ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Examining the service quality and patient satisfaction at Ankaase Methodist Hospital.

In an increasingly competitive health service environment, the initiation of a quality patient service strategy can be a critical success factor. The study examines service quality gaps and patient satisfaction within the Ghanaian health sector with particular focus on Ankaase Methodist Hospital. The study engaged quantitative approaches. The research population comprised Inpatients Out-patients and nurses of Ankaase Methodist Hospital within the year 2015 and was estimated at 780, out of which a sample of 250 was chosen. The sources of data included primary and secondary data. The researcher adopted convenient sampling techniques in soliciting information for the study. SPSS statistical package was used in analyzing the data. The study established that, the service quality gap per nurses was about tangibility service whiles that of patients was about empathy of service delivered by nurses at the hospital. The service quality gap within Ankaase Methodist Hospital was tangibility and empathy services. Again, the study established that, majority of patients did indicate that they were very much satisfied with the quality of service delivered at the hospital though they were not up-to expectation. Additionally, the result implied that service quality has a positive relationship with patient satisfaction given that the regression coefficients were all positive. The services rendered were statistically significant at p-value of 0.05. Also the services rendered had a predictive power (R2) of 0.837 approximately 83.7 percent chance of predicting patient satisfaction which was moderate. The study finally recommended nurses and health assistants to encourage great association with patients in order to investigate unsatisfied needs. Nurses must be courteous and accurate in managing all patients.

Source: KNUST
Examining the social and environmental impact of tailings Dam Projects in Ghana: a case study of Perseus Mining TSF Project

There is demonstrated information to underscore the way mining activities improves the socio-economic wellbeing of a country in areas such as employment, business, direct commitment to the Ghana‘s gross domestic product (GDP), external income earnings and support for other industries. Along with mining operations and activities is an associated structure called the Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) which serves as an impounding facility for waste disposal in the mining industry. The construction of a TSF has varied impacts ranging from displacement of inhabitants, destruction of farmlands, resettlements among others. Many of these facilities have been constructed without a carefully conceived contemplations about their impact; living the host community displaced and disadvantaged. Many mining firms tend to overlook the social and environmental risk presented by Tailings Storage Facilities fundamentally on the grounds that there is no immediate income from the expense made in planning, designing, construction and operation of the such facilities. Hence the study was conducted to examine the impact of the Perseus Mining Ghana Ltd (PMGL) TSF project on the host community and recommend improvements to the identified social and environmental impacts. Seventy respondents in total were administered with questionnaires to collate relevant information. The sets of data obtained was analysed by utilising the statistical software (SPSS) – Statistical Package for Social Sciences, excel sheets programmed with Relative Index formula (RII) and descriptive statistics was adopted in analysing the demographic information. The overall summary of the respondents surveyed indicated that the construction of the TSF poses a positive impact on the economy and development of host communities, thereby making the community a much better place. However, the respondents also indicated the TSF poses some negative impacts such as poor air quality and degradation of lands and forest. Notwithstanding the respondents pointed out some improvements to the existing positive impacts identified such as the resettlement of project affected persons (PAPs) and compensation to affected communities.

Source: KNUST
Examining the structure of the fashion industry in Ghana in ensuring the successful adoption of sustainable approach

Circular economy strategies may appear practical for business but are complex in application. Country-specific situations, taking into consideration the cultural dimensions, aid the practicality of such strategies. As part of a longitudinal research, this study sought to identify and evaluate circular strategies that could be integrated into selected fashion SMEs in Ghana. An in-depth qualitative case study was adopted to engage nineteen owner-designers of SMEs through interviews and observations. The owner-designers must have formal businesses, have been running their retail stores during the last decade and operate within the two major cities in Ghana where population growth supports economic activities. Life extension strategies were adopted for the study. The indications were that the majority of owner-designers of fashion SMEs, although practicing some circular strategies unknowingly, were not motivated to formally integrate the practice into their businesses. Cost, time, labour and consumer attitudes and behaviour were factors considered to undermine the effectiveness of adopting and implementing circular strategies in these firms. Creation of awareness of circular strategies and models for their implementation are needed to enable practitioners to imbibe circular economy principles in fashion SMEs in Ghana.

