Gambella Regional State Research Articles

The Role of Co-Curricular Activities in Improving English Language Speaking Skill of Grade Ten Students at Pinyudo Secondary School in Gog Woreda Gambella, Ethiopia

The purpose of this study was to examine the roles of Co-Curricular Activity (CCAs) in improving English language speaking skill of grade ten Students of Secondary School at Gog Woreda in Gambella Regional state. The study was designed using quesi-experimental research design. To collect the necessary data among the existing grade ten students, 44 students selected from section using simple random technique were used as study sample. From these students 22 were assigned as experimental group and the remaining 22 students assigned to form the control group. To data was collected using test as instrument. The data gathered were analyzed using statistical tools such as: means, standard deviations; and significance level were conducted with the T test using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 24). The finding of the study indicated as there was a difference between the experimental and control groups students English speaking performance. In addition, the findings showed as there is significance difference in the mean score of the experimental and control groups of students participated in the study. Moreover, the finding showed as there is difference with regard to aspects of speaking skills between the learners. Based on the findings it was recommended that the school teachers and administration should give high attention for implementation of CCAs in the school integrating it with regular class room lessons. In addition, the school’s teachers and students should conduct experiences sharing with other schools which have better implementation of CCAs. Furthermore, curriculum designers at different level are highly recommended to use CCAs as integral part of regular class room lesson in designing materials. Moreover, future researchers are recommended to make deep investigation including other variables on the area.

Epidemiological study on cattle trypanosomiasis and its vectors distributions in the Gambella regional state, southwestern Ethiopia

African animal trypanosomosis is a parasitic disease that causes significant economic losses in livestock due to anaemia, loss of condition, emaciation, and mortality. It is a key impediment to increased cattle output and productivity in Ethiopia. Cross-sectional entomological and parasitological studies were performed in the Gambella Region state of southwestern Ethiopia to estimate the prevalence of bovine trypanosomosis, apparent fly density, and potential risk factors. Blood samples were taken from 546 cattle for the parasitological study and analyzed using the buffy coat technique and stained with Giemsa. A total of 189 biconical (89) and NGU (100) traps were deployed in the specified districts for the entomological survey. The overall prevalence of trypanosomosis at the animal level was 5.5% (95% CI: 3.86–7.75). Trypanosoma vivax (50.0%), T. congolense (30.0%), T. brucei (20.0%), and no mixed trypanosome species were found. The prevalence of trypanosomosis was significantly (p < 0.05) affected by altitude, body score conditions, age, mean packed cell volume (PCV), and peasant associations, while sex and coat color had no significant effect. According to the entomological survey results, a total of 2303 flies were captured and identified as tsetse (Glossina pallidipes (5.3%)) and G. fuscipes fuscipes (3.3%) and other biting flies (Tabanus (60.1%) and Stomoxys (31.3%)). In the current study, the overall apparent density was 4.1 flies/trap/day. This study shows that trypanosomosis remains a significant cattle disease in the Gambella regional state even during the dry season. Thus, the findings support the necessity to improve vector and parasite control measures in the area.

Magnitude of Active Trachoma Among Host and Refugee Children in Gambella Regional State, Ethiopia.

Trachoma is a serious public health concern and cause of blindness globally. Despite its vulnerability to all ages, children are more vulnerable to its adverse outcomes and devastating complications. This study assessed the magnitude of trachoma among children in host and refugee communities in Gambella, Ethiopia. A community-based comparative survey was done among 743 participants. Multistage sampling technique was used to select participants. Selected children were examined for trachoma using a 2.5x binocular loupe and graded using the World Health Organization (WHO) simplified grading system. A standardized, structured, and pretested tool was used to collect the data. Data were collected through interviews and observation. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to identify the associated factors. Variable with a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The magnitude of active trachoma was 119 (16.5%; 95% CI: 13.5, 21.4) with 36 (14.5%; 95% CI: 11.9, 18.8) and 83 (17.5%; 95% CI: 14.3, 22.7) from refugees and host communities, respectively. Poor knowledge of caregiver about trachoma [AOR = 3.55, 95% CI: (1.48, 8.85)], presence of human feces near the house [AOR = 4.57, 95% CI: (1.84, 11.34)], presence of garbage near the house [AOR = 4.07, 95% CI: (1.34, 12.36)], and the presence of flies on the face of the child [AOR = 3.42, 95% CI: (1.32, 8.84)] were significantly associated factors with active trachoma. Overall, one-sixth of children had experienced active trachoma. The magnitude of trachoma was higher in the host community compared to the refugees. Proper waste disposal and personal hygiene measures are important measures that should be addressed to tackle the problem.

