Ounongo Repository
The Ounongo Repository (OR) is the institutional repository of Namibia University of Science and Technology. Ounongo means "knowledge. in the Oshiwambo and Otjiherero languages. The OR is administered by the Library, with technical assistance from DICT, and its aim is to collect, organize, manage, store, preserve, publish and make accessible worldwide, the knowledge assets or intellectual output of the University's researchers, staff and post-graduate students. Users may set up RSS feeds to be alerted to new content.
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Recent Submissions
Plant influences on taxonomic and functional diversity of soil microbial communities and soil biogeochemistry in a hyper-arid desert
(Namibia Univerty of Science and Technology, 2024-11) Nghalipo, Elise Ndatulumukwa Ndahafa
Dryland ecosystems are characterised by extreme environmental conditions, including large temperature fluxes, infrequent and highly variable rainfall patterns, and soil deficiency in organic matter. Consequently, vegetation in these regions is sparse and unevenly distributed, which creates unique microhabitats that harbor distinct microbial assemblages. In hyper-arid desert ecosystems, vegetation plays a pivotal role in shaping the taxonomic and functional diversity of soil microbial communities, thereby influencing soil biogeochemical processes. Generally, vegetation can play a significant role in regulating the temporal and spatial variation of soil microbial activities within the vegetation canopy by influencing various abiotic factors, such as soil moisture, solar radiation and temperature fluctuations, therefore creating specific niches that support diverse microbial communities. While previous studies have investigated soil microbiomes in the Namib Desert, these studies primarily focused on the central gravel plains, leaving the Skeleton Coast National Park, part of the northern Namib Desert, largely unexplored; thus, there is limited understanding of the soil microbiomes in this hyper-arid coastal region. This thesis aimed to provide insights into the influence of vegetation on the taxonomic and functional diversity of soil microbial communities and the associated biogeochemical processes by amplicon-based analyses and litterbag techniques, respectively, in this hyper-arid desert. Chapter 2: Total environmental DNA was extracted to evaluate the microbial communities associated with plant hummocks in the Skeleton Coast National Park. The V3-V4 region of the bacterial (and archaeal) 16S rRNA gene and the ITS-1 and ITS-2 regions of the fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rRNA regions were amplified and sequenced to assess bacterial and fungal communities associated with plant hummocks and determine how soil microbial communities compare between plant hummock soils and bare soils (unvegetated: windward slope and gravel plain). The findings revealed that vegetated hummocks and their surrounding soils of the Skeleton Coast National Park possess qualitatively distinct soil microbiomes. Notably, vegetated hummock soils harbored a significantly higher number of observed species relative to bare soils. This suggests that vegetation plays a crucial role in enhancing microbial diversity in this hyper-arid environment. Such diversity is vital, as soil 2 microbial communities are integral to ecosystem functions, including nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Chapter 3: The functional capacity of bacterial communities was predicted based on whole-shotgun metagenomic datasets to evaluate the microbial functional potential in three sampling locations: vegetated hummock, unvegetated windward slope, and gravel plains. Additionally, these datasets were used to investigate metabolic strategies that underlie the ability of these soil microbes to thrive and perform ecosystem functions in this hyper-arid ecosystem. The metagenomic analyses identified functions related to carbon fixation, carbon degradation, ammonium oxidation, methane metabolism, and sulfur assimilation. Vegetated hummock soils had higher enrichment of functional capacity relative to bare soils, suggesting that vegetation patches significantly influence microbial functional potential. Moreover, diverse taxa with the potential to utilise unique metabolic strategies were identified, enabling them to thrive and perform essential ecosystem functions in this hyper-arid ecosystem. For instance, the detection of marker genes such as NiFe hydrogenase Hyd-1 and norBC suggests metabolic pathways involved in atmospheric hydrogen oxidation to fix CO₂ and adaptations to environmental stress in hyper-arid environments. Chapter 4: The study employed the litterbag technique to evaluate the influence of vegetation patches on litter decomposition rates. It compared the decomposition of two contrasting litter types (shrub and grass) under both vegetated and unvegetated patches. Additionally, the study examined how litter chemical composition, including nitrogen and carbon content, as well as the C: N ratio, affects decomposition rates. The results indicated that litter decayed more rapidly in unvegetated patches than in vegetated ones, with shrub litterbags retaining less mass than grass litterbags, regardless of the patch type. Moreover, shrub litter, which had higher nitrogen content, lower carbon and a lower C: N ratio than grass litter, decomposed at a faster rate. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms driving litter decay rates in drylands, which are crucial for predicting litter decay in hyper-arid ecosystems. This work highlights that vegetation in hyper-arid deserts is a key determinant of soil microbial diversity and function. Through its influence on microbial communities, vegetation drives 3 essential biogeochemical processes that sustain ecosystem productivity. Understanding the interactions between vegetation and soil microbes in these ecosystems is essential for comprehending biogeochemistry and the functioning and dynamics of dryland ecosystems. Findings from this study contribute to the literature on how hyper-arid deserts such as the Namib Desert are microbially mediated and how the various edaphic communities adapt to extreme conditions in these regions. Furthermore, this study enhances our understanding of how different decomposition mechanisms influence litter decay rates and will ultimately aid in predicting litter decay rates in hyper-arid ecosystems.
Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum [L.] R. Br.) Water Use Efficiency and Productivity in Semi-Arid Conditions of Namibia
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2025-08) Moseki, Ofentse
Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is a C4 crop that is well adapted to semi-arid climates and is
a staple food in Namibia. However, declining yields due to climate variability and changes have raised
concerns regarding its sustainability and its ability to drive food security. In this study, the responses of
two local pearl millet cultivars, Kangara and Okashana 2, to different water regimes (100%, 75%, and 50%
crop evapotranspiration [ETc]) at the Mannheim Crop Research Station, Tsumeb, Namibia, during the
2023 and 2024 cropping seasons were investigated. A split-plot factorial design was employed to assess
morpho-physiological, yield, nutritional responses and water use efficiency (WUE) of pearl millet.
Additionally, the projected climatic conditions were used to estimate pearl millet yield and water
productivity under various climate change and planting date scenarios. Water stress significantly affected
plant height, leaf number, tillering, chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, leaf temperature, panicle
traits, biomass, grain yield, and 1000-seed weight (p < 0.001). The 50% ETc regime significantly reduced
the growth and yield parameters, whereas the 75% ETc regime maintained acceptable productivity,
suggesting that it is an optimal irrigation strategy under water-limited conditions. Biomass yield (BY)
varied between 5.54 and 1.14 tons/ha in Season 1 and between 3.81 and 1.50 tons/ha in Season 2, while
grain yield (GY) ranged from 1.23 to 0.38 tons/ha in Season 1 and from 1.02 to 0.58 tons/ha in Season 2.
The highest yields were observed at 100% ETc, with a decline under increasing water stress. Okashana 2
exhibited a significantly higher harvest index under 50% ETc (p = 0.003), suggesting its ability to allocate
resources effectively under water stress. WUE for BY varied from 0.78 to 1.74 kg. ha/m³, whereas that of
GY ranged from 0.28 to 0.47 kg. ha/m³, with strong positive correlations between GY and BY (r = 0.88, p ≤
0.01), and between WUE-GY and GY (r = 0.80, p ≤ 0.01). The nutritional composition was minimally
influenced by water stress. Although the moisture content remained unaffected in the first season,
significant differences were observed in the second season (p < 0.001), with the highest levels at 75% ETc
(6.63%) and the lowest at 50% ETc (2.10%). In the second season, the fat content varied significantly (p <
0.001), with the highest content at 50% ETc (4.99%) and the lowest at 100% ETc (2.11%). Several mineral
elements, including acid detergent fiber, calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron (Fe), were
significantly affected by irrigation regimes (p < 0.05), with the highest Fe (76.61 mg/kg) recorded at 50%
2
ETc. Principal component analysis revealed distinct correlations under different water regimes,
highlighting the nutritional resilience of pearl millet.
To assess future climatic effects, the AquaCrop model was used under historical (1995–2014) and
projected (2020–2059) climate scenarios for two planting dates (15 December and 15 January). Future
projections indicate a decline in rainfall, rising temperatures, and higher reference evapotranspiration
(ETo). Water productivity is projected to decline by 22-35%, with dry yields decreasing from 0.94 to 0.81
tons per hectare in December and from 1.83 to 1.21 tons per hectare in January between 2020 and 2039.
The 15th of January is recommended as the planting date to maintain crop yield under future climate
conditions. These findings underscore the importance of optimising irrigation and planting strategies to
enhance pearl millet production and resilience under water-limited conditions. Therefore, this study
recommends adopting water-saving strategies such as deficit irrigation management to ensure the
sustainability and production of pearl millet, thereby promoting food security in water-scarce
environments. This study contributes to the scientific understanding of how water use and pearl millet
performance are affected by moisture levels. In addition, this study contributes to the development of
climate-resilient cropping systems suitable for dryland agriculture in Southern Africa.
