Faculty of Health, Applied Sciences and Natural Resources

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25 years of land reform (ILMI Working paper No. 1).
(NUST, Integrated Land Management Institute, 2015) Werner, Wolfgang
This Working Paper, the first in the series to be published by ILMI, will briefly review progress in both land reform sectors and raise a few issues that continue to pose challenges to the programme.
ADEQUACY OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANAEMIA MANAGEMENT WITHIN THE NAMIBIAN PRIVATE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2019-10) Mugweni, Kudzanai Ephraim
The purpose of the study was to assess the adequacy of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) investigations and The research sought to address the following three objectives. Firstly, to determine all the Standard Treatment Guidelines used for IDA management in the Namibian private healthcare system, followed by the critical appraisal of the level of adherence to the Standard Treatment Guidelines. Finally, this research also sought to establish all the iron profile laboratory tests offered in the private pathology health sector.
Age-specific mortality patterns in Central Mozambique during and after the end of the Civil War.
(BioMed Central, 2011) Noden, Bruce H.; Pearson, John R.C.; Gomes, Aurelio
Background: In recent years, vigorous debate has developed concerning how conflicts contribute to the spread of infectious diseases, and in particular, the role of post-conflict situations in the epidemiology of HIV/AIDS. This study details the age-specific mortality patterns among the population in the central provincial capital of Beira, Mozambique, during and after the Mozambican civil war which ended in 1992. Methods: Data was collected from the death register at Beira’s Central Hospital between 1985 and 2003 and descriptively analyzed. Results: The data show two distinct periods: before and after the peace agreements in 1992. Before 1992 (during the civil war), the main impact of mortality was on children below 5 years of age, including still births, accounting for 58% of all deaths. After the war ended in 1992, the pattern shifted dramatically and rapidly to the 15-49 year old age group which accounted for 49% of all deaths by 2003. Conclusions: As under-5 mortality rates were decreasing at the end of the conflict, rates for 24-49 year old adults began to dramatically increase due to AIDS. This study demonstrates that strategies can be implemented during conflicts to decrease mortality rates in one vulnerable population but post-conflict dynamics can bring together other factors which contribute to the rapid spread of other infectious diseases in other vulnerable populations.
AIDS-related knowledge and sexual behaviour among married and previously married persons in rural Mozambique.
(2009) Noden, Bruce H.; Gomes, Aurelio; Ferreira, Aldina
HIV prevalence in central Mozambique is the highest in the country with high urban rates impacting on the rural areas. To identify potential factors influencing the spread of HIV in three sparsely populated districts in southern Sofala province, 847 married and previously married persons were surveyed for their knowledge, practices and beliefs regarding HIV/AIDS and STIs. 21.9% and 6.5% of males and females, respectively, were engaged in casual sexual partnerships in the past year. Being male, married, educated, and having genital discharge and ulcers in the last year were significantly associated with risky sexual activity. Risky behaviour was significantly associated with being Catholic or Protestant when compared with those from Zionist churches. Knowledge of ABC prevention strategies and condom usage was significantly associated with being male, married, having an STI in the past year, and being educated, particularly at the secondary level (Grade 8+). Attitudes and behaviour were influenced by cultural and religious involvement, as well as sex and marital status. It is imperative that prevention strategies take into account the cultural, economic and religious conditions present in rural African settings to create HIV prevention programmes that are culturally relevant and acceptable to the participants.
Analysing the trade of meat products between Namibia and SADC countries
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2023-02) Andreas, Erastus
The study examines the trade in meat products between Namibia and SADC countries. Cross-section data from the UN COMTRADE, Namibia Statistic Agency (NSA), and CEPII for 2000-2020 was used. To achieve the aim of the study, estimation from the gravity model, Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA), specifically using Error Components Frontier with a fixed effects model (assumes country specific and time-invariant inefficiencies), The Trade Intensity index (TII) was adopted to estimate the products that have a major effect on Namibia’s meat trade with SADC countries. Technical Efficiency Effects Frontier (fixed effects model) was used to estimate Namibia's potential trade with other SADC countries. The study established a strong positive relationship between real GDP and trade. A positive coefficient was found between the population and trade. However, distance had a negative correlation coefficient. The estimates for the real GDP coefficient are statistically significant, with a level of at least 5%. The positive and significant coefficient of real GDP implied that Namibia's trade value increased with the partner countries. The distance estimate was negative, as predicted by gravity theory. According to this finding, the greater the distance between Namibia and its trading partners, the less likely they are to trade. This variable is a proxy for transportation and other trade costs, such as communication and transaction costs. Because of this, the price increases with distance. In other words, trade volume between Namibia and its SADC members decreases proportionately as distance increases. Namibia's trade intensity trend in meat products has been on the rise from 2000 until 2020. In addition, the study shows that Namibia has performed relatively poorly and has a significant trade potential. The mean trade efficiency in meat products between Namibia and SADC countries is estimated to be approximately 22%. Mean technical efficiency shows interesting results as some SADC countries with a low percentage of trade efficiency tend to have strong potential for export growth for Namibia’s exports of meat products. Furthermore, Trade efficiency is more than 50% for DRC, Zimbabwe, and Botswana; however, it is less than 50% for most SADC countries. Based on the distance and size of economies, SADC offers export market opportunities for Namibia’s meat products. To understand the determinants of trade and relationships, it is crucial that the study advises conducting additional research to assess the competitiveness of Namibia’s meat products in the markets in the SADC region, identify and attempt to resolve trade impediments in the SADC region, evaluate the complete liberalization of trade in the agricultural sector and other sectors that contribute to the GDP of the country.
