60039

NOMA
NORADS PROGRAMME FOR MASTER STUDIES 20062010
Bi b l i og raphy 2009
A Compilation of Master Studies
Introduction
This overview of Master theses presents the work of the first 110 students to graduate from the NOMA
Master programmes. 60 female and 128 male students completed and submitted their Master thesis in
2009.
In the first section, NOMA projects are sorted by country and projects. To make this a complete
overview all 44 NOMA projects are listed here. The projects that have produced graduates this year
have reference numbers and page numbers attached that refers to the Master thesis completed under
the certain project. This leads you to the summary of Master theses at the end of the bibliography.
Country, institution and programme
Progress
Reference
Page
Angola
ANHEI - Angolan-Norwegian Higher Education Initiative
Project-id: NOMA-2006/10002
Main partners: Agostinho Neto University, Norwegian University of Science
and Technology
Additional partner: University of Oslo
Category: Bilateral Master programmes: 2006 - 31.12.2012
Total allocation: NOK 6 290 185
Three Master theses

completed in 2009
Ref. 01-2009
Ref. 02-2009
Ref. 03-2009
11
12
13
Ref. 04-2009
Ref. 05-2009
Ref. 06-2009
Ref. 07-2009
Ref. 08-2009
Ref. 09-2009
Ref. 10-2009
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Bangladesh
Integrated Masters Programs (M.Phil.) in Public Health Research in
Asia (Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, India and Pakistan)
Main partners: Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in
Diabetes, Endocrine &Metabolic Disorders, University of Oslo
Additional partners: Baquai Medical University, Kathmandu University,
Ministry of Health
Category: Multilateral Master programmes: 2006 - 31.12.2013
Joint regional programme for Master degree in journalism, media and

communication
Main partners: University of Dhaka, Oslo University College
Additional partners: College of Journalism and Mass Communication,
Patshala South Asian Institute of Technology, University of the Punjab
Master in Public Policy and Governance (MPPG)

Main partners: North South University, University of Bergen
Additional partner: Tribhuvan University
MSc-sandwich program within the petroleum sector in Asia and Africa

Main partners: Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology,
Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Additional partner: University of Stavanger
Seven Master theses

completed in 2009
Bolivia
Master in Educational Technologies and Digital Resources (M.Ed.Tech.)
Main partners: Universidad Privada del Valle, University of Bergen
Additional partner: CO-Universidad EAFIT
Category: Multilateral Master programmes, project period: 2010-2014
Total allocation: 5 171 875
Project startup in
2010
Egypt
MSc in International Transport and Logistics for East Africa
Main partners: Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime
Transport, Molde University College
Additional partner: University of Dar-es-Salaam
Ethiopia
Masters programme: Urban development and urban challenges in East
Africa
Main partners: Addis Ababa University, Norwegian University of Science
and Technology
Additional partner: University of Oslo
MASTMO - MSc Programme in Mathematical and Statistical

Modelling
Partners: Hawassa University, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Indonesia
Graduate program in Democracy Studies
Main partners: Gadjah Mada University, University of Oslo
Additional partner: University of Colombo
One Master thesis

completed in 2009
Malawi
Health and Information Systems - Two integrated programmes at the
University of Malawi
Partners: University of Malawi, University of Oslo
Ref. 11-2009
21
Master of Arts in Political Science at the University of Malawi

Partners: University of Malawi, University of Bergen
11 Master theses
completed in 2009
Ref. 12-2009
Ref. 13-2009
Ref. 14-2009
Ref. 15-2009
Ref. 16-2009
Ref. 17-2009
Ref. 18-2009
Ref. 19-2009
Ref. 20-2009
Ref. 21-2009
Ref. 22-2009
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
Seven Master theses

completed in 2009
Ref. 23-2009
Ref. 24-2009
Ref. 25-2009
Ref. 26-2009
Ref. 27-2009
Ref. 28-2009
Ref. 29-2009
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
Mozambique
Applied Marine Sciences for Sustainable Managment of Natural
Resources in Mozambique
Main partners: Eduardo Mondlane University, University of Bergen
Nepal
Master of Engineering in Electrical Power Engineering
Partners: Kathmandu University, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Master Program in Environment Education and Sustainable

Development
Main partners: Kathmandu University, Norwegian University of Life
Sciences
Additional partners: University of Dhaka, Kathmandu University, Oslo
University College
Master program in Sustainable Water and Sanitation, Health and

Development
Main partners: Tribhuvan University, Norwegian University of Life
Sciences
Additional partners: COMSATS Institute of Information Technology
Master programme in Conflict, Peace building and Development

Main partners: University, Norwegian University of Life Sciences
Additional partners: University of Ruhuna, Eastern University, Tribhuvan
University
MSc Programme in Hydropower Development

Partners: Tribhuvan University, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Four Master theses

completed in 2009
Regional Master program in Biodiversity and Environmental

Management
Main partners: Tribhuvan University, University of Bergen
Additional partners: Kumaon University
Master of Science in Technology and Innovation Management - Nepal

Main partners: Tribhuvan University, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Category: Bilateral Master programmes, project period: 2010-2014
Nicaragua
Master Programme in Intercultural Communication and Media Studies
Main partners: University of the Autonomus Regions of the Carribean Coast
of Nicaragua, Oslo University College
Category: Bilateral Master programmes, project period: 2010-2014
Palestinian territory, occupied

Community Psychology Master Program at Birzeit University
Main partners: Birzeit University, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Additional partner: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
South Africa
Strengthen and Deliver Cooperative Masters Level Programmes in
Higher Education Studies
Main partners: University of the Western Cape, University of Oslo
Additional partners: Makerere University, University of the Western Cape
Project startup in
2010
Ref. 30-2009
Ref. 31-2009
Ref. 32-2009
Ref. 33-2009
40
41
42
43
Sri Lanka
A Master of Science Degree Programme in Development Management
between University of Agder, University of Ruhuna, and a network of
partner universities in Africa
Main partners: University of Ruhuna, University of Agder
12 Master theses
completed in 2009
Ref. 34-2009
Ref. 35-2009
Ref. 36-2009
Ref. 37-2009
Ref. 38-2009
Ref. 39-2009
Ref. 40-2009
Ref. 41-2009
Ref. 42-2009
Ref. 43-2009
Ref. 44-2009
Ref. 45-2009
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
Development of master studies at University of Moratuwa, with

emphasis on environmental and industrial projects
Partners: University of Moratuwa, Telemark University College
Two Master theses

completed in 2009
Ref. 46-2009
Ref. 47-2009
56
57
Ref. 48-2009
Ref. 49-2009
Ref. 50-2009
Ref. 51-2009
58
59
60
61
Masters in Medical and Health Informatics: Asia Focus

Main partners: University of Colombo, University of Oslo
Aditional partners: Hanoi School of Public Health
MSc Medical Genetics

Main partners: University of Colombo, University of Oslo
Aditional partners: NP-National Academy of Medical Sciences
Category: Multilateral Master programmes: 2010-2014
Project startup in
2010
Sudan
Development of Master programs in physical and chemical
oceanography at Red Sea University, Sudan
Partners: Red Sea University, University of Bergen
International Education and Development

Main partners: Ahfad University for Women, Oslo University College
Four Master theses

completed in 2009
Tanzania
Integrated Masters in Health Informatics - Tanzania and Ethiopia
Main partners: University of Dar-es-Salaam, University of Oslo
Additional partners: Addis Ababa University, University of Gondar (Gondar
College of Medical Sciences,
Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Addis Ababa
University
19 Master theses
completed in 2009
Ref. 52-2009
Ref. 53-2009
Ref. 54-2009
Ref. 55-2009
Ref. 56-2009
Ref. 57-2009
Ref. 58-2009
Ref. 59-2009
Ref. 60-2009
Ref. 61-2009
Ref. 62-2009
Ref. 63-2009
Ref. 64-2009
Ref. 65-2009
Ref. 66-2009
Ref. 67-2009
Ref. 68-2009
Ref. 69-2009
Ref. 70-2009
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
Master Programme in Health Policy and Management

Partners: Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences, University of
Bergen
Additional partners: University of Dar-es-Salaam, University of the Western
Cape, University of Oslo
Eight Master theses

completed in 2009
Ref. 71-2009
Ref. 72-2009
Ref. 73-2009
Ref. 74-2009
Ref. 75-2009
Ref. 76-2009
Ref. 77-2009
Ref. 78-2009
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
Sandwich programme for M Med and M Sc degrees in clinical medicine

Main partners: Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences, University
of Bergen
Additional partners: Addis Ababa University, Christian Medical Centre
Three Master theses

completed in 2009
Ref. 79-2009
Ref. 80-2009
Ref. 81-2009
89
90
91
Southern African Masters Programme in Mathematical Modelling

Main partners: University of Dar-es-Salaam, University of Oslo
Regional Master in Nursing

Project-id:NOMA-2010/13185
Main partners: Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Bergen
University College
Additional partners: UG-Makerere University, ET-Addis Ababa University,
NO-University of Bergen, NO-Bergen University College
Project startup in
2010
Uganda
Master Programme in sustainable energy systems in East Africa
Main partners: Makerere University, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Additional partners: University of Dar-es-Salaam, Eduardo Mondlane
University, University of Malawi, Addis Ababa University, Mekelle
University, Ethiopia
Master Programme in Vocational Pedagogy Uganda-Southern SudanNorway

Main partners: Kyambogo University, Akershus University College
Additional partners: Upper Nile University
Masters Program in Urban Transformation and Sustainable

Development
Main partners: Makerere University, The Oslo School of Architecture and
Design
Additional partners: Addis Ababa University, University of Nairobi, Jomo
Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, The Oslo School of
Architecture and Design, Norwegian University of Science and Technology,
Ardi University
North-South-South Collaborative MSc in Development and Natural

Resource Economics
Main partners: Makerere University, Norwegian University of Life Sciences
Develop and deliver cooperative regional Master Programmes in

Nutrition, Human Rights and Governance
Main partners: Makerere University, University of Oslo
Additional partners: UG-Kyambogo University, ZA-Stellenbosch
University, NO-Akershus University College
Ten Master theses

completed in 2009
Project startup in
2010
Ref. 82-2009
Ref. 83-2009
Ref. 84-2009
Ref. 85-2009
Ref. 86-2009
Ref. 87-2009
Ref. 88-2009
Ref. 89-2009
Ref. 90-2009
Ref. 91-2009
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
Master of Science in Innovation and Industrial Development - Uganda

Main partners: Makerere University, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Category: Bilateral Master programmes: 2010-2014
Project startup in
2010
Vietnam
MSc in Fisheries and Aquaculture Management and Economics
(FAME)
Main partners: University of Fisheries, University of Troms
Additional partners: University of Chittagong, University of Ruhuna,
Shanghai Fisheries University
19 Master theses
completed in 2009
Zambia
Master in Education. Literacy and Learning
Main partners: University of Zambia, Hedmark University College
Additional partners: University of Namibia
Master of Science in Clinical Neuropsychology - Building expertise to

deal with the Neuropsychological challenges of HIV-infection
Partners: University of Zambia, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Master of Science in Epidemiology

