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Now showing 1 - 5 of 11

Recent Submissions

Awareness, Perceptions and Adoption Factors of Point-of-Use Water Treatment in High-Density Areas of Mzuzu City
(2024) Mkandawire, Wongani Mzota
This study assessed awareness, perceptions and adoption factors of point-of-use water treatment in high density areas of Mzuzu City, Malawi, Africa, focusing on Mzilawayingwe, Chiputula, Zolozolo West, Luwinga, and Lupaso wards. The study aimed to comprehend the factors impeding POU water treatment adoption in high-density areas. A mixed methods approach was utilized, combining quantitative and qualitative data obtained through household surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews (KIIs). The researcher administered a survey to 322 households, organized 5 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) [one in each ward], and held 5 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). The findings revealed high awareness and positive receptiveness to POU water treatment in high-density areas. Socio-economic factors such as location, education, income, and assets significantly influenced awareness. Preferences for treatment methods were shaped by community dynamics, household assets, and health centre proximity. Adoption factors included self-efficacy, cues for action, and action efficacy, addressing barriers such as the perception of tap water cleanliness among higher income levels. The study concluded that POU water treatment had the potential to enhance the quality of life in high-density areas if barriers were addressed and benefits were communicated effectively. The complex interplay of socio-economic factors, community dynamics, and individual beliefs highlighted the need for targeted interventions. The recommendations called for further research in diverse urban settings, inclusive advocacy strategies by public health practitioners, and the development of affordable, and effective POU water treatment products.
Level of comprehensive knowledge about HIV & AIDS among university students in Malawi
(Elsevier, 2026) Tenthani, Wezzie Munthali; Kapute, Fanuel; Msiska, Ulemu; Benard, Shaibu
Malawi continues to face a substantial HIV burden. However, little empirical evidence from a multi-institutional, nationally representative point of view exists on the level of HIV/AIDS knowledge among university students, a population that is vulnerable and central to national HIV prevention goals. This study addressed the gap by assessing the levels of HIV/AIDS knowledge and associated factors among full-time undergraduate students across six public and private universities in Malawi. A cross-sectional survey involving 526 students was conducted using stratified random sampling and a self-administered questionnaire, with data analysed through descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and t-tests. Findings showed that students possessed a generally high level of HIV/AIDS knowledge (82.3 %), with significant differences observed by sex, programme of study, and year of study. Knowledge of behavioural prevention measures was strong, yet notable gaps remained, particularly regarding biomedical prevention methods such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and misconceptions about sterilised needle sharing and non-sexual transmission. These findings indicate that while progress has been made in HIV awareness, important knowledge deficits persist, especially in emerging HIV science. The study contributes new evidence that can inform the design of structured, standardised, and integrated HIV education within higher-learning institutions. Strengthening HIV knowledge among university students is essential for reducing vulnerability to new infections and directly contributes to national and global targets, including SDG 3.3 on ending AIDS by 2030 and Agenda 2063 aspirations for healthy and well-nourished citizens.
Factors Affecting Public Sector Investment in the Livestock Industry in Malawi.
(International Journal of Membrane Science and Technology, 2023-07-26) Ng'ambi, George; Tembo, Mavuto; Kamtukule, Vera; Benard, Shaibu; Kalinga, Milcah
The dominant narrative is that public financing and investment in the public sector depend on the political leadership of the government executive because of the incentives gained in public finance management. The executive arm of the government includes elected political leaders and technocrats. Using the case of the agricultural sector, this paper examines the role of technocrats and elected leadership in investment choices. This paper uses, in support of quantitative findings, qualitative evidence from a case study designed in the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development in Malawi. The variables were used to analyze the quantitative data, and content analysis was used for qualitative data. The finding reveals that seniority, authority, political affiliation, and technical expertise of civil servant leadership significantly influence public investment choices in the livestock sector in Malawi. Both elected political executives and technocrats had self-interests in delivering goods with swift and visible returns. The study concludes that Malawi's public sector investment arena is a ‘war zone’ with various actors vying for dominance. The paper recommends a critical review of the reforms in the livestock sector to bring the investment culture on course in Malawi. More studies are needed to resolve issues around privatization models of services in the livestock sector and the role of government and transactional actors.
Public Finance Management: Dynamics of Public-Servant–Political Leadership in the Livestock Sector in Malawi.
(Scientific Research Publishing, 2023-10-06) Ng'ambi, George; Tembo, Mavuto; Kamtukule, Vera; Shaibu, Benard
Livestock sector development is vital in the agricultural sector and contributes significantly to the economy. The industry is funded by the public budget, which is a fertile ground for the political economy of the government. This paper examined power dynamics between elected political leaders and public servant leadership in managing public finances. The study used cross-sectional descriptive and exploratory research design with a sample size of 95 respondents to achieve the research objectives. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-Square test and analysis of variance) in SPSS version 20. The results showed that public servants have more authority and control over public finance management. Power in public finance management does not reside in one stakeholder but is volatile. Collaboration between public servant-political existed to achieve set objectives by political and public servant leaders and compliance with the public finance framework. The findings of this study are inferred to some extent from other public sectors in Malawi.
Determinants of Effective Public Finance Management in the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Malawi
(Scientific Research Publishing, 2023-10-06) Ng'ambi, George
Every public sector in Malawi is subject to the Public Finance Management Framework. Livestock farming not only provides food security and nutrition but also offers income-generating opportunities for rural communities. However, the successful implementation of livestock development policies and programs heavily relies on how resources are allocated, economic dynamics, and public finance management. This paper identifies factors that significantly predict public financial management and financial problems in the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Malawi. The research design was cross-sectional descriptive and exploratory research with a sample size of 107 respondents. Cronbach’s alpha technique was used to test the reliability of the instrument. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-Square test and regression) in SPSS version 20. The significant determinant factors of public finance management were budget, controlling officers, and use of IFMIS in the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development. The significant problems associated with public finance management in the Department were funds misallocation, mismanagement of funds, corruption, weak policy framework, weak institutional capacity, limited finance allocation, and inadequate infrastructure. The paper recommends that more attention be paid to the budgeting process, controlling officers, and IFMIS to improve the effectiveness of public finance management.