Source: KNUST
Examining works procurement systems selection practices in Ghana Armed Forces (GAF)

Ghana Armed Forces is one of the largest agencies under the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Ghana dealing with a lot of works procurement across the various Barracks in the Country to equip both military and civilian personnel for executing their jobs effectively to provide adequate protection for the citizens of Ghana and its boundaries. In Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the number of works procured is increasing from time to time and are largely Offices, Accommodations, Training grounds and other facilities etc. Given the limited financial resources of GAF coming out of Tax payer contribution by the Government of Ghana, this research aims at examining the works procurement systems selection practices and understanding of the procurement management process in relation to improving works procurement management systems in Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). The study used both primary and secondary data sources, while questionnaires were the main research tool used for the study. A case study approach was chosen since such an approach enables in-depth analysis of a defined phenomenon with the procurement team members including (Architects, Quantity Surveyors, Electrical Engineers, Civil Engineers and Mechanical Engineers).The study identified Traditional system as the most practiced procurement system being adopted in GAF. It was further recommended that there should be an effective training and improvement on how to maintain these identified general ways of improving the procurement management system in GAF. It further suggested that, there should be adequate education to increase the awareness of the factors influencing the choice of procurement system selection in GAF and further improve on it.

Source: KNUST
Excavation and hauling operations in surface mining - Bogosu Gold Limited (BGL)

The combined tasks of excavation and hauling are the foundation of the mining industry. The selection of a loading and haulage system, then, is based upon safety considerations and an economic evaluation aimed at meeting the production requirements at a minimum cost per unit of production. Regular investigations into the excavation and hauling operations of a surface mine to ascertain the component cycles of excavation and hauling for both ore and waste is very necessary to update production and equipment scheduling plans. The individual costs of excavating and hauling of ore and waste are equally very relevant to the profitability of a surface mine operation. The results from the analysis shows that improving on the shovel-truck matching could further reduce the costs of excavation and hauling. The current falling of gold prices coupled with increasing ore hauling distance calls for low costs of operation in order to remain profitable. Thus the need to analyse these operations to improve on the efficiency and cut down their cost. This thesis report presents the results of a research work that was conducted into the excavation and hauling operations of Bogosu Gold Limited (BGL) to determine the individual costs of excavating and hauling ore and excavating and hauling waste. The excavating and hauling operations at BGL are described. The operations were assessed by observing the field operations in order to make informed suggestions. The results of time and motion studies conducted on the excavating and hauling operations of BGL were used to evaluate the costs of excavation and hauling.

Source: KNUST
Exchange Rate, Non-Performing Loans and Economic Growth in Africa

The existing controversy in literature surrounding depreciation of exchange rate is whether it is contractionary or expansionary to economic growth and also the fact that nonperforming loan is believed in literature to contract growth necessitated this study as Africa is in tabulate time. As currencies in Africa continue to depreciate against major currencies and nonperforming loan is also on a high side. Therefore, this study was mainly to examine empirically what effect does the interaction term (nonperforming loan and exchange rate) has on economic growth. Using 15 countries in Africa with data spanning from 2002-2014 with the aid system GMM estimator, the following findings were drawn. The results show that exchange rate, nonperforming loan and the interaction term, all have contractionary impact on economic growth in Africa. Also, the study reveals that exchange rate, inflation, economic growth, and unemployment are significant factors that determine nonperforming loans in Africa. The study proposes that in Africa exchange rate depreciation passes through nonperforming loan to retard economic growth. Therefore, Africa authorities (fiscal and monetary) should anchor policy around exchange rate with precision, this will stabilize the economy and banking assets quality shocks. In addition, in the implementation of Basel II or III requirements of credit assessment process, this study suggests that banks should take into account the level of economic activity (real GDP) when granting loans.

Source: KNUST
Exchange Rate Prediction Using a Multi Layer Feed-Forward Artificial Neural Networks

This research aimed at forecasting the Ghanaian Cedi – US Dolar rate with Treasury bill rates, money supply, consumer price index and inflation With the aim of exploring the efficiency of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) which is an imitation of the Human Brain, a two (2) layer feedforward network using Levenberg – Marquardt Backpropagation Algorithm was used for the forecast and the results were measured by the Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) and the Weighted Absolute Percentage Error (WAPE). After careful and extensive training, validation and testing, the ANN produced MSE, RMSE, WAPE and an R-value of 0.0010, 0.0324, 2.30%, and 0.99634 respectively. An Artificial Neural Network model was obtained which was compared with the traditional multiple regression model with the ANN model producing a prediction accuracy of 97.70% as compared to 76.79% of the Regression model.