Trends of HIV Infection and Progress Towards the 95-95-95 Targets in Gambella Regional State from 2019 to 2023, Southwest ETHIOPIA.

In 2022, there were 1.3 million new HIV infections, 630,000 AIDS-related deaths, and 39.0 million HIV-positive individuals worldwide. To put the world on track to eradicate AIDS by 2030, there are ambitious goals and commitments for 2025. However, the likelihood of these goals being met or even close to being met is highly dependent on the trend of new HIV infection, the prevalence of the disease, the commitment and capability of leaders, and the application of the planned strategies to achieve the goal. To look trend of HIV infection is changing and how far we have come toward the three 95-95-95 goals in Gambella Regional State, Southwest Ethiopia, 2023. From August 1 to August 20, 2023, a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out. This study included all HIV testing service clients who were enrolled in HIV care and treatment and had viral load records or tests. The data were gathered from the electronic form of the territorial reports of District Health Information Software 2 (DHIS-2). Reviewing regional DHIS-2, a standardized checklist was used. Epi-Data version 3.1 software was used to enter the data. SPSS version 25 was used for the analysis. The proposed objectives' trend was described using a descriptive statistic. The number of people living with HIV decreased by 4.5%, new HIV infections decreased by 42.28% and adult HIV prevalence decreased from 4.37% to 3.69% between 2019 and 2023. The finding showed that the region progress toward the 95-95-95 goals was 73%, 75% and 95% in 2023. In the Gambella region, HIV testing services and linking HIV-positive cases to HIV treatment have increased. Despite the good progress toward achieving the three 95 targets; first 95 targets for HIV diagnosis are impractical. As a result, adequate attention is required.

Understanding Conflict and Displacement Dynamics in Gambella Regional State and the Impacts on the Youth’s Employment and Peoples’ Livelihood

Understanding Conflict and Displacement Dynamics in Gambella Regional State and the Impacts on the Youth’s Employment and Peoples’ Livelihood

Assessment of Urogenital Schistosomiasis Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Among Abobo Communities in Gambella Regional State, Southwestern Ethiopia.

Knowledge about community awareness and practices related to a disease, among other things, helps to plan relevant control strategies. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAPs) of the community in Abobo district of Gambella Regional State in Southwestern Ethiopia about urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS), which is endemic to the region. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022. A pretested structured questionnaire was administered. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with KAPs variables. Most study participants (90.6%) responded they have previously heard of UGS. Over 95% of the participants knew at least 1 symptom of UGS and 30% knew the transmission cycle. About 15.9% and 26.8% knew keeping environmental hygiene and refraining from using cercariae infested water, as preventive methods, respectively. Over half of the participants (50.1%) disagreed or did not know that urinating close to the river/dam water contributes to transmission, and almost all participants had contact with the dam/river water in one way or another. Education status and history of having the infection were the key significant correlates of most KAPs variables. Most of the community members had poor knowledge and attitudes about the mode of transmission and preventive measures of UGS. Thus, besides school-based mass drug administration (MDA), UGS control efforts in the region should incorporate health education in conjunction with safe water supplies, and provision of sanitary facilities to effectively reduce the transmission of the disease.

