Social Amenities Research Articles

Prevalence of oral rehydration solution use and its determinants in the treatment of diarrhea among under-five children in sub-Saharan Africa.

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of under-five deaths claiming half a million children every year. Most of these deaths occurred in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Oral rehydration solution (ORS) has been described as the most effective treatment of diarrhea. However, only 36% of children with diarrhea received ORS in sub-Saharan Africa. This study examined the factors associated with ORS use for children with diarrhea in the sub-region. Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) data sets of 31 countries in sub-Saharan Africa were used in this study. The data involved 30,102 under-five children with diarrhea. The multivariable analysis involved binary logistic regression. Prevalence of ORS use was 38% in sub-Saharan Africa with countries such as Namibia (71.8%), Zambia (66.4%) and Malawi (63.8%) having the highest rates. Use of ORS was most common among children whose mothers had secondary or higher education (45%), were exposed to media (41%) and attended antenatal care (41%). ORS use was significantly associated with secondary or higher education (OR = 1.63; 95%CI: [1.47-1.81]; p<0.001), exposure to media (OR = 1.17; 95%CI: [1.07-1.27]; p<0.001), antenatal care attendance (OR = 2.33; 95%CI: [1.08-1.27]; p<0.001), child's age (OR = 1.46; 95%CI: [1.35-1.59]; p<0.001), child's size at birth (OR = 1.08; 95%CI: [1.00-1.17]; p<0.05), household size (OR = 1.28; 95%CI:[1.06-1.54]; p<0.05) and source of drinking water (OR = 1.18; 95%CI: [1.09-1.29]; p<0.001). This study revealed a 38% prevalence of ORS use during diarrhea episodes in sub-Saharan Africa. This is low as it is less than the 44% recorded for developing countries as a whole. While this study emphasises the need for a further study on effects of severity of diarrhea on ORS use and factors determining differences in ORS use among countries, it also calls for interventions that will increase use of ORS is sub-Saharan Africa. Such interventions should include increase in literacy rate among girls and women, increase in the proportion of women with access to media, involvement of health workers in programmes that would promote antenatal care utilization among women at community level and provision of social amenities like pipe-borne water.

Tribal Casinos and Identifying Who Moves to Opportunity

In this analysis, we examine what types of households migrate to American Indian reservation lands after the start of casino operations using longitudinal household data for 1989-2017. We find heterogeneous effects on migration by households of different types. American Indians who are single parents are significantly more likely to move to reservation lands after gaming operations commence. No significant changes in mobility were found among married households with children. These results suggest that pull factors may also affect how households decide to relocate when there are changes to economic opportunities and other community or social amenities.

EFFECTS OF RURAL-URBAN YOUTHS MIGRATION ON MAJOR CEREAL CROPS PRODUCTION IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA.

The study analyzed the effects of rural-urban youth migration on major cereal crops production in Kwara State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 195 respondents that were proportionately drawn from four (4) zones and of the study area. Data were collected through the use of well-structured questionnaire and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The result show that majority (55.4%) the of respondents fell within the age bracket of 18-25 years with mean of 32 years and majority (69.7%) were males and married (50.3%) with a mean household size of 5.3 persons. Most of the respondent (60.0%) had farming as a primary occupation. Majority (57.4%) of the respondent were pushed to migrate by poverty, while, more than half (57.7%) of the respondents were pushed to migrate due to absence of social amenities in rural areas. The results of the Poisson regression revealed that age was negatively significant (P&lt;0.01) and sex, marital status, household size, level of education, farming experience and access to credit were positively significant at (P&lt;0.01) in influencing rural-urban migration. The findings also reveal that, annual income was positive and significant (P&lt;0.01) in influencing youth rural-urban migration. The study concluded that age, sex, marital status, household size, level of education, farming experience, annual income and access to credit were the factors influencing youth rural-urban migration in the study area. The study therefore, recommended adequate physical and social infrastructure such as good roads, electricity, schools and hospitals should be put in place in rural areas by Kwara State government in order to encourage youths to remain in agriculture.