Main partners: University of Zambia, University of Bergen
Additional partners: MW-College of Medicine
Project startup in
2010
10
Ref. 92-2009
Ref. 93-2009
Ref. 94-2009
Ref. 95-2009
Ref. 96-2009
Ref. 97-2009
Ref. 98-2009
Ref. 99-2009
Ref. 100-2009
Ref. 101-2009
Ref. 102-2009
Ref. 103-2009
Ref. 104-2009
Ref. 105-2009
Ref. 106-2009
Ref. 107-2009
Ref. 108-2009
Ref. 109-2009
Ref. 110-2009
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
Ref. 01-2009
Name: Bartolemeu, Mayembe
Author's nationality: Angola
Monitoring the Performance and Productivity of Dikanza 101 Oil Well Offshore Angola
Master of Science
Abstract:
The objective of this report is to check for any production impairment on the first well drilled offshore
Angola by ExxonMobil and how its productivity can be improved. To achieve it productivity trends from
production data records were analyzed using, the inflow performance relationship models (for
undersaturated and saturated reservoir) The main observations of the study carried out are: - Reservoir
showed different saturation phases (Undersaturated--> Saturated----> Undersaturated) due to the fact
that the water injection was initiated two months after put the well on production to maintain pressure
in the reservoir.
Production data showed to be steady with the produced volumes matching the targets. - No production
impairments was found during the analysis of well performance so there is no suggestion for
improvement.
11
Ref. 02-2009
Name: Manuel, Seque
Salt Tectonics Analogue Modelling of the Angolan Kwanza Basin: The effect of the initial salt layer
thickness variation.
Master of Science
Abstract:
Sand box experiments showed that complicated structures on seismic could be explained by an
experiment involving sand and gel.
12
Ref. 03-2009
Name: Paca,Victor Silvino Miguel
Saturation Height Modelling
Master of Science
Abstract:
The objective of this thesis is to develop a water saturation model for an offshore field in Angola,
utilising both log and core data from the discovery well. Conventional log derived water saturation from
resistivity logs is calculated and compared with core-based saturation-height model derived from
capillary pressure data. The uncertainty of each method is assesed in order to evaluate the robustness
and applicability of the final saturation-height model.
13
Ref. 04-2009
Name: Akhter, Farhana
Author's nationality: Bangladesh
Reserve Estimation Study of Narsingdi Gas Field using ECLIPSE-100
Master of Science
Abstract:
Gas is the most valuable natural resource of Bangladesh. Estimating and updating the gas reserve helps
the planners for drawing mid and long-term development plan from field development level to national
level. Estimating correct reserve has become vital issue nowadays.
This report presents the study of reserve estimation of Narshingdi Gas Field. The scopes of reservoir
engineering stury are PVT analysis, Material Balance Analysis, History Match production and pressure
regarding Gas Reserve Estimation and Recovery Calculation. After all these some forecast scenarios have
also been evaluated.
14
Ref. 05-2009
Name: Dipankar, Chowdhury
Pressure behavior in long wellbores
Master of Science
Abstract:
Standpipe pressure or SPP is the total frictional pressure drop in the hydraulic circuit which typically
consists of standpipe, rotary hose, swivel, kelly, drillstring, bit and annular section between the drillstring
and the casing or borehole wall. Conventional approach for SPP calculation is based on a number of
simplifying assumptions which cannot be realized in real drilling operation especially during drilling a
long deviated hole in a complex formation to hit a hydrocarbon pocket.
Hence the conventional approach does not produce SPP estimate with sufficient accuracy so that it can
be used for the determination of other drilling parameters such as optimum flow rate for borehole
cleaning.
15
Ref. 06-2009
Name: Ishtiak, Hossain
Integrated Production Modeling and Forecasting using IPM Suite (GAP, PROSPER, MBAL) Software
Package by Applying NODAL Analysis Methodology on Production System of Habiganj Gas Field,
Bangladesh
Master of Science
Abstract:
Various field production strategies (from reservoir to separator) of a bottom water drive gas reservoir in
Bangladesh has been investigated using IPM software suite. Reserve estimation is done by material
balance method, with quality checks from recent volumetric estimates and proper aquifer modelling.
The reserves estimated closely matches with previous values. Optimum production was investigated by
integrating the total production system, i.e., reservoir, wells, pipeline, chokes, separator, and wellhead
compressors.
16
Ref. 07-2009
Name: Islam, Amirul
Well Test Extracted Permeability Simulation for Dynamic Modeling of Reservoir and Simulation
Studies
Master of Science
Abstract:
A complete reservoir engineering study was conducted on the Titas Gas Field in Bangladesh. Geomodeling, petrophysical modelling, PVT properties and information from well testing were incorporated
to construct the dynamic model. Simulation studies were conducted using ECLIPSE simulator. 40 year
history match was done on the field.
17
Ref. 08-2009
Name: Macamo, Osorio
Author's nationality: Mozambique
Challenges of Reduced Clearance Casing: The Cementing Issue
Master of Science
Abstract:
Seismic refraction has provent to be a useful geophysical tool for investigating subsurface properties
combined with Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) mehtod. The velocity structure of mass rock, the depth
to the weathered and fractured rock zone (which is expected to be porous and saturated by fluid or
water bearing table), depth to fresh rock and lateral extent of rock properties are often the variables
that may be estimated using seismic refraction.
Combining the Refraction Seismic with the resistivety survey which is potentially efficient in detecing
low-resistivity weathering zone in a typically hard rock that is favorable for ground water accumulation,
and integrating data from borehold drilled for water supply, the interpretation of field data confirms in
general what was expected in terms of feasibility to use these two methods together.
The VES showed a tendency to provide greater detail in the most shallow subsurface less than 10
meters, whearas Refraction Seismic was more effective at depth, a more accurate image of subsurface
profile was provided using both methods.
18
Ref. 09-2009
Name: Mahmud, Shahriar
Challenges of Reduced Clearance Casing: The Cementing Issue
Master of Science
Abstract:
Deep drilling involves many challenges. When 7-10 casing strings of different sizes are needed, the
casing clearance gets more and more restricted. Under this condition, the cementing process becomes
very challenging. The equivalent circulation density (ECD) gets higher, which may exceed formation
fracture gradient and lead to lost circulation. Different scenarios have been investigated with an
example case, with different hydraulic models.
19
Ref. 10-2009
Name: Massingue, Belarmino Afonso
Author's nationality: Mozambique
Master of Science
Abstract:
Mozambique has two pericontinental sedimentary basins, the Rovuma Basin in the north and the
Mozambique Basin in the South. The Zambezi Delta Basin has a maximum thickness of 12 Km, is part of
the Mozambique Basin and one of the most important deltaic basin of the coast of Mozambique.
Despite the large sediment thicknesses present in Zambezi Delta Basin, decades of exploration have
made no significant oil discoveries. The modeled Zambezo Delta Basin also shows a mature oil
generating basin however the region is known to be gas prone but the results are not conclusive because
in the modeling process some parameters not properly calibrated and default from the modeling
software were used for the boundary conditions due to the lack of real data and limitations of the demo
version of the Petromod 1D used, then the results attained in this project are not accurate but they are
providing a figure of the results that can come out from the application of the Petromod 1D in basin
modeling.
20
Ref. 11-2009
Name: Hanif, Hasrul
Author's nationality: Indonesia
Governing Through New Social Myth
Masters degree in Democracy and Human Rights
Abstract:
Governing Through New Social Myth: Discursive Formation of Local Welfarism in Decentralised
Indonesia In recent years, Purbalingga, one of districts in province of Central Java, Indonesia, shows
fascinated experience of transformation of welfare governance. This district has been successfully
endorsing both economic and social developments simultaneously. The challenging point to remark in
such experience of Purbalingga is epistemological inquiry questioning on: How the particular welfare
discourse established and shaped in district of Purbalingga, Central Java responding to various social
dislocations through never concluded struggles about the fixation of floating elements of signification?
By use of Post-Marxist Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), this study shows that formation of local
welfarism in Purbalingga is articulatory practices that produce and represent particular meaning
(identification and signification) of welfare in and through un-fix political process or contentious
struggle for hegemony. It starts to explain various social dislocations i.e., rupture of developmentalism
that has been social imaginary for more than 30 years in Indonesia and collective demands challenging
structure of under-developed region in Purbalingga. Those social dislocations have strengthened
condition of possibility to constitute of new social myth after the crisis. As result, the rise of social
antagonism has endorsed the emergence of new discourse that re-articulates the dislocated elements
and functions as a surface of inscription for a variety of social demand and dislocation. This new
discourse does not only subject the agency but also put welfare as a nodal point surrounded by new
floating elements, i.e., economic development with social commitment, good governance and
decentralisation and regional autonomy.
Fascinatingly, discursive formation of new social myth has been deepened in day-to-day politics through
establishment of sedimented discourse, such as stick and carrots politics, anti-politics pro-poor
policies, consolidation of bureaucratic reform with new public management spirit, etc. Of course, this
process also emerges resistance from within discursive formation that express unfinished social
antagonism that limits contingent discourse.
Finally, this study identifies that the transformation of new welfare governance in district of Purbalingga,
Indonesia, actually represents discursive formation of socio-institutional neo-liberalism. In other words,
the constitution of welfarism in Indonesian local politics is based on market citizenship rather than social
citizenship. In this case, the mere availability of socio-institutional neo-liberalism as alternative discourse
for social restructuration counts more than their credibility. So, it also re-emphasise the primacy of the
political and discourse analysis in order to obtain obvious and comprehensive understanding of social
transformation in any particular contexts.
21
Ref. 12-2009
Name: Alfazema, Clemence
Author's nationality: Malawi
The Effects of incumbency turnover on Representation
Master of Arts in Political Science
Abstract:
This thesis focuses on the effects of high incumbency turnover of Members of Parliament on
representation. Malawi has one of the highest turnover rates of incumbent members of parliament in
Africa. Studies from established democracies indicate that high incumbency turnover aids representative
democracy as new members bring innovation and quality. These studies further indicate that high
turnover makes members of parliament responsive to their constituents. These views are coming from
the old democracies where turnover is very low. New democracies especially in Africa, such as Malawi,
experience high rates of turnover. Unfortunately this subject has not received much attention in the
African region. This thesis therefore set out to find the effects under the latter environment.
The study utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection, through desk research,
interviews and focus group discussions. The study examined the effects in four constituencies: two in the
southern and two in the central regions of Malawi and came up with some interesting trends. There
exists a slight relationship between constituents satisfaction with an incumbent MP and his/her
retention. Satisfaction of the constituents is key to the MPs reelection and in the constituencies studied,
constituents expressed dissatisfaction with their MPs as individuals and those who got re-elected in
previous elections got their chance due to party influence and financial capability as well as patrimonial
tendencies.
Rent maximization is one of the direct effects of high incumbency turnover and involves representatives
deviating from constituents interests. Rent maximization that has been given in this study includes
maximizing financial gains, defections and low roll-call participation. This thesis also show MPs rent
maximization can lead to voter apathy. It further shows that, what drives the incumbent MPs to
maximize rents in extreme cases of high turnover is the fact that they fear for their job security.
The thesis further shows other effects such as the weakening of political parties. Consequently
democracy weakens as people participation goes down. When all the findings are pooled together this
study concludes that effects of high incumbency turnover on representation both from constituents
expectations and the ideals of the word are numerous and adverse.
Comment: The Candidate completed in 2009 and will graduate in 2010. In Malawi there are only 2
scheduled graduation ceremonies in July and August. If you miss these two dates then you are
scheduled for the next graduation
22
Ref. 13-2009
Name: Chasukwa, Michael
Democratization without democracy: the effects of absence of councellors on the promotion of good
governance in Malawi
Abstract:
The thesis aimed at establishing the effects of absence of councillors on the promotion of participation
and accountability, the key tenets of good governance that are espoused in the Malawi National
Decentralisation Policy, Local Government Act of 1998, and the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi.
The thesis focused on the extent to which the emerging institutions from both the state and non-state
spheres are effectively filling in the gap created by the dissolution of assemblies as stand-in institutions
for councillors. The thesis used the social contract and policy spaces theoretical underpinnings to explain
the emerging issues that have a bearing on the promotion of participation and accountability and role of
emerging institutions in the absence of councillors.
Adopting a mixed research design with a strong bias towards qualitative research design, the thesis
found out that in the absence of the local elected representatives, the good governance project at the
local level in Malawi has been negatively affected. This is the case because formal political participation
spaces have been closed and the newly created ones are not devolved beyond the assembly
headquarters; citizen-state engagement has decreased; receptivity and responsiveness of the assemblies
has dwindled; fusion of the roles on policy making and implementation into the hands of the secretariat
has reflected the non-observance of the principle of separation of powers and a recipe for abuse of
resources.
With reference to the emerging institutions as stand-in actors for councillors, the finding was that it is
difficult for them to discharge the functions of councillors because they are not elected and their
democratic and legal status is questioned to the effect that they cannot enact by-laws and pass the local
budget. The study also established that the emerging institutions are incapacitated to play the role of
stand-in actors for councillors because they are donor dependent, project oriented, and operating in the
peripheral of the clique of bureaucrats managing affairs at the local level hence having little influence in
the decision making process.
The thesis concluded that the good governance agenda has taken some steps backward in the absence
of the councillors. The conclusion again is that when the councillors are back, they have to a engage well
thought deliberate strategy to reclaim their political space that has been appropriated by different
actors, chiefly the central government political agents.
Comment: The candidate is waiting to graduate which is likely to be in June/July.
23
Ref. 14-2009
Name: Chisi, Peter
Civil society and democratisation: The role of civil society organisations in promoting democracy at
district level the case of Salima District
Abstract:
The democratic transition that Malawi experienced in early 1990s was part of the so called third wave
democratization that started in 1974 (Huntington 1991). In Malawi, CSOs were part of the movement
that championed and managed the transitional process from one party to a multi party state. Since then,
they have continued to evolve, responding to both the local political environment as well as the
influence of the donor agencies and international organizations.
Their influence in democratic processes has lacked consistency. For instance it was observed that
between the 1994 and 1999 democratic elections, their influence began to decline. This study explores
the role of civil society organizations in contributing to the deepening of democratic values at district
level using a case study of Salima District.
The rationale for doing a case study approach was grounded on the basis that most analyses about the
contribution of civil society organizations to the democratization process in Malawi have been at
national level, yet most CSOs have a narrow operational base. Three CSOs were purposively selected for
this study and these are Action Aid International Malawi, Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation
(CHRR) and the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE). NICEwas deliberately included in the study
to learn more about the role of the state in promoting civil society organization. It does not fit in the
traditional definition of civil society because it is a government owned project but its work is very much
associated with CSOs and almost all its project staff interviewed think that it is part of the civil society
family in Malawi.
Using the participatory democracy model, the study analyses the extent to which CSOs are able to
mobilize communities into actions that promote their participation in public affairs and holding their
elected leaders accountable. The study finds that CSOs have done little to promote accountability of
elected leaders but are trying to come up with strategies for doing so.
This study calls for clear prescription on what democratic features are expected of CSOs. One of the
main attributes of CSOs is that they are identified as a people centred participatory channel that can
serve to articulate and express citizens ideas (Chiweza 2007). An organization with a large membership
base can be seen to contribute to democracy promotion by acting as a forum where the majority of
citizens have an effective voice in the affairs of their government (Robinson and Friedman 2005:4). But
this study has found that all the CSOs covered by the study are not membership based.
Comment: The candiate submitted his thesis and is waiting to defend.
24
Ref. 15-2009
Name: Chunga, Joseph
Politics of constitution making in democratic Malawi: A stocktaking of new constitutionalism
Abstract:
The study is an examination of politics of constitution making in Malawi since democratization in 1994
focusing on the constitutional review process between 2004 and 2008. Situated within realist-idealist
debate over the place of politics in constitution making and centred on the concept of representation,
the thesis traces the space Malawians had during the constitution review process and the interests or
reasons that informed proposals of constitutional design submitted by various major actors who had
assumed the role of representatives of the people. The main purpose is to find out the extent to which
the process has been representative.
Towards this objective, the study set to find out the level of public participation and inclusiveness; and
whether and how politics impacted on the process and constitutional choices that actors made.
Dominant-less-dominant paradigm of research was employed. Thus, the study was predominantly
qualitative although some elements of quantitative methods were used. It involved interviews with
various stakeholders in the constitution making review process including political party leaders and
commissioners of the Special Commission on the Review of the Constitution; various documents were
reviewed; and questionnaires were also administered to members of the general public.
The central argument of this study is that Malawis democracy rests on weak institutional foundation
because of inadequacies in the process of making the constitution that defines the democratic system.
Findings of the study show that some strides have been made in departing from the path of elitist
undemocratic constitution making but the process remains undemocratic as far as representation is
concerned. Popular participation is very low and political expediency remains a dominant, if not, the
motivation for constitutional choices for the actors in the process.
25
Ref. 16-2009
Name: Jimu, Jacob
Political Parties as Channels for Political Participation in Malawi
Abstract:
The study was an examination of political participation in Malawi through political parties using the case
study of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), the United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Democratic
Progressive Party (DPP). The main focus of the study was to establish whether political parties in Malawi
are viable linkage institutions that people can use to influence public policy making. Understanding this
dynamic is crucial because the main reason political parties exist in a democracy is to connect citizens
with their government. Their performance in helping citizens influence government policies determines
whether they are relevant actors in a democracy. But for parties to effectively connect people with their
government, they need to be democratic by allowing their members to influence their policies.
It is for this reason that this study sought to establish whether political parties in Malawi have the spaces
that their members can use to influence their policies and, ultimately, government policies. The study
explored this area by investigating three dimensions of political participation: Decision making, level of
activism at the local branches of political parties and the extent to which people at these local branches
prioritise public policy issues at their meetings.
The research was both qualitative and quantitative in nature. The data collection techniques used were
focus group discussions (FGDs), a questionnaire-based survey and key informant interviews. FGDs and a
questionnaire survey were used to collect data from ordinary party members while key informant
interviews were utilised to engage experts and party leaders at constituency, district, regional and
national levels.
The major argument the study advances on the basis of the findings is that political parties in Malawi are
limited as linkage institutions as they do not offer their members adequate spaces which they can use to
influence party and public policy making. The research established that peoples participation is very low
in key areas such as Parliament, the formulation and adoption of party manifestos and the decisions
made at party conventions. The study also established that members do not participate actively in party
activities at the local levels and that public policy issues are given low priority at the local meetings they
have.
Comment: The candidate completed, defended his thesis during a viva and passed is waiting for
graduation which likely to between July- August 2010.
26
Ref. 17-2009
Name: Kalua, Phaniso
The extent of Political Party Institutionalisation: The case of MCP and UDF.
Abstract:
The author explores the extent of political party institutionalization in Malawi and its impact of
democracy consolidation. Although Political parties are the key institutions in consolidation of
democracy, it is only the institutionalized parties that effectively perform this role. The study utilizes
party institutionalization models proposed by Randall and Svasand (2002) and Basedau/ Stroh (2008) in
assessing the extent of institutionalization on political parties in Malawi, their functional performance,
and impact on democracy consolidation.
The study findings indicate that political parties in Malawi are poorly institutionalized which significantly
impact on their functioning capacity. Whereas UDF scores slightly better than MCP on decisional
autonomy, the party lags behind in systemness, value infusion and reification. Although the study
attempts to portray a differentiated picture, on the whole, the results imply the parties limitations in
democracy consolidation role.
27
Ref. 18-2009
Name: Kanyang 'a, Maclan
Informal institutions and public policy implementation in Malawi: The case of public broadcasting
regulation
Abstract:
Against a set of policy reforms to meet democratic criterion, public broadcasting in Malawi has in recent
years been hit by crisis pertaining to control and ownership, content and funding. While pressure is
growing to strengthen existing laws, little attention has been paid to unwritten laws embedded in
everyday social practice governing the behaviour of actors in this policy area. This study elucidates how
informal institutions undermine the effective implementation of public policy in Malawi using the case of
public broadcasting regulation.
Using a qualitative approach relying on multiple data sources namely key informant interviews and
document analysis, the study reveals that informal institutions both undermine and complement formal
institutions in public broadcasting policy implementation. Trust in political big men, party based
networks, chiponda and informal labour market institutions undermine effective implementation of
formal public broadcasting policy in Malawi while issue networks and informal funding mechanism are
complementing the work of formal institutions. Notably, the big man is a central institution that builds
impetus for other informal institutions regardless of whether they supplement or supplant existing
formal rules.
The study findings challenge present emphasis on formal institutional reforms. The study suggests that
weaknesses in the formal institution should be looked at as an incentive for the emergence of informal
institutions which can explain the apparent failure in public broadcasting regulation. To improve practice
in the sector, the study suggests manipulation of the supply of labour by increasing opportunities for the
mobility of employees more likely to create demand for standards.
Comment: The candidate completed and defended his thesis but awaiting graduation which is likely to
take place in June/July.
28
Ref. 19-2009
Name: Mkandawire, Vitima
Political Parties and Problems of Candidate Selection: Lessons from the 2004 General
Master of arts in Poloitical Science
Abstract:
This study on political parties in Malawi seeks to underpin how candidate selection affects intra-party
democracy. It utilises three theories of political parties namely; electoral competition, institutional and
sociological models as analytical tools to examine how and why one party differs from another in respect
of its organisation (candidate selection) in Malawi. This study therefore explores how parties in Malawi
select their candidates.
It deals primarily, though not exclusively, with the nomination of candidates for seats in legislature and
with candidates for directly elected executive position of the presidency. In general terms, an attempt is
made to determine the extent, motives, and repercussions of national involvement in the choice of
candidates.
The study findings while confirming that inclusive and democratic candidate selection promotes intraparty democracy, suggest that there are many cases in Malawi where formal rules governing party
primaries and conventions are either not enforced or deliberately manipulated by the party elites,
thereby stifling intra-party democracy. As a result, the imposition of candidates is a common occurrence
in many parties in Malawi hence a thorn issue. In this regard, the study observes that much as political
parties may claim to and promote democracy, there are still areas that would need to be worked on if
democracy is to be the only game in town but also the only game within parties. In conclusion, the
study findings underscore the importance of political parties permitting party members to have a say in
the choice of candidates.
The study suggests that weaknesses in candidate selection be looked at as means to explain lack of intraparty democracy in Malawi. To consolidate democracy in the country, the study suggests that all the
major parties arrive at more acceptable rules and procedures for candidate nomination.
Comment: The candidate submitted the thesis and is waiting to defend.
29
Ref. 20-2009
Name: Mluwira, Amon
Does Women Representation and Participation Matter in Public Policy Making? A Case of Female MPs
and Female Ministers in Malawi
Abstract:
This study explains whether women participation and representation matter in public policy making with
reference to female MPs and female ministers in Malawi.
The study was qualitative and its main population was all female MPs and ministers. However, other
groups were also added like senior parliamentary staff, the Office of President and Cabinet and all party
whips represented in parliament. The study purposively and strategically selected these groups to get in
depth information. Key informant interviews using interview guides were employed as the main method
for collecting data. However, certain information was collected through documents like the Hansard and
News paper articles. The data has been analysed through process tracing and content analysis.
One of the major findings of this study is that although there a lot of interventions from various
stakeholders to increase the number of women at these two levels, it is very difficult to achieve the
thresholds of women representation as suggested by regional bodies because there are a lot of hurdles.
These include culture and tradition, education, resources, electoral system among others. As a result the
number of women is still very low and is increasing very slowly averaging 8 percent in every five years.
Another finding is that the mere (numerical) presence of women at these two levels has an impact on
policy outcomes because there are certain policies which have been brought onto the agenda because
of the presence of women. However, women are always made by male dominated political institutions
to specialize in feminine areas of policy making. Again the study has found out that female ministers
who are also very few as compared to male counterparts are usually relegated to feminine ministries
with most of them deputizing. Women also remain greatly underrepresented in various parliamentary
committees and the Business committee, which are very important as far as parliamentary work is
concerned. Most of them are also relegated to feminine committees. Due to their under-representation,
the policy outcomes are affected because they do not take due account of womens input.
Further to this the study has also discovered that party discipline also affects the performance of women
as there are certain policies of women concern but were rejected by women themselves because of the
stand of their parties. In general women representation and participation in policy making process
matters because of not only in what gets discussed at these two levels but also in what kind of policies
are advanced because the study discovered that there are certain policies which have been advanced by
women themselves which ordinarily without the presence of women could not have been on the
agenda.
Comment: The candidate defended and waiting for graduation likely to be in June/July.
30
Ref. 21-2009
Name: Mpesi, Andrew
Political Parties and their Manifestos: Inferring Political Party Ideologies in Malawi since 1994
Abstract:
Since the reintroduction of multiparty democracy in 1993, political parties in Malawi have been at the
