Zambia Research Articles

A Critical Appraisal of the Law Protecting Persons with Mental Health Conditions in Zambia

Mental health is widely recognised as an important part of the proper functioning of an individual and contributes to the overall well-being of a person. A human rights based approach states that all members of society should be catered for in the eyes of the law and have equal access to justice. However, there is not much importance placed on mental health in the Republic of Zambia and there is a lot of discrimination against persons with mental conditions. The aim of this research is to critically appraise the Mental Health Act of 2019 and hereafter educate the public on mental health. Inaddition, the research seeks to investigate how Zambia has dealt with mental health, analyse the improvements made in the Mental Health Act, 2019, and make proposals for solutions to the shortcomings identified in how the provisions of the law are carried out. This research was essentially desktop based and reviewed statutes. The desk review involved the qualitative analysis of the provisions of the Mental Health Act in determining its significance. Analysis of books, articles, and other various online sources was also used to collect the information contained in this research. The findings revealed that the legislation on mental health in Zambia is progressive but lacks practicality. There are no workable guidelines, either legislative or judicial, which accommodate persons living with varying degrees of mental challenges. Arising out of this analysis it is recommended that the Mental Health Act should be amended to include in-depth definitions of the major conditions that could affect members of the public and incorporate mental health services in existing health establishments to increase access to these facilities by people with mental health difficulties.

Seasonal Maize yield forecasting in South and East African Countries using hybrid Earth observation models

Climate change still adversely affects agriculture in the sub-Saharan Africa. There is need to strengthen early action to bolster livelihoods and food security. Most governments use pre- and post-harvest field surveys to capture statistics for National Food Balance Sheets (NFBS) key in food policy and economic planning. These surveys, though accurate, are costly, time consuming, and may not offer rapid yield estimates to support governments, emergency organizations, and related stakeholders to take advanced strategic decisions in the face of climate change. To help governments in Kenya (KEN), Zambia (ZMB), and Malawi (MWI) adopt digitally advanced maize yield forecasts, we developed a hybrid model based on the Regional Hydrologic Extremes Assessment System (RHEAS) and machine learning. The framework is set-up to use weather data (precipitation, temperature, and wind), simulations from RHEAS model (soil total moisture, soil temperature, solar radiation, surface temperature, net transpiration from vegetation, net evapotranspiration, and root zone soil moisture), simulations from DSSAT (leaf area index and water stress), and MODIS vegetation indices. Random Forest (RF) machine learning model emerged as the best hybrid setup for unit maize yield forecasts per administrative boundary scoring the lowest unbiased Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.16 MT/ha, 0.18 MT/ha, and 0.20 MT/ha in Malawi's Karonga district, Kenya's Homa Bay county, and Zambia's Senanga district respectively. According to relative RMSE, RF outperformed other hybrid models attaining the lowest score in all countries (ZMB: 25.96%, MWI: 28.97%, and KEN: 27.54%) followed by support vector machines (ZMB: 26.92%, MWI: 31.14%, and KEN: 29.50%), and linear regression (ZMB: 29.44%, MWI: 31.76%, and KEN: 47.00%). Lastly, the integration of VI and RHEAS information using hybrid models improved yield prediction. This information is useful for NFBS bulletins forecasts, design and certification of maize insurance contracts, and estimation of loss and damage in the advent of climate justice.

Ghost Fishing Threatens Biodiversity in an African Great Lake

We conducted an investigation into ghost fishing, a phenomenon in which abandoned fishing equipment remains operational for extended durations, in the southern region of Lake Tanganyika, Republic of Zambia. The perils associated with ghost fishing have achieved international recognition; however, there exists a conspicuous dearth of scholarly investigations in particular regions, notably inland aquatic environments and developing countries. Employing scuba diving for field observations, we discovered that ghost fishing was solely evident in monofilament nylon nets, despite the presence of four different net types in the littoral area of the lake. Notably, endemic crabs Platythelphusa armata and P. maculata from Lake Tanganyika constituted 65.2% of the organisms captured by abandoned nets, with the remainder comprising various fish species. The number of captured organisms exhibited a dependence on the interplay between the length and mesh size of the abandoned nets, indicating that the risk of ghost fishing is heightened when both net and mesh size are substantial. Furthermore, we encountered predatory Spiny Eels Mastacembelus moorii ensnared in nets around their jaws and teeth. Intriguingly, the digestive tract of one of the Spiny Eels contained a partially digested cichlid species entangled in the same nets, strongly suggesting the occurrence of secondary ghost fishing.