Analysis of factors influencing the technical efficiency of maize small-scale farmers of Kavango East Region
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2022-03) Kristof, Saija-Kristophine Tegelela
This study analysed the factors affecting the technical efficiency of the small-scale maize farmers of Kavango East Region with the aim of generating reliable information about the level of technical efficiency and the factors affecting technical inefficiency of small-scale maize farmers. Cross-sectional data was collected from a total of 72 small-scale maize farmers located in four (4) different irrigation schemes in the Kavango East Region (i.e. Uvhungu Vhungu Green Scheme Project, Ndonga-Linena Green Scheme Project, Shadikongoro Green Scheme Project and Salem Irrigation Project). This number of small-scale maize farmers in the Kavango East region was relatively low, hence there was no need for sampling, and as such all the 72 farmers were interviewed. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire in formal face-to-face interviews. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to generate descriptive statistics from quantitative data. Stochastic Frontier Analysis technique was employed for analysing technical efficiency of the farmers and its determinants. From the empirical estimation, it was found that inorganic fertilisers are an important input that can increase maize productivity significantly. Seed and labour inputs were statistically insignificant in explaining maize production. The estimated value of γ, which is a parameter used to indicate the proportion of total variance attributed to technical inefficiency is 0.99 and significant. This means that 99% of the random variation in output of maize production is attributed to the technical inefficiency component, which indicates the importance of examining technical inefficiencies in maize production. The estimated mean technical efficiency score of the sample is 0.584 or 58.4%. This indicates that on average, the interviewed small-scale maize farmers are able to obtain only 58.4% of potential output from the given mix of production inputs. This finding suggests the presence of a considerable level of technical inefficiency of about 41.6% among the sampled farmers. While examining the determinants of technical efficiency, age, highest education attained, access to formal sources of credit, seed type, weeding frequency, extension office visit and training were found to be important factors affecting the technical efficiency of the small-scale maize farmers of Kavango East Region. The study, therefore, recommends enforcing extension service visits to the small-scale farmers more so that all small-scale farmers are up to date with the current, relevant and important farming information. The study also recommends improving farmers’ education through provision of continuous training programs to the farmers as well as follow up on the application of improved farming and farm management practices.
An analysis of the risks collisions between aircraft and vultures in Namibia
(Namibian Journal of Environment, 2020-05) Hauptfleisch, ML; Knox, Nichola; Aschenborn, O; MacKenzie, ML; Heita, P
Collisions between aircraft and birds and other animals occur frequently and are known in the aviation industry as wildlife strikes. They are considered to be one of the most serious safety and financial risks to the global aviation industry. The International Civil Aviation Organisation, a United Nations specialised Agency, requires that the appropriate authority shall take action to eliminate or to prevent the establishment of any source which may attract wildlife to the aerodrome, or its vicinity, unless an appropriate wildlife assessment indicates that they are unlikely to create conditions conducive to a wildlife hazard problem. Namibian airports reduce the wildlife strike risk by managing the airport habitat and actively chasing birds and other hazardous animals away. The bird strike risk in airspace between airports is not managed or assessed in Namibia. Following one White-Backed Vulture strike and several reports of near-misses with vultures by pilots of small aircraft, this study investigated possible collision hotspot areas considering small commercial aircraft flight paths and vulture movement areas. The study used spatial proximity analysis and temporal overlap to compare telemetry and nesting location data for the three most commonly encountered vulture species to flight paths and times of small commercial aircraft. Collision risk hotspots were identified over three national parks: Etosha, Waterberg and the Pro-Namib portion of the Namib-Naukluft. Ascending from, or approaching, Hosea Kutako International Airport from the east was identified as a particular risk for White-backed Vulture conflict, while risk of Lappet-faced vulture strikes was high to the east of Walvis Bay airport. Flight times of vultures and aircraft corresponded greatly, increasing the collision risk. The recommendations of this work are that pilots of small commercial aircraft should be made aware of particular risk areas, and that landing at Hosea Kutako from the east, or taking off in an easterly direction should be minimised when wind conditions allow, to reduce vulture collision risk.