Prevalence of Trachoma After Three Rounds of Antibiotic Mass Drug Administration in 13 Woredas of Gambella Region, Ethiopia

ABSTRACT Background Following baseline surveys in 2013 and 2014, trachoma elimination interventions, including three rounds of azithromycin mass drug administration (MDA), were implemented in 13 woredas (administrative districts) of Gambella Regional State, Ethiopia. We conducted impact surveys to determine if elimination thresholds have been met or if additional interventions are required. Methods Cross-sectional population-based surveys were conducted in 13 woredas of Gambella Regional State, combined into five evaluation units (EUs), 6─12 months after their last MDA round. A two-stage systematic (first stage) and random (second stage) sampling technique was used. WHO-recommended protocols were implemented with the support of Tropical Data. Household water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) access was assessed. Results The age-adjusted prevalence of trachomatous inflammation – follicular (TF) in 1–9-year-olds in the five EUs ranged from 0.3–19.2%, representing a general decline in TF prevalence compared to baseline estimates. The age- and gender-adjusted prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis (TT) unknown to the health system in those aged ≥ 15 years ranged from 0.47–3.08%. Of households surveyed, 44% had access to an improved drinking water source within a 30-minute return journey of the house, but only 3% had access to an improved latrine. Conclusion In two EUs, no further MDA should be delivered, and a surveillance survey should be conducted after two years without MDA. In one EU, one further round of MDA should be conducted followed by another impact survey. In two EUs, three further MDA rounds are required. Surgery, facial cleanliness and environmental improvement interventions are needed throughout the region.

Species composition, infection rate and detection of resistant alleles in Anopheles funestus (Diptera: Culicidae) from Lare, a malaria hotspot district of Ethiopia

BackgroundAnopheles funestus, which is considered as secondary vector of malaria in Ethiopia, is known to have several morphologically indistinguishable (sibling) species. Accurate identification of sibling species is crucial to understand their biology, behaviour and vector competence. In this study, molecular identification was conducted on the Ethiopian An. funestus populations. Moreover, insecticide resistance mechanism markers were detected, including ace N485I, kdr L1014F, L1014S, and CYP6P9a TaqMan qPCR was used to detect the infective stage of the parasite from field collected adult female An. funestus populations.MethodsAdult female mosquito collection was conducted from Lare, Gambella Regional State of Ethiopia between June 2018 to July 2020 using CDC light traps and HLC. Sub-samples of the morphologically identified An. funestus mosquitoes were molecularly identified using species-specific PCR, and the possible presence of insecticide resistance alleles was investigated using TaqMan qPCR (N485I-Ace-1), PCR-Sanger sequencing (L1014F-kdr), and PCR–RFLP (CYP6P9a resistance allele). Following head/thorax dissection, the TaqMan qPCR assay was used to investigate the presence of the infective stage Plasmodium parasite species.ResultsA total of 1086 adult female An. funestus mosquitoes were collected during the study period. All sub-samples (N = 20) that were morphologically identified as An. funestus sensu lato (s.l.) were identified as An. funestus sensu stricto (s.s.) using species- specific PCR assay. The PCR–RFLP assay that detects the CYP6P9a resistance allele that confers pyrethroid resistance in An. funestus was applied in N = 30 randomly selected An. funestus s.l. specimens. None of the specimens showed a digestion pattern consistent with the presence of the CYP6P9a resistance allele in contrast to what was observed in the positive control. Consequently, all samples were characterized as wild type. The qPCR TaqMan assay that detects the N485I acetylcholinesterase-1 mutation conferring resistance to organophosphates/carbamates in An. funestus was used in (N = 144) samples. All samples were characterized as wild type. The kdr L1014F and L1014S mutations in the VGSC gene that confer resistance to pyrethroids and DDT were analysed with direct Sanger sequencing after PCR and clean-up of the PCR products were also characterized as wild type. None of the samples (N = 169) were found positive for Plasmodium (P. falciparum/ovale/malariae/vivax) detection.ConclusionAll An. funestus s.l. samples from Lare were molecularly identified as An. funestus s.s. No CYP6P9, N485I acetylcholinesterase 1, kdr L1014F or L1014S mutations were detected in the An. funestus samples. None of the An. funestus samples were positive for Plasmodium. Although the current study did not detect any insecticide resistant mechanism, it provides a reference for future vector monitoring programmes. Regular monitoring of resistance mechanisms covering wider geographical areas of Ethiopia where this vector is distributed is important for improving the efficacy of vector control programs.