Effect of agricultural financial credit on investment and productivity in Namibia
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2025-04) Amaambo, Paulus Mekondjo
Adequate access to farming resources such as credit enhance agricultural productivity and investment. However, the lack of it characterises the agricultural landscape of most developing nations. The study investigates the effect of credit on investment and productivity. Factors that enhance access to credit and determinants of loan default were assessed. Further, the study investigates the credit-investment-agricultural productivity nexus and their causal relationship in the study area.
A sample of 242 farmers across the country was used for the study. A semi-structured questionnaire was designed and administered to the farmers. In addition, an online link was created and shared with the farmers' unions, at livestock auctions, and with individual farmers throughout the country. The logistic regression model, multinomial regression, and simultaneous equation model were used to analyse the data. The descriptive statistics indicate a gender imbalance in access to credit. Farmers with tertiary education have a higher rate of credit access compared to farmers without tertiary education. The regions of Zambezi and Omusati have the most farmers without access to credit. Those with credit access have more land and livestock and make more investments. The repayment rate for long-term loans is higher than that for short- and medium-term loans. However, there has been an increase in loan defaults among farmers with short- and medium-term loans. The logit model shows that farm size, farm income, farm yield, herd size, number of investments, and tertiary education enhance credit access. In terms of default, the multinomial model shows that income from farming, farm size, and the number of acquired loans increased the probability of farmers defaulting. The simultaneous equation model results show that there is a bidirectional causality between investment and credit while investment and productivity reveal inconclusive results.
The study recommends that farmers should be provided with credit to enable them to purchase land for maximum farm income. Farm investment must be promoted as it enhances productivity, which in turn increases farm inputs. To minimise default, lenders should consider the magnitude of loans issued to farmers based on farm income and farm size. One of the limitations of the study is that most farmers do not keep farm records. Therefore, some vital financial information was not provided.
Cervical Cancer Prevention in Rural Namibia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Community Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Ohangwena and Kavango West.
(International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR), 2025-06-28) Ndakukamo, Elizabeth Kaleinasho.; Mahalie, Roswitha.; Hailonga-Van Dijk, Panduleni.
Background: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally. In Namibia, cervical cancer often goes undetected despite its prevention through early detection. Women in rural areas face barriers to screening due to limited access to preventive services, inadequate knowledge, and cultural stigmas, leading to high morbidity and mortality.
Objective: The study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer prevention among the community of the Ohangwena and Kavango West regions in Namibia.
Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted in various health facilities across these regions. Using purposeful sampling, 228 respondents aged 18-59 participated. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed with SPSS version 29. Results: The findings reveal a moderate level of knowledge of cervical cancer but limited awareness about human papillomavirus, with respondents generally showing a positive attitude toward prevention. However, respondents demonstrated poor screening practices.
Conclusion: While the knowledge of cervical cancer is relatively high, significant gaps remain in knowledge regarding human papillomavirus. Positive attitudes towards cervical cancer screening are uplifting. However, structural and cultural barriers impede preventive practices.
Unique Contribution: This study provides localised evidence on cervical cancer prevention by examining the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of rural communities in Ohangwena and Kavango West, Namibia. It adds to the limited research on rural populations and identifies key cultural, informational, and systemic barriers to effective prevention. The findings offer a foundation for context-specific interventions and informed public health efforts to improve community engagement in screening and human papillomavirus awareness.
Key Recommendation: The findings indicate the potential value of implementing community-based education initiatives that emphasise awareness and the importance of regular screening. Furthermore, integrating cervical cancer education into routine primary healthcare services and school health programmes may support efforts to address existing knowledge gaps and promote early prevention practices within rural settings.
Community-based elderly care approaches implemented in low and middle-income countries: A scoping review.
(Research Journal of Health Sciences, 2025-04-30) Haufiku-Weyulu, Mouyelele.; Mahalie,Roswitha.; Aku-Akai, Larai.
Introduction: Globally, the average lifespan has become prolonged in recent years. Strong community-based care services (CBCS) are imperative to maintain the health of older persons when family care falls short. Data on the health and care of older persons in low—and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Namibia are scarce. The review aimed to map the available evidence on CBC approaches implemented in LMICs. Methodology: The review followed the 2022 Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) manual for Evidence Synthesis. Rayyan cloud-based software was used to organize, manage, and remove duplicates. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) were utilized to convey the review's results. Results: The final analysis included 22 articles. Households with older people need extra income to maintain a similar living standard to those without. LMICs face challenges in building comprehensive and sustainable frameworks to support the older population, struggle to provide adequate pensions, have a significant shortage of skilled geriatrics, and rely on informal caregivers as care homes and primary health care systems are insufficient. Conclusion: As the challenge of population aging intensifies, strengthening CBC approaches is essential, given that most older persons prefer to age at home rather than in facilities