Application of mathematical modelling to diesel-fuelled energy emission.
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2020-08) Nangolo, Philipus Nghifikepunye
In this thesis the Gaussian plume model is proposed as a method for solving problems related to the transportation of pollutants due to advection by wind and turbulent dif- fusion. The idea of advection and di usion is fundamental to this thesis as well as its mathematical derivations from the initial principles to the explanation of the governing partial di erential equation. Dimensional analysis technique has been employed as well as Fick's rst and second law of di usion. The concentration distribution of a pollutant freed into the atmosphere may be de ned by the advection-di usion equation which is a second-order partial di erential equation of parabolic form. Assumptions underlying the model in this thesis have been explained, their origin from advection di usion equation and the important properties of the plume solution in the atmosphere. The results are then applied to solving problem in which emission rates are strongminded in a given power plant. We demonstrated our outcomes with an application for ongoing research of emission from diesel power plant (Anixas Power Plant, Walvis Bay).
Applying a Problem Based Learning Approach to Land Management Education:The case of Aalborg University, Denmark
(2016) Enemark, Stig
This paper is work in progress and draws from previous research. The paper supports the lecture on Problem Based Learning given at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) on 3 March 2016.
Assessing the likelihood that burrowing gerbils in the central Namib are ecological engineers
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2020-08) Shaanika, Halleluya Natanael
Like many other fossorial rodents, gerbils are known to modulate their environments by changing the soil characteristics and conditions via their activities such as ground bioturbation, foraging, defecating and urinating. They play an important ecological engineering role because they can affect water hydraulic conductivity and water holding capacity, mineralization rates, thus plant-available-nutrients and moisture stored in the soil profile. If the bioturbation activities of gerbils affect water availability in the hyper arid environment, gerbils may create patches of favourable micro-sites for vegetation establishment and growth, and thus also affect the structure and function of the vegetation community at the landscape scale. The main objective of this study was to test whether the gerbil species are significantly improving the growth of vegetation through their burrowing activities on the Husab gravel plains in central Namib. In this way I wanted to verify whether they play a functional ecological engineering role in the ecosystem. Firstly, the study mapped out the spatial distribution and density of vegetation patches with and without burrows on the Husab gravel plains of the central Namib and then selected specific areas for in-depth experimental study. The focus was on the effects of gerbils’ burrowing activities by comparing soil nutrients and moisture, and vegetation characteristics between contrasting sites (active burrow patches, inactive burrow patches, no-burrow vegetation patches and their control sites) on the Husab gravel plains. This study revealed that: (1) the spatial distribution and density of vegetation patches with and without burrows is not uniform and that the gerbils mostly prefer the grassy plain over other habitats. (2) The spatial distribution of density of their burrow patches can be explained by soil substrates such as surface cover and hardness. (3) Gerbils through their burrowing activities increase the hydraulic conductivity and soil’s fertility-related variables together with the vegetation cover, abundance and biomass.Thus, it can be concluded that gerbils significantly improve primary productivity through changing the conditions and characteristics of the soil on their burrow patches and this may have a knock-on effect on other organisms at the landscape level. Thus, gerbils may be considered to be essential ecological engineers in the central Namib.
Assessing the Namibian government's policy on improving national food production: A case study of the agronomic sector.