Serological Markers of Exposure to Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax Infection in Southwestern Ethiopia.

As malaria control and elimination efforts ramp up in Ethiopia, more sensitive tools for assessing exposure to coendemic Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax are needed to accurately characterize malaria risk and epidemiology. Serological markers have been increasingly explored as cost-effective tools for measuring transmission intensity and evaluating intervention effectiveness. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficacy of a panel of 10 serological markers as a proxy for malaria exposure and to determine underlying risk factors of seropositivity. We conducted cross-sectional surveys in two sites of contrasting malaria transmission intensities in southwestern Ethiopia: Arjo in Oromia Region (low transmission) and Gambella in Gambella Regional State (moderate transmission). We measured antibody reactivity against six P. falciparum (AMA-1, CSP, EBA175RIII-V, MSP-142, MSP-3, RH2ab) and four P. vivax (DBPII[Sal1], EBP2, MSP-119, RBP2b) targets. We used mixed effects logistic regressions to assess predictors of seropositivity. Plasmodium spp. infection prevalence by quantitative polymerase chain reaction was 1.36% in Arjo and 10.20% in Gambella. Seroprevalence and antibody levels against all 10 antigens were higher in Gambella than in Arjo. We observed spatial heterogeneities in seroprevalence across Arjo and smaller variations across Gambella. Seroprevalence in both sites was lowest against PfCSP and highest against PfAMA-1, PfMSP-142, and PvMSPS-119. Male sex, age, and agricultural occupation were positively associated with seropositivity in Arjo; associations were less pronounced in Gambella. Our findings demonstrate that seroprevalence and antibody levels to specific Plasmodium antigens can be used to identify high-risk groups and geographical areas where interventions to reduce malaria transmission should be implemented.

Genetic basis of Abigar and Sheko cattle breed adaptations in the tsetse infested lowlands of Ethiopia: A review

The objective of this review paper was to assess the genetic foundation of the Abigar and Sheko cattle breeds and their adaptations in the tsetse-infected lowlands of Ethiopia. Sheko cattle are more resistant to biting fly attacks and maintain their body condition, unlike Zebu cattle, making them less likely to get the disease. The sheko breed is prized for its milk production, adaptability, and greater trypan tolerance compared to other Ethiopian native cattle groups. Shekos do not typically contract the disease during the trypanosomiasis challenge&#39;s primary season, and they do not require regular medication and are able to recover from the endemic unaided. The Abigar cattle breed has been produced and maintained primarily by the Nuer people under pastoral and ago-pastoral production methods, with Gambella Regional State serving as both the breed&#39;s origin and primary breeding tract. The breed is also noted for its docile nature, long body length, enormous body size, medium height, and typically long curving horns. The predominant coat colors in the population are white and gray. Abigar cattle have special adaptation features that allow them to thrive, produce, and reproduce in conditions of extreme heat, frequent disease outbreaks, and other difficulties. Such adaptation is crucial for low-input farming methods that can be gradually established using locally adapted livestock breeds that have evolved in tandem with the competing forces of arid and semi-arid habitats. Finally, the genetic foundations of the Abigar and Sheko cattle breeds have stronger behavioral adaptations to tsetse-infected animals in Ethiopian lowland areas. Thus, adaptation traits that include tolerance to biting flies, tolerance to heat stress, resistance to tick and internal parasite infestation, and feeding efficiency in order to better understand the trypan tolerance attribute and some adaptation traits of the Abigar and Sheko cattle breeds, further intervention and conservation should be implemented.