Impacts of urban sprawl on people’s livelihoods: analysis of urban fringe neighbourhoods in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

ABSTRACT Rapid urbanization rates and weak development control machinery have led to exponential city sprawling to urban fringes. This paper examines how urban sprawl impacts livelihoods of urban fringe dwellers and their coping strategies. A multiple case strategy was deployed and a sustainable livelihoods framework was used in the analysis. Empirical data were obtained through literature review, household and key informant interviews, observations, Focus Group Discussions and analysis of satellite images. Results indicate that negatively urban sprawl has increased households’ transport expenditure to work at unaffordable levels; traffic congestion; cost of food products; and inadequate provision of essential livelihood-enhancing facilities. Positively, urban sprawl has presented new livelihood opportunities and enabled households to access minimal social amenities and services. We recommend diversification of economic activities, change of economic activities, making urban fringe livelihoods key element of policy formulation and essential infrastructure and services provision to harness positive impacts and mitigate negative ones.

An Investigation into the Causes of Tax Evasion and Avoidance by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Their Effect on the Zambian Economy in Chililabombwe District

This study was purposed to investigate the causes of tax evasion and avoidance and its effect on the Zambian economy in Chililabombwe District of the Copperbelt Province. It had two-fold objectives: to examine the causes of tax evasion and avoidance in Chililabombwe District by SMEs, and to determine the effect of tax evasion and avoidance in Chililabombwe District on the Zambian economy. The study used a mixed method approach combining both qualitative and quantitative paradigms in which 110 sample size was targeted. One Hundred and ten (110) questionnaires were distributed and 79 were returned representing 72%. Purposive and convenient sampling techniques were used. Quantitative data was analysed through the SPSS version 16 while qualitative data was analysed through content analysis focusing on main unfolding themes from the interviews. The study discovered that that there are loopholes in the Zambia Revenue Authority's (ZRA) tax administration system which are due to inefficiencies or inadequate competence of tax collectors, which taxpayers exploit in evading and avoiding tax. The investigation also revealed that on account of the established loopholes, certain revenue collectors collude with taxpayers to commit tax fraud by accepting bribes from them while poor sales, high tax rates, and lack of tax education to SMEs were noted to be among key reasons for tax avoidance. Consequently, the study ascertained with concern that the levels of development in the district, in terms of social amenities, schools, road network, and youth / women empowerment programmes are very low. The study concluded that tax evasion and avoidance were real and rife among the SMEs on account of the factors cited and that mitigative policy measures were required without any further delays. Arising from the results of the study, it was strongly recommended that for tax evasion and avoidance to be mitigated, the revenue authority needs to urgently reform the tax system to make it equitable and fair coupled with rigorous tax education to the traders for sufficient tax knowledge and thereafter digitize tax remittances with ease for the traders to file returns without need for middle persons. Tax morale and ultimately revenue collection can be improved through tax education programs, integrity of tax collectors, and reduction of tax rates chargeable to SMEs. Enhanced training and sensitization to create awareness, reduce compliance cost, and simplify online technology for the overall positive impact on compliance among the SMEs are elements of paramount import for the success of the nation in meeting its socio-economic goals through guaranteed revenue collections by the Revenue House.

Causes and Effect of Out-Migration in Rural Areas of Benue State, Nigeria

The study assessed the effect of out-migration from rural settlements in Benue State, Nigeria. The objective of the study was to examine the causes, effect and control of migration in rural settlements of the study area. A total of 1202 respondents were selected from rural communities in 5 Local Government Area of the State. The study used multi-stage sampling technique involving purposive, simple random, judgement and snowball sampling techniques in selecting the communities and the respondents. Data were obtained via questionnaire. Frequencies and percentages were used for data analysis while tables were used for data presentation. The study found that 60.1% of the respondents are male. Most of the respondents (23.7%) are within age 50-54 years. Majority of the respondents are married (79.8%) and have households that have migrated to other places in Nigeria and beyond. The major causes of migration include unemployment (99.8%), inadequate educational institutions (97.2%), village hardship and crises (69.2%), lack of social amenities (6.7%) and insecurity/crises in rural areas. The major effect of out-migration includes reduction in labour supply, increased in demand for labour (97.1%), high cost of labour (99.8%), decreased in farm size (99.5%), decreased in productivity (99.7) and decreased in income (99.7%) in rural areas. Migration also causes low social economic growth and development in rural areas. The study recommends some major strategies for making the rural areas attractive to minimise youth migration in the State. These includes mechanization of agriculture, establishing agro-based industries, creating employment opportunities, provision of social amenities and ensuring adequate security of life and properties in rural areas of the State.