centre of ideology and policy positions debate. Political parties are said to be lacking substantial
ideologies, and that their policy positions are almost identical. This study makes further contribution to
this debate. It mainly focuses on differences and similarities in issue saliency across two main parties and
across three general elections, 1994, 1999 and 2004 as reflected in the electoral manifestos. Second, the
study looks at the subject of policy commitment by examining whether ideas in the electoral manifestos
are reflected in decisions taken by the parties in power. In this second aspect, the study only looks at
whether the intentions of the manifesto are brought onto the government agenda as opposed to
examining the merits or demerits of a particular policy commitment.
This study uses qualitative research methods but has some aspects of quantitative methods. In the first
place, the study purposively samples out two main parties in Malawi. These are the two biggest in
parliament since 1994 (Malawi Congress Party and the United Democratic Front) because each one of
them has managed to secure above 25% of seats in all the three general elections. With the evidence
presented, the study demonstrates that there are some small but significant differences in issue salience
across parties and across elections. The study also reveals that ruling parties show commitment to their
electoral manifesto by making sure that important issues are brought before the government agenda.
Parties do not completely abandon their electoral promises. Importantly, changes in national policies
with the change of government leadership signify that parties are slightly different in their policy
orientation.
Overall, there are encouraging signs to indicate that although parties appear to be vague on issues when
they meet the electorates, differences in issue saliency at the macro level are evident. Consequently, the
decline in defining societal factors such as tribalism, ethnicity, and the dominance of charismatic
personalities will make parties and voters look to policies and ideologies as benchmarks for electoral
choice in the near future.
31
Ref. 22-2009
Name: Thindwa-Kalebe, Sainala
The institutional Context for nomination of women as political party candidates for parliamentary
elections
Abstract:
The thesis is an investigation of the process of candidate nomination by the UDF political party in the
2004 primary elections. The researcher wanted to find out whether and how the institutions
surrounding the nomination process affected selected womens candidacy. As a background to the
study it is argued that political parties are important factors in the election of any candidate for
parliament and more so women candidates. It is a fact that most Members of Parliament including
women were at first nominated by a particular political party as electoral candidates. Understanding the
nomination process in political parties is therefore critical in the understanding of the low
representation of women in parliament. The study is done as an institutional analysis of primary election
activities in which some women were able and others were unable to be nominated as party candidates
for the United Democratic Front party in Malawi for the 2004 general elections.
It is a qualitative exploration that seeks to find out whether and how the institutional context was
different for successful and unsuccessful women in selected constituencies. The UDF party is selected
because it was the only party that had expressed verbal commitment to promoting women in politics
and also it was the party that had ended up with the highest number of women party nominees in total
and also proportionately. The study particularly addresses the interaction of formal and informal
institutions in the nomination processes. This interaction of institutions is studied as proposed by
Helmke and Levitsky (2004). The institutions being studied surround the rules, resources, activities as
well as roles and profiles of people in the entire nomination process. Data is collected purposively
through in depth interviews involving successful candidates, unsuccessful candidates, senior party
officials and other government and customary authorities that could provide an insight into the process.
Focus group discussions are also done with the party members that had been active at the time of
primary elections and had participated in the process.
The findings of the study were surprising considering the contextual setting in the UDF party. It was
found that formal institutions for candidate nomination were unwritten and at times vague. These
allowed powerful informal institutions to thrive and influence the outcome of the nomination process As
a result of this the process would easily serve particular interests within the political party. On the
overall, the institutions in operation were able to ensure that some women candidates succeed and
other women candidates do not succeed.
Comment: This candidate has completed. Her thesis has been examined, she had defended her thesis
and passed and is now awaiting graduation in June-July.
32
Ref. 23-2009
Name: Galappaththi,Manoja Kumari
Author's nationality: Sri Lanka
Socio-Political Dynamics of Inter-Ethnic Relations in an Urban Community in Galle (A Case Study of Sri
Lanka)
Master of Arts in Conflict, Peace and Development Studies
Abstract:
The studies focused on the recognition of socio-political dynamics of interethnic relations in an urban
community in Galle. The study was conducted to understand the socio-economic and cultural interethnic relationship between the ethnic groups. And the study aimed to find out what current external
socio-political dynamics that operate in southern Sri Lanka are affecting inter-ethnic relationships among
Sinhala,. Tamil and Muslim communities.
Empirical data for the study was collected from the Galle fort where in southern part of Sri Lanka. The
Galle Fort specified for the different ethnicities as their homes. Basically, field data was collected from a
sample of ethnicities using a questionnaire. In addition individual interviews were conducted. Secondary
data was gathered through review of literature. The qualitative data was analyzed descriptively by
classifying and tabulating them in different categories and sub headings.
The data explained power as a major phenomenon to origin a conflict between the groups. Power has
made the people discriminated each other. As a result of power the two groups, majority and minority
have originated in the society. Majority Sinhalese have major power to control the other groups than the
minorities as the majority have significant number of people. So the majority always try to gratify their
expectations than the minorities. Since the power of the government has been centered round a
majority group, minority groups have been discriminated. Further, the majority Sinhalese always
segregate their power from minorities in every aspect of cultural activities, language, education, and
religion.
Though the residents of Galle Fort live in harmony, the minority groups are always discriminated by the
majority group internally in the Fort. The minorities come out with several suggestions to avoid this
uncomfortable situation. They also expect a peaceful environment to live together in the society. And
the government has a responsibility to build up a peaceful country for all ethnic communities.
33
Ref. 24-2009
Name: Gunanayagam, Vickneswaran
Rebuilding Social Order in Post-Conflict Societies
Abstract:
Smooth function of any society depends on social order in which members of the society could get their
needs satisfied. Deterioration of social order will result unsatisfied needs of members and many chaotic
situations within a society. Disorder can be brought about by disasters in two ways: natural and
manmade, in which structural elements of a society and its integrated functions that are essential to
carry on day-to-day smooth life of members of a society, are damaged.
Once a disaster occurs, members of the particular society are inevitably compelled to migrate to another
place. As they return after the disaster, they have to face problems in reconstructing their social
structure and rebuilding social order of their disaster-affected society. Resettlement is almost a
challenging task that there have to be arrangements and proper coordination of tasks. In a post-disaster
resettlement, there can be several issues related with internally displaced persons (IDPs) and,
anthropologically speaking, those issues are emerging from the shortcomings of structure and function
of social institutions of the society concerned.
The study anthropologically relates resettlement and recovery process with the concept of social order.
This research is prominently concerned with the issues related to resettlement of IDPs in the postconflict areas. This research not just only examines of people in resettlement areas and proposing ways
just to fulfill the situational requirements of people, but it anthropologically addresses the problems
relating social order and resolves them so as to chronically exist by rebuilding social order of particular
resettlements areas.
This research specifically identifies issues and problems in relation with social institutions and cultural
elements of the particular society and proposes ways to resolve those issues and problems through
reinstate social order in those societies concerned.
34
Ref. 25-2009
Name: Maharjan, Pritush
Author's nationality: Nepal
The Politics of Ethno Identity and Reconciliation: An Analysis of Sangha on Sri Lankan Peace Conflict
Discourse
Abstract:
The challenge of rebuilding relationships in Sri Lanka will only grow more difficult with the passing of
time. Against the backdrop of an overall theoretical framework and a snapshot of fragmented
relationships in the country, it is now useful to take a closer look at reconciliation in Sri Lanka.
The concept is most frequently discussed within the context of the ethno political conflict. In fact, many
of the reconciliation interventions carried out to-date at the macro (track one), meson (track two) and
micro (track three) levels have revolved around the fault lines of this same conflict. The role of the
Sangha and its members as with the virtue of their power and knowledge to add in the formulation of
the Ethno Religious Identity in the Sri Lankan society can play a role in all of these three tracks.
Reconciliation requires a multi-layered approach for transforming societies emerging from conflict
situations. It should also be initiated early in the pre-settlement stage and form part of peace making,
rather than being added as an afterthought. In this way it can genuinely form part of the settlement of
conflict and be taken into account in any negotiated power sharing, relief, rehabilitation and
reconstruction efforts.
To date, reconciliation in Sri Lanka has not been well integrated into the conflict transformation process,
and it is fair to say that reconciliation initiatives have not been poorly planned, with little effort made to
include a political, socio-economic, religious or cultural focus. Yet Sri Lanka has employed the usual
range of reconciliation devices: truth commissions, trials, reparations and official apologies, although
these were mainly initiated by the government (one of the parties to the conflict). A greater part of
reconciliation activities have taken place at the track two and track three levels, with less visible
commitment to the subject at the track one level, the government respond to it in these present
scenario could not be undermined. For any reconciliation process to be effective it has to be firmly
linked to the local context.
Ultimately, it may be less effective in redressing social, economic or political human rights violations that
are better addressed by the application of restorative justice measures which are more likely to heal the
wounds not only of the specific individuals in question, but also of the wider community. Confidence and
trust building measures, concessions and symbolic gestures are important. Innovation-that is looking
outside the mainstream of international political traditions, discourse and operational modalities is the
need of Sri Lankan context as suggested by Lederach.
35
Ref. 26-2009
Name: Malla, Trilochan Bahadur
Conflict to Community Livelihood: An Analytical Study of Government's Framework for ExCombatants' Reintegration into Civilian Life in Sri Lanka
Abstract:
The demobilization and reintegration of ex-combatants not integrated within the broader national
recovery strategy in post conflict situation will undoubtedly impair the restoration of political stability
and post conflict peace building. Aftermath, Sri Lankan security forces has achieved victory over the
rebel LTTE, the Sri Lankan state very wisely demonstrated its foresightedness in planning for the all
important challenges of implementing post conflict national recovery strategy, including the initiative of
coming up with a framework for reintegrating ex-combatants into civilian life. The thesis at hand having
reviewed the literature on DDR and especially reintegration, tried to envision the key ingredients for the
sound reintegration framework in Sri Lankan context, which was used as a benchmark to analyze the
governments actual framework proposal.
Incorporated within are the observations of the framing up process, the salient aspects of framework,
critique s to the strengths and shortcomings followed by the recommendations for its successful
implementation. Incorporating the aspects related to some of the major focus areas like institutional
structure, multi donor trust fund, amnesty and transitional justice, economic reintegration within
regional development plan and National Disarmament Campaign and Small Arms and Light Weapons
Survey, the framework also ahs very comprehensively dealt with the major components related to excombatants reintegration.
To summarize, the framework which is indeed a very comprehensive document has envisioned a very
sound strategy for the reintegration of the ex-combatants, but having said that there are still some areas
of concern which require more focus and concerted efforts to be put into to make it even better prior to
or during eventual implementation.
36
Ref. 27-2009
Name: Shah, Ojaswi
Politico Ideology of Education in Sri Lanka: Analysis of Education in Southern Province
Abstract:
Ideology is one variant form of those comprehensive patterns of cognitive and moral beliefs about man,
society and the universe in relation to man and society, society which flourish in human societies.
Ideologies are characterized by a high degree of explicitness of formulation over a very wide range of the
objects with which they deal. As compared with other patterns of beliefs, ideologies are relatively highly
systematized or integrated around one or a few pre-eminent values, such as salvation, equality, or
ethnic purity. The focus of this research study is the reproduction of ideologies in Sri Lankan context,
selecting Sinhala Buddhist ideology that pervades through the Southern Sri Lankan.
Sri Lanka has seen a long history of more than three decades of violent ethnic conflict, which has just
recently this year taken a new bend with the death of top LTTE (Liberation of Tigers of Tamil Eelam)
leaders including Prabhakaran, its founder. The conflict was a result of ideological domination based on
ethnic inequality which sparked because of the discriminatory educational reforms, which gave
favouritism quotas to Sinhalese and the Tamils had to face yet another blow by controversial Language
Policy Act of Sri Lanka, which made Sinhala the official state language. Even though this policy stands
corrected now, but the damage was already irreparably done as this hegemony clashed with the LTTEs
political mindsets and for decades to come the Sri Lankan state has been cautiously taking over the
schools and running the education systems with subtle hegemony that has produced many radicalized
Southern Buddhist youths, and through indigenous schools Buddhist young monks, and through the
military young soldiers, who strong believe in the states politico ideological orchestration.
This reproduction of ideology through education system is subtle in school level and in the school
textbooks, but nevertheless care has been taken to further the Sinhala Buddhist ideology even in schools
through the educators and school administrators. The university is however, a more direct hotspot for
political action and Ruhuna is not untouched by both the state political history and culture. The ethnic
divergence that this ideology has created has been taken full advantage of by the politicians at both
sides, who cash it on the politico emotional votes.
Sri Lanka has gained a lot of change in the past few decades and even in the time of conflict, it has not
let the countrys internal policies and development go absolutely haywire, but the policies like the
language policy and educational laws need to be revised and done with, so that in this time of new
beginning, there is genuine hope for all Sri Lankans that peace is achievable at both policy level and grass
root level.
37
Ref. 28-2009
Name: Shrestha, Ramesh
Civil Society Actors on Reconciliation, Peace Building and Conflict Transformation in Sri Lanka
Abstract:
In Sri Lanka, civil society basically includes institutions, trade unions, organizations and individuals who
are engaged in development, human rights, peace building, reconciliation and conflict transformation.
Beside peace work, they have been involving themselves in welfare activities for the people. Sometimes,
they have been alleged as a sleeping giant or inactive or passive. It is because of Sri Lanka governments
strategy of war for peace which is supported by various nationalist parties and antagonists. One of the
significant contributors of CSAs in war to peace transition in Sri Lanka can be traced in their active role in
conducting policy dialogue to develop various policies that lead to development and peace in eastern
provinces after its liberation. They basically work to sensitize the mass for development activities,
reconciliation and peace building by providing space to think and act in democratic way. Election
monitoring group also helped to maintain the impartiality and enhance the democratic process in east.
Finally, in Sri Lanka, negotiated political package should include wide range of reformist approaches such
as reform in education and security sectors, reform in constitution, language policy, impartial procedure
for government employment, equality and inclusiveness of all communities, transparent governance,
secular state, inter ethnic and inter religious equality, equal participation of all communities in decision
making level, gender equality, impartial judiciary, devolution of power to the province, province
autonomy and decentralization of local government institutions, equal resource allocation for all
province and promote equal development of least developed districts, reconstruction and rehabilitation
of IDPs and war affected population and reconciliation.
38
Ref. 29-2009
Name: Subba, Rajendra
Education in Conflict: An Analytical Study of Education and University Curriculum of Sri Lanka
Abstract:
Education is the mother of all inventions. It possesses power to change the whole world. It is only the
education that can equip human being with knowledge, skills and art of all sorts. Education despite its
innovative force may also play key role in suppressing ideology, identity and culture of aimed people if
exercised otherwise. So it can equally be destructive and dangerous too. But mostly it is seen physically
suffered during conflict. Under the three dimensions of education; the sufferer, the contributor and the
mitigator of conflict, this thesis critically analyses the education policy and the role of university
education in Sri Lanka where ethnic conflict lasted for twenty-six years and explore which one of these
three categories the role of universities belong to.
The analysis and the study on university education here seeks answer to the question that why
education in Sri Lanka despite its remarkable success in achieving the highest literacy rate in South Asia
failed to mitigate conflict for such a long period. This study is qualitative and analyses and interprets the
data collected by administering interview, and curriculum analysis in four universities of Sri Lanka
located in different provinces and from the secondary sources. This thesis highlights incongruence and
conflict fuelling factors in the universities curriculum and suggests the key areas that need immediate
action for improvement. It strongly argues that education is a force for good and powerful means of
changing all sort of negative force into good. Word is more effective and powerful than weapons to
bring peace and build unity and harmony.
The findings of the study show that there is state of confusion and duality in the curriculum. The
curricula of the Universities consist of both contributing and mitigating factors of conflict. There appears
a regional and particular communal interest in the curriculum that has indirectly denied the existence
and practices of cultures that the people from other communities have. The universities have not been
so able to accept mutuality, understanding and respect for each other fully.
In conclusion, those areas under consideration needs to be immediately addressed through
restructuring the pattern of education and curriculum rather than Add Good Education approach to
change the role of university education into a force for good. The concept of peace building through
education should be reflected in the curriculum and papers on it be incorporated as common paper by
the curriculum of all disciplines. The Role of Politics in promoting the particular interest through
education and its socio-economic impact on people is one of the themes that this thesis suggests for
future research.
39
Ref. 30-2009
Name: Kweronda, Frank Katusiime
Author's nationality: Uganda
Hydrological Modelling and Hydropower Simulation of River Mubuku in the Rwenzori Mountains,
Uganda
Master of Science in Hydropower Development
Abstract:
The purpose of the thesis report study is to contribute and improve the existing knowledge about water
resources in the river Mubuku basin, study the contribution of snow melt to the river flow from the
alpine regions of the Rwenzori Mountains and possible hydropower developments/improvements.
The basin under study is the Mubuku River located in the Rwenzori Mountains, western region of
Uganda (Kasese District). Geographically, the project area is located near the equator between 0o 10N
0o 30 N and 29o 50E 30o 00 E). Three runoff the river hydropower plants namely: Ibanda
(Mubuku 1), Bugoye (Mubuku II) and KCCL (Mubuku III) with installed capacities of 5 MW, 13 MW and 10
MW respectively exist along this river. Long-term flow measurement data exists at two different gauging
stations but with missing data from 1972 1998. One of the gauging stations was operational from
1954-1971 and is out of order while the second one located at KCCL HPP intake is still functional since
1999. Meteorological data for this catchment is very unreliable as it is measured at very low elevations
of 959 m.a.s.l slightly outside the catchment as compared to its highest point of 4858 m.a.s.l. The lowest
point of the catchment is 1210 m.a.s.l at KCCL gauging station.
No sustainable measurements of precipitation and other meteorological data within alpine areas of the
Rwenzori Mountains happen to have been done so far. There exists no snow storage in the rest of the
Zones of the catchment below 4613 m.a.s.l, implying that during precipitation, the snow melts
immediately forming part of the runoff. Although is anticipated that the glacier is likely to disappear
completely within the next 10 years. Although with a lot of difficulties in calibration of the HBV model,
the models (energy balance and HBV) give rough estimate of (12-17) % contribution respectively, which
is ~1.2m3/s of the current mean river flow.
As determined from nMAG model the Ibanda HPP has the upgrading potential from the existing 5 MW to
15 MW where by some of the power will be utilized by Kilembe Mines Company and the rest remains for
the main national grid. The upgrading of the Mubuku 1 power plant will increase the firm energy level by
32.69 GWh/year. The reservoir option with dam at Ruboni was not found feasible for the system. The
rest of the power plants (Bugoye and Ibanda) dont have that much upgrading potential. Opportunities
to develop other power plants downstream of the KCCL gauge are not there mainly due to low heads,
environmental and social issues.
40
Ref. 31-2009
Name: Nicholaus, Frigil
Author's nationality: Tanzania
Rehabilation of Nyamba ya Mungu Power Plant in Pangani River, Tanzania
Abstract:
Tanzania is one of the developing countries in Africa which its economy growth will highly influenced by
the availability of reliable firm Energy. Following to this Unavoidable fact, Nyumba ya Mungu Power
plant with Installed Capacity 8MW located in the northern part of the country, has been operated under
energy loss unknowingly. This study has been initiated to Investigate to the causes of loss of Energy.
Several investigations has been carried out these Includes sedimentation, Reservoir Economic analysis,
Hydrological analysis, Hydropower simulation and Estimation of the Plant`s Efficiency. The results show
that loss of Energy or low power productions is mainly contributed to the reduction of the Plants
Efficiency. So far plant`s efficiency has been reduced to 70% which is about 20%loss. The study revealed
that this loss has been there since 1995 so it is may be very possible that this problem has persisted for
the number of decades. The investigation shows that the loss of Plants efficiency is mainly contributed
to the failure to meet the plants operation rules. It may be possible that the plant has been operated
below pre designed head and discharges thing which has cause the Cavitations to the plant`s system
therefore harm the turbines. The study bold the problem may be cavitations because the sedimentation
level in the reservoir proved to be very low only 1% of total reservoir storage capacity has been depleted
(Ndomba,2006) The efficiency loss is very significant that is to say it is beyond tolerable limit as it has
results to significant loss of Energy.
The study found that rehabilitation of this power plant is very economical rather than operation it with
this significant loss of Efficiency. However the sensitivity analysis proves that the rehabilitation is viable.
The climate change is global problem facing the world to date. The study recommends the preservations
of the water sources in Pangani Basin. Priority for the water has to be given to Hydropower Generation
so that people they can have this reliable source of Energy and stop failing trees for the biomass energy
which contributing to the global warming. Management of the granted water rights has to be improved
or revaluated to make sure that only granted off-take is obstructed and not otherwise. The trend
showed that the water in this basin is decreasing so it is important for the management to think of
ceasing some of the granted water rights for the favour of the Hydropower Generation sustainability.
The study recommends the same study to be done to the other power plants in the country so that they
can reveal the recent condition of the plant`s efficiency.
41
Ref. 32-2009
Name: Okotel, Patrick
Review of Pre-Feasibility Study of Muzuzu Hydropower Project, Uganda
Master of Science in Hydropower Develomenty
Abstract:
The Muzizi Hydropower Project (MHP) is located on Muzizi River in Fort Portal district approximately 300
km from Kampala to the west. The project is about 52 km from Fort Portal town, branching off at 3 km
on Fort Portal Kampala high way on Fort Portal Kijura road. The proposed headwork of the project is
located 0.7 km on the downstream of Muzizi Sogohi confluence. The proposed power house is located
about 4km on the edge of the rift valley. Muzizi Hydropower Project (MHP) was identified by Gibbs in
1958 and proposed a 12 m high dam with a capacity of 0.4 Mm3. NorConsult in 1993 proposed the site
approximately 3 km of the Muzizi Sogohi confluence with a 3 km transfer tunnel. Kennedy & Donkin in
the 1996 desk study covering the hydro power potential in Uganda identified the storage 4.5 km
upstream of the Muzizi Sogohi confluence. In 1997, Kagga & Partners carried studies on the access road
of the proposed Muzizi Hydropower project and VSA Geoconsult carried out geotechnical studies of
MHP in 1997. Mott Macdonald in 1998 carried out a prefeasibility study of MHP and proposed the
development a small project of 20 MW. Other studies carried out by students from NTNU include Tor
Martin Fossan in 2007 which combined the prefeasibility study of MHP and Nengo Bridge.
Uganda currently a cute power shortage which has resulted in regular load shedding. This therefore calls
urgent reinforcement of the current installed capacity of 380 MW at Owen Falls dam on the River Nile
and the 250 MW Bujagali project under construction. Although 40% of Ugandans live in areas covered by
Uganda Electricity Board (UEB) system, only 6% of the population has access to electricity, 5% from
urban areas and 1% from the rural areas. The 94% is therefore a potential market for hydro power
generation and distribution. The discharge measurements on the Muzizi River, taken from Hoima Road
gauging station located 25 km on the upstream of the proposed MHP range from 1957 to date, but due
to unreliability of the measurements from the 1980s, estimates for the catchment yield were based on
22 years of river flow data (estimated average annual runoff, 7.00 m3/s) from 1957 1979 which can be
considered sufficiently reliable for estimate of energy generation.
The Run off River option was analysed by considering the flow duration curve and reservoir option
analyzed through nMAG programme. MHP has been proposed as daily peaking run of river project
comprising of 5 m high concrete dam and with installed capacity of 74.0MW (2x37.00 MW) with design
discharge of 20.56m3/s and net head of 413 m. the mean annual runoff is 215 Mm3 and the 1000 year
flood estimated at 163.9 m3/s.
42
Ref. 33-2009
Name: Shrestha, Subarna
Hydrological Studies, Design and Operational Planning of Likhu Hydroelectric Project, Nepal
Abstract:
The perennial nature of Nepali rivers and the steep gradient of the countrys topography provide ideal
conditions for the development of promissing hydroelectric projects in Nepal. It demands the fair and
precise estimates of water available for the energy production to develop sound hydropower plants. It is
even important to manage the energy production during the peak demand period. The study is directed
to estimate the inflow series at the intake site from its catchment, optimization of the plant capacity,
simulating hydropower system for peaking operation and finally evaluating the peoject using the
economic analysis technique.
The study is conducted using two different hydrological models and economic analysis. A conceptual
precipitation-runoff model, the HBV model is used for inflow forecasting; and similarly nMAG
hydropower simulation model is used for operation planning and economic analysis tools for
optimization and project evaluation. The study area considered is the Likhu Hydroelectric Project and its
catchment in Nepal. The meteorological data for Likhu catchment was obtained from four stations
within and around the catchments and the corresponding stream flow data were obtained from the
gauging station at Sanghutar which is approximately 16 km downstream of the intake site.
The raw records from all hydro-meteorological are processed using standard techniques based on
literature estimates and empirical relations. The data processing and interpretation comprise of missing
data infilling, data quality control and aerial rainfall estimation. Weight factors are determined first by
using Thiessen Polygon method, then after doing trials for the best fit with the catchment. Using the
prepared inputs, the HBV model was calibrated until an acceptable agreement was obtained between
the computed and observed hydrographs.
To check the model performance verification was done by using another independent set of data.
The Results are very good and consistent. The nMAG model was simulated for operational planning of
the praking scheme. The models used in the present study can be very useful tool for hydrological
analysis of the Likhu Cathment for hydropower development and operational planning. The project is
