Ounongo Repository

Ounongo means “knowledge” in the Oshiwambo and Otjiherero languages.

The Ounongo Repository (OR) is the institutional repository of Namibia University of Science and Technology.

The OR is administered by the Library, with technical assistance from DTBS, 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.

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Recent Submissions

Developing clinical criteria for aeromedical inter-facility transfers of adult trauma patients in Namibia
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2025-12) Veldskoen, Salome
Introduction: Trauma is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in Namibia. The country’s vast distances, centralised specialist care and constrained resources make aeromedical Interfacility Transfers (IFTs) essential for timely access to definitive trauma care. There are, however, no standardised clinical criteria to guide practitioners with decision-making regarding the initiation of aeromedical IFT for adult trauma patients. This study aimed to develop context-specific clinical criteria for aeromedical IFT of adult trauma patients in Namibia using a systematic, consensus-based approach driven by evidence. The specific objectives were to conduct a comprehensive scoping review of literature on aeromedical IFTs of adult trauma patients to develop a clinical criteria framework to elicit expert opinion, to utilise expert opinion to obtain consensus on the components of the clinical criteria and to construct clinical criteria for aeromedical IFTs in Namibia for distribution to relevant stakeholders to implement. Methods: A scoping review of literature was conducted to elicit a framework of clinical criteria relevant to aeromedical IFTs of adult trauma patients. This framework was further refined through the stewardship of an appointed steering committee (SC). The SC completed a pilot survey to further refine the framework. The next phase of the study was informed by the framework and involved a structured consensus-building process through a modified Delphi, which entailed anonymous voting on criteria using a Likert Scale, receiving feedback on results from previous rounds and further consideration of subsequent rounds. Expert Panellists (EPs) opinions were elicited throughout the Delphi rounds to establish consensus on essential clinical criteria for the consideration of aeromedical IFTs of adult trauma patients in the Namibian setting. The final phase utilised the consensus-derived criteria to construct a Clinical Decision Support Tool (CDST), suggested for evaluation, validation, and then implementation into the National Referral Policy to support consistent, evidence-based decision making for aeromedical IFTs of adult trauma patients in Namibia. Results: The scoping review identified eight thematic areas from a broad scope of literature. Regional dominance was noted in the literature, with most studies originating from developed countries, particularly the United States of America, albeit being retrospective studies. The Steering Committee members were from both the public and private sectors, in-hospital and prehospital settings, ensuring a balanced representation whilst ensuring contextual relevance. There were two Delphi rounds conducted: expert participation dropped from 29 in the first round to 14 in the second round. However, consensus on 28 out of 32 clinical criteria statements was achieved. The consensus-based clinical criteria informed the final CDST, thus reflecting locally adapted, evidence-based clinical criteria for aeromedical IFT of adult trauma patients in Namibia. vi Conclusions and Recommendations: The study demonstrates the structured, sequential phase approach of integrating evidence synthesis and expert consensus as effective in standardised clinical criteria development for aeromedical IFTs of adult trauma patients in a setting with limited resources. The CDST offers a practical context-specific decision tool aimed at improving decision-making consistency, optimising aeromedical resources and timely access to the advanced Namibian trauma care system. It is recommended that the CDST be evaluated for suitability and, thereafter, considered for adoption into the National Referral Policy and emergency frameworks in both the public and private sectors, under the tutelage of the Ministry of Health and Social Services. Prospective studies are, however, needed to confirm the validity of the CDST in real-world practice, evaluating its efficiency and direct impact on patient outcomes. Continuous refinement of the CDST is essential in the evolving Namibian trauma care system.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of primary healthcare nurses on motor development in children aged 0-24 months in Khomas region, Namibia.
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2025-11) Buys, Zenra Lynn
