access to immunization services, and ensure availability of vaccines at Health facilities
The implementation of gender mainstreaming in a correctional service facility: A case of Elizabeth Nepemba Correctional Facility in Kavango west region
(University of Namibia, 2021) Naluno, Maria; Nghitevelekwa, Romie
This study primarily aimed at investigating the implementation of gender
mainstreaming in the Namibian Correctional Service, specifically Elizabeth
Nepemba Correctional Facility in Kavango West Region. The study was guided by
the following specific objectives: to explore the progress made in the application of
gender mainstreaming practices; to examine the progress made in the application of
gender mainstreaming and to identify the challenges associated with the application
of gender mainstreaming in the Namibian Correctional Service. The study employed
a qualitative research design and a case study method. The population of the study
consisted of development planners and correctional officers. The study sample was
made up of 17 participants, 2 development planners from the Ministry of Gender
Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, 13 correctional officers from
Elizabeth Nepemba Correctional Facility as well as 2 correctional officers from the
Namibian Correctional Service Headquarters. Primary data was gathered using an
interview guide through face-to-face interviews and the data was analysed using
thematic analysis. This study found that, while the policy framework for gender
mainstreaming is in place in the Correctional Service; the implementation is still
lacking. In fact, gender mainstrean1ing is being considered an add-on function, and
not part of the organization's primary functions. Thus, by making public managers
only talk about gender mainstrearning and not being able to act towards its proper
implementation, gender mainstreaming initiatives are not organization-driven. The
study recommends that, leadership in the Namibian Correctional Service should
refrain from addressing gender mainstreaming as an add-gender-and-stir approach,
should instead acknowledge the role of both sexes as development, sound
governance and democratization partners of all times. Gender inequality cannot be
adequately addressed by viewing it based on improvements in women's work and
representation but rather when it is seen within the broader framework of sound
social welfare, development, democracy, and governance. Therefore, the Namibian
Correctional Service next Strategic Plan of Action need to be gender responsive and
well in line with Namibia's international and national commitments towards
realizing a zebra crossing of 50-50 gender equality across all economic, social and
political settings
A retrospective review of the utilization of Benzodiazepines and Z-drugs in selected private community pharmacies in Namibia: 2017-2022
(University of Namibia, 2024) Iipinge, Taimi; Kibuule, Dan
ackground: Overuse of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs is a considerable global public safety concern. In Namibia, despite the rising burden of mental illnesses, there is a paucity
in data regarding the utilization of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs.
Aim: The study aimed to determine the patterns and factors associated with the utilization
of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs in community pharmacies to guide medicine policy
reforms.
Methods: A descriptive multicenter longitudinal study as per the World Health
Organisation (WHO) medicine utilization design. The consumption data on
benzodiazepines and Z-drugs were retrospectively abstracted from the Unisolv®
dispensing software in selected pharmacies over a six-year period, 2017-2022.
Consequently, key informants were interviewed to identify the drivers of the use of
benzodiazepines and Z-drugs. Data were exported to SPSS v25 for analysis of the patterns
and factors of use of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs.
Results: Of the 10 selected-pharmacies, a total of 867 168 medicines were dispensed over
the six-year review period and 2% of these were benzodiazepines and Z-drugs
(n=17 840/867 168). Benzodiazepines (BZD) were the most dispensed (56%, n=9993/17
840), mainly to male patients (53.6%). The consumption of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs
was highest with Zolpidem (6.07 DDDs/1000 population) compared to other
benzodiazepines and Z-drugs. Over 54% of the dispensing encounters of benzodiazepines
and Z-drugs were repeat prescriptions of Z-drugs. From 2017 to 2022, the consumption
of Z-drugs increased but declined for benzodiazepines. Stakeholders identify the thematic
drivers of the use of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs as irrational prescribing, marketing, and
patient drug dependency.