(2013) Ekondo, Fanuel Eita
The third National Development Plan, extending from 2007-12, seeks amongst other things to boost agricultural production at household and national levels in order to increase food security and create opportunities for employment. Government has indicated that Green Scheme initiative is hampered by low incentives for engaging in agricultural product ion and processing, and by unfavourable responses to manufacturing by food processors, manifested by the apparent low level of investment in agriculture and the food-processing sector. We conducted a questionnaire-based study focusing on the operators of eight major irrigation projects in northern and southern Namibia to determine the challenges faced in the economic, political and legal environment , aimed at understanding the underlying constraints to large-scale food production under irrigation. The main objective of the study is to understand the effective mechanisms necessary to boost agricultural production through sound investments into the sector. Data was collected through semi - structured interview quest ions and answers recorded on the questionnaire sheet. Respondents indicated that no incentives for investing in agriculture and food product ion were provided. Private operators of agroirrigation projects bemoaned the unreasonable limited lease period (5-10 years) , making it difficult to recoup any large-scale investment. Technical problems included lack of expertise to operate and service recently acquired modern technologies. Respondents suggested the introduction of longer leases, enabl ing investors to recoup their costs and realize profits from their investments. Project operators called for the training of competent personnel to provide technical services and know-how on the projects as well as the acquisition of new technologies to replace the obsolete equipment current ly in use.
Assessing the readiness and recovery efforts of communal farmers towards the 2018/19 agricultural drought: A case study of Outapi Constituency in Namibia.
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2023-09) Aileka, Gerson
This study aimed to assess the readiness of communal farmers in the Outapi Constituency in Namibia prior to the 2018/19 agricultural drought, response approaches employed to lessen drought impacts, and post drought recovery strategies necessary for prospect preparation and recovery. Literature shows that better projection in disaster risk management is attainable if there is a timely and appropriate distribution of resources to support communal households while building resilience at the household level. To address the research objectives, a mixed-method research design that employs both qualitative and quantitative methods was chosen. A structured questionnaire was administered face-to-face to the sampled communal households from five (5) villages in the Eengolo settlement. Sampling was performed on the data sets retrieved from the Namibia Communal Land Administration System (NCLAS) by means of clustering villages, and a random sample of 50% was drawn from each village. All five (5) villages have a combined population of 227 households. A total sample size of 112 households was therefore drawn. Out of the 112 households sampled, the researcher interviewed 104 households. A deficit of 8 households was recorded, mainly linked to households occupied by individuals less knowledgeable about the 2018/19 agricultural drought under review and refusals. Both primary quantitative and qualitative data were collected through the interviews with the sampled households. Key informants (Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Ministry of Works and Transport, Ministry of Health and Social Service, Omusati Regional Council, Office of the Prime Minister, Traditional Authority, village headmen, and other community leaders) were consulted, and qualitative data were collected. Both research approaches complemented each other, which permitted a complete analysis of the readiness, response, and recovery efforts towards the 2018/19 agricultural drought. The study found that the 2018/19 agricultural drought was associated with negative impacts such as high crop failure, high livestock mortalities instigated by a lack of water, and poor grazing, which subsequently deteriorated households’ livelihoods. Results show that 71% of households relied primarily on pensions, other social grants, and subsistence farming to sustain their livelihoods. The majority of communal households (90%) relied on livestock supplementary feeds, well-preserved crop remains, and rotational grazing systems as livestock drought preparation mechanisms to supply food for livestock. All measures were implemented using early warning information. Community early warning systems that convey early warning-related information on the likelihood of the drought to households are local media (radio and newspaper), community/traditional leaders, and the community meteorological station. Communal xiv households (44%) confirmed that the early warning information systems present in the community were reliable and trusted with drought readiness, response, and recovery. The majority of households (58%) selected drought-resistant crops (pearl millet and sorghum) that strive best in harsh conditions as a mechanism for drought preparation in the aspect of crops and vegetables because they thrive well in northern communal areas. Communal households employed interventions to strengthen their coping capacities, with 78% primarily relying on existing food reserves. Conservation of soil and water management are key. The results show that 69% of households employed appropriate water management strategies. Concerning livestock management, 82% of households relied on livestock supplement fodder that was sourced privately and through emergency support by the government. Post-recovery measures employed by communal farmers were mainly to rebuild livestock herds, as specified by 72% of households, and 49% applied crop management practices. On the marketing of crops and vegetables, 99% of households cited that portions of crops and vegetables produced are for household consumption, while 80% stipulated that they do not market their crop produces. A mere 12% have access to the market, of which 10% have access to formal markets, while 2% trade on the informal market. Results on livestock marketing show that 76% of households do not market their livestock but prefer to keep them for household consumption (94%). A mere 15% have access to the market, of which 14% trade on the informal market, while 1% trade on the formal market. In conclusion, the choice of drought readiness strategies, drought intervention strategies, and post drought