found to be economically viable. It is recommended for the detail study of the project and to collect
more information about real catchment parameters and river reaches for further hydrological analysis of
the catchment.
43
Ref. 34-2009
Name: Baisa, Goitom Abera
Author's nationality: Ethiopia
Commercialization of Smallholder Farming: Determinants and Welfare Outcomes. A Cross-sectional
study in Enderta District, Tigrai, Ethiopia.
Master of Science in Development Management
Abstract:
Transforming the subsistence-oriented production system into a market-oriented production system as
a way to increasing the smallholder farmers income and thus its welfare outcomes, and reducing rural
poverty, has been in the policy spotlight of many developing countries, including Ethiopia, for some time
now. However, there are no adequate studies in Tigrai focusing on the level of market integration of the
smallholder farmers and whether the market participants are better-off in welfare outcomes. This study,
thus, focused on identifying the micro-level factors determining market participation, the level of
commercialization as well as evaluating the welfare outcomes of participant smallholders in Enderta
District of Tigrai.
Descriptive, statistical and econometric methods were employed to analyze the data collected from a
sample of 125 households using structured household questionnaires. The findings from the statistical
analysis showed that landholding size and land slope, irrigation use, number of oxen owned, and
membership in extension package program have positive and significant association with
commercialization while participation in non-farm activities has significant but negative association with
commercialization.
Nonetheless, descriptive findings showed that the degree of commercialization in the study area is very
low (23%) even in comparison to the national average (33-36%), which is in itself considered to be low.
The findings from the probit regression analysis revealed that production level (in value terms), use of
improved seeds, use of irrigation and total landholding size are the most important factors affecting the
ability of a smallholder to participate in output markets. Moreover, the findings from OLS estimation
showed that the level of food and cash crop production (in value terms), gender, technology use
(irrigation, improved seeds), use of fertilizer and the number of oxen owned per household are
important factors determining the level of commercialization of smallholder farms. Finally, findings from
one-way ANOVA analysis indicated that farm households with high degree of commercialization enjoyed
better welfare outcomes (represented by consumption of basic non-grain consumables and expenditure
on education, shoes and clothes, durables and housing).
Therefore, the findings indicate that farmers with high level of commercialization are better-off in
welfare outcomes. In addition, the findings indicate that farmers can be better integrated with the
market if better support services are provided and efforts to enhance farmers access to technology and
assets are strengthened. Key words: Smallholder, Commercialization, Welfare, Subsistence farming,
Probit model, OLS estimation, Enderta- Tigrai.
44
Ref. 35-2009
Name: Ferede, Kiros Habtu
The Development of Female Entrepreneurship in Ethiopia: The Case of Micro and Small Enterprises in
Mekelle, Tigray
Abstract:
The development of female entrepreneurship in MSEs is a back bone of any country through the
creation of job opportunities for women both for higher and low level of educational background who
would other wise have been neglected by large enterprises and contribution to the economic
development of the country. The paper begins its information with introduction and identification of the
problem areas of the study. After discussion the general condition of women entrepreneurship globally
and Ethiopian women with a specific area Tigray Mekelle, four research objectives were developed:
assessing the situation of Micro and Small Enterprises operated by women entrepreneurs, identifying
concrete barriers and specific constraints that impede women from starting a business, identifying
factors that influence women to take self initiative to form Micro and Small Enterprises, and determining
incentives and stimuli that make starting a business a viable alternative for women.
In the survey, it is identified that most of the entrepreneurs are in the age of productive stage, married
and involved mostly in petty trade and service activities. The educational level of the female is low,
however most of them are in the secondary level, and majority (40 percent) of the entrepreneurs have
prior business experience in one form or the other. It is also reported that the females family
background greatly was from business activities. Further the research confirmed that MSEs owned by
female become the main sources of employment opportunities, especially for those with low level of
educational back ground and with high illiteracy.
However, because of different problems, the full potential of women entrepreneurship in MSEs is not
fully used. There was a problem of getting working premises. Shortage of capital either to start or run
the business was another challenge women face, apart from lack of demand, business managerial skill,
and improved infrastructure. The study also point out that the socio-cultural environment of Mekelle is
not good for women entrepreneurship development, in addition to the estimated levy of tax on business
by government. It is also recognized that, though women owned enterprises were challenged by
environmental factors, different attempts were and are made by different governmental and non
governmental institutions, such as training by Trade and Industry Bureau, TVET programme, loan by
different organizations mainly DECSI, women association institution, and others. But, the number of
institutions established to help MSEs owners and the support they provided is not enough and biased by
implementers.
The study revealed that for the successful operation of women entrepreneurs, the government of
Ethiopia, the entrepreneurs them selves and the societies hands should be cooperating.
45
Ref. 36-2009
Name: Gunsasinghe, Chandika
An Assessment of the Samurdhi (Prosperity) Development Programme: a case study from the
Ratnapura district, Sri Lanka
Abstract:
This thesis assesses the impact of the Samurdhi (prosperity) development programme (SDP) on the
livelihoods of its beneficiaries in the Ratnapura district of Sri Lanka. The assessment covers three main
aspects; development, environment and management. First I identify a main research problem and
three sub problems that are directly related to the success of the SDP. Second, based on the sustainable
livelihood approach (SLA), I develop a theoretical framework where a poverty level of a household is
directly and indirectly affected by the activities of the SDP through two channels; promotional and
protective channels. From the theoretical framework I derive four hypotheses that underlie answers for
the identified research problems of the study. Third, to test the validity of these four hypotheses, I
employ both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
The quantitative techniques include the use of various figures, tables, graphs, a transition matrix,
univariate analysis of variance test, a Post Hoc test and estimation of multinomial logistic regressions
(MNLRs). A total of six MNLRs are run for two models to verify the validity of the first and third
hypotheses.
Two models were developed to capture the relationship between the poverty level of a household and
the development of its capital assets. The dependent variable of the first model has four poverty
categories: extreme poor, vulnerable, viable and sustainable households. The households are
categorised into those four groups for 1995 and 2009 based on a range of income differences around
two official poverty lines for each respective year. The dependent variable of the second model also has
four poverty household categories: unsuccessful, struggling, successful and most successful which are
categorised based on the direction of the movement between the two poverty categories identified in
the first model during this time period. The independent variables of each model are the five categorical
variables for the development of capital assets, one categorical variable for the gender and another
three continuous variables: education, age and number of dependents in the family.
The results of MNLRs of two models confirmed that development of natural, physical, human and
financial capital assets are significant determinants of vulnerable poverty and of struggling poverty
position of a household. More than two thirds of households of the SDP are at a higher risk of being in
vulnerable poverty or struggling poverty position. The poverty level of a household has declined with
the increase of number of capital assets developed. The results of the qualitative study confirmed that
the SDP has not very much concerned about the link between ecosystem degradation and poverty. The
leakage and undercoverage errors of the SDP are at a considerable level.
46
Ref. 37-2009
Name: Laurent, Makawa
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Sustainable Development: The Case of Makonde Wood
Carvers in Mwenge, Dar-es- Salaam Tanzania
Abstract:
In recent years we have seen an increase in demand for the wood carvings products especially those
made using Mpingo tree. The industry has also been a source of employment to the majority of
Makonde people and non-Makonde people conducting carving activities. Despite its basic social and
economic value, both to the carvers and all those who are engaged in the carving activities, it has been
noted however that with increasing demand for the Mpingo tree it is likely that the species is might be
depleted if strong measures are not taken to assure that the species is sustainably harvested. This study
therefore was aimed at assessing the sustainability of the carving activities and in so doing the study
assessed the impact of the carving industry to the economic welfare of the artists and analyzed the
contribution of the Makonde wood carving activities in the depletion of the Mpingo tree.
The study was conducted at Mwenge in Dar-es Salaam, Tanzania and Makonde wood carvers were the
case study. The study used the qualitative research strategy and the methods of data collection included
questionnaires, observation, group discussions and interviews. In addition, secondary data from the
Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism were used and analyzed. The findings showed that the
carving activities constitute the major source of income for the Makonde wood carvers at Mwenge.
Most of them entirely depend on carving activities to earn their income and sustain their livelihood. It
was also discovered, however, that carving activities have direct contribution in the environmental
destruction and have also been one of the causes of Mpingo depletion.
The study found out that the Mpingo tree is the most preferred tree for carvings and rarely do carvers
use other tree species for carving. Limited supply and availability of Mpingo logs, difficulties in getting
the logs in Mwenge carving market were also identified as among the indicators for the depletion of the
Mpingo tree. The study revealed also that sustainability of the Mpingo tree is threatened and in order
to solve this problem the carving activities need to be closely monitored and controlled. It is
recommended that despite the measures in place to control harvesting of forest products in general,
specific measures should be imposed to save Mpingo from current high rate of depletion. It is also
recommended that entrepreneurship education, and financial support is also important for the carving
industry in Tanzania for achieving economic benefits.
47
Ref. 38-2009
Name: Melchioly, Simon
ICTs and Development: Role of Mobile Phones in SMEs Economic Development. An Exploratory Study
in Morogoro, Tanzania.
Abstract:
The technological environment in which contemporary Small and Medium Sized Enterprises(SMEs)
operate can only be described as dynamic. Small and medium size enterprises(SMEs) play a key role in
the economic growth of any country. The application of modern information and communication
technologies (ICTs) can improve the performance of SMEs. Improving performance through the
application of modern ICTs reduces operational costs and speeds up production. The mobile phones
technology has become the major ICT technology that is widely used in developed and developing
countries such as Tanzania and is continuously representing more added-value to small and medium
sized enterprises than a simple communication device.
Mobile phones due to their widespread and penetration worldwide, they provide a potential for
economic growth in SMEs through reduction in geographical divide of business information. Mobile
phones are having a transformative effect around the world and in the business arena mobile phones
have offered SMEs with an opportunity to grow through the simplified business information exchange.
Today, mobile phones have made it easier for SMEs to access goods, services and other economic
opportunities the trend which is continuously growing and hence promising changes in the way business
is being developed and conducted in majority of SMEs.
Although at the moment there no researches that has been conducted on the socio-economic role and
implications of mobile phones technology in the SMEs but taking this exploratory research as the
starting point for further studies it is clearly indicated that mobile phones use has improved the
economic performance in SMEs. In Morogoro, the readiness and status of mobile phones use and
awareness among the SMEs is relatively good. How are the mobile phones used within SMEs was
another area to look at in the study, and the general trend indicates a mixed picture between business
and personal uses. The study also revealed that entrepreneurial opportunities, products innovations,
improved revenues collection, and access to new markets were the benefits gained by SMEs as the
result of mobile phones usage in their business operations in Morogoro. The role of mobile phones
usage in developing virtual business communities represents a strong platform for the creation of new
forms of social capital that is economically sustainable.
This master thesis examines whether the mobile phones use in SMEs brings about positive economic
impacts that leads to economic development in the SMEs in Morogoro, Tanzania and it is an exploratory
research work that is being conducted as an initial step for further studies that will follow in the near
future to analyze the various socio-economic implications of mobile phones use in businesses and on the
community in general.
48
Ref. 39-2009
Name: Mensah, Victoria
Author's nationality: Ghana
The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility on Sustainable Development. A Case Study of the mining
community in the Obuasi municipality.
Abstract:
Corporate Social Responsibility in a Local African Context A Critical Perspective The virtue of Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) as the voluntary incorporation of social and environmental concerns into
business conduct has established itself as an international norm. This thesis responds to calls from CSR
critics arguing that because of information asymmetries, power imbalances and governance deficiencies,
CSR implementation will be uneven and inherently dependent on context.
The thesis first responds to the question of what influences the extent to which a CSR committed
company behaves in a socially and environmentally responsible manner in a local African context? It is
theoretically argued that the social and environmental performance of a company will depend more on
incentives created by government and civil society in its location than on its CSR-commitment. These
assertions find support in a qualitative case study of factors influencing the social and environmental
performance of two branches of the same CSR-committed gold mining company operating in two
different locations in Ghana.
A comparative assessment reveals one branch to perform demonstrably better than the other, although
none of them appear to be abiding by their CSR principles. A governance and power analysis first finds
that the generally deficient CSR implementation in the company corresponds with the Government of
Ghanas low prioritization of community and environmental concerns. Further it finds clear indications
that the comparatively better performance of one company branch can be accounted for by the strong
presence in its location of an NGO, which is able to link the grassroots and international levels to create
dynamics putting decisive pressure on this branch.
49
Ref. 40-2009
Name: Moro, Awudu
Author's nationality: Ghana
Urban Management and Sustainable Development: The case of the squatting and street trading
population of Kumasi
Abstract:
The single most important tool for dealing with the challenges that urbanisation presents, especially for
cities in developing countries, is management or governance. Urbanisation presents towns and cities and
the people who inhabit them with a lot of challenges not ever seen before in human history. Sad to note
however, cities in developing countries do not seem to be able to take advantage of these opportunities.
They have had to contend with so many challenges that it makes it very difficult for them to seize fully
the opportunities that urbanisation presents. Such problems as filth, overcrowding, lack of employment,
high rate of crime, inadequate housing facilities, and many others have become the lot of these cities. So
the question has often been asked; what are the appropriate strategies for dealing with these
urbanisation-induced challenges which appear to have dogged the experience of cities in the South for
the greater part of their lives? Surprisingly, street trading and squatting are two of the biggest challenges
facing city authorities in Kumasi. This paper explores how these problems have been managed over the
years by the authorities.
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) which is in charge of managing the city of Kumasi has oftbeen accused of using a non-participatory and confrontational approach in dealing with these problems.
The study found little evidence to show that the city authorities have in managing these problems
adequately involved all major stakeholders. The irony is that, the KMA is itself an organ of local
government and a decentralised administrative setup which has as its foundation, popular participation
in the process of government. In the meantime, the UN-HABITAT (2008) calls on governments to act
more proactively on shifts towards participatory management that help create ownership over decisionmaking and daily management practices because apparently, it has observed that state-only and
market-only approaches to urban management have failed.
The study finds out that participatory management may be the ideal approach especially in the face of
the many challenges that the confrontational approach used by the authorities pose to traders,
squatters and their families and therefore recommends that the requisite systems are put in place for
the realisation of same. Concurrently the study also finds that an integrative or inclusionist orientation
with a participatory approach may, given the current prevailing circumstances in Kumasi, be more
idealistic than realistic. This is because, such prerequisites as a united strong civil society group to
participate in the process of negotiation and deliberation is almost nonexistent. There are also
conflicting interests, whose reconciliation will not be easy at all, but which need, in order for a smooth
and healthy collaboration among all parties, to be reconciled.
Comment: Moro has finished his master thesis and is only left with half a course he has do resit in May
2010 before he can graduate.
50
Ref. 41-2009
Name: Mukisa, Philemon Kirunda
Public Participation in Solid Waste Management: Challenges and Prospects. A case of Kira Town
Council, Uganda.
Abstract:
Solid waste disposal and management is both an urban and rural problem. Every person is a potential
generator of waste and thus a contributor to this problem. To generate waste is one thing, the type of
waste generated is another and yet also the way the generated waste is managed or disposed of is quite
a different issue. This study was carried out in Kira Town Council which is located within Wakiso District
in Central Uganda, in Buganda Region. The main objective of this study was to explore the level of public
participation in solid waste management in Kira Town Council, in light of the challenges and prospects
for future management.
This study used a combination of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to research. It
therefore draws on the cross-sectional study design as explained by Bryman (2004) and also on aspects
of a phenomenological research design as discussed by Blanche et al., (2006). The findings revealed that
the majority proportion of the public in Kira Town Council exhibited concern and an amount of
sensitivity about solid waste though sorting of solid waste is less adopted. The level of item reuse is
similarly low in Kira Town Council and the people still think that they cannot do anything to reduce the
volume of solid waste they generate.
There are challenges of limited resources to manage the solid waste and illegal dumping in Kira Town
Council. However, there are plans for formal disposal facilities, use of the legal instrument and
awareness-raising as a way to deal with the challenges. Therefore, because the level of public
participation in solid waste management at present in Kira Town Council is low, the best way to start
dealing with the problem is for the Town Council authorities to show the people that they are worth by
involving them in the initial planning process.
51
Ref. 42-2009
Name: Nisanka, Ariyarathne
How Does the conflict influence the development and the situation of women in Trincomalee district,
Sri Lanka?
Abstract:
In thirty years period conflict became as main actor in Sri Lankan socio economic and political back
grounds. As the consequences of the conflict, Sri Lankan mainstreams had harmful damages. These
damages directly affected to the development. North and Eastern province are most conflict affected
regions in Sri Lanka. North was the first conflict affected region. Eastern is the totally different form
when comparing with North. Eastern province is the secondly conflict affected and conflict vulnerability
totally wiped out form the Eastern province. Now Eastern province is in recovery situation. How ever
women are the most vulnerability group in the conflict period.
In this study assessed womens situation with conflict situation and post conflict situation in the Eastern
province Sri Lanka. Further this study I have paid more significant concentration womens hardships with
in the conflict and post conflict period. The most prominent nature of the post conflict period pays more
significantly consideration to achieve rapid development.
This study explains based on the research findings what are the women fundamental requirements with
in the post conflict period. Especially women are also in recovery period in the post conflict period. They
had different type of torture experiences with conflict. They need specific treatments for their capacity
building again. According to the research findings I discussed WID (Women in Development) as a
appropriate womens development approach to the post conflict period. Further I emphasis how this
theory can apply to obtain effective outcome.
52
Ref. 43-2009
Name: Opesen, Chris Colombus
Child Headed Households a Consequence of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic: A Case Study of Kumi District in
Central Eastern Uganda
Abstract:
There is little documentation about child headed households, a consequence caused by the HIV/AIDS
epidemic in Africa (Wild, 2001 and Miller and Murray, 1999). The key objectives of the study were to
establish the special challenges faced by the child headed households, the coping mechanisms of these
households, the institutional responses in place to assist them and lastly, the measures that should be
adopted to assist them more effectively.
The study was conducted in Uganda using Kumi district as the case study area. The study used a cross
sectional study design that employed both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. During the last
stage (the sub-county level) of the multi-stage purposive sampling process that the study employed, a
sample size of 150 child headed house holds was selected.
To make sure only child headed households caused by HIV/AIDS parental deaths are selected, the local
councilors (LCs) and the Kumi district home based HIV/AIDS programme coordinators in each parish
guided the identification process of these households. This was done in the 5 sub-counties of
Mukongoro, Kumi, Kanyumu, Nyero and Kobwin in Kumi district. Data were collected using Key
Informant (K.I) interviews, Focussed Group Discussions (FGDs) and Semi Structured Interviews.
Qualitative data were analysed manually while quantitative data were analysed using SPSS and then
meaningfully interpreted.
53
Ref. 44-2009
Name: Rupasinghe, Lakmali
What kinds of barriers do women entrepreneurs face and what determines their success?
Abstract:
The thesis explores and assesses barriers and success factors of women entrepreneurs and which extent
barriers impact on entrepreneurial success in Matara district, Sri Lanka. Further, the study assesses
impact of education, age, residence and the religion on the entrepreneurial success and the barriers.
Lastly, it looks at how they overcome and turn those barriers into success.
The study area was the Matara district in Southern province of Sri Lanka. Women entrepreneurs in
Matara are engaging in various types of business activities such as floriculture, dress making, beauty
culture, fish related activates, coir sector and etc. The research was conducted as a survey, where
interviews and structured questionnaires were administered among a sample of 200 women
entrepreneurs. Sample was selected using random sampling as represent 10% of sample frame. Later,
the qualitative research methodology was used, with emphasis on in-depth interviews in order to find
answer for the how women entrepreneurs overcome the barriers. Mean, standard deviations, F-test and
t-test were used to prove the hypotheses.
The study found that fail to protect quality of the products, poor confidence, weak marketing
skills, poor commitment as the most critical barriers and at the same time hardworking,
community involvement, support of family and friends, business experiences as important
success factors for the women entrepreneurs in Matara. Further, it found that education level, age,
religion are influenced on the barriers and success factors of the women entrepreneurs in Matara but
residents (location of the business) is not. Further it concluded that success factors and barriers are not
either sides of the same coin, and the absence of barriers does not itself assure the success of women
entrepreneurs.
54
Ref. 45-2009
Name: Tumwine, Christopher
Community Based Management of Surface Water Sources in Rural South Western Uganda: A Study of
Mbarara and Kiruhura Districts
Abstract:
When managed appropriately, water is a precious natural resource, vital for life, development and the
environment. Community based management (CBM) is the style of management the Ugandan Ministry
of Water and Environment recommends for most water facilities constructed in rural areas. Although
community based management of water facilities is recommended, it is largely for government
constructed facilities and many people in the two districts of Kiruhura and Mbarara communally use
privately constructed surface water sources.
The objectives of this study therefore were to establish; What rules and practices are important in
managing government constructed surface water sources in the districts of Mbarara and Kiruhura?;
What rules and practices are important in managing communal privately constructed surface water
sources in the districts of Mbarara and Kiruhura?; How do rules and practices that are important in
managing government constructed sources compare with those that are important in managing
privately constructed sources?; What challenges are faced by communities in the districts of Mbarara
and Kiruhura in managing surface water sources?
Methods In order to achieve the above objectives un-structured interviews with 50 overseers of surface
water sources, in-depth interviews with 2 district water officers, and 2 focus group discussions with
surface water source users were conducted to gather data.
Comment: Tumwine did not manage to deliver his master thesis within the deadline in June 2009. He
submitted his thesis in December 2009, and graduated in January 2010.
55
Ref. 46-2009
Name: Abeysinghe, Kumuduni Prasangika
Nitrogen removal by intermittent aeration
Master of Science
Abstract:
Biological nitrogen removal in a simultaneous nitrification-denitrification reactor with an automatic
control intermittent aeration based on dissolved oxygen concentration levels, is analyzed using
theoretical models. The mathematical IAWQ activated sludge model No.3 was extended by introducing
nitrite as a state variables and nitrification and denitrification as two step processes, implemented in
Matlab for simulations. Two possible model structures were identified and a large number of simulations
from both models were compared. Process performances with different operational parameters and
control strategies are presented in this study.
The simulated results show that the dissolved oxygen set-points to control aeration and the influent
COD/N ratio have major impact on removal efficiency. The simulations show that the nitrite pathway,
which is a shortcut that can make nitrogen removal more efficient, can be achieved by oxygen set-point
aeration control. Controlling the dissolved oxygen to be in the range 0.1-0.5 mg/L can give over 90%
total nitrogen removal efficiency. An intermittent aeration system with short aeration cycles and low
dissolved oxygen set-points (i.e. upper set-point less than 0.5 mg/L) is identified as the most efficient
single stage, intermittent aeration biological nitrogen removal process.
56
Ref. 47-2009
Name: Kaluarachchige, Hiromi Ariyaratne Wijesinghe
Alternative fuels in cement kilns-characterization and experiments
Master of Science
Abstract:
In this thesis, the possibilities and limitations of using alternative fuels in cement kilns are considered. A
literature study on agricultural biomass, non-agricultural biomass, petroleum based waste, chemical &
hazardous waste and other miscellaneous waste is carried out.
The cement manufacturing process is overviewed and a modern Pfister feeder system installed at the
Norcem cement plant in Brevik-Norway is thoroughly discussed. The biomass content of RDF is
experimentally determined by the selective dissolution method. The average biomass, non-biomass and
ash content are 43.75% (dry), 14.65% (dry) and 41.60% (dry) respectively. However, some unlikely values
were found when determining the biomass content of RDF by calorific value (average 36.4% (dry) of
biomass and 63.6% (dry) of non-biomass) and it should be further investigated. The RDF is further
characterized by thermogravimetric analysis for pure portions of polyethylene, rigid plastics,
polystyrene, wood, cardboard, paper and fabric.
Almost similar results were obtained for proximate analysis as found in the literature. Also, the coupling
of TGA and FTIR through gas bag transfer is overviewed thoroughly and a procedure for manual transfer
of gas samples has been given. Full scale experiment with animal meal feeding at the main burner is
carried out in kiln 6 at Norcem-Brevik with the new feeder system. No operational, process or emission
problems could be observed when feeding up to 7 t/hr of animal meal at a moderate raw meal feed rate
(220 t/hr). However, the clinker quality could be accepted only up to 6 t/hr of animal meal feed rate. An
increase of free lime content with animal meal feeding is either due to a reduction of flame temperature
or the introduction of extra calcium at the kiln outlet via the high calcium phosphate content in animal
meal, which will add to the clinker without proper burning.
57
Ref. 48-2009
Name: Chikwanda, Trinity
Author's nationality: Zambia
Master of International Education and Development