Conclusion: Whilst, the consumption of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs in Namibia is lower
than global estimates, there is an increase in the use of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs in
the private health sector. There is a need for a regulatory framework and an education
strategy to empower pharmacists’ led interventions towards safe use of new
benzodiazepines and Z-drugs in the community pharmacies
Adoption and utilisation of workplace e-learning practices in selected Namibian public sector organisations
(University of Namibia, 2025) Serema, Marguerite M.; Shihomeka, Sarag Panduleni
Recent times are witnessing a substantial increase in the adoption and utilisation of e learning for education. Furthermore, there is a growing trend of this tool effectively
used to facilitate learning and growth inside public sector organisations globally. In
this particular study the main aim was to explore the acceptance and use of e-learning
practices in a selection of organisations in the public sector of Namibia. The
aforementioned objective was achieved by the acquisition of a comprehensive
understanding of the contextual setting in which the research was conducted, as well
as a thorough analysis of factors that facilitate e-learning. The study adopted an
explanatory sequential mixed method approach comprising of quantitative research
(questionnaires) and qualitative research (interviews). The literature review revealed
gaps, theories and provided guidance on the formulation of the hypotheses and the
development of the instruments. Subsequent to the administration of the questionnaires
the follow up interviews were conducted. The framework of the study was based on
the model; Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The
model is aimed at elucidating adoption and utilisation of e-learning practices,
specifically focusing on their implementation. The sample size of 162 individuals,
consisting of managers and employees, was carefully chosen to ensure representation
across various public sector specialties and professional ranks.
Overall, the findings of the study suggest that individuals employed in the public sector
had positive view on e-learning use. The limited availability of resources directly
contributed to diminished levels of motivation, resulting in unfavourable view towards
the practice. It was found further that the literature review, questionnaires and
interviews converged since there were not much difference obtained; the methods were
rather complementary to one another. The results indicated that e-learning use in
Namibia necessitates a comprehensive and structured model. This study therefore
recommends a model that requires the meticulous development of factors to foster a
culture of e-learning use. It further recommends the development and implementation
of curricula as necessary for adoption and utilisation. The aforementioned
recommendations demand the incorporation of organisational factors within a wider
framework, encompassing guidelines and initiatives formulated by public sector
entities for the collective advantage of the Namibian public sector in its entirety.
The primary recommendation derived from this study is the conversion of Namibia
Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM) into the Namibia Public
Service College, aiming to fulfil the public sector's overall educational needs. Based
on an extensive investigation into the public sector organisations in Namibia and a
thorough study of relevant literature, a proposed model has been established. The
model referred to as the Adoption and Utilisation of Workplace e-learning in the Public
Sector Organisations (AUWEPSO) is being proposed. The model exhibits the capacity
to serve as a framework for the effective adoption and utilisation of workplace e learning practices in organisations within the Namibian public sector and other
institutions with similar contextual characteristics
An educational programme for nurses to facilitate cardiac rehabilitation of patients who had heart valve repair or replacement surgery in Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Masule, Lilian Sinte; Amakali, K
Heart valve disease is a critical global public health issue, contributing to
cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. It serves as an indication for heart
valve repair and replacement surgeries, which are invasive procedures that can
potentially compromise patients’ quality of life. Therefore, patients who have had
heart valve surgery require cardiac rehabilitation to prevent potential complications
and to improve patients’ quality of life. Recognizing the need for enhanced post surgery care, there is a compelling need for the development of an educational
programme for nurses to facilitate cardiac rehabilitation of patients following heart
valve surgery. This initiative not only would improve the patient’s quality of life but
also provide support to caregivers in their roles. The study was aimed at the
development of an educational programme for nurses to facilitate the cardiac
rehabilitation of patients who have had a heart valve repair or replacement surgery at
the Windhoek Central Hospital’s Cardiac Unit. The objectives of the study were to:
describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nurses regarding the cardiac
rehabilitation of patients after heart valve surgery, explore and describe the challenges
experienced by nurses when providing cardiac rehabilitation services to patients after
heart valve surgery, explore and describe patient’s experiences of recovery and coping
after heart valve surgery, explore and describe caregivers’ experiences in providing
support and care to family members after heart valve surgery. The study followed a
structured approach with four distinct Phases: Phase one was a situational analysis
comprising four objectives, Phase two was about conceptual framework development
based on Dickoff’s theory of practice-oriented; Phase three, was about the educational
programme development and Phase four was about the programme implementation,
evaluation, and validation. A sequential explanatory mixed method design was
employed, encompassing quantitative data collection and analysis in Phase One to
determine nurse’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices in cardiac rehabilitation. This
was followed by qualitative data collection and analysis on the challenges experienced
by nurses when providing cardiac rehabilitation services, patients' experience in
recovery and coping, and caregivers’ experiences in supporting and caring for family
members after heart valve surgery.
Quantitative data were collected using self-administered questionnaires from a sample
of twenty-three (23) nurses, out of the total study population of twenty-nine (29)
ii
nurses. Data were analysed using the Statistical Software Program SPSS (version 27).