Peatland aquifer zone modeling via Wenner and Schlumberger configuration geoelectric strategies in Tarai Bangun Village, Riau Province, Indonesia

The quality of freshwater in peatland areas poses significant concerns for both governmental bodies and local communities. Challenges arise during well drilling activities, where individuals often encounter difficulties in accessing fresh water, either due to its absence or contamination with peat-infused water. Tarai Bangun Village, situated in the Kampar Regency of Riau, represents a critical peatland region warranting thorough investigation, particularly along street of Sarana Utama. Despite lacking social amenities such as markets, the area is equipped with essential facilities like schools and places of worship. This study aims to assess the efficacy of Wenner and Schlumberger configuration modeling in horizontal and vertical soil mapping, thereby facilitating a comprehensive understanding of groundwater distribution and aquifer zoning within the peatland areas under examination. Analysis conducted utilizing Res2DInv software for horizontal modeling revealed significant findings. In track 1, groundwater layers were identified at depths of 6.50 meters and 19 meters, comprising gravel, sandstone, and limestone. Track 2 exhibited an aquifer layer spanning depths from 2.50 meters to 24.9 meters, consisting of alluvium, gravel, and limestone. Furthermore, interpretation of 1D geoelectric vertical model cross-sections using Progress software unveiled additional insights. Path 1 delineated depths of 0.12 meters, 19.30 meters, and beyond 41.28 meters, featuring a lithological composition of sandstone, limestone, and dry gravel. Path 2 showcased depths of 0.14 meters, 9.43 meters, and exceeding 12.02 meters, characterized by dry sand and gravel formations.

Small Scale Enterprises and Unemployment Challenges in Ogun State Nigeria

This research examined the effect of micro-scale enterprises on employment in Ogun State. The primary source of data was used through the administration of one hundred copies of the questionnaire. A simple regression analysis was used from which it was found that the small-scale enterprises have reduced the unemployment rate in Ogun State thus reducing the crime rate and enhancing the income level of owners. It was recommended that the government should fund small-scale enterprises through the Bank of Industry and provision of social amenities where needed.

United Nations’ Policy on Weapons of Warfare and the Implication on Global Peace and Security

Armed conflict is a part of evolution of man and international relations. It is a transitional era which must be conducted in such a manner that would not make a return to peace impossible. The earth’s environment is usually battered by the preparation, conduct and consequences of war. According to the World Charter on Nature of 1982, “nature shall be secured against degradation caused by warfare or other hostile activities, and that military activity damaging to nature shall be avoided”. Armed warfare (international and non-international) are waged differently across the globe today with a resultant widespread impacts on the members of the society and the environment. Although, armed conflict is inevitable, dedicated sections of this study discussed the concept of warfare, typologies, causes of warfare, categories of weapons of warfare, its effect on the environment and the implication of United Nations’ restriction policy on global peace and security. The study probed into existing literatures and consider the related Treaties, Conventions and Protocols set-forth to restrict and prohibit the exploitation of violence and diverse methods of warfare in all armed conflict whether domestic or international. The study have observed that the activities of combating parties have had negative impact on the environment, civilian objects and animals. Their engagement has led to loss of lives, destruction of public properties, basic social amenities and superfluous injury and unnecessary suffering on non-combatant. Despite United Nation establishing ‘rules of engagement’ to mitigate the suffering caused by warfare, it is pitiful to note that nations around the world have continued to engage in the deployment of prohibited weapons in warfare. Hence, the study concluded and feature recommendations for all levels of weapon policy apparatus as well as solutions to ensure global peace and stability.

Millennial Generation (Gen-Y) Preferences Towards Landed House Ownership in Yogyakarta Urban Agglomeration Using Logistic Regression

The city of Yogyakarta has become a magnet for the millennial generation (Gen-Y), leading to increased urbanization as residents flock to the city. This surge has resulted in a growing demand for land to accommodate public facilities, social amenities, and housing for workers. Despite soaring land prices, driven by high demand, land stocks have not diminished. Over the last 16 years, land prices have escalated by 30 times. However, the wages of Gen-Y formal workers in the DIY region stand at IDR 2,361,434, with an annual increase of only 8.51%. This rapid growth in property prices has not kept pace with the income growth of the millennial generation, raising concerns about their ability to access landed house ownership. This study aims to identify the preferences of the millennial generation regarding landed house ownership in the Yogyakarta Urban Agglomeration. The analytical method employed is Logistic Regression, involving 125 respondents of Gen-Y workers aged 27 to 41 years in the Yogyakarta Urban Agglomeration. Seven variables, encompassing 25 categorical predictors, were considered. The significant indicators influencing Gen-Y preferences in landed house ownership include the cost of building a house, building materials, and the nominal installment of the house. The findings of this research can be instrumental for relevant stakeholders in formulating policies in the housing sector, particularly in the regulation of subsidized housing for the Gen-Y. The contribution of this study lies in providing essential information for informed decision-making and effective policy implementation to tackle the housing challenges faced by the millennial generation in the Yogyakarta Urban Agglomeration.