Evaluation of the Factors Affecting Mobile Money Operators’ Credit Access: A Case Study of Lusaka Central Business District.

Background: The government of the Republic of Zambia had long emphasized the significance of fostering economic growth through enhanced access to financial services. However, the persistent issue of income inequality and sluggish economic expansion underscored the need for targeted interventions. In response, the emergence of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in the financial sector, offering a diverse range of services including credit access, represented a concerted effort to address these challenges. Despite these advancements, a comprehensive understanding of the determinants of MNOs' credit access remained lacking, particularly in the specific context of the Lusaka central business district. Consequently, the primary purpose of this study was to rigorously evaluate the various factors that influenced mobile money operators' access to credit within the Lusaka central business district of Zambia. Method: This research employed a case study research design to investigate the factors that influenced credit access for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in the Lusaka central business district. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The study's sample consisted of 125 MNOs, which were selected through a combination of simple random sampling and purposive sampling to ensure a representative cohort of respondents. This approach facilitated a holistic exploration of the various factors that impacted credit access among MNOs. Results: The study's findings highlight several key determinants of credit access among mobile money operators. Demographic factors, such as age, emerge as influential, with youths aged 20-34 demonstrating both technical proficiency and a better grasp of credit information. Education levels also prove to be correlated with mobile money service operation, as respondents with higher education levels exhibit greater ease in accessing and understanding mobile money credit services. Network availability emerges as a pivotal factor driving the adoption of mobile money services. However, a notable proportion of respondents expressed challenges in accessing credit through mobile networks. Trust and security concerns are identified as significant barriers deterring potential users from engaging with mobile money services. Conclusion: In light of the study's findings, it is recommended that comprehensive awareness programs be implemented within central business district schools. These programs aim to equip budding entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills necessary for responsible engagement with mobile money services. By targeting the youth demographic, these initiatives seek to instil soundfinancial habits from an early age, thereby contributing to improved financial access, reduced income inequality, and enhanced economic growth in the Republic of Zambia.

Grids and Datums Update: Republic of Zambia

Grids and Datums Update: Republic of Zambia

A Critical Review of Economic Policy Responses to the Covid-19 Pandemic: The Case of Zambia

The aim of this paper is to systematically review the economic interventions, measures, and policies that Zambia has implemented in the last four (4) years as a response to COVID 19. The methodology used involved drawing together secondary literature and evidence from a number of sources such as the World Bank (WB), UNCTAD, COMESA, International Monetary Fund, Ministry of Finance, Bank of Zambia (BOZ), and various African countries’ trade and national statistics publications. Findings revealed that organizations in Zambia implemented the global and national health Covid-19 guidelines that were provided by institutions such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Ministry of Health. The focus of this study was to assess the economic interventions and policy measures put in place as a response to COVID-19. Some of the social implications observed in the study included increased social cash transfers and stimulus packages that resulted in decreased chances of poverty. The Economic interventions included monetary policy rates favourable for the economy and tax reliefs. Fiscal and monetary interventions included the issuance of the COVID-19 bond, and the promotion of local agricultural produce to meet demand and trade restrictions. It is clear from the study that the economic interventions that Zambia undertook stemmed from a social, fiscal, monetary, and economic perspective and had effects in each of these areas. The aim of all the interventions was to stabilize the economy and ensure that the welfare of the population did not deteriorate. The study recommends that further work be done analyzing the impacts of these interventions with more data and that the Government continues on its path of protecting the economy from external shocks such as COVID-19.

Erratum: An analysis of the effects of equalisation funds on service delivery in selected local authorities in Zambia

No abstract available.