recovery strategies employed by communal households was assessed. The results clearly portray that communal households experienced negative drought impacts and employed appropriate mechanisms to prepare for the drought, employed interventions to cope with the drought, and employed post-drought recovery measures. Drought is known as a natural and climatic event that is inevitable, but the implementation of appropriate measures proved to be a better way of preparing communal households to cope with drought. Moreover, appropriate measures assist in creating an environment that is resilient, has the ability to recover from drought, and lessens the impacts of droughts. Having presented key issues related to the drought readiness, response, and recovery efforts of communal farmers with implications, it is worthy to formulate recommendations focusing on policy strategy and supplementary sustainable strategies aimed at addressing identified implications. xv A number of recommendations were formulated that will assist communal farmers and allied stakeholders in strengthening household drought coping capacity, institutional response, recovery, and building resilience. The study recommends the following: the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, the Namibia Agronomic Board, and Ministry of Industrialization and Trade, supplemented by efforts from the Constituency Councillor,should explore and create new market access and reinforcement of existing markets by communal farmers. This is vital because most communal households grow crops and vegetables and rear livestock mainly for household consumption, while others lack market access information. Communal farmers with large herds of livestock are highly advised to apply destocking, as this will assist in keeping a reasonable herd that is easier to manage with available resources during the drought. It is vital that coordination among institutions that are directly involved in the administration, coordination, and implementation of the National Disaster Management System in Namibia be strengthened. This study recommends that there is an urgent need to establish sufficient water harvesting infrastructures with the aim of complementing GRN efforts in addressing access to water in the community. As part of legislation review, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform should finalise the review of the National Drought Policy and Strategy of 1997. Communal households should consider the creation of a fodder bank, either at an individual household or community level. A post drought evaluation assessment of the whole response by communal households and key institutions that were actively involved in the response and preparation phase, such as GRN, the Red Cross, the World Food Programme, FAO, and UNICEF should be conducted to draw realistic recommendations that will assist with future improvements. Finally, the study recommends the establishment of a GRN drought recovery programme for communal households. In this case, the GRN, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Traditional Authorities, Village Headmen, and the Regional Council, should continuously identify, update, and profile vulnerable communal households, as this will ensure that post drought recovery assistance is rolled out to the most destitute households.
Assessing the roles of community based service providers and healthcare workers in the prevention of relapse among TB infected patients in Namibia.
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2019-01) Musuuo, Milka
Mycobacterium Tuberculosis commonly referred to as (TB) is still one of the major health concerns, with high prevalence globally as well as in Namibia. While significant progress has been achieved in the prevention and treatment services of TB in the country, including use of community-based service providers and community-based health workers, the number of relapse cases remained high. The study aimed at assessing the role of Community Based Service Providers in the prevention of relapse among TB infected patients in Namibia.
Assessment and perception of water quality on the health of Grünau and Bethanie residents, Namibia.
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2021-06) Nambundunga, Benisia N.
Water quality is an important aspect of water provision services to ensure the water does not possess any possible threat to its consumers. Water quality perception surveys are ideal tools when exploring the feelings, opinions and attitudes people have towards their water. This includes the human-water interactions involved as well as behaviour and consumption practices they have with their water. The purpose of this study was to investigate the perception of consumers towards their water and determine the water quality and its effect on human health – a case of Grünau and Bethanie residents. This was an observational study, where questionnaires were administered, and water quality tests were carried out to determine the physical, chemical and biological contaminants of public water supply in Grünau and Bethanie settlements. The study sample consists of 384 participants selected using the convenience sampling method. Data from the questionnaire were recorded and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 as well as the descriptive analysis. Ethical clearance was sought from The Namibia University of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Health and Social Services as well as the respective village councils. Confidentiality and anonymity of the respondents were maintained during the study. The study revealed that consumer perception of the quality of public water supply in the study area is based mainly on organoleptic features, such as taste, colour and turbidity. In addition, the study found that 64.6% of the participants in the study area were strongly dissatisfied or somewhat dissatisfied with the taste of their water while 52.1% were strongly dissatisfied or somewhat dissatisfied with the colour. The smell of the water did not seem to affect the respondents as only 2.3% of the participants were strongly dissatisfied or somewhat dissatisfied with the smell of the water. The study further revealed that 59.9% of the participants perceived their water to be highly unsafe or somewhat unsafe. The water quality laboratory analysis revealed that the water contains several minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and fluoride in large quantities, which correlate to the “unpleasant” taste of the water as described by the community. The study recommends a more thorough treatment process by NamWater to remove excess minerals (magnesium and calcium) that are responsible for the hardness and lime taste of the water.