The descriptive statistics analysis, Fisher’s exact test, to describe the association
between demographic characteristics and variables of knowledge, attitudes, and
practices was performed. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth individual
face-to-face semi-structured interviews using an interview guide for all three (3)
objectives. A non-probability, purposive sampling method was used to select
participants, resulting in a total of ten (10) nurses, twelve (12) patients, and eight (8)
caregivers who consented to and participated in the study. Data collection continued
until data saturation was achieved. Qualitative data were analysed using Tesch’s eight
steps of coding. The quantitative findings show that the majority of nurses, 20 (87%),
had a high level of knowledge, with only 3 (13%) having average knowledge about
CR. Similarly, the majority of nurses, 21 (91.3%), displayed positive attitudes while
only 1 (4.3%) had a negative attitude. However, the findings on practices indicated
that only half of the nurses, 13 (56.5%), showed good practice, while 8 (34.8%) had
average practice, and 1 (4.3%) had poor practice in cardiac rehabilitation. Despite the
high level of knowledge, respondents displayed a lack of knowledge specifically about
the indications, benefits, phases, and core components of cardiac rehabilitation. In the
qualitative findings, regarding nurses’ challenges, two main themes and eleven (11)
subthemes highlighted the challenges experienced by nurses in delivering cardiac
rehabilitation interventions and their opinions on the importance of rehabilitation
programmes after heart valve surgery. Regarding patients’ experiences, two main
themes and nine subthemes emerged indicating the challenges patients experienced
(physical, emotional, psychological, and social factors) during recovery and coping
after heart valve surgery as well as challenges regarding the support and care from
nurses and family members after heart valve surgery. Regarding caregivers’
experiences, two main themes and eight sub-themes emerged regarding the emotional
disturbances and demand for care, along with varying experiences regarding the
support and care provided by healthcare providers. Based on these findings,
recommendations were put forth among others to the Ministry of Health and Social
Services (MoHSS) for the development of a cardiac rehabilitation programme for
nurses, improvement of nursing practice, as well as recommendations on future
research in this area
Prevalence and risk factors associated with bovine campylobacteriosis and trichomonosis in selected areas of Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2024) Kaatura, Israel; Bruwer, F.
Livestock production in Southern Africa, is faced with low fertility rate partly due to trichomonosis and campylobacteriosis infections. The purpose of this research was to investigate the prevalence of these two pathogens and associated risk factors in selected areas of Namibia. Three areas were selected for the research based on their production systems, Ovitoto communal area in Otjozondjupa region, Okakarara semi-commercial area in Otjozondjupa and Dordabis-Nina commercial area. A total of 172 bull were sampled, sheath scrapings were collected and transported in Steve’s transport media®. Culture and PCR analysis of samples was done for T. foetus testing, whilst for C. foetus only PCR was done at Central Veterinary Laboratory, Windhoek (CVL). A questionnaire guided interview was conducted with the owners/managers of the bulls prior to sample collection to determine the associated risk factors of both diseases.
The findings were analysed in Microsoft Excel and the associated risk factors and the prevalence of the two pathogens were assessed. Pearson’s chi-square, Z- score and multiple regression model statistical analysis were used to determine the significant association of the risk factors to the prevalence of the two pathogens.
The overall observed true prevalence of the herd was 19.4% for T. foetus and 10.7% for C. fetus out of 172 bulls. The prevalence of T. foetus was the highest in Okakarara semi-commercial areas (36%), but with no significant difference between Ovitoto communal area (7.5%) and Dordabis/Nina commercial farms (14.68%). Furthermore, the prevalence for C. fetus was 12% for Ovitoto communal areas showing no significant difference with that of Okakarara semi-commercial areas at 20%, and no positive cases were reported for Dordabis-Nina commercial farms.
There was a significant correlation between the two pathogens and research areas as well as between the prevalence of C. fetus and duration of keeping bulls. The age group of bulls with the highest positivity were found between the age of 4 to 6 years.
This research can form a basis for the methodology to determine prevalence and risk factors associated with trichomonosis and campylobacteriosis in beef herds in Namibia. However, further work on more farms is needed to influence and put strategic measures in place to curb the presence of both diseases in the country
School-based studies and supervision in teacher training at the University of Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Ngololo, Elizabeth; Shinyemba, Tobias; Nehemia, Martha; Kanandjebo, Leena; Abah, James; Kambeyo, Linus; Nghikembwa, Taimi; Neshila, Faustina; Van Wyk, Jacolyn; Tshiningayamwe, Sirkka; Poulton-Busler, Richardine; !Gontes, Karoline; Sheyapo, Mirjam; Anyolo, Eveline; Naxweka, Johanna; Ausiku, Charity; Naukushu, Shiwana; Simon, Albin; Chainda, Allen
This study aimed to inform the development and revision of practices, as well as
the content and processes, to strengthen teacher education modules to
enhance SBS at UNAM.