Abstract:
The research which was carried out at one of the Basic Colleges of Education in Zambia was conducted
with the broad intention of shedding light on the college communitys understanding of HIV and AIDS
and its response to the pandemic. Taking a qualitative approach, the research examined and analysed
HIV prevention Programmes being conducted in the college. The findings illuminated that though a good
number of Programmes had been instituted in the college, the impact of these Programmes on the
college was still peripheral. Using a case study design and multiple data collection techniques, the
research focused more specifically on identifying and examining factors shaping lecturers understanding
and delivery of HIV education information to student teachers in a College of Education.
The research findings and analysis which was guided by socialisation theory strongly indicated that
lecturers and students understood HIV and AIDS as unprecedented serious problems which affected
most of the people in the society. However, lecturers responses to the pandemic seemed to be remote
because of their adherence to social cultural practices and teachings, which prohibited discussion of sex
issues between adults and young people and between parents and their children especially those of the
opposite sex. Moreover, research demonstrated that lecturers different identities, related to age,
marital status and HIV positive status conflicted with their role as HIV Educators while their insufficient
knowledge and lack of competencies in HIV education compromised their professional identity and
hence affected the way they conducted HIV education in the classroom environment.
The research findings highlighted that the social cultural and multiple identities of lecturers had
conditioned them to have a negative attitude towards the teaching of HIV education. Other factors
contributing to their negative attitudes included students negative attitudes, evidenced in students
shunning attending HIV and AIDS activities, because of their perception that HIV education was not
examinable and thus, considered attending HIV activities a sheer waste of time. Additionally, the
students apparent lack of behaviour change despite undergoing such training, as well as lecturers
perception that students had enough knowledge on the pandemic, inhibited effective implementation of
quality HIV education in the classroom situation. The study further brought to light that the above
discussed factors interacted with institutional factors such as the absence of a well-documented
curriculum in the college and the lack of extensive training in HIV education and interactive
methodologies recommended for HIV education. It was also indicative that insufficient HIV education
resources in the college and uncoordinated monitoring and evaluation mechanisms contributed to poor
presentation of HIV education information to student teachers in the college. The study therefore
concluded that the interaction of all the factors discussed have overshadowed effective provision of
quality HIV education and hence rendered the HIV education being offered ineffective and only partially
responding to the colleges role of HIV prevention education within the education sector.
58
Ref. 49-2009
Name: Chita, Joseph
Childrens Right of Information & HIV Education: A study of school-based HIV Education in two
Catholic Secondary Schools in Zambia.
Abstract:
Childrens Right of Information & HIV Education: A study of school-based HIV Education in two Catholic
Secondary Schools in Zambia. Interest and respect for pupils right to access HIV and AIDS Education (HIV
education) is a gateway to addressing HIV and AIDS in school. Children, especially those attaining
adolescent age are rendered vulnerable in the presence of the pandemic. This heightens if their access
to reliable information and guidance on how to handle themselves in the shadow of HIV and AIDS is not
guaranteed by those charged with the responsibility to protect and promote the right to HIV education.
In schools, teachers have the duty to educate pupils about HIV and AIDS related issues. Yet, they have
not prioritised this despite the adverse effects of the pandemic on the lives and well being of children in
order that they may realise their dreams of education being the Window of Hope. The objective of this
study was to explore factors that conditioned childrens right to access HIV education in two Zambian
Catholic Secondary Schools.
The study was conducted at a private school for girls and a grant-aided boys school. The study
employed qualitative research methods to collect and analyse data. The main tools used for collecting
data were interviews (individual and focused group interviews) and document study. On-going data
collection approaches progressed along side data analysis in which assumptions from curriculum,
cultural and interest right theories were utilised to guide the interpretation and explanation of findings.
The teaching staff, administrators, pupils and other persons were among respondents.
The research started from the assumption that unlike government run schools, Catholic-run schools
would prioritise an intervention like HIV education to protect and promote childrens inalienable right to
education in HIV and AIDS related topics. However, the findings show that children continue to be
vulnerable in such schools due to curriculum, organisational, cultural and religious factors, among
others. Limited and non-teaching modes of HIV education were reported taking place in the two schools
despite respondents acknowledgement that pupils had the inalienable right to access HIV education
while at school. The findings are significant in that they can re-align teachers, school administrators
focus on HIV education with the aim of promoting childrens right to access HIV and AIDS information.
59
Ref. 50-2009
Name: Munachonga, Heather
The School and Home Discourses on Sex and HIV/AIDS among High School Girls in Zambias Lusaka
Urban
Master of International Education and Developement
Abstract:
The School and Home Discourses on Sex and HIV/AIDS among High School Girls in Zambias Lusaka
Urban This study sought to answer the question what discourses on sex and HIV/AIDS High school girls
were exposed to both at school and home. Then it endeavoured to respond to the question how these
school and home discourses influenced girls: and how girls understood themselves in relation to sex and
HIV/AIDS. The study was qualitative in nature and borrowed some precepts of the ethnographic
tradition. The target population was High school girls. Data collection techniques such as observation,
interviews, focus group discussion and document review were employed.
Three discourses were identified in the school namely the official, semi-formal or peer education and
informal or peer discourses. The sex discourse was almost silent in the official or formal discourses but
prevalent in the semi-formal and informal discourses. In the home, two discourses were identified, the
initiation and parental discourses. The initiation discourse focused on sexuality and delved into details of
sex in marriage and how a girl who had attained puberty ought to look after herself as a woman. Though
there seemed to be an insignificant shift in the way parents related to their daughters, sex was
superficially discussed either indirectly or through exemplification.
It was established that the home discourses on sex were hegemonic in comparison to the school
discourses. However, it was noted that the peer discourse had significant influence on girls. As such peer
discourse, as well as home discourses, mainly guided practice. Thus, socialising girls in sex discourse and
scripting of feminine roles and sexual behaviour define how girls respond to issues of sex and HIV/AIDS.
In comparison to the school discourses on sex, the home discourse was hegemonic as it endeavoured to
uphold the values and tenets of tradition. The gendered messages, which placed a lot of responsibility
on the female in issues of sex, instilled a socially constructed understanding of sex and HIV/AIDS through
gender lens. Thus, gendered messages shaped girls sexual identity. On how girls understood themselves
in relation to sex and HIV/AIDS, girls held that they were vulnerable biologically and socially.
The silence exhibited by the majority of parents at home led some girls to reproduce the discourse of
silence on sex, the principal mode of HIV transmission. Therefore it was noted that socialisation played
an important role in the way girls responded and related to issues of sex and HIV/AIDS. It is thus,
important to take account of the socio-cultural context in HIV/AIDS interventions. Consideration of the
context may provide context-specific ways of curbing the pandemic as discourses on sex and HIV/AIDS
both from home and school are largely influential in shaping girls responses to sex and HIV/AIDS.
60
Ref. 51-2009
Name: Pali, Constance
Author's nationality: South Africa
Education and Life skills: Learning how to cope with the effects of HIV/AIDS
Abstract:
In response to the high rate of HIV infection among learners in South Africa, a number of school-based
HIV/AIDS prevention programs have been initiated by governmental and non-governmental structures.
The aim of intervention is to change behavior at the individual and collective level and to establish a set
of goals to be achieved, and to facilitate a higher priority being assigned to young learners and
reproductive health.
The HIV/AIDS epidemic has challenged dominant conceptions of how sexuality in general and youth
sexual behavior in particular should be addressed, but these issues are still sensitive and controversial.
The focus is on the challenges that teachers, learners and parents are faced with in the implementation
of these programs and effectiveness of the interventions. In general HIV/AIDS life skills education
program demonstrates positive effects on knowledge, attitudes and a lot of communication about
sexuality, and most importantly behavioral intention.
However, there is a need for intervention programs to increases skills such as assertiveness and self
efficacy to address traditional and material barriers to the practice of safer sex and to recognize that
unsafe sexual behavior cannot be understood in isolation from other risk behaviors and learners are also
increasingly vulnerable to rape. Learners also indulge in high risk behaviors like substance abuse, sex in
exchange for money. The ambiguity of messages emanating from the media, parents, teachers, peers,
relatives, and church undermine any prevention program. Where barriers are identified, research is
required to clarify attitudes towards the reality of teenage sexual behavior. Where barriers are
identified, research should seek to explain why, for instance curriculum planners may believe that sex
education increases sexual activity among the learners and should seek to provide insight into how such
views can be changed.
61
Ref.52-2009
Name: Abera, Melaku
Quality of Immunization data in Amhara region
Masters degree in Public Health
Abstract:
Data Quality Assessment is part of immunization program which has been designed to improve the
quality of the information systems for immunization data. The primary goal of immunization data quality
assessment is to determine if the data is usable for its intended purposes.
Both qualitative and quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted from three randomly selected
Administrative Zones (South Gondar,Bahir Dar and Awi ) in eighteen Health facilities to assess
immunization data quality and factors affecting it.
The study showed that most of the health facility immunization reports had higher values compared
with the registration of immunization, for ample, BCG 30% - 40%, Pentavalent3 67% - 92%, polio3 58% 84%, Measles 82% - 274% higher than their registrations. Similarly as the registrations the study health
facility reports showed an average 6% - 21% higher value when compared with the health facility tally
sheets. The analysis comparing the 18 health facilities showed that inaccuracy was wide spread in the
four vaccine types since the number of immunization registration and reporting were different between
different vaccine sources in all the studied health facilities.
Completeness and timeliness problems were not found to all the study health facilities because all
facilities were sending the six months report on time monthly according to the decided days of report. In
the assessment of consistency only 5 health facilities (27%) were consistent, 12 health facilities (68%)
were over reporting with one health facility (5%) under report for BCG. For pentavalent3 vaccination
only one health facility (5%) was consistent, but all 17 health facilities (95%) were over reporting, there
were no health facilities with under report. In Polio3 only 2 health facilities (10%) were consistent with16
health facilities (90%) over reporting and no health facility with under report. In measles all 18 health
facilities (100%) of the report were over reported.
The overall findings of consistency showed over reporting of the immunization data. In this assessment
insufficient supervision, poor feedback mechanism and lack of strong linkage to the district health offices
were among the factors which affect immunization data quality in the health facilities. It was concluded
that in the assessments there were exaggerated inconsistencies and inaccuracies of immunization data
with no major problems on the timeliness and completeness.
62
Ref. 53-2009
Name: Alamir, Tadesse
Quality of tuberculosis data in Amhara region
Abstract:
A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study with analytic component was conducted to assess the
data quality and to determine the possible factors affecting data quality with regards to recording and
reporting of tuberculosis. Public and private facilities found in Bahirdar Zone were included in the study.
The study showed that poor overall data quality in terms of timeliness, completeness and accuracy.
Standardization of the data collection tools and guidelines and training on data collection and use is
recommended.
63
Ref. 54-2009
Name: Almaw, Birhane Atnafu
4. Assessment of Utilization of Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) Data for Strategic Information
in Addis Ababa
Masters degree in Health Informatics
Abstract:
Evidence-based decision making in managing VCT services is imperative to strengthen the service. The
study was conducted to assess VCT data process performance, level of utilization and factors affecting its
utilization in Addis Ababa city. A cross-sectional facility based study was conducted in all 24 Health
Centers of Addis. A total of 134 Health Center staff involved in the utilization of the VCT data are
included in the study. The result indicated that overall VCT data utilization was 22.4%. It concludes that
level of VCT data utilization was low.
64
Ref. 55-2009
Name: Amin, Hajira
14. Evaluation of the Effect of Electronic Medical Record (EMR) on the Workflow in Outpatient
Department Comparative Study.
Abstract:
This study aimed to determine the effect of EMR on work flow in outpatient department thereby
assessing its effect on waiting time, patient satisfaction, physician-patient relationship and
confidentiality and compare it with the manual system. Comparative cross-sectional study design
employed using both qualitative and quantitative methods on two private hospitals of Addis namely
Myunsung Christian Medical (MCM) center, where the EMR was being practiced, and Bethel Teaching
General Hospital (BTGH). A total of 768 patients attending OPD(384 from each hospital) were selected in
Systematic random sampling.
The result revealed that the mean waiting time for registration, service payment, searching MR etc in
MCM were significantly lower than the time in BTGH. Moreover, the overall mean satisfactions score of
MCM 4.42 with SD=0.5 is relatively higher than that of BTGH (mean score 3.8 and SD=0.8). Higher level
of satisfaction was significantly associated with the presence of EMR, having knowledge about EMR,
patient type and place of residence. EMR significantly reduced waiting time and increased patient
satisfaction.
65
Ref. 56-2009
Name: Bekele, Almaz
Quality of PMTCT data in South Gondar Zone
Abstract:
Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) has significant outputs in prevention of HIV AIDS
.Despite of increasing numbers in service site with the effort made by UNSAID/Ethiopia project in
conjunction with Ethiopian Ministry of Health, the existing Ethiopian healthcare infrastructure and
information system were extremely weak. This in turn causes poor attention to the quality of health data
and Problems of reliability on data generated and reported. These were identified through monitoring
and evaluation activities by donors initiatives by assigning personnel for mentoring purpose.
This study also tried to assess the quality and factors affecting PMTCT program data. Methods:
Institution based cross sectional study was carried out in south Gondar zone, between May 5 and June 1,
2009. The study was based on unstructured interviews and review of the data collection materials
(record). Results: It was seen that scarcity and low quality of the PMTCT data with identified over
reporting and under reporting using multiple reporting format which results in duplication of efforts.
Variations were identified in similar variables filled in the original service site and reported to the
department of facilitys statistics and the health offices almost in all sites for the study .This shows that
absence of cross-reference of the data within sections of the facilities and health offices in detecting the
quality of data as mentioned by key informants . Inadequate support system, poor knowledge and skill
of service provider and health manager, lack of feeling of responsibility towards attention given for the
health data as a whole were frequently raised factors for its quality.
Conclusions: Within the existing study limitations, it is believed that the study finding constitutes an
important contribution applicable to the PMTCT program data in south Gondar zone and other areas of
the regions where similar problems of data quality exist. The reporting systems that rely on and produce
poor data will lead to conclusions that are irrelevant will undermine efforts to reverse the HIV.
Recommendations: Design strategies that improve the overall attention towards the data quality by
strengthening the existing monitoring and evaluation system /AIDS epidemic and impairs good decision
making.
66
Ref. 57-2009
Name: Birhane, Besfat Wodajo
3. Assessment of patients perception of privacy and trust in general medical outpatient departments
of public and private hospitals in Addis Ababa
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to assess and compare patient's perception of privacy and trust on public and
private hospitals in Addis Ababa. a cross-sectional survey conducted on 400 patients who are 18 years
and older using structured interview.
The result showed that patients in the private hospitals (84%) have good perception of privacy than
those in the public hospitals (42%) WITH aor=0.383 (0.178, 0.825). The patients' trust in private hospitals
(90.5%) was found much better than that of public hospitals (47.5%). In conclusion, patients are
unaware, misinformed or confused about the issue of privacy of their personal data and health records.
67
Ref. 58-2009
Name: Demlie, Tesfa
patient waiting and service times at Felege Hiwot referral hospital
Abstract:
Back ground; Long waiting time has been frequently mentioned as one factor which may limit service
acceptability and utilization. However, there is rather little empirical data on the actual time spent in
health service situations by users, and the few studies carried out in developing countries, has shown
that patients spent 3-4 hours in outpatient departments before, seeing the doctor. Objective of the
study;- To assess OPD waiting and service time and to determine the influence of waiting time on
patients satisfaction in Felge Hiwot Hospital.
Materials and methodes: A cross sectional quantitative study was conducted from October 26-30, 2009.
to measure the outpatients waiting and service times and to determine the influence of waiting time on
patient satisfaction in Felegehiot referral hospital, Bahirdar, Ethiopia. All patients / clients who visited
Felegehiot hospital for health service during the five consecutive working days of the survey from
Monday October26- Friday October30, 2009 were included in the study. The data were collected by
research assistances and staffs from all patients attending by registering the arrival and departure of
each service point of the hospital. Then data was cleaned up and captured in a specific Waiting Times
database. Descriptive statistics was done on waiting and service times and summarized using tables and
figures.
Result: A total of 2037 patients/ clients attended Felege Hiwot hospital during the survey days were
included in study. 861 (42.27 %) were males and 1176(57.73%) were females. The median age of male
patients was 36 years (IQR 17-59) and the median age of females were 34(IQR 20-46). The median (IQR)
complete waiting time was 113(65-217) minutes and the median (IQR) complete service time was 20(834 minutes) patients were also asked their level of satisfaction or dissatisfaction about the over all
length of waiting time they experienced in the hospital 793(38.9%) of the patients were very satisfied,
658(32.3%) were somewhat satisfied, 258(12.66%) somewhat unsatisfied, and the remaining 328(16.1%)
of patients were very un satisfied.
Discussion and conclusion: Median complete waiting time 113 minutes was observed as a result of early
arrival of patients, mismatch of patient arrival and service commencement, and staff insufficiencies.
Provision of service before the official opening of the hospital for early arrivals and appointment for
follow-up patients are suggested for decreasing the prolonged waiting time.
68
Ref. 59-2009
Name: Desalegn, Emebet Alemu
10. Health Information Need Among Preparatory School Adolescent Students of Addis Ababa
Abstract:
The objectives of the study were to assess the need for and use of health information among
preparatory school students in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.A cross-sectional survey conducted on school
adolescents using pre-tested questionnaire, of which 774 (91.7%) gave valid and complete
responses.The finding shows 72.1% of the students had some sort of health information need in the past
12 months prior to the survey.
69
Ref. 60-2009
Name: Gashaw, Tesfahun
Assessment of Integrated disease survillance program in North Gondar Zone
Abstract:
A cross sectional descriptive study with the aim of assessing the knowledge and practice of health
workers towards Integrated Disease surveillance was conducted in North Gondar Zone of Amhara
Region. Stratified sampling technique was used to select study subjects. Self administered questionnaire
pretested and standardized in a different zone was used to collect the data. The study identified
inadequate knowledge about reportable diseases and when to report. Lack of training and supportive
supervision was mentioned as major factors for not reporting.
70
Ref. 61-2009
Name: Gebregziabher, Damtew Negash
7. E-health readiness assessment: a survey research of government healthcare institutions in Addis
Ababa (From Electronic Health Management Information Systems Perspective).
Abstract:
This study aims at discovering the electronic health readiness level of government healthcare institutions
working under Addis Ababa City Administration Health Bureau.A cross-sectional study employed on 84
staff (includes Statisticians, Admin. Officers, and ART data managers. FGD also employed. Analysis
conducted using VERDICT model of tking average values for the categories questions and traffic light
representation.
The study showed that in terms of a full readiness, there is no any health information technology policy
and guideline, mean value of 2.45, 2.66, 3.30, and 3.72 are found on technology, learning, societal, and
core readiness aspects respectively implying that priority be given to policy, technology
institutionalization, training on ICT and other capacity building activities and communication facilities
orderly. Level of IT knowledge has significant association with e-readiness; those who have good level of
IT knowledge are 2.6 times more ready to e-health technologies.
71
Ref. 62-2009
Name: Gedamu, Azeb Mengistu
1. Assessment of Magnitude and Factors Affecting Health Information System (HIS) Private and Public
Health Facilities in Addis Ababa
Abstract:
The study aimed to assess the magnitude and factors affecting health information system (HIS) in both
private and public health facilities in Addis Ababa. A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in 124
health facilities in Addis Ababa using structured questionnaire which encompasses all the 124 facilities,
and indepth interview employed with 11 of them.
The result showed that the health facilities were found to perform poorly in terms of basic inputs of HIS;
inadequate process and insufficient inputs. The use of HIS in the facilities is thus found to be very low
(22.5%) although the government health facilities showed relatively better performance.
72
Ref. 63-2009
Name: Hailemichael, Etsub Brhanesilassie
11. Physicians culture of use of online medical evidence to improve clinical care of patients
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to study the practice of retrieval and use of best available online evidence by
physicians caring for patients at public and private hospitals in Addis Abeba. Self-administered
questionnaire is used to undertake this cross-sectional descriptive study. Two-hundred eighty physicians
working in thirty eight hospitals in Addis Ababa have participated in this study; giving a response rate of
about 65%. The majority were characterized by being younger than 35 years of age, had done their
medical studies in Ethiopia and worked entirely in clinical care settings.
Over half of the physicians (54%) worked in internet connected hospitals; E-mail seemed the most
important (43%) motivating factor to use the internet. The majority (83%) of the physicians reported
searching online sources to retrieve HIV/AIDS related information.
73
Ref. 64-2009
Name: Kelecha, Messeret Ayano
19. Assessment of health management information system at public hospitals in Addis Ababa
Abstract:
The objective of this study was to assess the status of HMIS at hospital level in Addis Ababa and factors
affecting the generation of data and utilization of information. A cross-sectional study design used to
generate data from 10 government hospitals in Addis Ababa. 165 departments/units with in the selected
hospitals were included in the study. Self-administered questionnaire and face-to-face interview of
senior management were used to collect data. Performance of routine IS management framework was
used to evaluate the results.
The result of this study revealed that only 91 (55.1%) of the respondents attended training on HMIS,
while the majority of the respondents (137/165) were from management position as unit or department
heads and the rest (28/165) were technical staff members in charge of data management. Registry book,
tally sheet and forms are the most common data collection tools currently used. Most statisticians
reported receiving incomplete and illegible data and only 13 (9.5%) units/departments' heads reported
getting timely report. In their respective offices, 87 respondenst (52.8%) have computers and 23 (14%)
have internet connection. Twelve data management units use computer program/software to generate
report and 12 (42.9%) units document information in electronic form.
74
Ref. 65-2009
Name: Megersa, Mekdes Assefa
17. An Assessment of health information exchange between Clinicians and People Living with
HIV/AIDS on Anti- retroviral therapy at Public hospitals in Addis Ababa
Abstract:
The main objective of this study was to assess the information exchange between clinicians and PLWHA
attending ART clinics at Public hospitals in Addis Ababa. A cross-sectional survey utilizing quantitative
and qualitative methods employed.
The result of the study indicated that participating 400 patients in structured questionnaire; and 24
patients and 20 clinicians in the indepth interview. The median communication score was found to be
78%. Patients have assigned highest ratings for communication elements such as explanation on
adherence (87.4%); talking understandably (87.2%); being greeted (80.8%); treated with respect (81%)
and shown concern (80.2%). Involvement in decision making (54.8%) and explanation on availability of
support and resources (50%) were rated low.
75
Ref. 66-2009
Name: Mohammed, Seid
Effect of reengineering on Medical Record quality at Hiwot Fana Hospital
Abstract:
BPR is the fundamental rethinking and radical redesign of business processes to achieve dramatic
improvement in critical, contemporary measures of performance, such as cost, quality, service level, and
speed. Although many promises have been made on the outcomes of BPR, no research has examined its
effect on the quality of medical record data. Therefore this study aims to provide an initial exploration of
the direct effects of reengineering on the quality of medical records.
Method:. A Retrospective Cross - sectional study design was employed in Hiwot Fana Hospital from May
to August 2009. Equal number of medical records were drawn from the hospital before and after the
implementation of BPR by using a simple random sampling method. Sampled medical records were
reviewed by using WHO Medical Records standard check lists. A Chi - square test was used to
examine the data quality difference between Before BPR and After BPR.
Results: There is a statistically significant change in average retrieval time for a single card between
before & after BPR (t test value = 2.53, 95%CI = (1.06, 3.82) & p value < 0.001), in documentation
of patient identification data like patients address (X2 = 78.925, df = 4 & p value < 0.001). But still many
MRs missed key elements of the medical data such as chief compliant (27.1%), physical examination
(27.6%), past medical history (80.8%), clinical diagnosis (33.6%), final diagnosis (17.8%), treatment
(15.8%), follow up plan (79.9%) and physician identification ( name = 95.5% & signiture = 55.2%).
Conclusion: Implementation of BPR in Hiwot Fana hospital has brought a significant change in the quality
of medical records, however, the existing (after BPR) quality level of MRs is lower than the acceptable
level as per the WHOs standard.
76
Ref. 67-2009
Name: Sayed, Zebeba Getachew
22. Assessment of Growth Monitoring and Promotion Reporting System and its Information use in
Addis Ababa
Abstract:
The objective of this study is to assess reporting system of growth monitoring data, its information use
and to identify determinant factors to use the information for decision making at different levels of the
health system. A cross-sectional study design employed using structured questionnaire. All
governmental and non-governmental (NGO) hospitals and health centers which provide services on
growth monitoring are included in the survey. A total of 95 health professionals working in 35 health
institutions have been participated in the study. Sub-city health offices and Addis Ababa Health Bureau
were also included in the survey.
The result found out that 78 (81.3%) of the respondents report GMP activities to another organization.
Out of 97 study participants, 89 (92.7%) of them provide counseling for children care takers who came
for growth monitoring service. Ot of those who provide counseling service, 35 finishes the counseling
session within 1-5 minutes. Information use of GMP data for different purpose at the health facility level
have been reported by 60.4% of the respondents while the rest claimed didn't use the information at all.
77
Ref. 68-2009
Name: Sisay, Eyuel Tsegaye
12. Assessment of data warehouse application for providing decision support on survival outcome of
antiretroviral treatment in SNNPR
Abstract:
The aim was to assess the data warehouse application for providing decision support on survival
outcome of Anti-retroviral therapy in SNNPR,Ethiopia. A historical retrospective cohort study of patients
who are put on ART from January 1, 2005 to January 31, 2009 employed in eight randomly selected
hospitals. A sample of 5,664 electronic health records were examined from a designed data warehouse.
Indepth interview and group discussions were also conducted onsite.
In result, data mining using statistical approach indicat that Sex, WHO stage, CD4 count, functional status
and the existence of NVP ARV drug as a combined regimen at base line have significant effect on
determining the survival time of ART patients. The cummulative proportion of survival are 92%, 90%,
88% and 86% at month 6, month 12, month 24 and month 36 respectively. The hazard of death is higher
in male [AHR: 1.632, CI: 1.309-2.034]. Those who have CD4 cell count less than 50 cells/ml have higher
risk of death than CD4 cell count above 200 [AHR: 3.176, CI: 2.304-4.434] at baseline.
78
Ref. 69-2009
Name: Wordeffa, Tadesse
Quality of Immunization data in Addis Ababa
Abstract:
A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study with analytic component was conducted to assess
Immunization data quality (completeness, correctness, consistency and accuracy) in the health facilities
and to identify the factors affecting data quality among health facilities in Addis Ababa Region. Tally
sheets, registration books, facility reports and district reports were analyzed to assess the data quality.
The thesis reports when and where discrepancies occur and suggested possible solutions.
79
Ref. 70-2009
Name: Worku, Senait Abebe
Status of electronic patient record utilization on antiretroviral therapy management among health
care providers in Addis Ababa referral hospitals, Ethiopia
Abstract:
The aim of this study is to examin the status of Electronic Patient Record utilization and to explore major
factors associated with electronic Patient Record utilization in relation to ART treatment management in
ART department, Addis Ababa Referral Hospitals. In-depth interview and FGD used for qualitative data
and Checklist used for quantitative data collection.
The main finding of this study was that there is an enormous gap between the concepts of the potential
EPR and the reality experienced by health care providers. This study identified: 1) Inadequate Knowledge
and skill coupled with insufficient /irrelevant training, absence of guideline and supportive supervision.
2) Issue of sustainability of Electronic Patient Record coupled with less involvement of health care
providers in designing and implementing Electronic Patient Record, continuous electric power supply,
computer virus and access to computers. 3) Concern about confidentiality and Security. $) Lack of
patient data comprehensiveness coupled Concern that Electronic Patient Record does not reflect patient
care (not Patient centered). And, 5) Synchronization gap between Electronic patient Record and Paperbased Record as the major factors behind utilization of Electronic Patient Record.
80
Ref. 71-2009
Name: George, John
Socio Economic Determinants of Knowledge on Transmission of STI Among Youths in Temeke District
Master of Arts in Health Policy and Management
Abstract:
Abstract Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health problem globally. Youth are one
of the most vulnerable groups to reproductive health problems globally. In Tanzania, more than 50% of
youth are unable to mention gonorrhea and syphilis as diseases transmitted through sexual activities.
Knowledge of a disease`s causation has effects on its transmission. Socio-cultural and economic factors
put young people into risk of STI infection and HIV transmission.
This study was conducted to determine socio-economic factors influencing youth knowledge on
transmission of sexually transmitted infection in Temeke District A cross sectional descriptive study using
quantitative research methods among youth aged 15-24 years living in Temeke District, Dar es Salaam,
Tanzania was conducted at the household level by using interviewer administered questionnaires. Multi
stage sampling technique was used to select 2 rural and 2 urban wards where 4 streets from each ward
were selected and at least 17 households were randomly selected from each street making a total of 261
participants.
More than half of participants had low STI knowledge score (56.7%) while medium score were (13.4%)
and high knowledge score were (29.9%). High STI knowledge level were low among respondents with
primary education level compared to secondary school with adjusted (OR 0.26, 95% CI; 0.14 0.49).
Male respondents were two times more likely to have high STI knowledge score compared to female
respondents (OR 1.96, 95% CI; 1.13 3.40). Also younger youth aged between 15 19 years were less
likely to have high STI knowledge after adjusted for education, residence, and sex (OR 0.53, 95% CI; 0.30
0.93) compared to older youth aged 20 24 years. High STI knowledge had no significant difference
between youth living in rural and urban and across SES groups.
This study clearly indicates that STI knowledge among youth is low whether living in urban or rural areas.
Socio economic status has been shown to be a weak determinant of STI knowledge among youth; other
determinants such as education, age and sex have been strong predictors of STI knowledge among
youth. There should be strong emphasis towards attainment of higher education beyond primary
education if we wish to achieve high reproductive health outcomes starting from STI knowledge.
81
Ref. 72-2009
Name: Mahamba, Vishnu
The role of private insurance in the health care market in Tanzania
Abstract:
Health care financing remains a critical challenge in most developing countries. With an increasing role
in financing health care around the world, private health insurance (PHI) has received increased
attention particularly where other alternatives of health financing mechanisms have not efficiently
accommodated people who could afford private health expenditure. However evidence shows that
without efficient regulations, PHI market operates on profit basis through adverse selection, risk
selection and moral hazard leading to escalating cost of care, hence jeopardizing the goal of universal
access of health care services. This study examined the characteristics, strategies and regulations
controlling the PHI market in Tanzania. Furthermore, it examined the consumers insight on PHI market
in Tanzania.
A cross sectional analytical study was conducted using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. It
was conducted between March and May 2009 and involved a total of six PHI companies which operated
on profit basis and were all registered by the Insurance Supervisory Department, Ministry of Finance. A