Assessment of changes in land cover and forest composition and structure in Okongo community
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2020-01) Shikomba, Agnes
Land cover refers to the observed vegetation, structures, or other features that cover the land such as closed forests, open forest, woodland, grasslands, bushland, and settlements. Land cover change is one of the serious threats to the forests and woodlands of Namibia, and it is mainly triggered by forest resource utilization and conversion to agriculture by local communities. As one of the mechanisms to control land cover change, Namibia introduced the Community Forests (CF) programme for local communities to own, manage and use forest resources sustainably. Therefore, this study assessed changes in land cover in Okongo Community Forest (CF) in Namibia for the period 2003 – 2017 by comparing the Okongo CF with the areas outside Okongo CF. The study also monitored major changes (trends) in forest composition of Okongo CF since it was gazetted. The study area is situated in the Okongo constituency in the eastern part of Ohangwena region and includes Okongo CF, Omufitu Wekuta CF, within Okongo Conservancy. The study area was divided into five sub-areas - Okongo CF, Omufitu Wekuta CF, the central buffer zone, the buffer east and the buffer west to compare the land cover change. The study adopted a mixed approach by analysing land cover on satellite images (2003 Landsat 7 satellite imagery and 2017 Landsat 8 satellite imagery) and forest inventory data for 2000 and 2015 derived from the National Forest Inventory database. The satellite image data collected were analysed quantitatively using a GIS and FRAGSTATS technology for landscape metric calculations. The inventory data were entered and organised in Excel. Trees were placed in diameter at breast height (DBH) classes and the stem density, mean DBH, and basal area of all measured trees were determined. DBH distribution was studied for the timber species such as P. angolensis, B. plurijuga, B. africana and G. coleosperma, as well as stem densities and basal area per ha. The main land cover changes that occurred for the period 2003 – 2017 between Okongo CF and areas outside Okongo CF include a decrease of forest/shrubs land in three of the five sub-areas: the buffer west (-4.7%), Omufitu Wekuta CF (-4.6%), and the central buffer zone (-6.9%). Forest cover remained close to the same in Okongo CF (0.2 %) and the eastern buffer (-0.01%). An increase in bare land was found in the buffer east of the study area (260.1%) and Omufitu Wekuta CF (557.7%). However, the Okongo CF showed more declined in bare land (-98.1%) than other parts of the study area. About 0.67% of the study area was converted to settlements area and this includes part of Okongo, Omufitu Wekuta CF and the central buffer zone. As for human activities, it is agriculture that showed an increase in all areas with much increase experienced in the buffer west (77.3%), Omufitu Wekuta CF (85.1%) and the central buffer zone (113.1%) of the study area. The study found that the eastern part of the study area (includes Okongo CF and the xiv buffer east) shows hardly change in forest/shrubs cover and agriculture. The FRAGSTATS analysis of landscape metrics for landscape structure and patterns Spatio-temporal fluctuations showed that patch density generally increased for nearly all land cover classes except for bare soil (80 ha). Largest patch index decreased for forest/shrubland (94.2%) as compared to other land uses and the interspersion and juxtaposition index (IJI) decreased for forests/shrubs land (15%) and bare land (1%) while it increased in agriculture land (9%). The study found that the mean DBH of all measured tree species in 2000 inventory was significantly higher than the mean DBH of 2015 inventory (p-value = 0.003). There were no significant differences in the distribution of frequencies of timber tree species between the 2000 and 2015 inventories (U=44.5, p=0.684). This study found a significantly lower count of 250 stems per hectare for the 2000 inventory as compared to the 2015 inventory with 300 stems per hectare (p-value = 0.021). The study found that the mean DBH of timber species (P. angolensis, B. plurijuga, B. africana and G. coleosperma) in 2000 and 2015 was not significantly different (p=0.875). There was no significant difference between the basal cover of 2000 and 2015 inventory (p-value = 0.737). It is concluded that the Okongo CF experienced a positive and favourable decrease in bare land class and area converted to bare land in comparison with the other parts of the study area. The study also concluded that there is a favourable increase in an area that was converted to forest/shrubs land compared to Omufitu Wekuta CF, the buffer west and the central buffer zone. Another small patch of an area of the Okongo CF was converted to agricultural land and settlements whereas the remainder of the area remains forest/shrubs land. This suggests that there has been sustainable land use management in Okongo CF since its gazettement in 2006. Considering the effects of changes in areas outside Okongo CF, it was recommended that the Government must consider extending strategies employed in Okongo CF to Omufitu Wekuta CF to realise positive gains, introducing indigenous forests plantations and educating people to increase awareness on the importance of conserving forests.