Pregnancy among adolescent girls in humanitarian settings: a case in refugee camp of Gambella regional state, community-based cross-sectional study, Southwest Ethiopia, 2021

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of pregnancy and associated factors among adolescent girls in Nguenyyiel Refugee Camp.DesignCross-sectional study was employed to conduct this study.SettingA community-based...

Inventory management performance for laboratory commodities and their challenges in public health facilities of Gambella Regional State, Ethiopia: A mixed cross-sectional study

BackgroundSustaining an adequate inventory level of laboratory commodities is critical as 70% of medical decisions are made using laboratory-related information. However, millions of populations in developing countries still do not get elementary laboratory services due to the inaccessibility of laboratory commodities. Hence, this study aimed to assess inventory management performance and challenges for laboratory commodities in public health facilities of Gambella regional state, Ethiopia. MethodA health facility-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a mixed quantitative and qualitative method in seventeen public health facilities of the Gambella regional state between May and July 2021. Data were collected from documents, health professionals, and health care facilities' warehouses. Quantitative data were analyzed using Excel spreadsheets version 14 and SPSS version 23. In the qualitative part, 18 key informants were interviewed, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. ResultThe average availability of laboratory commodities on the day of the visit was 60.39% in health facilities. Over the past year, 12.94% (37,488.76 US$) of laboratory commodities were wasted due to damage and expiration, while the average stock out date was 58 days. The average accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the report and requisition form were 49%, 71%, and 64%, respectively. The health facilities had attained only, 68.2% of the storage conditions criteria. Lack of adequate and committed staff, budget constraints, insufficient storage space, frequent shortages of commodities from the suppliers, lack of frequent supervision, and feedback from higher officials were the main challenges for inventory management of laboratory commodities. ConclusionThe inventory management for laboratory commodities was inadequate, which was disclosed by inaccurate records and reports, stock-outs, high wastage rate, lack of adequate staff, budget constraints, and unacceptable storage conditions criteria. The study result suggests strict and close monitoring is needed to improve the inventory management performance for laboratory commodities at health facilities.

Multilevel analysis of the predictors of completion of the continuum of maternity care in Ethiopia; using the recent 2019 Ethiopia mini demographic and health survey

BackgroundDespite the significant benefit of the continuum of care to avert maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity, still the dropout from the continuum of care remains high and continued to become a challenge in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the level of completion along the continuum of maternity care and its predictors among reproductive-age women in Ethiopia.MethodsA secondary data analysis was done using the 2019 mini Ethiopian demographic health survey. A total weighted sample of 2,905 women aged 15–49 years who gave birth in the last five years preceding the survey and who had antenatal care visits was included. A multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model was used to examine the predictors that affect the completion of the continuum of maternity care services. Finally, statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05.ResultsIn this study, the overall prevalence of completion along the continuum of maternity care was 12.9% (95%CI: 11.1 – 14.9%). Attending higher education (AOR = 2.03: 95%CI; 1.14 - 3.61), belonged to medium wealth status (AOR = 1.69: 95%CI; 1.07 - 2.66), belonged to rich wealth status (AOR = 2.05: 95%CI; 1.32, 3.17), and informed about danger signs during pregnancy (AOR = 2.23: 95%CI; 1.61, 3.10) were positively associated with the completion of the maternity continuum of care. However, late initiaton of first antenatal care visits (AOR = 0.66: 95%CI; 0.49, 0.89), being rural resident (AOR = 0.67: 95%CI; 0.42 - 0.93), lived in the Afar (AOR = 0.36: 95%CI; 0.12 – 0.83) and Gambella (AOR = 0.52: 95%CI; 0.19 – 0.95) regional states were negatively associated with the completion of the continuum of maternity care.ConclusionDespite most of the women using at least one of the maternity services, the level of completion along the continuum of care after antenatal care booking remains low in Ethiopia. Therefore, enhancing female education and economic transitions with special consideration given to rural, Afar, and Gambella regional state residents. Counseling towards the danger signs of pregnancy and its complications during antenatal care follow-upshould be strengthened. . Furthermore, the identified predictors should be considered when designing new policies or updating policies and strategies on maternity services uptake to step-up its full utilization, which in turn helps in the achievement of the sustainable development goals of ending preventable causes of maternal, neonatal, and child death by 2030.