Source: KNUST
Exclusive Breastfeeding among Postnatal Mothers of Infants Aged between 0 to 12 months at the University of Cape Coast Hospital, Central Region, Ghana, June, 2019.

Exclusive breastfeeding is defined as giving only breast milk to babies, no other liquids or solids are given with the exception of oral rehydration solution, drops or syrups of vitamins, minerals or medicines. WHO recommends that its practiced for the first 6 months of life of every baby.The study assessed the perception of postnatal mothers of infants aged 0 to 12 months on exclusive breastfeeding at the University Of Cape Coast Hospital, Central Region, Ghana. METHODS The study was quantitative using descriptive cross-sectional study design. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 200 post- natal mothers of infants aged between 0 and 12 months at the University of Cape Coast Hospital. Data were entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 for Windows and presented using frequencies, percentages and tables. RESULTS Majority of the mothers (90.5%) responded to have heard about exclusive breastfeeding while only 76.0% understood what it actually meant. Majority of the respondents (82.9%) believed exclusive breastfeeding was good, 3.6% of them believed it was a bad practice and the remaining 13.5% of them remained neutral. Some challenges to EBF included; insufficient breast milk (29.2%) and sore nipples (31.7%). Finally, majority of the mothers (87.6%) acquired knowledge on exclusive breastfeeding through antenatal clinic attendance. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION Majority of mothers had heard about exclusive breastfeeding through antenatal clinic. However, not all of them understood what it meant. Therefore, healthcare providers through antenatal clinics should educate the mothers on importance of EBF to the mother and baby.

Source: KNUST
Exclusive breastfeeding: an exploratory thematic analysis of the perspectives of breastfeeding mothers and significant others in the Tamale metropolis of Northern Ghana

Introduction: Exclusive breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal way to feed infants due to its numerous health benefits for both the child and the mother. Despite its advantages, Ghana is still far from attaining World Health Organization (WHO) recommended rates. This study is aimed at exploring the knowledge attitude and practices, where the practices hinged on facilitators, barriers, and sociocultural perspectives of breastfeeding mothers and significant others on exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: This study employed an ethnographic thematic analysis framed by the socioecological model (SEM). Thematic analysis was paired with focus group discussions (FGDs). The study participants were recruited purposively by employing a snowball sampling technique with the assistance of community health volunteers. Three (3) FGDs were formed, with 10 participants in each group, to gather perspectives from breastfeeding mothers and significant others (partners and grandmothers) in three communities with Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds within the Tamale metropolis. With an interview guide, all FGDs were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and translated from local dialects to English. The emerging themes were used in writing a narrative account, guided by the principles of thematic analysis. Results This study identified three thematic areas: knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF); attitudes toward EBF and practices of EBF (facilitators, barriers, and sociocultural practices). There was some knowledge disparity among lactating mothers despite the overall high knowledge and subpar attitudes of some mothers. The practice of exclusive breastfeeding was substandard. The major hindrances identified were cultural barriers propagated by partners/husbands and grandmothers; the belief that the weather here does not support EBF; and the need for spiritual herbs in infancy. Supportive healthcare providers helped increase the practice of exclusive breastfeeding. Some support also came from partners and husbands, and some mothers showed unique positive behaviors by exclusively breastfeeding. Conclusion::This study revealed that while exclusive breastfeeding education has been ongoing for decades, sociocultural norms still influence mothers to deviate from WHO recommendations. Public education is recommended to dispel misconceptions surrounding exclusive breastfeeding, develop a food galactagogue to help with breastmilk volumes and create a supportive environment that empowers mothers and families to make informed choices that optimize the health and well-being of both infants and mothers.

Source: KNUST
Exclusive breastfeeding practices among mothers with disability in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ashanti Region, Ghana.

Exclusive breastfeeding is a key factor for maternal and child health, and has become an issue of global concern. In view of its importance, EBF has been recommended for all nursing mothers. However, due to certain peculiar challenges and situations, not all nursing mothers are able to exclusively breastfeed their children. Although many studies have been done on the practice of EBF, not much is known about the practice among mothers with disability. This study therefore examined breastfeeding practices among mothers with disability in Kumasi metropolis, Ghana. Specifically, the study sought to examine the level of knowledge, perception, practices and challenges of EBF among these women. A cross sectional survey design was used to access qualitative data using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions within the frame work of the study. The sampling technique used was snowball and purposive. The study population consisted of 55, made up of 45, seven relatives of the mothers with disability and three health workers. Data analysis was by means of content and thematic analysis. The findings were that the mothers know about EBF but their deformity does not make it easy for them to practise it. Secondly, mothers of the disabled mothers are mostly the deciding factors of the disabled mother’s ability to breastfeed or not. Besides, the husbands or men who fathered their children should also be brought on board to improve EBF. The study recommends policies to help address the challenges mothers with disability go through. These include empowering these women so that they can make decisions on their own so as to help improve not only WHO coverage but for a healthy Nation.