total of 152 consumers were involved of whom 55.26% were aged between 30-39 years old. Majority of
the consumers (60.5%) did not know their benefit packages and medical examination was not taken
upon enrolment.
Apart from high administrative costs, risk and adverse selections were found to be some of the
characteristics of the PHI companies. Being insured influenced excessive utilization of health care
services hence elements of moral hazard. There was no strict and specific regulation governing the
activities of PHI companies which calls for the amendment of the Insurance act of 1996 or formulation of
the Health Insurance act. Further studies are therefore needed in order to explore more on the
characteristics and strategies of the PHI market in Tanzania. The studies would help in providing
information on how to contain such characteristics and hence improve the accessibility of health care in
Tanzania.
82
Ref. 73-2009
Name: Malekia, Sia
Factors Associated with Motivation among Health Care Workers in PhC Facilities in Dar es Salaam
Abstract:
Health workers motivation is an important workforce challenge in Africa, which leads to a serious public
health problem as far as delivery of health care services is concerned. Tanzanias health care system is
foundationally built upon Primary Health Care Facilities (PHCFs). However, factors that motivate health
workers to perform well at these essential facility levels are not clearly understood. Understanding the
level of motivation to perform and associated factors among health workers at PHCFs is crucial in order
to provide empirical bases for policy decisions and interventions to improve the quality of service
especially in the light of ongoing Primary Health Service Development Program (PHSDP).
A cross-sectional survey using a structured interview guide was carried out among 326 health care
workers in the three municipalities of Dar es Salaam to assess the level of motivation to perform among
health care workers working at public primary health care facilities. Data were analyzed using Stata
program where univariate and multivariate analyses by Ordinal Least Square model was used to assess
the factors associated with health workers motivation.
The study results revealed that 71.8% of the health workers were motivated to perform their tasks well
while 28.2% were de-motivated. Factors associated with motivation were observed at three main levels:
the individual, organizational and socio-cultural levels. Both financial and non-financial incentives were
seen to influence motivation. However, the main factors were found to be: community
recognition/appreciation, fairness in performance assessment, reward system and education level.
It is recommended that efforts be made by the MoHSW and PMO-RALG to formulate national guidelines
for motivating the health workforce, council authorities to work out reward schemes for health workers;
and health facility managers to establish mechanisms for good relations with communities and fair
assessment procedures among health workers working at public primary health care facilities in Dar es
Salaam.
83
Ref. 74-2009
Name: Marwa, Heri
Factors Affecting Enrolment into the Community Health Funds in Magu District, Tanzania
Abstract:
Following Health Sector Reforms, Tanzania put in place different strategies towards improvement of its
deteriorating health sector. These strategies among others included introduction of a Community Health
Fund (CHF). This fund was first piloted in Igunga District in 1996. Despite predicted advantages of the
CHF, the enrollment is not as high as expected and more than 10 years experience of the fund has not
improved coverage. Different reasons have been pointed out as the causes of the failure of the policy.
Magu District is also faced by the problem of low enrollment into CHF. A descriptive cross sectional
community based study, aimed to determine factors which affect enrollment into the Community Health
Fund was conducted in Magu District.
The objectives of the study were i. To determine knowledge and attitudes towards community health
fund benefits ii. To assess community involvement in the CHF management iii. To determine the
communities preference on health service providers The findings of the study show that majority of the
population in Magu District are peasants and they prefer government health facilities as their primary
health service provider. Despite these facts which are in favour of Community Health Fund, Magu suffer
from very low enrollment (only 0.9% households are members) mainly due to the fact that majority of
the population have not received proper information on Community Health Fund and the community
involvement is therefore very poor.
The study recommends that the district council should improve collaboration between health workers
and village leaders so that village leaders can be involved fully in awareness campaign, increases in
community involvement in the management of CHF and to increase quality of service provided by
government facilities.
84
Ref. 75-2009
Name: Midaba, Toyi
Factors Affecting Collection of and Willingness to Pay for Solid Waste Disposal: The Case of Ilala
Municipality
Abstract:
Collection of solid waste from households has been a problem for urban centres in developing countries.
Households and providers of wastes collection services have greatly contributed to the problem of
increasing uncollected waste. But, factors that drive households contribution to collection services have
rarely been explored in Tanzania, especially in low income communities. The overall objective of this
study was to identify factors that affect solid waste collection and determine willingness to pay for solid
waste management services in Ilala Municipality.
A exploratory cross sectional study was conducted in Ilala Municipality of Dar es Salaam City. A total of
121 households (service recipients) from three wards of low socio-economic status were selected for the
study. A semi structured questionnaire and checklists were used to collect information on households
and providers variables respectively. A logit model was used to analyse factors affecting willingness to
Pay.
Results: The result reveal that age, sex, location, family size, fee charged and payment mechanism were
statistically significant determinants of willingness to pay for solid waste collection services. Mode of
payment for services and type of service provider affects solid waste collection services in study areas.
The results further reveal that the mean amount spent by households on waste collection service was
Tzs 1067 per month, while the mean willingness to pay was Tzs, 1,198.34 a little bit higher compared
with the amount set by Ilala bylaw of Tzs 1000. About 95.8% of respondents were of the opinion that
they needed solid waste collection services and 76% thought that present service providers should
continue to provide the services so in their areas. CBO services were the most preferable mode of
organization for solid waste collection services.
Conclusion: Households attributes and mode of organization of service providers significantly affect solid
waste collection in Ilala Municipality.
Recommendations: Authorities should explore and make use of household characteristics when planning
for Solid Waste Management schemes. CBO structures should be encouraged in solid waste collection
services particularly in areas of low social economic status. Appropriate payment methods should be
explored and adopted to facilitate contribution to services by households.
85
Ref. 76-2009
Name: Mwenesi, Mwendwa
Factors and Outcomes Associated with Self and Institutional Maternal Referrals in Dar es Salaam
District and National Hospitals
Abstract:
Background: Improving maternal health by reducing maternal mortality constitutes the fifth Millennium
Development goal and represents a key public health challenge in the United Republic of Tanzania.
Despite national and global commitments and efforts to reverse the current maternal mortality rate in
Tanzania, the ratio has continued to remain unacceptably high and the figures continue to rise year after
year. (529/100,000 in 1996 against 578/100,000 live births in 2005). Among other factors, referral
system that is efficient and of good quality, together with provision of appropriate and timely
emergency obstetric care plays a crucial role in the reduction of both maternal morbidity and mortality.
Objectives: Several studies done in Africa and rural parts of Tanzania have found weaknesses in the
maternal referral system. This study was therefore conducted to assess the factors and outcomes
associated with self and institutional maternal referrals in Dar-es-Salaam districts and National Hospitals,
with the assumption that the outcome of maternal referrals reflects the effectiveness of the maternal
referral system in the reduction of maternal mortality.
Materials and methods: This analytical cross sectional study used both qualitative and quantitative
methods of research design and was conducted in the national and district hospitals in Dar-es-Salaam
region from April to May 2009. Data was collected using questionnaires and hospital based obstetric
records and database checklists. A total of 392 women who were admitted and had just delivered in the
four hospitals were interviewed and their antenatal cards checked for any referral advice or
documentation given. Qualitative interview on assessment of the current maternal referral system was
also conducted to sixteen selected healthcare workers responsible for maternal care delivery in the four
hospitals. Data on maternal referrals for the year 2008 was collected from the obstetric registry books
and database at districts and national hospitals respectively.
Results: This study revealed a state of poor functioning of maternal referral system in the city public
hospitals with a high percentage of self referrals (51.2%). A strong association was also found between
educational level and economic status with referral status of women.
86
Ref. 77-2009
Name: Ngiloi, Petronilla
Prehospital Trauma Care for Road Traffic Casualities in Dar es Salaam Region
Abstract:
Road traffic injuries have been noted to be on the increase in Tanzania. Data from the Police records
show that between 1990 and 2000, road traffic accidents rose by 44%. A population-based study
revealed that road traffic injuries were the commonest cause of injury-related mortality in Dar-esSalaam, Hai and Morgoro Rural Districts. Dar-es-Salaam is the largest City and the smallest region in
Tanzania but records six times the number of road traffic injuries compared to the second highest
region. The objectives of the study were to determine the pattern of pre-hospital trauma care among
road traffic crash victims attending the five public hospitals in Dar-es-Salaam.
A structured questionnaire was used for interviewing all road traffic crashed victims / relatives /
witnesses/ police patrol attending the five hospitals in Dar-es-Salaam namely Muhimbili Orthopaedic
Institute, Muhimbili National Hospital, Mwanayamala, Amana and Temeke municipal Hospitals. An
assessment of the pre-hospital trauma care was done by interviewing all the patients who were
attended at the above five named hospitals. Where a patient was unable to communicate then the
accompanied person was interviewed. A total of 629 road traffic crashes and fatalities were attended at
five hospitals in Dar-es-Salaam, namely Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute, Muhimbili National Hospital,
Mwananyamala Hospital, Amana Hospitala and Temeka Hospitals in the month of June 2009.
The results showed that Muhimbili Orhopaedic Institute was the largest recipient of road traffic crash
vicitms by 317 (50.4%) and Temeke Hospital 48 (7.6%) the least recipient. The largest number of the
crashed vicitms were pedestrians 239 (42%), followed by passengers 169 (29.8%) and drivers 160
(28.2%). Out of the 629 vicitms only 248 (43.2%) admitted to have received some form of first aid which
entailed splinting of fractured limb 158(63.8%) and dressing of bleeding wounds 90(32.2%). A number of
patients admitted to have called a pre-hospital help from relatives mainly 187 (29.7%), police 77 (12.2%)
including friends 27 (4.3%). No ambulance services were called to the site of crash.
From the findings of this study pre-hospital trauma care in Dar-es-Salaam is not yet well structured it has
been left to the discretion of public and relatives. This silent massive loss of lives due to road traffic
crashes on daily basis could be saved with appropriate measures in place.
87
Ref. 78-2009
Name: Ruhago, George
Equity Implications of Insecticide Treated Nets (ITN) Distributed Free or Without Co-payment:
Coverage and Utilization of INTs Among Under Five Children in Kisarawe and Mpanda Districts
Abstract:
Background: In Tanzania, the distribution and therefore coverage of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) is
unequatable. Arguments about the most effective and equitable approach of distributing ITNs are
centered on whether to provide ITNs free of charge or continue with the existing social marketing
strategies. The Government has decided to provide free ITNs to all under five children in the country, it
remains in focus if that strategy will achieve effective coverage and utilisation. This study examined the
equity implication of ownership and utilization of ITNs, among households of different socioeconomic
quintiles in a district with free ITNs as compared to a district without free ITN distribution.
Methods: A cross-sectional household survey was conducted in two districts Mpanda in Rukwa Region
(with free ITN roll out) and Kisarawe in Coast region (without free ITNs). Heads of 314 household were
interviewed 158 in Mpanda and 156 in Kisarawe. Concentration index and regression analysis were
performed and concentration curve drawn to establish inequalities on ownership and utilisation of ITNs.
Results: Ownership of ITNs increased from 29% in 2007/08 national survey to 90 post roll out of free
ITNs in Mpanda, and utilization increased from 13% to 77% almost reaching the Roll Back Malaria and
MDG targets of 80% coverage and use. Inequality was considerably lower in Mpanda, with nearly perfect
equality in use (concentration index 0.009) and ownership (concentration index 0.010). In Kisarawe
ownership of ITNs remained low 53% nearly similar to 2007/08 national survey 48%, with marked
inequality concentration index 0.132. Only 42% of under five slept under ITN in Kisarawe district with pro
rich concentration index of 0.027.
Conclusion: The results shed some light on the possibility of reducing inequality in ownership and
utilization of ITNs and attaining Roll Back Malaria and Millennium Development Goals, through the
provision of free ITNS to all underprivileged groups. This has the potential to decrease burden of disease
hence reduction of disparity in disease outcome.
88
Ref. 79-2009
Name: Kisanga, Onesmo
Title ?
Master of Science in Clinical medicine
Abstract:
CKD and eventually ESRD are becoming markedly increased across the world. The cost for RRT is
becoming so prohibitive more so in developing countries like Tanzania. HRQoL is increasingly being used
to assess chronic clinical conditions, CKD being one of them. HRQoL in nephrology involves determining
efficiency and effectiveness of different forms of RRT; evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of
different types of other treatments applied to patients e.g. immunosuppressives, and follow-up of the
evolution of individual patients.
Objectives; To determine the quality of life in ESRD patients after successful renal transplantation in
Tanzania. Study site and design; Cross- sectional study involving all renal transplanted patients in
Tanzania. Study procedure; a questionnaire was administered to all consenting renal transplanted
patients. Information recorded includes demographic data, clinical characteristics and HRQoL using the
SF-36 tool.
Conclusion; ESRD patients HRQol improves after renal transplantation. However transplantation is thus
expensive and emphasis should be put on CKD prevention.
89
Ref. 80-2009
Name: Kubhoja, Sulende Munubi
Clinical and Echocardiographic Patterns of Mitral Valve Prolapse Among medical Students at MUHAS,
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Abstract:
MVP is a valvular heart disease characterized by the displacement of an abnormally thickened mitral
valve leaflet into the Left Atrium (LA) during systole. Its aetiology is yet to be elucidated. Clinically, MVP
has been associated with a wide variety of non-specific clinical features. Its complications include;
infective endocarditis, cerebralvascular accidents (CVA), frail leaflets, mitral regurgitation, heart failure,
etc. The prevalence of MVP and its characteristics in Sub-Saharan Africa and particularly in black
Africans, including Tanzania has not been well studied. There is lack of awareness on the magnitude of
MVP in Tanzania based on clinical and echocardiographic criteria specific for diagnosing MVP, thus, the
rationale for conducting the study.
Objective: To determine the prevalence, clinical and echocardiographic patterns of MVP among medical
students at MUHAS, Dar es Salaam. Tanzania. Study design and site; A cross- sectional descriptive study
was done, involving MD4 and MD5 students at MUHAS, Dar es Salaam. Tanzania. Method: Classic MVP
was defined as an upward displacement of the leaflet(s) exceeding 2mm and maximal thickness of 5mm
on a 2-dimensional Echocardiography. Non classic mitral valve prolapse diagnosis was accepted when
the displacement exceeded 2mm but maximal thickness was less than 5mm. Study procedure: A
designed structured questionnaire for the purpose of the study was administered to all consenting MD4
and MD5 medical students. Social demographic data, history, clinical cardiac findings and
echocardiographic results were recorded.
Results: A total of 202 students were recruited, 101 from each class. Five (2.5%) students had mitral
valve prolapse. Three (1.5%) had non-classic MVP, while two (0.99%) had classic MVP.
Conclusion and recommendations From a sample size of 202 presumably healthy medical students, the
prevalence of classic MVP was 0.99% supporting some previous studies. A bigger sample sized
community based study is recommended so as to determine the actual prevalence of MVP, the
associated symptoms and signs, and echocardiographic patterns in our community.
90
Ref. 81-2009
Name: Mwandolela, Hery
Clinical, Echocardiographic, Electrocardiographic and Chest Radiographic Characteristics of Heart
Failure Patients at Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam
Abstract:
Background: Heart failure is a major public health problem in developed countries, imposing a huge
burden on their health care systems. In Africa, improvements in the control of communicable diseases
and the migration to the cities with changes in life styles, cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension
with consequence heart failure are increasingly recognized as significant causes of morbidity and
mortality. Most of the published data on heart failure is based on work in Caucasian populations within
the developed world, and data on its incidence, prevalence, etiology, treatment, and outcome in Africa
are lacking.
Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the clinical, echocardiographic, and
electrocardiographic and chest radiographic characteristics of patients admitted at Muhimbili National
Hospital Medical wards with NYHA class III/IV heart failure. Materials and Methods: A cross section
study was done for three months in 2008. During the three months period, a total of 100 patients with
severe heart failure were evaluated clinically. All had standard transthoracic echocardiograms at rest,
resting 12 lead electrocardiograms, and standard postero anterior chest radiograms taken and data
analysed.
Results: PND was a symptom which occurred to all the patients. Other most frequently occurring
features included positive hepatojugular reflux, Elevated Jugular Venous pressure, tender
hepatomegally and nocturnal cough.
Conclusions: 1. PND was a common symptom to all the patients. Other most frequently occurring
features included positive hepatojugular reflux, Elevated Jugular Venous pressure, tender hepatomegaly
and nocturnal cough. 2. The most common echocardiographic finding of patients in this study was
dilated cardiomyopathy followed by chronic rheumatic valvular disease. Left ventricular systolic
dysfunction was the most common form of heart failure (54%).
Left atrial dilatation was the most frequently dilated cardiac chamber, confirmed by both the ECG and
Echo.
3. Sinus tachycardia was the most frequent Arrhythmias (47%), left atrial and right atrial abnormalities
accounted for 42% and 7% respectively, 22% of patients had BBB, and 46% had LVH with secondary ST-T
changes. Majority (76%) of patients had more than one ECG abnormalities. 4. Cardiomegaly was the
most common radiographic finding accounting for 87%.Seventy six (76%) patients had interstitial
oedema of varying severity and 12% had pleural effusion. 5. Ischaemic heart disease still accounts for
insignificant number (1%) of patients with heart failure at Muhimbili National Hospital.
91
Ref. 82-2009
Name: Aga, Bethelhem Koru
Is there a differencein the productivity of Maize between male-headet and female-headed household
in Masake district, Uganda?
Master of Science in development and Natural Resource Economics
Abstract:
This study analyzes gender differentials in the productivity of maize in Masaka district, Uganda. Primary
data were collected from maize farmers among which 39 households were female-headed and 175 were
male-headed. The existence of two seasons of maize production and the fact that households used more
than one plot makes it possible to analyze the data as a panel.
Cobb- Douglas estimation of yield (output per acre) with gender dummy demonstrated that productivity
was significantly lower on plots controlled by female-headed households than male-headed households.
Then we tested alternative hypothesis that possibly may explain the productivity differentials.
Regression results with matched plots using nearest neighbor matching method confirmed that gender
productivity differentials is not explained by male-headed households having a higher plot quality than
female heads.
A bivariate probit model on adoption of improved seeds and fertilizer however indicated that the
probability of adopting fertilizer is higher for male-headed households than female-headed households.
Finally the study concluded that difference in productivity is explained by male-headed households
having a better endowment of land and nonland resources, and market access.
92
Ref. 83-2009
Name: Alemayehu, Fikru Kefyalew
Income risks and covariance of incomes: Evidence from Uganda
Abstract:
This thesis identifies the factors influencing income risk and measures the income risk in various forms
using panel data collected in 2005 and 2008 from Masindi district farm households in Uganda. We test
hypotheses that a larger pool of male labor, a larger number of household members, and greater access
to credit serve to reduce exposure to income risk and that female- headed households, those that are
poor in income and those that are poor in asset are exposed to greater amounts of income risk.
We also use a variance covariance matrix derived from a Seemingly Unrelated Regression model to test
hypotheses that forest and environmental income, livestock income, off-farm income and other sources
of income (e.g land rental and remittance) are negatively correlated with crop income.
Results indicate that exposure to income risk is influenced by both community and household
characteristics. Household size and the number of males in the household are negatively correlated with
the level of idiosyncratic income risk. We reject the hypothesis that asset - poor households are exposed
to more income risk than asset- rich households. We also find that households with greater access to
formal and informal sources of credit have higher levels of income risk, in all likelihood because
borrowing facilitates greater risk-taking behavior among those in the sample.
However; the results support the hypothesis that income- poor households are exposed to more income
risk. The findings also suggest that forest and environmental income, livestock income, off- farm income
and other sources of income exhibit negative covariance with crop income. This indicates that
households can successfully use these income sources to hedge against agricultural income risk.
93
Ref. 84-2009
Name: Alumai, Godfrey Jeff
Gender differentials in Forest Extraction and the Contribution of Forest income in alleviating poverty
an income inequality: A Case study of the Malindi District, Uganda
Abstract:
This study examines gender differentials in forest extraction and the contribution of forest income in
mitigating poverty and income inequality among rural households in Masindi district, Uganda.
The study finds that women participated more in forest extraction than men and the size and monetary
value of their extraction of forest products is greater than that for men. Most forest products collected
in the study area are subsistence forest products like firewood, poles, wild fruits, mushroom etc for
domestic use. Forest extraction contributes 13% of the average per capita household income. The mean
forest income share decreases from households in the poorest income quintile to those in the richest
income quintile. Forest extraction accounted for on average 28% of the total household income for the
poorest income quintile and 9% for the wealthiest quintile.
However, the rich households derived a larger absolute income from the forest resources than the poor
households. The mean forest income shares reduces from households that have <=5 acres of land to
households that have >10 acres of land. The differences in shares between these groups are significant.
Female headed households share of forest income was higher than those of male headed households
while households that had more female labor than male labor got a higher share of their total income
from forest extraction than those that had more male labor than female labor. Forest income share was
also found to be positively related to female labor force and negatively related to male labor force in a
household but both coefficients were not significant. Forest extraction reduces both headcount poverty
and income inequality among the rural households by 16% and 7% respectively.
Poverty decomposition showed that forest extraction is important in reducing poverty among the poor
of the male headed households and those poor households that have more male labor force than female
labor force. The potential of forest products extraction to alleviate poverty was found to decrease as the
size of area owned by the households increases. Forest extraction has more income equalizing potential
among households in the bottom of the income quintile than among those in the top quintile. Further,
forest extraction was found to have more potential to reduce income disparities among households that
have more female labor force than male labor force. The income equalizing potential of forest products
extraction decreases as the size of the households area owned increases. Therefore, forest products
extraction was found to have potential to reduce poverty especially among households in bottom of the
income quintile and also has an incomeequalizing potential among the poor rural households.
94
Ref. 85-2009
Name: Darie, Yonatan Jerene
Liquidity as a challangein rural economy:Does social capital facilitate access to credit in Masaka
district, Uganda?
Abstract:
While a growing literature discusses social capital and economic development, there is a recent debate
on whether or not social capital is the capital of the poor. Using survey data from rural Uganda, this
study assesses the extent of social capital among the sample households and its contribution in
facilitating access to credit for the rural poor. The study has applied descriptive and logit model analysis
on household, village and selective institutional level data which was collected during June to August,
2008.
The findings of the study indicate that most of the respondents have weak social capital due to either
low level of involvement in the activities of local organizations where they enrolled as a member and
which are considered in the calculation of social capital index or they did not even become a member in
any organization in their localities.
The second major finding of the study is that social capital measured as a composite of participation in
meetings, membership by types of organizations, status of the member in an organization, general trust
level in the village community, and number of friends of a household has positive contributions in
facilitating access to credit for the sample respondents. Particularly, the status of the member in the
organizations and friendship of the household members among the community contribute significantly
for the positive role of social capital index.
However, the random effect logit model for individual data indicates low probability of credit
accessibility for the respondent households. On the other hand, the study indicates that the informal
financial sectors, particularly mutual support organizations (like womens group, farmers group) and
revolving credit and saving associations (ROSCAs) are relatively accessible to the poor. The integration of
informal institutions within the society might help them to understand the households and hence,
expand the services to credit worthy individuals.
Thus, the formal institutions may consider the indicators of credit worthiness which have been used by
the informal credit sources in order to reduce cost of transactions and to expand their performances in
the study area. As informal sectors are resource constrained, the government can also accelerate the
performance of rural credit market by capacitating the informal financial sectors. Key words: Social
capital, Credit accessibility, Financial institutions, Organizations.
95
Ref. 86-2009
Name: Debela, Bethelhem Legesse
orest resources, Income diversification and economic shocks in Uganda
Abstract:
This study measures the behavioural response of rural households in Uganda to a broad set of shocks
encountered over a three year period (2005-2008). The analysis uses household survey data collected in
a forested area of Masindi district where shocks most frequently take the form of the loss of a
productive household member or crop failure.
We examine the use of coping strategies, including income diversification and forests, and how these are
affected by the type and magnitude of shock, and household and village characteristics. Using a count
model for the number of coping strategies, we find a higher magnitude of losses from shocks increases
the number of coping strategies used. The total number of coping strategies applied in response to
shocks is found to be negatively correlated with physical assets per household member. In addition,
covariate shocks seem to decrease the number of coping strategies applied while idiosyncratic shocks
increase the number of coping strategies applied. Regression result for a constructed diversification
index reveals that households which faced above average losses relative to their income had a more
diversified income portfolio, on average.
We also find that female-headed households, income poor households and those that own less area of
land on average used a more diversified income portfolio than their sample cohorts. A Tobit model
employed to examine the safety net role of forests indicates that larger relative losses from shocks
increases the insurance role of forests. We find that households that are far from the market and those
with less stock of physical assets are the primary users of this safety net role of forests.
Our findings have relevance for policies related to forest protection and governance, poverty
eradication, and rural development. Keywords: shocks, coping strategies, income diversification, forests,
safety nets, Masindi, Uganda.
96
Ref. 87-2009
Name: Kavuta, Abel Josephat
Incidense of rural poverty in rural areas: Do Livelihood strategies matter? A case stude of Masindi and
Masaka in Uganda
Abstract:
This study adopts an asset based approach to conceptualize the livelihood strategies pursued in rural
Uganda in particular, Masindi and Masaka districts respectively. The study uses household survey data
from 2005 and 2008 surveys to compare the incidence, inequality and intensity of poverty among
different livelihood strategy groups.
A cluster analysis technique is used to classify household livelihood activities into distinct livelihood
strategies and the Three Is Poverty (TIP) curves are used to investigate the incidence, inequality and
intensity dimensions of poverty across different livelihood strategy groups and check for poverty
dominance. A random effect multinomial logit model is used to establish which factors constrain rural
households from participating in high return livelihood strategies.
The results indicate that there are five distinct livelihood strategies that are pursued in the study area
which vary significantly in terms of their returns and the welfare rankings. The findings further reveal
that households participation in low return strategies is a result of not only the fewer assets at their
disposal but also households restricted capacity to use its available assets due to limited or lack of
incentives in the economic system.
97
Ref. 88-2009
Name: Khundi,Fydess
How do Forest-based Livelihoods matter to rural households? Evidence from charcoal producers in
Uganda
Abstract:
This paper quantifies income and poverty effects of charcoal production as a forest -based rural
livelihood activity in Uganda. Household survey data collected from a purposive random sample of 300
households in charcoal producing districts are used in conjunction with parametric and propensity score
matching techniques.
We find positive and statistically significant effects of participation in charcoal production on household
income and poverty levels. Rural households involved in charcoal production appear to benefit from this
livelihood activity. Results further indicate that charcoal production is an important livelihood activity for
less educated, land constrained and migrant headed households, contributing significantly to rural
incomes and poverty reduction.
These findings suggest important policy lesson especially on land holding as an asset, we have found that
access to productive land will reduce pressure on forests. Finally, looking at seasonality of charcoal
production in North West Uganda, development organisations who are concerned with charcoal burning
may target the months of November to April with other income generating activities since most
households are engaged in charcoal production in these months. Key words- Forest based livelihoods,
charcoal production, rural Uganda, parametric and propensity score matching.
98
Ref. 89-2009
Name: Mawejje, Joseph
Does social network capitalenchance produktivie asset investment and buy higher prices? Evidence
from Massaka district, Uganda.
Abstract:
Using cross-sectional data collected in Masaka district, Uganda, we empirically examine two benefits to
social network capital: the ability to rebuild productive assets and access to markets with higher prices.
Specifically, we develop two sets of models in our analysis: a set of price models and a set of livestock
rebuilding models.
Each set uses social network capital variables as regressors. Due to the endogeneity of social network
capital and a notion that a two-way relationship may exist between social network capital and economic
outcomes, we use instrumental variable methods for the estimations. We apply the two-stage least
square instrumental variable method for the price models and the instrumental variable Tobit regression
method for the livestock rebuilding models. We use a set of instruments that is both exogenous and
relevant and it includes: age of the household head, duration of household village residence and group
membership duration, all measured in complete years.
Our results indicate that social network capital matters for household ability to both rebuild productive
assets and access markets with higher prices. Key words: Social network capital, markets, prices,
livestock assets, Uganda.
99
Ref. 90-2009
Name: Senyonga, Livingstone
Structural breaks, increasing volatility and loss of efficiency in the nordic electicity market. Will the
market suvive the financial crisis?
Abstract:
This study seeks to find out whether there are signs of stress in the Nordic electricity market during the
financial crisis period.
We use an ARIMAX specification to investigate structural breaks in series of electricity spot price and
prices of forward contracts obtained from Nord Pool. Using recursive estimation of Quandt Likelihood
Ratio F-statistics we date significant structural breaks in the spot price and long term contract prices but
insignificant in prices of short term contracts and electricity consumption series. Dummy variable
estimation shows that weather changes are more important for structural breaks in spot price while
economic variables are responsible for breaks in contract prices.
Using a Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity model and volatility clustering
graphs, we identify significant increases of volatility in the spot price and long term contract prices but
insignificant in short to medium term prices of contracts. Lastly, we use prices of weekly futures
contracts and system prices at the purchase and delivery of the contracts to test whether Efficiency
Market Hypothesis holds in the Nordic electricity market.
A T-test shows the unconditional efficiency not to hold as the unpredicted changes in price were not
equal to zero before (P = 0.000) and after (P = 0.042) the structural break but also in the full sample (P =
0.000). On the other hand cointegration tests only rejected conditional market efficiency for the period
during the financial crisis. The study thus finds a coincidence in occurrence of phenomena; structural
breaks, increasing volatility, loss of market efficiency and the global financial crisis between October
2007 and March 2009.
Keywords: Global financial crisis, Nordic electricity market, ARIMAX, Quandt Likelihood Ratio,
Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity and Efficiency Market.
100
Ref. 91-2009
Name: Zenebe, Dawit Kebede
Income growth, poverty dynamics and forest income dependence in Uganda
Abstract:
This study examines the income, inequality and poverty tends and determinants of income growth of
households in Masaka and Masindi districts of Uganda. It also looks into the relationship between
persistent poverty and forest income dependence in Masindi District. It uses panel data collected from
121 households in Masaka and 111 households in Masindi in 2005 and 2008. The analysis uses