Nonadherence Predictors to Tuberculosis Medications among TB Patients in Gambella Region of Ethiopia.

Background Global tuberculosis (TB) disease deaths rise comparable to the one seen in 2015 (by 200,000) or even in 2012 (by 400,000) as a result of the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ethiopia's Gambella region is leading for years in terms of TB cases and its comorbidities. The TB control program effectiveness depends on in large on the patients completing the appropriate treatment regimen. Hence, the objective of this study was to determine the determinants of nonadherence to anti-TB drug treatment among patients in Gambella regional state of Ethiopia. Methods A case-control study was conducted on cohorts of TB patients sampled from four public health facilities in Gambella Region from January 2019 to 2020, followed by 18 months of follow-up. The total sample size was 296 patients (74 cases and 222 controls) with a response rate of 97.3% (288 : 72 nonadhered cases and 216 controls). Cases (nonadhered) were TB patients who missed 10% of the doses while controls were patients, who completed 90% or more doses. Results TB patients, who perceived stigma [AOR = 2.7 at 95% CI (1.1–6.6) with P value <0.05], failed to receive any counseling during the treatment course [AOR = 65.24 at 95% CI (11.69–363.95) with P value <0.01], patients who used to smoking during treatment [AOR = 15.4 at 95% CI (7.7–30) with P value <0.01], taking TB medications regularly has no benefits [AOR = 6.8 at 95% CI (1.8–24.9) with P value <0.05], and patients believing TB disease as not severe [AOR = 8.38 at 95% CI (2.0–34.6) with P value <0.05] were significantly or highly significantly associated with nonadherence to anti-TB drugs medications. Conclusion The determinants of nonadherence to anti-TB treatment among TB patients in the Gambella region during the study period were the absence of counselling services, and patients' behavior (smoking habits, undermining the severity of TB disease, lack of trust in the outcomes of regular medications, and perceived stigmatization). Accordingly, capacitating healthcare providers and workers at all TB clinics for effective counseling , preventing perceived stigma by protecting the patient's secrecy, and routine health education has paramount importance for effective TB control in Gambella.

Suicidal behavior, suicidal ideation and patterns among youths in Anywaa zone, Gambella, Southwest Ethiopia: a mixed-methods study

BackgroundSuicide is a major public health problem and for decades, it has remained one of the leading causes of injury and death worldwide. The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of suicidal behavior, suicidal ideation, and patterns among youth in the Anywaa zone of the Gambella regional state, Southwest Ethiopia.Methods and materialsA mixed-method study design was used in which a quantitative survey was conducted along with qualitative interviews and FGDs in the Anywaa zone. A total of 136 respondents were included in the survey study from the two woredas. The survey was conducted to assess the prevalence of suicidal behavior and ideations in a sample of preparatory school youth students. A pre-tested and structured questionnaire was used for the descriptive analysis. Qualitative information was also obtained through interviews and focus group discussions to identify the patterns of suicide and to gain more nuanced participants/ survivors’ experiences. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, for which descriptive statistics were used. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsSuicidal behaviors and ideation were high among youths in the study area. In this study 62.3% of respondents reported they had heard others talk about their wish to die by suicide, 68 (64.2%) of youth said they had heard many youths claim that “I feel like there is no way out”, 48 (43.3%) reported having seen someone with the signs of planning a suicide such as obtaining a weapon or writing a suicide note. About 68 (64.2%) of participants said, “My family would be better off without me.” The majority of respondents were in the age groups ranging from 26 to 30 years. The results on the patterns of suicide attempts showed that hanging and drug overdose or poisoning were the most common patterns used by both men and women.ConclusionThe findings indicate that the prevalence of suicide-related behaviors and ideations was high among youths in the Anywaa zone. The results on the patterns of suicide attempts showed that hanging and drug overdose or poisoning were the most common patterns used by both men and women. As a result, we would like to recommend that Government, Non-Governmental Organizations NGOs, and Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs), along with health care providers and counselors should work together by creating awareness, and by establishing Programs that target youths. Meanwhile, early identification and management of suicide risk in youth should be strengthened.