Religious Diversity and Socio-Economic Development in Southwest Nigeria

Diversity management shares an important link with Socio-economic development. Religious diversity as a type of diversity also has a link with socio-economic development of southwest, Nigeria. The study investigated the effect of religious diversity on the socio-economic development of southwest, Nigeria. Regression analytical method was used to measure the effect of the parameters (religious diversity) which is the independent variable on the dependent variable (socio-economic development) which was measured with indicators like foreign and local investments, employment opportunities, quality education, good social amenities, higher life expectancy and personal safety using SPSS version 20.

Understanding the dynamics of population increase on urban governance in Enugu Metropolis

The study examines the dynamics of population increase on urban governance in Nigeria with particular reference to Enugu State. The study specifically examine the effect of unemployment on urban governance in Enugu state and also ascertain the effect of increase in crime rate on urban governance in Enugu state. The theory used is push pull factor theory. Data for the study was sourced through the use of questionnaire, result of analysis showed that unemployment rate has negative effect on urban governance in Enugu state. It was also observed that over utilization of basic amenities adversely affects urban governance in Enugu state. Increases in crime rate has negative effect on urban governance in Enugu state. Based on the findings, the study recommended that Rural-Urban drift should be addressed more at the local level that is closer to the members of the countryside, by making them understand the environment as well as the economic implication of their migration to urban centres through various public enlightenment programs. The major factor that led to rural-urban drift to a great extent, government at the state level, supported by federal, should embark on various physical development and the provision of basic infrastructural facilities, services and social amenities in rural areas. This will reduce the level ofinequalities between the urban centres and rural areas. Thus, will naturally control the rural-urban drift. To ensure environmental sustainability in cities, planting of trees is imperative. Government should embark on massive tree planting and encourage citizensto plant trees by providing free seedlings for citizens.

Multi-dimensional poverty and health outcomes in Ghana

There is evidence on the social gradient in health in multiple settings. Recent research is increasingly focused on linkages between multidimensional poverty and health to capture and ascertain the role of non-monetary factors on individuals' health. In this paper, using the 2018/19 wave of the Ghana Socioeconomic Panel Survey (GSEPS) and the country's newly introduced multidimensional poverty index, bivariate correlations and regression analyses are carried out to explore associations between household multidimensional poverty and a series of health outcomes, including physical and mental health. There is evidence of significant subgroup differences across the country by gender, rural/urban residence, education, and region. Regression analyses consistently indicate that poorer mental and physical health outcomes are positively and significantly correlated with greater multidimensional poverty. Robustness tests indicate that deprivations in electricity access, safe sanitation and education are particularly relevant. Findings suggest the importance of a more equal geographical distribution of social amenities and infrastructure, as well as adequate targeting of policies to reduce health inequalities across the country and achieve a more equitable and inclusive distribution of resources within the country.

Foreign experience in implementing the inclusive city strategy in the EU countries

In the context of continuous urbanization and the formation of urban development strategies, It is necessary to carefully consider the possible impact of this process on social integration. It is known that some cities have successfully used urbanization as a tool for increasing social inclusion, which, in turn, has made them leaders in the field of quality of life. There are several examples of successful urbanization that has led to social integration, and these cities have become leaders in quality of life and comfortable living conditions. Cities such as Vienna (Austria), Melbourne (Australia), Copenhagen (Denmark) and others have developed programs that take into account the needs of all segments of the population when planning the future growth and development of their cities. One of the key aspects that these successful cities prioritize is access to basic services such as education, health, culture, and other social amenities. By ensuring equal access for all members of society, they create a more inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. In addition, these cities often implement policies aimed at reducing inequality by addressing issues such as affordable housing or public transportation.&#x0D; While urbanization involves many challenges, including environmental issues or infrastructure burden, it is clear that prioritizing inclusion in urban development leads to better outcomes for all participants. The success stories of leading cities around the world should serve as inspiration for policy makers seeking to build more inclusive communities in their jurisdictions.&#x0D; From a public administration perspective, moving to an inclusive city model is essential for shaping a better future and involves developing policies that promote accessibility, equality, and participation for all residents of the country.