descriptive statistics to show income and poverty trends in the two areas and OLS regression to identify
determinants of income growth. It uses ordered probit regression to identify the impact of high forest
income share on the dynamic poverty status ofhouseholds in Masindi district.
It is found that poverty declined slightly for the past three years in both places but in different ways. In
Masaka poverty reduction was associated with insignificant income change and a change towards a
more egalitarian income distribution. On the other hand in Masindi, the reduction was associated with
high income growth and more unequal distribution of income. High movement in and out of poverty is
also seen in both areas. In Masaka, when village heterogeneity is accounted, access to credit and
primary education of household head were found to affect income growth negatively while the effect of
land area owned by the household was found to be positive.
Initial income of households was found to be negatively significant which suggests households reverting
to their permanent income. In Masindi, initial income, primary education of the household head, and
land area were also found to have the same effect on income growth just like in Masaka. But in addition,
shocks were important in explaining negative growth of income in Masindi area.
High forest income share was also found to be positively related with persistent poverty in Masindi
district. Higher forest income share also means that lower probability of being in the always non-poor
category. This model also shows that higher number of dependents in the household and higher loss
due to shocks increase the probability of being persistently poor.
101
Ref. 92-2009
Name: Ahamed, A.F.M. Jalal
Consumer's attitude and consumption of fish in Dhaka city: Influence of percieved risk, trust and
knowlwdge
Master of Science in Fisheries and Aquaculture Management and Economics
Abstract:
Fish is the main source of animal protein in Bangladesh. However, no previous studies I am aware of has
analyzed or explored consumption and attitude toward fish in Bangladesh. In accordance with several
studies in the area of food consumption behavior, this study use the Theory of Planed Behavior (TPB Ajzen, 1991) a conceptual framework to explore the consumers attitude and consumption of fish in
Dhaka city.
Attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control in the traditional theory is extended with
perceived risk, trust and knowledge in order to explain intention and consumption of fish. The measures
used to evaluate the constructs in the theories are adopted from previous studies. The study employs
the methods of descriptive analysis, test of reliability and means difference, factor analysis, and multiple
regression analysis to analyze the data collected in Dhaka city.
The results show that fish as a meal is a common and broadly used food, and the people have high
motivation and positive attitude toward consumption of fish. Perceived quality is revealed as the main
determinant of consumers attitude, while availability is the main determinant of perceived behavioral
control. Bones and smells of fish are not considered as unpleasant and not found as a significant
indicator of attitudes. Time consumed to cook and prepare fish also did not found as a significant
indicator of perceived control. It is also found people knew that fish are cultured in toxic environment
and preserved with hazardous chemical, however the risk perception is less significant.
This study found that people have much trust on food information from specialist like doctors and
university scientist; but have low trust on Government and political parties. In the area of theory testing
this study found attitude and norms are good predictors of intention, while intention and attitude have
good predictability on consumption behavior. PBC did not find having effect on both intention and
behavior. The cumulative variance explained by the data set is 73% for the constructs of TPB.
In case of the extended model it is observed that intention, attitude, trust on information sources and
product knowledge have significant effect on behavior, while attitude, norms and procedural knowledge
is revealed as good predictor of intention. In the extended model it is also observed that there is no
statistically significant relationship between risk, worry, trust on information sources, trust on sales outs
with intention and behavior. However, while regressing intention with perceived risk (risk and worry)
and trust (trust on information sources and on sales outlets) this study found statistically significant
relationship.
102
Ref. 93-2009
Name: Bui Le, Thai Hanh
Author's nationality: Vietnam
Impact of financial variables on the production efficiency of Pangasius farms in An Giang province,
Vietnam
Abstract:
This research provides the first analysis of the relationship between farm financial exposure and
technical efficiency in the Pangasius farming in An Giang province, in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. A
nonparametric DEA approach has been applied to estimate technical and scale efficiency scores of 61
Pangasius farms in An Giang province in the year 2008.
The mean technical efficiencies under assumption of constant returns to scale and variable returns to
scale and scale efficiency were measured to be 0.595, 1.058 and 0.58 respectively. The decomposition of
the technical efficiency measure shows that scale inefficiency is the primary cause of technical
inefficiency in the the case of Pangasius farming as about 92% of the sample Pangasius farms exhibits
increasing returns to scale (IRS). Then, estimated technical efficiency (TE) scores under assumption of
variable returns to scale are used in a regression analysis to investigate the relationship between the
efficiency measures and different farm characteristics, including financial considerations.
Research results suggest that technical efficiency is influenced by investment level of farms as well as by
farm operator's experience. The farms are invested more will be more efficient. The experience
measured as the years of operator in farming Pangasius also suggests that the farmers having more
experience may have better decisions in farm operating and more efficient in using inputs, thus, their
farms are more efficient. Technical efficiency is positively influenced by the debt-to-asset ratio and also
by the debt-to-equity ratio, while no statistically significant relationship is found between technical
efficiency and the bank debt-to asset ratio. The other factors (age and education levels of the houshlod
head) are found to have no effects on the technical efficiency in the sample farms.
103
Ref. 94-2009
Name: Bui, Bich Xuan
The role of percieved quality, ambivalence and health involvement as a basis for clustering - A study
of fish consumption in Vietnam
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to examine the applicability of benefits sought based segmentation for
fish market in Vietnam. A convenient sample of 809 Vietnamese households was provided to answer the
questionnaires, including the questions about attitudes towards fish consumption. Cluster analysis was
used to identify three distinctive consumer segments based on evaluation of quality, ambivalence and
health involvement towards fish consumption.
The three segments were termed the Satisfied, the Ambivalent and the Neutral segments. While the
Satisfied have positive attitudes and the Neutral have uncertain feelings towards fish consumption, the
Ambivalent have mixed feelings towards fish eating behavior. The Ambivalent consumers reveal the
attitudes and behavior towards fish products somewhere between the Satisfied and the Neutral
segments on most variables. However, they are close to the Satisfied on most areas, e.g. perceived
quality, health involvement, perception of fish convenience, social and moral norms.
The quality and the smell of fish are found as the main variables contributing to determine the
classification of the Satisfied segment. And the variable of mixed emotions is found as the most
important to determine the classification of the Ambivalent segment. The practical implications for
marketers within the fish industry are the effectively strategies to increase the satisfaction and the
loyalty of the Satisfied and Neutral consumers.
104
Ref. 95-2009
Name: Chen, Xianwen
Author's nationality: China
Bioeconomic study of a two agent fishery with consideration on the valuation of goods and services
by cold-water corals
Abstract:
This thesis makes four contributions on the economic analysis of fisheries in cold-water corals contained
waters. The first contribution is the proposal of theoretical framework on the links among cold-water
corals, fauna fish species, fisheries, and public. The interactions among these four parts are illustrated in
the framework. The second contribution is the identification and classification of goods and services by
cold-water corals. The work of identification and classification helps greatly on the understanding of
importance of cold-water corals to the public. The third contribution is the bioeconomic models on the
interactions among the four parties. Two types of coral-fish connections are assumed, i.e. corals are
preferred habitat to fauna fish species, or corals are essential habitat. Our modeling results reveal the
existence of optimum optimorum values of the public. The last contribution is the steady-state analysis
of both new models and original models.
From the state space diagrams, we find that the optimal equilibriums and the movements can be readily
identified. Through comparison of the new models and the original models, we find two theorems. The
first theorem is that the optimal coral stock level in the new model is always increased, while the fish
stock level is always decreased. The second theorem is that in the new model, the optimum optimorum
PVNB (Present Value of Net Benefit) for the all parties is always increased, while the optimum
optimorum PVNB for the fishery is always decreased.
Our research work reveals the importance of identifying goods and services by marine habitat, and
linking them into fishery management. Our findings high-light the improvement of social benefits by
taking goods and services values into economic consideration of habitat management.
105
Ref. 96-2009
Name: Dang Hoang, Xuan Huy
Technical efficiency analysis for commercial Black Tiger Prawn aquaculture farms in Nha Trang city
Abstract:
This study has used minimizing input-oriented CRS DEA model with two output and five input variables
which use theory of technical efficiency. It mainly has used Nha Trangs data (64 samples) to analysis,
data from other areas in Khanh Hoa province (33 samples in Ninh Hoa district, 33 samples in Van Ninh
district, and 36 samples in Cam Ranh district) only use to compare to Nha Trang to find the worst factors
for technical efficiency, improving these factors in section conclusion.
All these data was collected from data primary of Ph.D Pham Xuan Thuy when he did Ph.D thesis which
he inquired in Khanh Hoa province in 2004. There are 25% performances of Black Tiger Prawn (Penaeus
monodon) DMUo is efficient and 75% performances of DMUo are inefficient in Nha Trang city. We can
put to conduct for each of the inefficient. These are the units that management would focus on to
improve input factors or resource reduction.
Camparing among Cam Ranh, Nha Trang city, Van Ninh district, Ninh Hoa district the proportion percent
of Black Tiger Prawn (Penaeus monodon) DMUo technical efficient of Cam Ranh is 42% due to
geographical advantage. The proportion percent of DMUo efficient of Nha Trang and Ninh Hoa is lowest
because of nearly populated area and processing factories.
106
Ref. 97-2009
Name: Do, Hung Nguyen
Economic value of coral reef and management effectiveness in Trao Reef Locally Managed Marine
Reserve
Abstract:
Trao Reef Locally Managed Marine Reserve was established in 2001 to protect coral reef being under
threat because of human activities. However, the economic value of coral reef represents an important
sight to help local people and resource managers in using and managing the resource effectively in the
marine reserve has not been seen. By using financial analysis to calculate producer surplus of resource
users, this study evaluated the direct use value consisting of fishery and aquaculture values of coral reef
in the marine reserve.
The findings show that the direct use value of coral reef is US$ 207,819 in which aquaculture is an
important contribution. This study also investigated the evaluation of effectiveness of the marine
reserve management under the context of community based management approach by contrasting with
Nha Trang Bay MPA management which follows top-down management approach. The results show that
community in Trao Reef marine has higher awareness, higher compliance, and higher participation to
the marine reserve management. These indicators imply that Trao Reef management is performing
better than Nha Trang Bay MPA management.
107
Ref. 98-2009
Name: Duong, Thi Kim Lan
The attitude and perceptions of resource users and managers towards the Nha Trang Bay marine
protected area management
Abstract:
Attitudes of local people and managers have become the emerging topic in marine protected areas
management. Understanding about it is expected to contribute to the implement and the compliance of
fishermen and managers after seven years of the Nha Trang Bay marine protected are foundation. This
study aims to evaluate attitudes and perceptions of fishermen and managers towards MPA
management; and to examine life satisfaction of the fishermen resulting from the Nha Trang Bay MPA
designation. The primary stakeholders take vital roles in complying with the management regulations,
fishermen and managers were surveyed by random selection. Their opinions were obtained by the faceto-face interview.
Results were presented underlying the descriptive analysis and the logistic regression model. Managers
expressed positive attitudes and perceptions towards the MPA management; meanwhile fishermen did
not. Fishermen reluctantly accept the closed area. The management board has not caught the support
from local people, poaching and conflicts in using fisheries resources still occur in the area. The
cumulative logistic model was used to examine the effects of demographic and socioeconomic factors
on fishermens happiness. Per capita income and age have positive effects on the probability of
fishermen life satisfaction.
108
Ref. 99-2009
Name: Han, Yu Mei
The stakeholder view with Guanxi: A case study of managers in Chinese aquatic product industry
Abstract:
Guanxi, in China, is viewed as a cultural concept, which originates from Confucianism. This thesis applies
a stakeholder-based view (SHV) of strategic management to a special Guanxi setting of China in order to
contextualize the theory to be applied in Chinese settings. In exploring the experiences of developing
Guanxi with critical stakeholders in the course of corporate operations within the three aquatic product
enterprises in China, the result finds the role of catalyst of Guanxi in lubricating or smoothing corporate
development based on SHV in strategic management.
109
Ref. 100-2009
Name: Hoang, Van Cuong
Technical and scale efficiancy on the intensive Tiger shrimp cultivation farms in Binh Dai district - Ben
Tre - Vietnam
Abstract:
While DEA method, a data oriented approach for evaluating the performance of decision making units,
has been studied and applied successful in many fields worldwide; in Vietnam, concepts and applications
of this method used for accessing the efficiency of aquaculture operations, however, is still a
shortcoming. In that context, this study is implemented with two main purposes: (1) reviewing the
literature on efficiency and DEA methods, (2) applying certain DEA methods to examine the technical
and scale efficiency of the intensive tiger shrimp farms in Binh Dai district, Ben Tre Province, Vietnam. In
the thesis, therefore, after literature on efficiency and DEA methods are reviewed, a case study of
measuring the performance of shrimp farms in Binh Dai district is implemented.
In analyzing the case study, input oriented CRS and VRS DEA models are applied to measure the
technical and scale efficiency of shrimp farms. Furthermore, super efficiency is also considered to have
better ranking for the farms performance. Then, some hypothesis will be performed and tested to
further examine relationships, factors related to used inputs, outputs, scale and technical efficiency of
the shrimp farms. Interesting findings have been found from the study. Theoretical literature on
efficiency and DEA methods and their worldwide applications reflected that the application of DEA for
measuring aquaculture performance in Vietnam absolutely have chances to be applied successfully.
For findings from the case study, results from examining the intensive shrimp farming shows that at
normal production process, the intensive tiger shrimp farms in Binh Dai district are quite efficient. Purely
technical efficiency and scale efficiency level of the shrimp farms are rather high (on average above 90
percent). These results express that as risk factors are controlled, the intensive shrimp farming
technology can control quite well the production process, so it could be encouraged to be applied.
However, significant possibilities to increase efficiency levels of those farms have been still identified.
Inefficiency shrimp farms could improve their performance by eliminating pure technical inefficiencies
through the adoption of the best practices of efficient shrimp farms and by operating at optimal scales.
Certain types of hypothesis tests has been performed and implemented to test the impacts of farm size
to technical efficiency, the existence of scale inefficiency, the relationships between inputs used to the
efficiency as well as other potential relationships included in the production process.
The results of the hypothesis tests are interesting and suggested to be further examined in near future.
Overall, this study has focused and solved a certain issues in a limitation of time and finance; the results
and information mentioned in the study are expected to be perfect foundations for a further
comprehensive study to cover more issues related to aquaculture performance.
110
Ref. 101-2009
Name: Koralagama, Dilanthi Nadeeka
Coping vulnerability: assess the strategies with special reference to idiosycratic shocks in the small
scale fishery in Southern Srl Lanka
Abstract:
Vulnerability leads to poverty; poverty leads to vulnerability, a controversial two concepts without an
end nor a start. From recent past, poverty has been addressed in terms of vulnerability. There, the
possible ways to be vulnerable is stressed to investigate. Risks, shocks, and uncertainty have been
identified as the profound sources of vulnerability so as to poverty. In fact, the study was designed to
assess the coping mechanisms of vulnerability that are adapting to hammer the idiosyncratic risks and
shocks in the small-scale fishing community in Southern Sri Lanka.
Stratified random technique was applied to draw a sample of three groups representing, NMRT owners,
FRP owners, and crew members. Totally 50 households were selected. Both panel data and a cross
sectional survey was carried out to glean the data.
The results highlight a clear variation of fishing income between season and off-season for the whole
three groups. The FRP owners, main cash inflows are fishing income, drawings, gifts, bank loans, and cooperatives irrespective of the season. Zero income, harsh sea condition, and inability to secure
operational expenses knock their livelihoods frequently. Individuals are adapting memberships in formal
organizations, accumulation of wealth, activity diversification, migration, and social networks as ex-ante
risk coping strategies. Loans from friends, mortgage, withdrawals from banks, and intra- community
transfers are the ex-post risk coping strategies. The safety net arrangements are vital to ensure the
mutual insurance among the smallscale fishers. The importance of a high heterogeneity within a
network is elaborated by the income- expenditure, and saving patterns of the groups.
111
Ref. 102-2009
Name: Mai, Van Dien
Economic performance of the gill netter fleets in the central area of Vietnam's offshore fisheries
Abstract:
The initial results of this study demonstrated that the offshore gillnets fleets in the Central of Vietnam
can get high economic efficiency, an offshore gillnet vessel make a margin profit of 10%, the annual
income of vessel can reach 51% of gross revenue.
The average annual income of a fishing man is much higher than the average personal income on the
national scale, corresponding to 156% in 2007. The offshore gillnet fishery could be attracted labour as
well as investment in the future. The analysis has demonstrated that a gillnet vessel in the group of
vessels with main engine power upper than 90hp has higher annual gross revenue, income, and net
profit than the rest group.
Impacts of engine power and hull length have also significant for vessel group with smaller 90hp engine
power. For improving on economic performance, it is necessary to encourage owners of vessels in group
smaller 90hp take more investment to improve vessels engine as well as hull length. For gillnet vessels
in group of larger 90hp, the owners should not concentrate on engine power, the hull length need to be
maximized correlative with the current engine capacity, the total gillnets length should be increased.
The limitations of this study include a quite small sample because of the data collection is very difficult
and costly in the current Vietnams conditions. The sample does not cover some important indicators
such as the marine resources, the changing in market prices of inputs or outputs of the used models, and
social-economic indicators (management ability, skipper and crew skills, education and average age of
fishing men, and so on). Key words: offshore gillnet, economic performance, gross revenue, annual
income.
112
Ref. 103-2009
Name: Nguyen, Thi Y Ly
Economic analysis of the environmental impact on marine cage lobster aquaculture in Vietnam
Abstract:
In Vietnam, marine cage lobster aquaculture has been expanding significantly over the last years.
Besides the economic contribution for locals living in the coastal areas in Central of Vietnam, this
industry has created some problems that are relating to the marine environmental protection where
trash fish feed is predominant. This paper investigates the environmental impact on cage marine lobster
aquaculture in Vietnam by using the Change of Productivity method in which nitrogen releasing from
lobster cage is considered as the seawater quality parameter.
And the usage of a mathematics function in this study is Mass Balance Model to calculate the total
nitrogen loading volume in an every single crop in three provinces. This approach indicates the reverse
relationship between lobster productivity (kg/m2) and volume of nitrogen releasing in a household unit.
Additionally, the lobster productivity diminishes gradually if the number of cages increases in specific
area. On the other hand, the estimation of the environmental effect uses the Treatment Cost
calculation for this waste has been done. However, this figure is lower than comparing that of the
Change of Productivity method without considering the environmental carrying capacity.
To give a strong recommendation to both local authorities, marine environmental management
Departments and policy makers having a better consideration to the environmental and economic
balance, the analysis of Cost Benefit is presented in this study. This analysis shows that marine lobster
aquaculture industry in Vietnam is profitable. However, because there is yet marine lobster food
processing industry, the lack of awareness in environmental conservation from lobster farmers as well as
the open-access sea in Vietnam that have been generating increasingly the marine water pollution.
Therefore, in order to have a sustainability in cage marine lobster aquaculture development in Vietnam,
it is vital for the local authorities and any other organizations to promote the development of high
quality feed from food industry, to have technical training programs and raise up the awareness of the
community in environmental protection as well as to plan strategic schemes to the entire region
especially in the farming areas. Finally, setting up the environmental protection regulations to whose
responsibility in a certain sea area is essential task to the government.
113
Ref. 104-2009
Name: Nguyen, Trong Luong
Economic performance indicators for coastal fisheries - the case of pure-seining in Khanh Hoa,
Vietnam
Abstract:
A field study on the economic performance indicators for coastal fisheries are needed in order to
implement fisheries policy in Khanh Hoa as well as in Vietnam. The research project Economic
performance indicators for coastal fisheries - the case of pure-seining in Khanh Hoa established to fulfill
these demands.
A questionnaire about technical characteristics and economic data is used for data collection through
interviews with vessel owners. This paper presents preliminary findings for 100 purse seiners,
representing 10% of the total population, in Nha Trang and Cam Ranh (Khanh Hoa province) in the group
of vessels with engine power of less than 90 HP. The following indicators are presented: gross revenue,
gross value added, gross cash flow, net profit and crew share.
The results show that the coastal purse seine fishery in Cam Ranh is more profitable than in Nha Trang
for each engine power group. The owner of an average purse seiner of all groups of horse power in both
locations of Nha Trang and Cam Ranh is not only capable paying for all expenses, but also has a reward
for the operating year. The boat owner of an average vessel in the group of horse power of 75 -< 90 Hp
has the highest values of annual gross cash flow and net profit following location. Thus, the annual
average of crew shares for this group of horse power was quite high. It was almost 2.0 times more than
the average earnings of labor in the whole country.
114
Ref.105-2009
Name: Pham Thi, Thuy Linh
The effect of percieved risk on attitudes, intention and consumtion of fish in Hanoi
Abstract:
This study is one of the first attempts to investigate the attendances and consequences of perceived risk
toward consumption fish in Hanoi, Vietnam. The study applies theory of planed behavior and theory of
perceived risk for its conceptual framework.
The study has three objectives. The first objective is to investigate the consequences of risk on attitude
and intention to consumption of fish in Hanoi. The second objective is to examine how knowledge, trust
and risk propensity affect general risk. The last objective is to investigate how different dimensions of
risk effects general risk. To achieve these objective, the study employs the test of reliability, factor
analysis and structural equation modeling to analysis the data collected in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.
This studys findings indicate that the models fit well with the data. The perceived risk affected directly
attitude and intention to consumption of fish. Knowledge, trust had significantly negative effect on
general risk while risk propensity has positive effect on general risk. Finally, both financial risk, physical
risk and social risk were highly effects general risk. The implications of the study are discussed.
115
Ref. 106-2009
Name: Recalde Ruiz, Jose Renato
Author's nationality: Ecuador
Economic analysis of rural and artisanal aquaculture in Equador
Abstract:
Three different types of culture and conditions were tested to determine the profitability of Rural and
Artisanal Aquaculture Project in Ecuador: monoculture of the freshwater fish named locally cachama
(Piaractus brachypomus), monoculture of red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) and polyculture
tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) cachama (Piaractus brachypomus). The economic models used for this
particular analysis were Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR).
Using these methods in combination with a sensitivity analysis foresaw the feasibility on investment for
the monoculture of red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) showing a Net Present Value (NPV) of
11,458.80 USD, which was the highest among the trials, at 8.65% real interest rate and Internal Rate of
Return 44%, followed by the monoculture of cachama (Piaractus brachypomus) with NPV of 10,130.82
USD at the same discount rate and IRR 35%, respectively. The third place in order of profitability goes for
the polyculture tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) and cachama (Piaractus brachypomus) with NPV of 1,888.99
USD and 8.65% real interest rate. The IRR percentage registered on the last type of culture was 19%,
being the lowest among the three types of production analyzed. Among the conditions tested in the
sensitivity analysis, there were: the sudden increase in discount rate, 10% increase in costs, 10%
decrease in benefits, simultaneous 10% increase in cost and 10% decrease in benefits, 10% increase in
feed cost, 10% increase in price of fingerlings and larvae and reduction in survival rate to 73%, 50, 25.1%
with 80% as optimal.
On this sensitivity analysis, the monoculture of red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) overcame
most of the conditions tested being defeated by the reduction in survival rate in the order of 50 and
25.1% which NPVs turned out to be negative; -7,429.60 USD and -22,004.70 USD, respectively. On this
case the IRR was indefinable. Nevertheless, still some speculations about certain conditions such as
broad experience in the Aquaculture field and technological advantage might be serious factors to be
considered at the moment to select this investment and they must be analyzed carefully.
116
Ref. 107-2009
Name: Ton Nu, Hai Au
Technical efficiency of prawn poly-culture in Tam Giang lagoon, Vietnam
Abstract:
This paper measured the mean technical efficiency of 91 percent in prawn poly-culture (prawn (Peneaus
monodon)-rabbitfish (Siganus oramin)-others pattern) farms in Tam Giang lagoon, Vietnam, using an
input-oriented VRS data envelopment analysis.
The estimated technical super-efficiency was then regressed to the farmer characteristics, extension
contacts, stocking density, and production environment to identify the determinants of technical
efficiency of those farms. Experience of the operators, their attendance to aquaculture training courses
were the factors positively influencing farm level efficiency, while prawn stocking density had negative
relationship with their technical efficiency.
The later results also revealed the problem of congestion in prawn poly-culture production process.
Moreover, the positive coefficient of production environment dummy variable indicated the difference
between two types of ecosystem: planned farms and unplanned farms. In addition, in comparison
between the technical efficiency results of those two groups, the unplanned farms were less efficient
than planned ones. A suggestion of planning aquaculture area in Tam Giang Cau Hai lagoon system and
cooperating between unplanned farms and governmental offices, as a result, were made to improve
technical efficiency. Moreover, training more extension workers and conducting more aquaculture
training courses were also suggested in order to have the desired increase in productivity. Finally is a
hint of further study about the congestion problems which have not been dealt in this study.
117
Ref. 108-2009
Name: Vo, Van Dien
Poverty measurement: An application for small scale fisheries in Bich Dam Island, Vietnam
Abstract:
Small-scale fisheries are one of the key sectors in Vietnam economy. This has been explained by its
noticeable contribution to GDP, sizable share in the total export value in addition to the significant role
in employment generation and food security. Contrary to the promising signs of sectorial performance,
most of fishermen are considered the poorest of the poor and poverty is dominantly characteristic in
small-scale fisheries. Poverty alleviation has emerged as an urgent requirement to sustain fishing
communities. Characteristics and causes of poverty in small-scale fisheries should be therefore carefully
investigated before any policy decisions are made.
The thesis presents findings based on primary data collected through from 60 samples of households in
Bich Dam Island in Nha Trang Bay, Vietnam. The empirical results show that 18% of fishermen
households are living below the poverty line which is still above the provincial average. Living conditions
of islanders communities are far below the minimal threshold in the critical shortage of electricity; clean
water supply and basic amenities. Regression outcomes in poverty, represented by consumption per
capita, analysis indicate that the size and structure of fishing households have considerable effects on
poverty. Fishing boat owners have higher expenditures per head as compared with others. Introducing
alternative jobs should be implicated in poverty alleviation policy in the island.
118
Ref. 109-2009
Name: Wickramathilaka, Pushpakumara Sanath
Social Capital as a way out of poverty: the case of small scale marine fishery in Hambantota district,
Southern Sri Lanka
Abstract:
Simply, Social capital is a concept that explains the extend and nature of relationships people have with
(invest on) others relatives, family friends, neighborers in own community members and members of
other communities, or networks, relationships with various services, institutions and systems. As in the
other types of investments, people expect returns on investments of social capital. Currently, the
concept has received wider and growing attention on its role on household well-being which leads them
to come out from poverty. Basically it is accepted that disseminate information, reduces opportunistic
behavior (due to higher compliance to their group (social) or network), and facilitates collective decisionmaking. Trust and reciprocity play a bigger role in social relationships to visualize them as the mode of
social capital.
In Sri Lanka, poverty has been, probably the most burning issue of the country. Percentage of the
population living below the national poverty line for the whole country is 15.2 percent (head count
ratio). And population below US$ 2 a day (1990-2005) is 41.6 percent. Especially, Hambantota district is
characterized by the relatively higher poverty of people. The percentage poor household in the district
are considered as poor. By nature, most of the small scale fisherman in Sri Lanka are poor. Their monthly
income fluctuates around the subsistent level. At idiosyncratic or co-variate shocks their status of living
world temporally or permanently be changed; adverse in to poverty.
In Hambantota district, especially in study locations, subsistent nature of living, serve resource
exploitation due to unregulated access to the recourse base, use of destructive gears, exclusion from
facilities and weaker community networks have mainly been identified as major barriers for way of
poverty. Better assets ownership has been an effective solution for people to better deal with risks and
uncertainties involved with fisheries. These assets are mainly the form of physical (land, house,
Jewelleries, vehicles, Household equipment, and etc.) financial (savings), human (education, health), and
social.
This study focuses on how small scale fisheries in three fishing villages; namely Godawaya, Kalametiya
and Rekawa of Hambantota district, invest on social capital and in what extent they enjoy the returns to
come out from poverty. Basically the findings of the study, say that, in the case of small scale fisheries in
areas, social capital have a positive increasing effect on household expenditure (welfare) in Kalametiya
and Godawaya, richest people in the sense of social capital show higher household welfare level while in
Rekawa poorest people in terms of social capital are the richest in their household welfare. This
scenario, indicates that social capital helps people to come out from poverty.
119
Ref. 110-2009
Name: Zhou, Xin
Explore consumer's attitudes and consuption of Norwegian salmon in Beijing
Abstract:
Over the past decade, China has developed to be the fastest growth market of consumption of
Norwegian Salmon in Asia. In addition, Beijing that is the capital of China with over 15 million
populations provides great demand in seafood consumption. Understanding consumers attitude is the
first step to explain the consumption. Meanwhile, some factors (e.g. norms, availability, and knowledge)
have been confirmed to influence on the consumption. Therefore, the study applies the theory of planed
behavior (TPB) model to explain the consumption of Norwegian Salmon in Beijing. Moreover, the TPB
model, which includes four components of consumers attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavior
control, and intention, has been successfully used in several contexts, including seafood consumption.
Norwegian Salmon has to compete with both imported and national seafood in Beijing, because it is
suggested to be a high profiled imported product. The country of origin (COO) is confirmed to impact on
both local consumers attitude and behavioral intention. To more understand consumers attitude and
intention toward eating Norwegian Salmon as an imported food, the study adds three additional
constructs of country image (Norways image), consumer ethnocentrism (CE) and conspicuous
consumption (CC) as three COO effects within classical TPB model.
The study found that the frequency of consumption of Norwegian Salmon is quite low that consumers
taste Norwegian Salmon 2-3 times per year in general in Beijing. However, almost consumers evaluate
Norwegian Salmon with very positive attitudes. The investigation reveals that the consumption of
Norwegian Salmon are not simply influenced by some traditional factors, like quality, availability and
knowledge, but also by familys and business partners/colleagues expectation and pressure (SNs),
country image. Moreover, the study found that both of CE and CC impact on country image as a
mediator between the two constructs of CE and CC, and attitude. In academic aspects, the extended TPB
model (with country image, CE and CC) is the first time to be used in explanation the consumption of
Norwegian Salmon in Beijing. The initial model explains 16.0% of variance of eating Norwegian Salmon.
The study also bases on two-step approach to add some paths in the modified extended TPB model, and
successfully predict the frequency of eating Norwegian Salmon. The modified extended TPB model
presents that the frequency of eating Norwegian Salmon is significantly influenced by Subjective norms
in addition to behavioral intention. Finally, 16.9 % of variance of behavior is explained by the modified
extend TPB model.
120