Why Syphilis Infection is High Among Pregnant Women in Refugee Camps? A Case in Ethiopia.

BackgroundAlmost 1 million pregnant women were estimated to be infected with syphilis in 2016, resulting in over 350,000 adverse birth outcomes including 200,000 stillbirths and new-born deaths (7–9). More than half of infected pregnant women transmit the infection to their babies, resulting in adverse pregnancy outcomes, including foetal death, stillbirth, preterm birth, low birth weight, neonatal death, and congenital infection in infants.ObjectiveThe objective of the study was to assess the syphilis status and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Kule refugee camp health facilities, Gambella regional state, Southwest Ethiopia, in 2021.MethodsFacility based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 374 pregnant women in a Kule refugee camp health facility from March 1, to July 15, 2021. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. After the interview, 2mL of venous blood sample was drawn from each of the study participants. Then, RPR test was done. When RPR tests were positive, the study subjects were considered as syphilis positive.ResultsThe overall syphilis positivity rate was 11.8%. Education status (unable to read and write) [AOR 6.6; 95% CI (1.5, 29.3)], presence of other STDs [AOR 3.6; 95% CI (1.4, 8.8)], having polygamy husband [AOR 3.3; 95% CI (1.6, 6.9)] and being HIV positive [AOR=5.5; 95% CI (1.1, 27.5), P=0.04] were among factors associated with syphilis infection.Conclusions and recommendationThis study showed that there is very high syphilis prevalence and it is still a very important public health problem the study area. Therefore, syphilis screening and treatment of pregnant women towards the first ANC points and health education towards the mode of transmission and prevention of syphilis have to be strengthened.

Assessing causes of inter- ethnic conflict in Ethiopia: Emphasis on Anuak and Nuer conflicts in Gambella Regional State

This study was directed on causes of inter- ethnic conflict in Ethiopia by stress on Anuak and Nuer conflicts in Gambella Regional State of Ethiopia. The general objective of this paper was an assessment on the causes of inter-ethnic conflict among Anuak and Nuer ethnic groups in Gembela regional state. The data was collected based on secondary sources. The researcher employed descriptive and explanatory types of research design. The findings from this study confirm that questions regarding property and land right, language and access to weapons are the major causes of conflict between the two ethnic groups. In addition, the paper found the solution for the Anuak and Nuer conflict would be, development initiatives along the Ethiopia and Sudanese border, full pledged arms control along the Ethiopia and Sudanese border could be an important factor in minimizing conflict and causalities in the future. The two groups could reach similar agreements, provided that they are offered the right opportunity to talk to each other, discuss their problems and apply traditional mechanisms of conflict resolution.

Land Use Changes and Their Effects on Soil Physical and Chemical Properties in Abol woreda Gambella Regional State

