Contribution of the Coega development corporation to small enterprise growth in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Nakimbugwe, Norris Linda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Coega Development Corporation , Small business -- Growth -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Small business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42913 , vital:36705
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the contribution of the Coega Development Corporation to Small Enterprise growth in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Current discourse regarding IDZs suggests that their establishment is an engine to economic growth through the attraction of both domestic and foreign investments, as well as the promotion of exports through incentive packages for IDZ companies. While, the attraction of larger FDI corporations may be significant to the growth of the local economy, it can also be a barrier to Small Enterprise Growth due to the influx of larger corporations into the market although the synergetic co-existence of both the larger corporations and the local SMEs is crucial to the overall welfare of economy. With these potential challenges in mind research investigated into the contribution of the Coega IDZ project to the growth of local Small Enterprises in Nelson Mandela Bay. The study adopted a quantitative research design and self-administered questionnaires which were used for data collection from information rich respondents. Overall, findings of this study indicate that the Coega Development Corporation has to some extent contributed to small enterprise growth through its infrastructure projects, some of its existing labour regulations and also through the development of human capital skills of individuals within the small enterprises. These findings were in agreement with some of those from the literature review in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nakimbugwe, Norris Linda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Coega Development Corporation , Small business -- Growth -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Small business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42913 , vital:36705
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the contribution of the Coega Development Corporation to Small Enterprise growth in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Current discourse regarding IDZs suggests that their establishment is an engine to economic growth through the attraction of both domestic and foreign investments, as well as the promotion of exports through incentive packages for IDZ companies. While, the attraction of larger FDI corporations may be significant to the growth of the local economy, it can also be a barrier to Small Enterprise Growth due to the influx of larger corporations into the market although the synergetic co-existence of both the larger corporations and the local SMEs is crucial to the overall welfare of economy. With these potential challenges in mind research investigated into the contribution of the Coega IDZ project to the growth of local Small Enterprises in Nelson Mandela Bay. The study adopted a quantitative research design and self-administered questionnaires which were used for data collection from information rich respondents. Overall, findings of this study indicate that the Coega Development Corporation has to some extent contributed to small enterprise growth through its infrastructure projects, some of its existing labour regulations and also through the development of human capital skills of individuals within the small enterprises. These findings were in agreement with some of those from the literature review in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Coping as a moderator between work-family conflict and psychological well-being among academic employees at the University of Fort Hare, South Africa
- Authors: Samkange, Victoria
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Work and family -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Psychological aspect Job stress -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12524 , vital:39271
- Description: The effects of changing academic environments at universities have attracted considerable research attraction on the psychological well-being of academics. The growing number of students entering tertiary education, the increase of emphasis on research, and higher quality learning this puts pressure on the academics leading to psychological distress. This study investigated the relationship that exists between work family conflict and psychological well-being among academic staff at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape in South Africa. The main aim of this study was to investigate the moderating role of the use of coping strategies as a moderator of the relationship between work-family conflict among the academic staff at the university of Fort Hare. A quantitative research design was adopted in conducting this study. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire to academics from all faculties within the university of Fort Hare. The respondents were selected using simple random sampling method, from 350 academic staff members a sample size of 184 respondents was used in this study. Five-point Likert scale was used to measure the responses. Data analysis methods used include descriptive statistics, one sample statistic test, Chi-square tests and independent t-test. The validity and reliability of the research instrument and the findings were assured through pilot study and Cronbach alpha reliability test. The results indicate that the use of coping strategies moderates the relationship between work family conflict and psychological well-being. Recommendations to reduce work family conflict and promoting psychological well-being among academic staff were also discussed in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Samkange, Victoria
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Work and family -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Psychological aspect Job stress -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12524 , vital:39271
- Description: The effects of changing academic environments at universities have attracted considerable research attraction on the psychological well-being of academics. The growing number of students entering tertiary education, the increase of emphasis on research, and higher quality learning this puts pressure on the academics leading to psychological distress. This study investigated the relationship that exists between work family conflict and psychological well-being among academic staff at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape in South Africa. The main aim of this study was to investigate the moderating role of the use of coping strategies as a moderator of the relationship between work-family conflict among the academic staff at the university of Fort Hare. A quantitative research design was adopted in conducting this study. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire to academics from all faculties within the university of Fort Hare. The respondents were selected using simple random sampling method, from 350 academic staff members a sample size of 184 respondents was used in this study. Five-point Likert scale was used to measure the responses. Data analysis methods used include descriptive statistics, one sample statistic test, Chi-square tests and independent t-test. The validity and reliability of the research instrument and the findings were assured through pilot study and Cronbach alpha reliability test. The results indicate that the use of coping strategies moderates the relationship between work family conflict and psychological well-being. Recommendations to reduce work family conflict and promoting psychological well-being among academic staff were also discussed in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Cordidepsine is A Potential New Anti-HIV Depsidone from Cordia millenii
- Zeukang, Rostanie D, Siwe-Noundou, Xavier, Fotsing, Maurice T, Mbafor, Joseph T, Krause, Rui W M, Choudhary, Muhammad I, Atchade, Alex de Theodore
- Authors: Zeukang, Rostanie D , Siwe-Noundou, Xavier , Fotsing, Maurice T , Mbafor, Joseph T , Krause, Rui W M , Choudhary, Muhammad I , Atchade, Alex de Theodore
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/193988 , vital:45413 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24173202"
- Description: Chemical investigation of Cordia millenii, Baker resulted in the isolation of a new depsidone, cordidepsine (1), along with twelve known compounds including cyclooctasulfur (2), lup-20(29)-en-3-triacontanoate (3), 1-(26-hydroxyhexacosanoyl)glycerol (4), glyceryl-1-hexacosanoate (5) betulinic acid (6), lupenone (7), β-amyrone (8), lupeol (9), β-amyrin (10), allantoin (11), 2′-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethylpropanoate (12) and stigmasterol glycoside (13). Hemi-synthetic reactions were carried out on two isolated compounds (5 and 6) to afford two new derivatives, that is, cordicerol A (14) and cordicerol B (15), respectively. The chemical structures of all the compounds were established based on analysis and interpretation of spectroscopic data such as electron ionization mass spectrometry (EI–MS), high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI–MS), fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FAB–MS), one dimension and two dimension nuclear magnetic resonance (1D and 2D-NMR) spectral data as well as X-ray crystallography (XRC). Lupeol ester derivatives [Lup-20(29)-en-3-triacontanoate (3)], monoglycerol derivatives [1-(26-hydroxyhexacosanoyl)glycerol (4) and glyceryl-1 hexacosanoate (5)] were isolated for the first time from Cordia genus while sulfur allotrope [cyclooctasulfur (2)] was isolated for the first time from plant origin. Biological assays cordidepsine (1) exhibited significant anti-HIV integrase activity with IC50 = 4.65 μM; EtOAc extract of stem barks, EtOAc fraction of roots and leaves were not toxic against 3T3 cells.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Zeukang, Rostanie D , Siwe-Noundou, Xavier , Fotsing, Maurice T , Mbafor, Joseph T , Krause, Rui W M , Choudhary, Muhammad I , Atchade, Alex de Theodore