Source: KNUST
Exclusive breastfeeding: a comparative study of two Communities in Atwima District of Ghana

Exclusive Breastfeeding means to make the infant receive only breast milk and no other liquid or complementary foods with the exception of undiluted drops or syrups consisting of vitamin and mineral. Analytical study type with cross section study design was used in the comparative analysis of exclusive breastfeeding of Amanchiaa (intervention community) and Anwiafutu (Control community) in the Atwima district of Ashanti. 60 mother-child pairs each for the Communities were purposively selected in addition, four health staff were enrolled. The variables were EBF knowledge of mothers, exclusive breastfeeding practices, benefits of EI3F, nutritional status of children (0-24 months) and the level of community participation. The tools used were structured interview guide, salter spring scale and a measuring tape The conclusions were; the level of EBF between the two communities was statistically not different p > 0.05, the level of knowledge on EBF between the two communities breastfeeding was statistically not different (χ21 = 3.125), there was statistically no difference in the EBF practices between the two communities (χ212 = 0.228), there was statistically no difference in the appreciation of BBF benefits between the two communities (χ24 = 0. 1 55). Again, there was statistically no difference in the nutritional status among children (O24monIhs) in the two communities (χ24=0.228). Finally, the level of community involvement in EBF promotion between the two communities was statistically not different (χ22 = 0. 192). It was recommended that the traditional mechanism of exclusive breastfeeding promotion such as CWC programme should be strengthened by the Ghana Health Service (GHS), through adequate budgetary support. Again the Community Growth Promotion programme should be reviewed by GHS, USAID and Basic 11 and provide retraining to the community based growth promoters in order to make the programme more effective. The District Health Administration (DHA), District Administration (DA) and other relevant should work in concert improve EBF through intensive awareness creation. Finally, an award scheme should be instituted by traditional authorities and unit committees to serve as an incentive to motivate mothers to exclusively breastfeed.

Source: KNUST
Excretion of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites (OH-PAHs) in cattle urine in Ghana

Previous studies of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in particulate matter, soils and livers of wild rats indicated that the city centre of Kumasi, Ghana has been severely polluted with high cancer potency. Cattle urine were therefore collected from Kumasi (urban) and Offinso (rural), Ghana: to determine concentrations of urinary PAH metabolites (OH-PAHs); and find their association with sex; and to estimate exposure of cattle to PAHs from the different sites. From the results, geometric mean concentrations (adjusted by specific gravity), GMSG, showed that 2-OHNaphthalene (2-OHNap) was the most abundant OH-PAH in cattle urine from all study sites, and naphthalene-containing-mothballs might have contributed significantly to the levels. There was no significant difference between urinary OH-PAHs concentrations in cattle from urban and rural sites except for 2-OHPhe and 4-OHPhe, and similar to urban areas, rural sites could also be polluted with PAHs. GMSG of 2-OHNap in cattle urine in Kokote (21.9 ± 6.51 ng/mL; a rural area), was significantly higher compared to the other sites followed by Oforikrom (4.15 ± 4.37 ng/mL; urban). The GMSG concentration (ng/mL) of the sum of OH-PAHs decreased in the order, Kokote (44.7) > Oforikrom (7.87) > Saboa (6.98) > Santasi (6.68) > and Twumasen Estate (5.23). The high concentrations of urinary 2-OHNap, 2-3-OHFlu, 2-OHPhe, 3-OHPhe and 4-OHPhe in Kokote indicated high PAHs exposure to cattle in this area or different/specific source of PAHs exposure. GMSG of 2-OHNap was significantly higher in male cattle compared to females while 1-9-OHPhe was significantly higher in females. Capsule: 3 PAH metabolites were measured in cattle urine in urban and rural areas in Ghana; 2- OHNaphthalene (2-OHNap) was the most abundant PAH metabolites.

Source: KNUST