A qualitative analysis of housing and homemaking for people labelled/with intellectual disabilities in Ontario, Canada

In this article, we examine people labelled/with intellectual disabilities’ experiences of their current homes and what they imagine or desire for their home in the future. Definitions of home in Canadian and Ontario policy are based on neoliberal and ableist notions of the dwelling and leave out other important elements of home. In this article, we will use quotes and artwork from a broader study to argue for a broadening of the definition of housing for people so labelled, in line with position statements from Inclusion Canada and People First of Canada (PFC), as well as the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). These findings draw on the importance of social connections, community resources, and accessibility in shaping the home and also highlight the felt limitations of the current system. By understanding what these limitations are, it is possible to understand what needs to change for the future to fit with the needs of people labelled/with intellectual disabilities. In recent decades, access to housing in community settings has been a priority for people labelled/with intellectual disabilities in many developed countries. While community living is recognized as an important goal, it has often been harder to achieve in practice given a shortage of appropriate housing choices and difficulties accessing supports. More work is also needed to ensure that views and preferences of people labelled/with intellectual disabilities inform the development of new housing options. In this article, we employ a qualitative, arts-informed methodology to examine the housing experiences and aspirations of a small group of people labelled/with intellectual disabilities in Ontario, Canada. Our analysis focuses on three related elements of participants’ experience of housing and home: the immediate dwelling and living arrangements, the supportive relationships that sustain people in their housing, and the social and environmental amenities within the neighbourhood. We then discuss the broader significance of this research with respect to housing provision, highlighting issues of choice, support, and connection.

ACCESS TO NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES AND RISK OF INSTITUTIONALIZATION AMONG PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA

Abstract Compared to only 2% of the total population between ages 65 and 84, 15% of persons with dementia (PWD) transition to nursing homes. This may be due to caregiving challenges associated with the behavioral symptoms PWD exhibit and their reduced capacities to perform daily tasks. Access to neighborhood amenities (e.g., parks, food access, libraries, service providers) may reduce the risk of institutionalization by helping PWD maintain their health and independence through the provision of opportunities for physical exercise, nutritious diets, social interaction, and cognitive stimulation while providing their caregivers with supportive services. Using data from the2006-2016 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), the HRS Contextual Data Resource, and the National Neighborhood Data Archive, this study aimed to identify neighborhood factors that are associated with transition into a nursing home among PWD who lived in the community (N=3,366). A series of logistic regression models were estimated adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, health status, and neighborhood characteristics. Findings suggest that access to more park areas, healthy food outlets (i.e., grocery stores, supermarkets, supercenters), social amenities (e.g., museums, libraries), and social services for older adults and those with disabilities (e.g., senior centers, adult day care centers, disability support groups) were significantly associated with a lower risk of 2-year institutionalization. Retail stores and home health services were not significantly associated with the risk of institutionalization. These findings emphasize the importance of neighborhood amenities, such as parks and healthy food outlets, in enabling PWD to age in place.

Fishermen's community livelihood and socio-economic constraints in coastal areas: An exploratory analysis

The growing interest in alternative employment amongst Bangladeshi fishermen indicates a shift from river fishing. However, a greater willingness is required to encourage river-based fishing, hindered by factors like fish level reduction, water pollution, natural disasters, unfair market prices, and market control by brokers. This challenges fishermen's families, struggling amidst rising prices of essential commodities. The current study aims to evaluate the socio-economic constraints and livelihood of fishermen in the Karnaphuli, Jalkhadar, and Meghna River two Upazila from August 2022 to May 2023. River challenges have reduced fishermen's income, necessitating aid in income, fish sales, market prices, syndicate issues, and natural calamities. Data from these selected river locations were collected through surveys and interviews. We collected 100 respondents' data. Bangladesh has a total number of fishermen of 1,733,328 in 64 districts. amongst them, 97 % are male fishermen, and 3 % of females are connected with fishermen's lives. Of these respondents, 34 % were female, and 66 % the male of the total. Even 66 % of the total respondents had nuclear family status. This study uses Cronbach's Alpha acceptable reliability α=0.95 and findings that fishermen's income is falling daily. In this coastal region, fishermen are considering changing their profession due to various barriers. Hindrances to accessing fish markets include restrictions, inadequate social amenities, and health and education challenges. However, fishermen propose solutions, urging NGOs and governments to establish educational, medical, and social facilities in coastal and rural areas. They emphasize that government support for the economy and the enforcement of fish legislation are vital for enhancing income levels.