Primary healthcare (PHC) nurses play a critical role in monitoring motor development which is a vital aspect of overall child growth and an important indicator for detecting developmental impairments. Early identification of atypical motor patterns facilitates timely intervention, reducing the long-term effects of childhood disabilities. This study therefore aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of Namibian PHC nurses on motor development monitoring to support early detection and align local practices with international standards of care. In total, forty-five (45) PHC nurses participated in this mixed-methods study. The research followed an exploratory sequential design, commencing with a qualitative phase in which ten (10) in-depth interviews were conducted with chief nurses at each facility using a structured interview guide. Findings from the qualitative phase informed the development of the quantitative instrument. Thirty-five (35) PHC nurses responded to the questionnaire developed for the quantitative data collection phase. PHC nurses completed a structured questionnaire to further explore and quantify the identified themes. This process provided information on the structure and routine operations of the facility and further provided an overview of the existing opportunities to develop knowledge, observed attitudes and current practices employed within the facility. Quantitative results indicated moderate knowledge levels (mean score 58.1%) and highly positive attitudes toward developmental monitoring (mean 8.66/10). Although most participants (88.6%) routinely assessed motor milestones during immunisation visits, only 54.3% were familiar with validated screening tools, suggesting inconsistencies in practice quality. No significant relationships were observed between knowledge, attitudes, and practices (Spearman correlation). Similarly, qualitative findings echoed the same trends as quantitative results, revealing a potentially strong professional commitment but highlighting barriers such as inadequate training, lack of standardised tools and inconsistent referral systems. The study concluded that PHC nurses in Namibia display positive attitudes and moderate knowledge of motor development monitoring, yet limited use of standardised tools and inconsistent practices hinder effective implementation. Strengthening developmental surveillance requires targeted in-service training, adoption of vi standardised assessment protocols and improved referral systems to enhance early identification and intervention for developmental delays.
Epidemiology and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Polytraumatised Patients Involved in Road Traffic Accidents in Namibia.
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2025-12) Munkanda, Hertlinda
Introduction: Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) are a leading cause of death and disability among children and young adults aged 5–29 years, with many Low- and Middle-income Countries (LMICs) bearing a disproportionate burden. Polytrauma, defined as an Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 15, carries significant clinical and socioeconomic consequences, yet the epidemiology and long-term outcomes of polytrauma remain underexplored in Namibia. This study examined the prevalence and epidemiological profile of persons aged 5–29 years with polytrauma (ISS ≥ 15) involved in RTAs in Namibia from 2019 to 2022 and assessed patient-reported outcomes (Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL)) following RTA-related polytrauma. Methods: A dual-phase design was employed. Phase 1 involved a retrospective review of cases drawn from the MVA Fund database. Cases meeting the inclusion criteria were RTA victims aged 5–29 years who sustained polytrauma (ISS ≥15) between 2019 and 2022 and completed the six-month rehabilitation milestone, regardless of survival status. Data on injury severity, crash type, transport mode, and demographics were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Phase 2 consisted of a cross-sectional survey of survivors from the cohort which met the Phase 1 inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the EQ-5D-5L instrument, supplemented by a demographic data form, to capture participants' characteristics and HRQoL across five domains: mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression. Survivors were recruited through convenience sampling for telephonic interviews, with proxy consent obtained for minors. All data were anonymised, validated and archived in accordance with institutional protocols, and ethical approval was obtained before implementation. Results: For Phase 1, 150 cases (26.0%) sustained polytrauma among the 559 RTA patients reviewed. The majority were male (62.7%), with prevalence highest in the 25-29 year age group. Regional distribution showed Khomas (22.7%) and Otjozondjupa (21.3%) contributing the largest proportions of cases. Ambulance services were the predominant mode of transport (75.3%), though notable regional disparities in emergency response were observed. The linear regression analysis revealed that head/neck and extremity injuries were most frequent, while thoracic and abdominal injuries emerged as the strongest predictors of trauma severity. Rollover (42.0%) and pedestrian vehicle accidents (23.3%) were identified as significant contributors to higher ISS scores. vi During phase 2, 90 survivors (60% of eligible cases) participated in the survey. Socioeconomic data indicated high unemployment (31.1%) and low educational attainment (42.2% less than high school) among participants. EQ-5D-5L responses showed moderate self-rated health (EQ-VAS mean, 69.9), with pain/discomfort (82.0%, slight to extreme) and anxiety/depression (56.6%, slight to extreme) as the most affected domains. Pearson's correlation analysis demonstrated that greater functional limitations were associated with lower EQ-VAS scores. Multiple linear regression further indicated that demographic and clinical variables did not significantly predict HRQoL outcomes, highlighting the role of contextual and social factors in shaping recovery trajectories. Conclusion: This thesis integrates clinical severity scoring with patient-reported HRQol outcomes in Namibia, demonstrating that recovery following an RTA is shaped less by anatomical injury patterns than by socioeconomic vulnerability. While thoracic/abdominal and head/neck injuries predict initial clinical severity, regression analysis showed that recovery trajectories were not explained by demographic or clinical variables alone. Instead, contextual and socioeconomic factors, such as high unemployment, low educational attainment, rural residence, and gendered social roles, appear central to long-term outcomes. The study recommends anatomically guided triage, development of a national trauma registry incorporating social indicators, strengthened rural emergency systems and community-based, gender-sensitive rehabilitation to promote equitable trauma care and improved recovery outcomes.
Empowering African women: An analysis of selected black female authored biographical texts in post-apartheid South Africa
(Namibia University of Science & Technology, 2022-04-22) Hamann, Catherine
This study examined the empowering of African women in selected black female authored biographical texts written in post-apartheid South Africa. Women in South Africa have been disadvantaged largely because of the criminal behaviour of the patriarchal male dominated society. The two texts studied were Khwezi – The Remarkable Story of Fezekile Ntsukela Kuzwayo (Tlhabi, 2017) and No Longer Whispering to Power: The Story of Thuli Madonsela (Gqubule, 2017). The texts were selected because both were written by African female authors and they address contemporary themes that affect the daily livelihoods of women. The texts also represent a true reflection of the difficult challenges encountered by most women in Africa and other parts of the world. The theories of radical feminism as well as trauma and resilience were used in the analysis of the two texts. The study concluded that it is not a waste of resources to educate the girl-child because education is the best method of empowering women. This study has also revealed that a male dominated society can go to any length to disempower women as long as they have the means. Furthermore, the study concluded that the most dehumanising manner of disempowering a woman through rape. Lastly, the study revealed that biographical writing plays a great role to empower women. The impact of literary texts written by women to represent other women serves as an inspiration because it presents real- life stories. Many women are ashamed to speak out, as a result, they suffer in silence. The stories of both Kuzwayo and Madonsela inspired many women to rise above their circumstances. Hence, women should be encouraged to speak out and report cases of rape or any case of injustices committed against them, despite criticism by society. The study recommends that the patriarchal male society should be educated on the rights of women. In addition, the girl child must be accorded the resources and given the necessary support to acquire an education. It is only when a woman is educated that a society can thrive. It is also imperative to encourage more women to write autobiographies even if someone write it on their behalf. This recommendation is an awareness strategy that can help women to share their various experiences.
Co-Designing And Implementing Independent Journalism And Archiving With The Indigenous San Community In Donkerbos Through A Self-Sustainable Model.
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2024-08-15) Kaulbach, Peter
This master thesis explores the impact of a multimedia project in a San community, focusing on podcast episodes and digital storytelling initiatives. The project aimed to amplify the voices and stories of the San people [in Donkerbos] while addressing various topics such as politics, cultural practices, and community projects. Through participatory methodologies, the project engaged community members in the production process, ensuring cultural sensitivity and authenticity. The study responds to the systemic underrepresentation and misrepresentation of San communities in mainstream media, which are often shaped by external perspectives. It investigates the project’s influence on the San community’s awareness, empowerment, cultural preservation, and socio-economic development. It examines the reception of podcast episodes among community members, accounting for their perception and attitude toward the content. Additionally, the thesis explores the effectiveness of digital storytelling initiatives, such as videos on social media platforms, in promoting cultural awareness and challenging stereotypes. Methodologically, the thesis employs a mixed-methods approach, including focus groups, workshops, and content analysis. It draws on theories of indigenous media, participatory communication, and cultural preservation to frame its analysis. The findings show that participants gained technical media skills, expressed increased cultural confidence, and began engaging more actively in the documentation of their community’s stories. Challenges included infrastructural limitations and questions of long-term sustainability. The research contributes to the growing body of literature on indigenous media, community-based research, and cultural preservation. It concludes that participatory multimedia initiatives can enhance cultural resilience and representation, while offering a sustainable framework for community-driven storytelling.