Circulating Micro particles: a Risk Factorfor Recurrent Abortion in Women at theUniversity Teaching Hospital, Lusaka,Zambia

Background: Circulating micro particles are minute particles associated with prothrombotic nature found to be increased in the uteroplacental circulation in pregnancy, as such micro particles may be directly or indirectly associated with pregnancy loss. With abortion cases accounting for approximately 80% of cases at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology emergency ward at The University Teaching Hospital, this study aimed to determine if circulating micro particles are associated with the risk of recurrent abortion. Methods: A case-control study enrolled 18 women with two or more recurrent abortions and 55 parous women as controls. After counselling performed by a trained mid-wife, a blood sample was collected in a citrated container and platelet poor plasma isolated. Micro particles were measured by flow cytometry using fluorescent annexin V-fluorescence isothiocyanate conjugate. Results: Increased micro particle levels was defined as more than 2 standard deviation above the mean of controls. The mean found was 202/μl in 4 of the 18 women with recurrent abortions (22%), as opposed to 2 of the 55 parous women (4%), t(20)=2.49, P=0.022, 95% CI 182.20-16.09. Conclusions: The increased micro particles levels in women with recurrent abortions supports emerging evidence that micro particles have a role to play in abortion.

ROLE OF CAREER GUIDANCE IN THE PREPARATION OF SECONDARY SCHOOL PUPILS FOR TERTIARY EDUCATION IN LUANSHYA DISTRICT, ZAMBIA

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of career guidance in the preparation of secondary school pupils for tertiary education in Luanshya district, Zambia. A descriptive research design supported by qualitative and quantitative approaches were used. A total of 56 questionnaires were distributed to head teachers and career guidance teachers at 12 schools in Luanshya District. Out of which a total of 51 were returned, with 5 not being returned by head teachers amongst the twelve schools used in the study. The questionnaire contained closed and a few open-ended questions which were scaled with a Likert scale and were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The qualitative questions were analyzed thematically, emerging themes were coded and descriptively presented thereafter. Quantitative responses were analyzed through quantitative method involving coding and analyzing using charts, frequencies and percentages through a computer program referred to as Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS version 22). The study revealed that, although career guidance has a significant positive role to play in the preparation of secondary school pupils for tertiary education, findings obtained from the study have revealed that career guidance was aimed preparing secondary school pupils for tertiary education although had a number of challenges. The number of pupils currently using these services on a weekly basis was very low, and the resources needed in the provision of these services are also lacking. Nevertheless, in spite of these hurdles being faced by the career guidance departments in the schools, there have been significant improvements in preparation of students for tertiary education. These significant improvements were in terms of behaviour; reduced pregnancy rates and improved academic performance, a major positive and a stepping stone for encouraging more pupils to utilise these services and enter tertiary education. The study recommended that head teachers ensure all teachers participate in spearheading campaign and information sharing on career guidance. Collaboration among teachers, career guidance teachers and counsellor in tertiary education should take pace, in order to easily identify pupils who faced challenges. Lastly, government of Zambia through the Ministry of General Education ensure that they equip schools with the requisite resources needed in order for the career guidance departments to operate in accordance with the expectations. Article visualizations:

Opportunities and Challenges in Using Information from Zambia’s Government Monitoring and Evaluation System

To ascertain the opportunities and challenges in using information from Zambia’s whole-of-government monitoring and evaluation system (WoGM&ES) was the main aim of this research study. The study is premised on the conviction that the acquisition and use of information from M&E is what lacks in key development decision- and policy- making development processes. Thus, the Zambian government would do well to strengthen the M&E function and improve its culture of using results across the public sector. The research approach taken was investigatory and descriptive. Two analysis tools were employed for data collection, collation, discussion, drawing of conclusions and recommendations as well as presentation—a diagnostic tool and the LEADS scoring system. While Zambia’s public sector system for M&E was in place, it was found to be weak in many ways. Efforts to improve the system were acknowledged by several stakeholders but clearly, the M&E gaps still left much to be desired if the country’s use of evidence to inform development processes was to match expected local and global standards. Using results from the diagnostic checklist and the LEADS scoring system, useful insights critical to assist the Government of Zambia and other stakeholders have been identified and espoused. Thus, national and decentralised level-government structures, civil society, parliament, academia, donors and other key stakeholders have been identified to be crucial partners towards enhancing the demand and use of information from M&E within and outside government. Collaborations by these stakeholders will lead to a strengthened WoGM&ES for Zambia’s public sector.