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/193988 , vital:45413 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24173202"
- Description: Chemical investigation of Cordia millenii, Baker resulted in the isolation of a new depsidone, cordidepsine (1), along with twelve known compounds including cyclooctasulfur (2), lup-20(29)-en-3-triacontanoate (3), 1-(26-hydroxyhexacosanoyl)glycerol (4), glyceryl-1-hexacosanoate (5) betulinic acid (6), lupenone (7), β-amyrone (8), lupeol (9), β-amyrin (10), allantoin (11), 2′-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethylpropanoate (12) and stigmasterol glycoside (13). Hemi-synthetic reactions were carried out on two isolated compounds (5 and 6) to afford two new derivatives, that is, cordicerol A (14) and cordicerol B (15), respectively. The chemical structures of all the compounds were established based on analysis and interpretation of spectroscopic data such as electron ionization mass spectrometry (EI–MS), high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI–MS), fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FAB–MS), one dimension and two dimension nuclear magnetic resonance (1D and 2D-NMR) spectral data as well as X-ray crystallography (XRC). Lupeol ester derivatives [Lup-20(29)-en-3-triacontanoate (3)], monoglycerol derivatives [1-(26-hydroxyhexacosanoyl)glycerol (4) and glyceryl-1 hexacosanoate (5)] were isolated for the first time from Cordia genus while sulfur allotrope [cyclooctasulfur (2)] was isolated for the first time from plant origin. Biological assays cordidepsine (1) exhibited significant anti-HIV integrase activity with IC50 = 4.65 μM; EtOAc extract of stem barks, EtOAc fraction of roots and leaves were not toxic against 3T3 cells.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Cormac McCarthy and the South Africans
- Authors: Cornwell, Gareth D N
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/458189 , vital:75722 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC-184061729f
- Description: In his well-known interview with Richard Woodward, Cormac McCarthy had occasion to remark: “The ugly fact is books are made out of books” (Woodward). Using his words as the point of departure for a detailed investigation of a multi-stranded case of intertextuality, I examine the influence of McCarthy’s Blood Meridian on three South African novels – Mike Nicol’s Horseman, Damon Galgut’s The Quarry and James Whyle’s The Book of War – in a way that I hope sheds light on the provenance, literariness and meaning of these texts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Cornwell, Gareth D N
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/458189 , vital:75722 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC-184061729f
- Description: In his well-known interview with Richard Woodward, Cormac McCarthy had occasion to remark: “The ugly fact is books are made out of books” (Woodward). Using his words as the point of departure for a detailed investigation of a multi-stranded case of intertextuality, I examine the influence of McCarthy’s Blood Meridian on three South African novels – Mike Nicol’s Horseman, Damon Galgut’s The Quarry and James Whyle’s The Book of War – in a way that I hope sheds light on the provenance, literariness and meaning of these texts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Corporate Social Responsibility as a strategy for community development in the Eastern Cape Province: The Case of Volkswagen in Uitenhage
- Authors: Mutongoza, Bonginkosi Hardy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16963 , vital:40789
- Description: The turn of the new millennium has brought with it a heightened emphasis on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), particularly more recently in the global South where underdevelopment is more prevalent. While corporates continue to be viewed as more better-placed than global South governments in the attempt to deal with underdevelopment, this contribution of corporates does not come naturally since their primary focus is making profit. In the case of South Africa, the CSR agenda is regulated primarily by two legal instruments: the B-BBEE Act and the Companies Act. This study set out to determine whether CSR is an effective strategy for community development (CD). The study relied on a qualitative research methodology, employing face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions as the primary sources of data. Data was gathered primarily from two sets of samples: a community sample which comprised of members from wards 47, 50 and 51 in Uitenhage; and a sample comprising of officials from the B-BBEE Commission, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Local Economic Development, and the Volkswagen Community Trust. Participants were purposively sampled in order to save time and resources. The study established that although CSR can be employed for the purposes of achieving community development, there is need for dedicated policies that deal specifically with CSR and set the parameters within which CSR can be carried out. The effectiveness of the CSR agenda in South Africa, thus, relies heavily on the institution of an effective regulatory framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mutongoza, Bonginkosi Hardy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16963 , vital:40789