An assessment of common atmospheric particulate matter sampling and toxic metal analysis methods.
(Academic Journals, 2010) Kgabi, Nnenesi A.
In this study, the atmospheric particulate matter (PM) was sampled using the tapered element oscillating microbalance, and the inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM/EDS) were used for determination of elemental composition of the PM. The efficiency and relevance of the sampling method, ICP-MS and SEM/EDS in toxic metal analysis were assessed. Low flow rate yielded high accumulated mass of particulate matter. The efficiency of the filter media used was found to be, in decreasing order: teflon-coated glass fiber, ringed-teflon and quartz filters. The main elements identified from the SEM/EDS on ringed-teflon filters were Si, Fe, Mg, K, Na, C, S, F and O, and for ICPMS, the following main elements were identified: Fe, Al, Ca, Mg, K, Na, Cr, Ni, Pb, Cu, Zn and Mn. The ICP-MS proved to be more relevant for the analysis of the toxic metals of interest. The standard deviations obtained from this method were less than 30% for most of the metals identified. The method detection limit was also low (0.2 to 1 µg/L) for most metals, and 50% and less standard deviation to mean ratios were obtained for Ni and Pb.
Assessment of dust exposure and risk of chronic respiratory diseases among stone corrie quarry workers in Namibia, 2018.
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2019-04) Shihepo, Saima
Quarry mining produces substantial dust amounts bearing an adverse effect on human health in several ways, mainly the respiratory system. Even though employers are obligated to protect their employees from occupational hazards, the quarry mining industry in Namibia has failed to honour that obligation. This study investigated quarry workers and the surrounding community’s exposure to dust as well as their risk of getting chronic respiratory diseases in the Erongo region of Namibia. Objectively the study assessed the amount of silica emitted in quarry dust emissions from selected Namibian quarry mines in compliance with national and WHO Air Quality Standards. Secondly, this study made an evaluation of health risks connected to dust exposure amid quarry workers and surrounding communities of 1km radius to selected quarry sites. Lastly, this study established appropriate interventions to deter dust exposure effects on quarry workers and the surrounding community. A cross-sectional descriptive study was done with 233 quarry workers and community members from selected quarry mines around Karibib. Self-administered interview questionnaires were used to both quarry workers and community members. Respirable dust levels were evaluated in different work stations using Spirometry. Binominal logistic regression analysis was used to predictable the overall outcome of quarry dust exposure on respiratory outcomes, while linear regression predicted the exposure-related effect on lung function. Workers were stratified according to the cumulative dust exposure category. The highest mean dust level, by quarry site, was 1.13 mg/m³ (SD: 0.58) recorded among workers from Site A and the lowest was 0.63 mg/m³ (SD=0.38) at Site B. In relation to job types, excavation had the highest mean dust level of 1.20 mg/m³ (SD: 0.65) and wire saw the lowest at 0.54 mg/m³ (SD=0.42). The most prevalent of the respiratory symptoms reported by the quarry workers were coughing (57%) and the corresponding percentage among the community members was lower (14%). There were more respondents with 10 or more years in quarrying (78%) who reported coughing compared to 58% or less among workers with less than 10 years in the job. Statistical links between the lung function assessments and quarry site, job specification, or years in quarrying among the quarry workers (p>0.05) were not established. Lung function outcomes between the quarry workers and community members (p>0.05) did not also show a substantive difference. However, a significant statistically difference between quarry workers and community members, with 13 of the 120 of quarry 8 workers (11%) diagnosed with obstructive or restrictive lung functioning compared to none of the 96 community members. There were statistically significant associations between smoking history and the lung function assessments FVC1 Pred% and FEV1 Pred%. Workers with 6-10 years of smoking history had significantly lower mean scores on both these measures compared to non-smokers. The study found that there were no medical examinations records at any of the studied sites. The study recommended that routine occupational medical check-up is performed for each and every worker of the quarry mines. Environmental administration systems, such as dust management plan, can be used in quarries to minimise the generation of dust. Regular environmental audit and monitoring of quarrying activities should be enforced in order to ensure adherence to the standards and limits of the concentrations of the dust generated from the different stages of their operations.
Assessment of farmers' perceptions and the economic impact of climate change in Namibia: Case study on small scale irrigation farmers (SSIFs) of Ndonga Linena Irrigation Project.
(JDAE, 2014) Montle, B. P.; Teweldemedhin, Mogos Y.