Correction: Acceptability of a trial of vaginal progesterone for the prevention of preterm birth among HIV-infected women in Lusaka, Zambia: A mixed methods study

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238748.].

FORMATIVE AND SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT PRACTICES BY TEACHERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTRES IN LUSAKA, ZAMBIA

The paper discusses formative and summative assessment practices by teachers in ECE Centres in Lusaka, Zambia. The study used a mixed methods design by utilizing a concurrent triangulation design which enabled the researchers to converge quantitative and qualitative data. In addition, the design helped to confirm and cross-validate the study findings. Qualitative data was prioritised over quantitative data. Probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used to sample one hundred and two (102) teachers, ten (10) head teachers and one hundred and twenty-five (125) parents. Questionnaires were used to gather data from teachers and parents, Focus Group Discussion Guides (FGDs) were used to interview teachers whilst Interview guides were used to interview head teachers. A Documentary Analysis Guide and an Observational Checklist were used by the researcher to obtain additional data on assessment practices by teachers from a documentary and observational point of view. Descriptive statistics were computed to analyse quantitative data whilst thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data using a framework approach of qualitative data analysis. Results revealed that the most predominantly implemented summative assessments in ECE Centres were mid-term tests and end of term tests. Teachers also used formative assessments such as homework, oral questioning, collection of samples, portfolios and interview guides. However, teachers failed to adhere to the actual norms of formative assessment such as tracking of individual children’s development, learning needs and achievements so as to adapt instruction accordingly. Consequently, the assessment results were often compromised. Finally, the study recommends that Ministry of General Education should conduct capacity building training programmes for teachers on formative and summative assessment practices in ECE to ensure effective implementation of both formative and summative assessment in ECE Centres. Article visualizations:

Privatisation of State Owned Enterprises in Zambia: Winners and Losers

The performance of enterprises is important to the success of an economy. Privatisation has come to be viewed as the means through which development can be achieved. Nevertheless, scholars note that privatisation always has winners and losers. Therefore, there is a need to ensure that the majority come out on the winning side. This study determined the winners and losers from privatisation in Zambia. The study employed the Marxist theory of political economy which posits that privatisation benefits private investors and the state at the expense of workers and the general public. The study employed a qualitative approach using both primary and secondary data. Primary data came from interviews held with relevant officials while secondary data was sourced from published documents on privatisation. Data was analysed through thematic and document analysis, respectively. The study uncovered that until the early 1990s, Zambia had a socialist economy dominated by parastatals across all sectors. Privatisation in the country was pushed for by foreign interests through the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. The two institutions ordered the country to divest its parastatals as a condition for debt relief and further funding. Consequently, the country divested 265 enterprises, leaving only 30 parastatals. The state’s three branches were reconfigured to serve the interests of private firms. As expected by Marxists, private investors and the state emerged as winners while workers and the general public lost. Private investors made huge profits by barely paying any taxes while being shielded from major legal issues. The state in turn earned huge sums of money from the divesture and passed on responsibility for the provision of most goods and services. In contrast, thousands of employees lost jobs. Those who remained employed endured deteriorating working conditions. Citizens were overtaxed, lost access to social amenities, failed to compete with foreign investments and suffered health complications from industrial pollution. The study thus concludes that Zambia’s privatisation had more losers than winners.

Zambia – Demonstrators Killed

Zambia – Demonstrators Killed

Nursing as a Calling in Zambia.

Nursing as a Calling in Zambia.

Manufacturing in Africa: an example from Zambia

Manufacturing in Africa: an example from Zambia

Manufacturing in Africa: an example from Zambia

Manufacturing in Africa: an example from Zambia

Study on the Actual Management of Irrigation on Small-Scale Irrigation Development Site in Northern Area in the Republic of Zambia

Study on the Actual Management of Irrigation on Small-Scale Irrigation Development Site in Northern Area in the Republic of Zambia

Zambia – Amendment Bid Fails

Zambia – Amendment Bid Fails

A Comparative Report on Health and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Malawi, Tanzania and Zambia

A Comparative Report on Health and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Malawi, Tanzania and Zambia