Qualitative perspectives of middle and high skilled workers on humanitarian crowdfunding for poverty reduction in selected organization of Islamic cooperation

Crowd humanitarian fund, otherwise termed as mutual fund, has overwhelmingly been discussed by many scholars and researchers in western countries. There is obscurity in existing literature in Islamic countries with respect to the interconnectedness between various Islamic financial concepts within the Islamic legal framework and the conceptualization of crowd humanitarian funds. The primary objective of this paper is to address this obscurity by investigating the perspectives of middle- and high-skilled workers among members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) with respect to the crowd humanitarian fund. Hence, the central research question (CRQ) was formulated as follows: How do the middle and high-skilled workers perceive the generation of crowd-humanitarian funds for the purpose of helping the less privileged citizens in Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries? The qualitative method was used as the methodology of the study. In order to collect data for the study, an open-ended interview was employed, and a total of 22 participants were interviewed. Three major themes were generated from the interview, namely: An overview of crowd humanitarian funds, categories of less privileged people in OIC countries, and the use of humanitarian funds for poverty reduction. The findings indicated that the traditional method of collecting funds from crowds is to assist with any humanitarian issue is still applicable in many Muslim countries. In addition, the unity in contributing to the humanitarian fund from the crowd, that is, common practice in Muslims’ culture is what Western society terms as crowdfunding. It is further revealed that there are different categories of people, such as the poor, the needy, and people with low incomes, who can benefit from crowdfunding, especially by using it for investment purposes. In addition, crowdfunding is considered an essential monetary relief to less fortunate individuals or communities in order to have a sustainable life. It can also be used for provision of social amenities such as food, shelters, clothes, hospitals, schools, and job opportunities.

Assessment of Artisanal Fisheries Activities among Fisherfolks in Borgu Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria

Fish is a veritable source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial to metabolic activities in human system. This study assessed artisanal fishery activities among fisherfolks in Borgu Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the socio-economic characteristics of artisanal fisherfolks, examined the fishing practices employed by the artisanal fisherfolk, examined the fisherfolk’s perception on current level of fish production and investigated the problems/challenges facing artisanal fishing activities in the study area. A well-structured interview schedule (questionnaire) was used to elicit information from 110 artisanal fisherfolk randomly selected in the study area. Data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics in form of frequencies and percentages. Findings from the study showed that fishing in the study area was dominated by males (90) representing 81.8% of the respondents, and 33.6% of the respondents were in the youthful age bracket of 36-45 years of age. In addition, majority of the respondents have formal education, with 30.9% of them having completed secondary school, while 59.1% of the respondents were married. Furthermore, majority of the respondents (73.6%) took artisanal fishing as their main source of livelihood. The fishing systems employed by the artisanal fisherfolk included the use of canoes and motorized boats with those using canoes dominating (80.9%). This data already revealed that 73.6% of the respondents are into artisanal fishing for job creation which have reduced migration to urban cities and increase economic activities in their communities, thereby providing skilled and unskilled jobs and foreign exchange for the country while reducing youthful restiveness and anti-social activities. Young entrepreneurs have seen this opportunity, as seen in the result of this study, and are taking it up as a viable business. However, the study revealed that the fisherfolks in the study area usually lack basic social amenities and employ the most traditional gears and crafts in the fishing activity, and therefore, there is need for government to intervene and provide the most basic social amenities like roads and electricity to the communities.

Sustainable Prioritization of Public Asphalt Paved Road Maintenance

The development of transportation infrastructure is crucial for a country's progress as it enables access to social and economic amenities and acts as a vital link between production and consumption. This is particularly significant for landlocked nations like Zambia, which heavily rely on a wide network of public highways, including both paved and unsurfaced roads. Regardless of their quality and construction, all road surfaces degrade over time due to the combined effects of traffic load and environmental factors. If not properly managed, this can lead to costly repairs and rehabilitation efforts. Government organizations face a dilemma when deciding which public roads to prioritize for maintenance. This follows that the inherent hurdle is competing needs within limited finances for infrastructure development. However, the challenge of road maintenance prioritization can be addressed by adopting a multi-criteria approach. This study aims to address the issue of sustainability and provides insights into which public roads should be given priority for maintenance. The research proposes a comprehensive set of criteria focusing on sustainability and assigns relative importance to them, with emphasis on state of deterioration, emergency function, climate resilience, environment, strategic importance, social considerations, economic factors, and political importance. It suggests that road maintenance decision-making should prioritize sustainability, resilience, and societal well-being, challenging traditional assumptions.