- Description: The turn of the new millennium has brought with it a heightened emphasis on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), particularly more recently in the global South where underdevelopment is more prevalent. While corporates continue to be viewed as more better-placed than global South governments in the attempt to deal with underdevelopment, this contribution of corporates does not come naturally since their primary focus is making profit. In the case of South Africa, the CSR agenda is regulated primarily by two legal instruments: the B-BBEE Act and the Companies Act. This study set out to determine whether CSR is an effective strategy for community development (CD). The study relied on a qualitative research methodology, employing face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions as the primary sources of data. Data was gathered primarily from two sets of samples: a community sample which comprised of members from wards 47, 50 and 51 in Uitenhage; and a sample comprising of officials from the B-BBEE Commission, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Local Economic Development, and the Volkswagen Community Trust. Participants were purposively sampled in order to save time and resources. The study established that although CSR can be employed for the purposes of achieving community development, there is need for dedicated policies that deal specifically with CSR and set the parameters within which CSR can be carried out. The effectiveness of the CSR agenda in South Africa, thus, relies heavily on the institution of an effective regulatory framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Correlation of Total Phenolic, Flavonoid and Tannin Content of Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) (Crassulaceae) Extract with the Antioxidant and Anticholinesterase Activities
- Elufioye, Taiwo O, Olusola, Damilare M, Oyedeji, Adebola Omowunmi
- Authors: Elufioye, Taiwo O , Olusola, Damilare M , Oyedeji, Adebola Omowunmi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cholinesterase inhibitors , Antioxidants , Bryophyllum pinnatum
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1536 , vital:37776 , https://doi.org/10.5530/pj.2019.11.158
- Description: Bryophyllum pinnatum is a perennial herb used in traditional medicine against varieties of ailments such as memory disorder. This study quantitatively estimated the total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC) and total proautocyanidin (TPA) contents of extract and fractions of B. pinnatum and correlated them with its antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities. Methanolic extract of the dried leaves was partitioned into n-hexane, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions. Total phenolic, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins content were estimated as gallic acid or quercetin equivalents. DPPH and nitric oxide scavenging activity as well as ferric reducing power assays were used to evaluate antioxidant activity, using 2,6-di-tert-butyl4-methylphenol (DDM) and ascorbic acid as standards. In vitro anticholinesterase activity was evaluated by Ellmann’s colorimetry assay with phsiostigmine (serine) and donepezil as positive control. The crude methanol extract had the highest phenolic, flavonoid and tannin content. The ethyl acetate fraction had the highest DPPH radical scavenging effect (IC50 0.004 mg/ml) while the aqueous fraction had the highest NO scavenging and ferric reducing effects with values of IC50 0.012 mg/ml and 0.007 mg/ml respectively. The ethyl acetate fraction had the best cholinesterase inhibitory effect (IC50 0.951 µg/ml AChE; 3.546 µg/ml BuChE). DPPH radical scavenging effect correlated strongly with total phenolic, flavonoids and proautocyanidins (r2 0.896, 0.651 and 0.619 respectively) while ferric reducing power showed weak correlation and NO scavenging as well as AChE inhibition had no correlation. The study shows DPPH radical scavenging could be due to the phenolic content while other class of compounds are responsible for the cholinesterase inhibition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Elufioye, Taiwo O , Olusola, Damilare M , Oyedeji, Adebola Omowunmi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cholinesterase inhibitors , Antioxidants , Bryophyllum pinnatum
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1536 , vital:37776 , https://doi.org/10.5530/pj.2019.11.158