This paper examines perceptions of small-scale irrigation farmers (SSIFs) with regard to climate change and their adaptation strategies in terms of its effects. The The Multinomial Logit (MNL) and the Trade-Off Analysis models were applied. Farm-level data was collected from the entire population of 30 SSIFs at the Ndonga Linena Irrigation Project in February 2014. Results from the MNL reveal that the gender, age and farming experience and extension services, yield and mean rainfall shift, are significant and positively related to the level of the farmers' diversification strategies. Trade-off analysis for multi-dimensional impact assessment (TOA_MD) model results project that climate change will have a negative economic effect on farmers, with 17.5, 25.95, 41.15 and 3.76% of farmers set to gain from climate change across 20, 30, 40 and 50% physical yield reduction scenarios respectively. Farm net return and per capita income are also expected to decline across all scenarios in future, while the poverty level is expected to rise. This study will have certain policy implications in terms of safeguarding the farmers' limited productive assets. Policy should target diversification.
Assessment of Namibian Agricultural export diversification and trade complementarity
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2022-09) Kandjii, Caroline, D.
The reliance of Namibia on primary commodities and their unstable prices has left the country vulnerable to external price shocks, thus the need for appropriate agricultural trade research. This study was carried out to fill this gap by providing quantitative information regarding agricultural export diversification and trade complementarity. Specifically, the study measured the export diversification of the Namibian agricultural sector (export basket and trade destinations), analysed the trade complementarity of Namibia and trade destinations, and estimated the intensity of agricultural trade with trade destinations. To meet these objectives, the normalised Hirschman- Herfindahl index (NHHI), trade complementarity index (TCI) and trade intensity index (TII) were used to compute diversification, complementarity, and intensity respectively. The study used secondary data on the exports and imports of 19 agricultural commodity groups from 2000 to 2020 obtained from the UN COMTRADE database. Twenty trade destinations comprising ten African countries (Malawi, Mauritius, Botswana, Cameroon, Tanzania, Lesotho, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe) and ten non-African countries (United States of America, United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Bulgaria, China, Netherlands, Belgium, United Arab Emirates, and Brazil). The 19 agricultural commodities at SITC digit-3 level have been selected by considering their contribution to Namibia's export and import basket and the sample makes up the whole agricultural sector and the availability of data. In addition, trade destinations were selected based on the top percentage shares in exports and imports of Namibia's agricultural commodities. The results indicated that the Namibia agricultural sector exhibited a fair diversification in terms of the export basket, but it is highly concentrated in terms of destination/market. For trade complementarity, Namibia is strongly complementary with the selected trade destinations except for the Democratic Republic of Congo. Namibia intensively traded with South Africa (4.90%), Zimbabwe (1.44%), Zambia (3.92%), and Botswana (14.47%) as the rest of the trade destinations registered a TII value of less than 1. The study recommends that Namibia increases trade in the following commodities: live animals, Meat and Meat preparations and Fish and also increase bilateral trade between African trade partners, especially Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Additionally, there is a need for the Namibian government to substantially intervene in the export promotion activities to oversee the agricultural practices in the exports sectors with stimulation mechanism to increase Namibian export and attention should be focused on identifying realistic export xi opportunities for Namibia to boost and diversified agricultural export to trade destinations through research and development.
ASSESSMENT OF PHENOTYPIC PROPERTIES OF THE RHESUS AND KELL BLOOD GROUP SYSTEMS AMONG BLOOD DONORS AND PREGNANT WOMEN IN NAMIBIA
(Namibia University of Science and Technology, 2019-04) MATARANYIKA, MARY NYARADZAYI
A determination of the phenotypic frequencies of blood group systems C, c, E, e and Kell among the Namibian blood donors and pregnant women and the prevalence of these antigens in Namibia was carried out. Two thousand nine hundred and eight six blood donor specimens and four hundred and eighty-four specimens from pregnant women were randomly selected for antigen characterisation. Donated specimens that were processed for grouping and Transfusion Transmissible Infections (TTIs) by NaMBTS and ready for discard were collected by the researcher for testing. The main aim was to determine the prevalence of C, c, E, e and Kell antigens among the Namibia blood donors and pregnant women and advice NaMBTS and the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) on the findings in order to improve the outcome of patients who will be receiving donated blood and the pregnant women. This was to lay the foundation for further studies to establish a database for typed donors in Namibia and then store blood that is antigen negative and reduce the risks of Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and the New-born (HDFN) and Haemolytic Transfusion Reaction (HTR). In some cases, the survival of the red blood cells that will have been transfused is shortened by the effect of transfused antigens. This is the first time this research has been carried out in Namibia.

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