A group of lecturers from the School of Education and a researcher from the
Multi-disciplinary Research Services fostered collaboration to collect
quantitative data. This study was funded by UNAM to extend the project
between UNAM and the University of Oulu to strengthen teacher education
through joint research in areas of mutual interest, mobility, and joint
development of online courses/materials. Under this agreement, a component
of the research was undertaken, leaving out the survey aimed at exploring
relevant teacher-education practices.
Effect of land degradation on the above-ground vegetation and soil seed bank of a Rangeland in Kunene region Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2024) Nghikwafelwa, Iyaloo; Nesongano, Wellencia Clara
Land degradation is a global threat to ecological, economic, and social sustainability,
particularly in semi-arid and arid regions such as Namibia. Degradation is affecting above ground vegetation and seed bank composition, hindering their recovery. To address this
issue, it is crucial to assess land conditions at different levels and develop effective
strategies for restoring degraded rangeland. The understanding of how land degradation
impacts the seed bank composition could provide insights into the potential for natural
regeneration and the need for active restoration efforts. This study assessed and compared
the characteristics of the aboveground vegetation and soil seed bank at sites of varying
degrees of degradation in the Kunene Region of Namibia. A total of three sites were
identified per level of degradation. At each site, two belt transects were set up, and five
quadrats were sampled along each transect. Woody plant species were identified and
counted in a 20 x 20 m quadrat, while herbaceous plants were assessed in a 1 m2
quadrant,
nested within the larger quadrat. Soil cores samplers measuring 9.7 cm in diameter and 5
cm in depth were obtained using a soil drill at the centre of the 20 x 20 m quadrat. The
species diversity, richness, density, and regeneration of the above-ground vegetation
showed an ascending pattern along the degradation gradient from high to low. The
dominant species in moderate and low degradation sites was Catophractes alexandri,
while Pechuel-Loeschea leubnitziae was the dominant species in high degradation sites.
Seed bank species diversity and density increased along the degradation gradient from
low to high. Though the high degradation sites recorded the highest density and diversity
of seed banks, most of these plants were annual herbaceous species, including alien
invasive species, namely Datura stramonium. Perennial grasses, with high fodder value,
were replaced by annual species in soil seed banks due to degradation. Perennial species
dominated low- and moderate-degradation sites. In the seed bank, a few woody species
were found at low and moderate degradation sites, while no woody species were found at
high degradation sites. The findings emphasise the current and future challenges to the
study region and that restoring woody vegetation from soil seed banks has limited
potential, hence highlighting and recommending the need for further research
Effects of income-generating training on development of business skills in the Ohangwena region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Shafohamba, Elizabeth Ndelitungapo; Shihomeka, Sadrag Panduleni
The study assessed the effects of Income-Generating Training Development of Business
Skills in the Ohangwena Region, Namibia. The study was guided by the following
objectives: To determine the effect of income-generating skills development training on
the productivity and quality of work for the beneficiaries, to assess how income generating skills development training has improved the business competencies of
beneficiaries’ business skills, to evaluate the quality of the training content offered by
Ministry of Gender, Equality and Poverty Eradication and to identify monitoring strategies
for management to ensure funded businesses in the Ohangwena, Namibia are sustained.
The study made use of a semi-structured interview guide and a focus group discussion to
assess the effects of income-generating skills development training on the beneficiaries’
business skills. Quarterly assessments were used to assess the changes attributed to the
skills training intervention, by looking at the outcomes of beneficiaries who received the
training between 2015 and 2017. The findings highlighted that from 2015 to 2017, the
income-generating skills development training provided by the Ministry of Poverty
Eradication and Social Welfare and development partners had a positive impact on the
beneficiaries’ business skills. The study also brought to light the most highlighted themes
on the effects of income-generating skills development training, such as increased
productivity and quality of work, motivation, increased financial management, self reliance, innovation and creativity, empowerment, and good business reputation of
training recommendations include expanding the training duration, investing adequate
funds into the training, and using other platforms such as radio to share the experience
with other business counterparts in various regions. Moreover, there is a need for more
improvement in the trainers ‘training capacities