Masters Theses (DBA)
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Item Evaluating border security measures in combating Ngungula service at the Namibia Angola border(International University of Management, 2025) Shilyomunhu, Fillipus; Afolabi, TundeThis research examined “The border security measures in combating illegal fuel sales at the Namibia-Angola border”, referred to locally as Ngungula Service, along the border between Namibia and Angola. It centred on three primary objectives: (1) Evaluating the effectiveness of current border security measures in reducing illegal fuel trade, (2) Analysing how the price differences of petrol and diesel between Namibia and Angola is related to Ngungula activities, and (3) Assessing the relationship between law enforcement actions specifically arrests and prosecutions and variations in legal fuel consumption. Utilizing a quantitative method approach that incorporates descriptive statistics of insights from stakeholders, and linear regression analysis, the study analysed primary cross sectional and time series data and proven that existing border enforcement strategies are moderately effective but hindered by aging demographic, inadequate infrastructure and logistical challenges, and inconsistent patrol coverage. Although price differentials are recognized as the significant factors driving fuel smuggling, regression analysis revealed a weak yet negative correlation between price parity and legal fuel sales, indicating the potential impact of unmeasured variables. Likewise, law enforcement initiatives such as arrests and convictions were found to exert limited deterrent effects on Ngungula activities, with pending cases showing a stronger negative correlation with legal fuel consumption. These results suggest that economic incentives, institutional ability, and the configuration of enforcement collectively influenced the dynamics of cross-border smuggling. The study advocated for targeted recruitment, enhanced surveillance investments, reforms in deterrence-based sentencing, establishment of joint fuel service stations, bilateral engagements aimed at policy reforms. Finally, the study recommended future research to explore comparative analyses across different border regions for generalizable patterns and tailor interventions; adopt multivariate models incorporating broader contextual and socio-economic variables; and assess the impact of bilateral and regional policy changes on cross-border fuel trade patterns.Item An analysis of the impact of digital diplomacy on information sharing using digital tools in the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation(International University of Management, 2025) Shigwedha, Ester Tuwilika; Afolabi, TundeThis study investigates the impact of digital diplomacy on information sharing using digital tools in Namibia, particularly Ministry of International Relations and Cooperate (MIRCO) and selected diplomatic missions. In an era marked by rapid technological advancement, digital diplomacy has emerged as a critical tool for enhancing international engagement, communication efficiency, and global visibility. Literature review highlights that while digital diplomacy is being rapidly adopted globally, especially in Western and emerging economies, progress in Africa, including Namibia, remains limited. Key challenges include inadequate ICT infrastructure, cybersecurity concerns, low digital literacy among public officials, and fragmented policy responses. This emphasizes the need for institutional adaptation and capacity development, while, theoretical insights from the TAM and institutional theory further underscored the importance of user perceptions, organizational readiness, and structural support in shaping successful digital diplomacy. The study adopts a qualitative research design, drawing on in-depth interviews with 4 political diplomats, 3 administrative personnel, and 2 information and research personnel to explore their experiences, perceptions, and recommendations regarding the usage of digital tools for information sharing in diplomatic practices. Findings reveal that while digital diplomacy in Namibia is evolving, its full potential remains underutilized due to infrastructural limitations, organizational resistance to change, and inconsistent policy frameworks, institutional culture, limited ICT infrastructure, and lack of tailored training also emerged as significant barriers to effective digital engagement and information sharing. Despite these challenges, respondents identified various digital tools, such as cloud-based platforms, intercom system, real-time communication applications, and social media management software that could improve diplomatic productivity, information sharing, and global outreach if appropriately adopted. The study is grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which helped frame the analysis of user readiness, perceived usefulness, and institutional support. It also draws from institutional theory as well as relevant literature on digital diplomacy, ICT adoption in governance, and organizational change. Recommendations include investment in secure digital infrastructure, capacity-building initiatives, customized ICT systems for foreign missions, and policy reforms to align Namibia’s diplomatic processes with global digital trends. The findings provide a roadmap for MIRCO and other stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness, resilience, and innovation of Namibia’s digital diplomatic efforts.