60039

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

60039

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

NOMA

NORADS PROGRAMME FOR MASTER STUDIES 20062010

Country, institution and programme

Three Master theses

Joint regional programme for Master degree in journalism, media and

Master in Public Policy and Governance (MPPG)

MSc-sandwich program within the petroleum sector in Asia and Africa

Seven Master theses

MASTMO - MSc Programme in Mathematical and Statistical

One Master thesis

Master of Arts in Political Science at the University of Malawi

Seven Master theses

Master Program in Environment Education and Sustainable

Master program in Sustainable Water and Sanitation, Health and

Master programme in Conflict, Peace building and Development

MSc Programme in Hydropower Development

Four Master theses

Regional Master program in Biodiversity and Environmental

Master of Science in Technology and Innovation Management - Nepal

Palestinian territory, occupied

Development of master studies at University of Moratuwa, with

Two Master theses

Masters in Medical and Health Informatics: Asia Focus

MSc Medical Genetics

International Education and Development

Four Master theses

Master Programme in Health Policy and Management

Eight Master theses

Sandwich programme for M Med and M Sc degrees in clinical medicine

Three Master theses

Southern African Masters Programme in Mathematical Modelling

Regional Master in Nursing

Master Programme in Vocational Pedagogy Uganda-Southern SudanNorway

Masters Program in Urban Transformation and Sustainable

North-South-South Collaborative MSc in Development and Natural

Develop and deliver cooperative regional Master Programmes in

Ten Master theses

Master of Science in Innovation and Industrial Development - Uganda

Master of Science in Clinical Neuropsychology - Building expertise to

Master of Science in Epidemiology

Master of International Education and Development

You might also like