In Abol woreda continuous cultivation, intensive grazing and investment are the major practiced in the woreda soil without out intensive care was decline in soil chemical, biological and physical properties. The current research, therefore, is intended to determine Land use Changes and consequence on Soil Physicio-Chemical Properties in Abol woreda Gambella Regional State. General visual field observation and survey were carried out and the research site was portioned in to three major land uses (cropped grazing and forest land use types). Accordingly, a total of three major land uses (cultivated grazing and forest land use types) were identified in field based on soil texture and land use systems. Finally three major land use system were identified, and from each major site, composite soil samples were taken from thirteen soil sub-samples (spots) within one depths of 0-20cm using soil auger. The physico-chemical of soils was analyzed in the standardized soil laboratory procedure through the analysis of soil samples augured from three major land use systems. The results obtained from this study explore that the kebele soil did not showed the textural class difference in three land use system all showed clay loam, texture. The value of soil bulk density was increase in cropped land followed by grazing land and low in forest or reserved area land use system it ranges from 1.37, 1.24 and 1.13 g/cm 3 respectively. The percent of total porosity soils under the cultivated land was recorded average of 48.3, grazing land use also 53.2% and land use forest 57.3%. All of the soil chemical properties of the present research site were numerical influenced by land use system and soil textural class. For example, the highest value was recorded in basic cations Ca (10.02 cmol/kg), Exch-base of Mg (5.46cmol (+) /kg),Exch-base K (5.45cmol (+) /kg)and CEC (28.17 cmol (+) /kg) were observed under the forestland as compared to the lowest values (5.64, 2.05and 1.97cmol/kg), respectively, in the cultivated land. The present study showed that soil fertility status decrease as land use type goes to from forest to pasture and farming lands. Hence, it is possible to infer that continuous and intensive cultivation degrade plant essential nutrients highly which urge to take action for modifying its fertility status of the agricultural soils of in the Abol district. Keywords : -land use effect, change, physical, chemical, properties DOI: 10.7176/JRDM/75-01 Publication date: May 31 st 2021

Coverage Validation Survey for Lymphatic Filariasis Treatment in Itang Special District of Gambella Regional State of Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BackgroundLymphatic filariasis (LF) is one of the most debilitating and disfiguring diseases common in Ethiopia. In order to alleviate this problem Mass drug administration (MDA) has been given once a year for the public living in endemic sites. Despite this fact there might be a difference between reported coverage and the actual coverage on the ground due to various errors, so assessing the actual coverage through coverage validation survey appears imperative.ObjectiveThe aim of this survey was to assess the difference between the reported coverage and actual coverage of Ivermectin (IVM) and Albendazole (ALB) treatment given for Lymphatic Filariasis in Itang special district of Gambella regional state, Ethiopia.SettingThe study was conducted in Itang special district of Gambella region, the district was purposively selected for lymphatic filariasis treatment coverage survey. Eligible individuals aged 5 and above were interviewed. Data about the children were collected from parents or guardians and analyzed using STATA.ResultsThe survey showed that the coverage for LF treatment was 81.5%. From 825 individuals that reported that they were offered the treatment 823 (99.6%) swallowed the drug. The coverage in school age children (5–14) shows significant difference with treatment coverage in individuals aged 15 and above (p<0.001) in the last mass drug administration campaign. The main reason for not being offered preventive chemotherapy (PC) during the mass drug administration campaigns was missing class during the MDA (37.2%).ConclusionThe treatment coverage is higher than the recommended coverage of 65% of the target population. The coverage in school age children (5–14) showed significant difference with treatment coverage in individuals aged 15 and above. Improving the coverage level beyond this can significantly contribute to the LF elimination goal.

Non-Institutional Childbirths and the Associated Socio-Demographic Factors in Gambella Regional State, Ethiopia.

The decades-long global efforts to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality have shown overall progress, but most developing countries are still lagging significantly. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of non-institutional childbirths in the Gambella State and to identify socio-demographic factors responsible for non-institutional utilization of available birth services by reproductive-aged mothers. A community-based cross-sectional study design was adopted using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the selected place of birth. EpiData version 3.1 and SPSS version 13.0 were applied for data entry and analyses. All the 657 eligible mothers recruited for this study responded to the interview. 71% of the total respondents had non-institutional childbirths (NICB), and the rest had their most recent childbirth in an institution with skilled healthcare providers’ assistance. Socio-demographic factors were significantly associated with NICB. Nuer (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.23–3.63) and Majang ethnic (AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.02–3.83) groups had higher rates of NICB than the rest of the study population. The prevalence of non-institutional childbirths in Gambella remained two times higher than the institutional childbirths.