- Description: Bryophyllum pinnatum is a perennial herb used in traditional medicine against varieties of ailments such as memory disorder. This study quantitatively estimated the total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC) and total proautocyanidin (TPA) contents of extract and fractions of B. pinnatum and correlated them with its antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities. Methanolic extract of the dried leaves was partitioned into n-hexane, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions. Total phenolic, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins content were estimated as gallic acid or quercetin equivalents. DPPH and nitric oxide scavenging activity as well as ferric reducing power assays were used to evaluate antioxidant activity, using 2,6-di-tert-butyl4-methylphenol (DDM) and ascorbic acid as standards. In vitro anticholinesterase activity was evaluated by Ellmann’s colorimetry assay with phsiostigmine (serine) and donepezil as positive control. The crude methanol extract had the highest phenolic, flavonoid and tannin content. The ethyl acetate fraction had the highest DPPH radical scavenging effect (IC50 0.004 mg/ml) while the aqueous fraction had the highest NO scavenging and ferric reducing effects with values of IC50 0.012 mg/ml and 0.007 mg/ml respectively. The ethyl acetate fraction had the best cholinesterase inhibitory effect (IC50 0.951 µg/ml AChE; 3.546 µg/ml BuChE). DPPH radical scavenging effect correlated strongly with total phenolic, flavonoids and proautocyanidins (r2 0.896, 0.651 and 0.619 respectively) while ferric reducing power showed weak correlation and NO scavenging as well as AChE inhibition had no correlation. The study shows DPPH radical scavenging could be due to the phenolic content while other class of compounds are responsible for the cholinesterase inhibition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Corrosion resistance of aluminum against acid activation: Impact of benzothiazole-substituted gallium phthalocyanine
- Nnaji, Nnaemeka, Nwaji, Njemuwa N, Mack, John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Nnaji, Nnaemeka , Nwaji, Njemuwa N , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/187545 , vital:44670 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24010207"
- Description: This study describes the adsorption behavior of organic inhibitors at the aluminum-HCl solution interface and their corrosion inhibition performance. The organic inhibitors employed are: 4-(benzo [d]thiazol-2ylthio)phthalonitrile (BTThio) and tetrakis[(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl-thio)phthalocyaninato]gallium(III) chloride (ClGaBTThioPc). The corrosion behavior of these inhibitors is investigated using electrochemical and computational techniques. Open circuit potential results reveal predominant cathodic character for the mechanism of aluminum corrosion inhibition by the inhibitors. Inhibition efficiency values from potentiodynamic polarization measurements increase from 46.9 to 70.8% for BTThio and 59.7 to 81.0% for ClGaBTThioPc within the concentration range of 2 to 10 µM. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements reveal protection of the metal surface from acid attack, in the presence of the inhibitors and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) measurements show that the most probable way by which the inhibitors protect the metal surface would be by shielding it from the corrosion attacks of Cl− from the acid. Quantum chemical parameters corroborate well with experimental findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nnaji, Nnaemeka , Nwaji, Njemuwa N , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/187545 , vital:44670 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24010207"
- Description: This study describes the adsorption behavior of organic inhibitors at the aluminum-HCl solution interface and their corrosion inhibition performance. The organic inhibitors employed are: 4-(benzo [d]thiazol-2ylthio)phthalonitrile (BTThio) and tetrakis[(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl-thio)phthalocyaninato]gallium(III) chloride (ClGaBTThioPc). The corrosion behavior of these inhibitors is investigated using electrochemical and computational techniques. Open circuit potential results reveal predominant cathodic character for the mechanism of aluminum corrosion inhibition by the inhibitors. Inhibition efficiency values from potentiodynamic polarization measurements increase from 46.9 to 70.8% for BTThio and 59.7 to 81.0% for ClGaBTThioPc within the concentration range of 2 to 10 µM. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements reveal protection of the metal surface from acid attack, in the presence of the inhibitors and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) measurements show that the most probable way by which the inhibitors protect the metal surface would be by shielding it from the corrosion attacks of Cl− from the acid. Quantum chemical parameters corroborate well with experimental findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Cosmolocal orientations: trickster spatialization and the politics of cultural bargaining in Zambia
- Authors: Simbao, Ruth K
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146044 , vital:38490 , DOI 10.1080/19301944.2018.1532379
- Description: The spatialization of Africa is fraught, and places within Africa tend to be stereotyped by geographies of morality and simplistic rural/urban divides. Focusing on the spatial, cultural, and political bargaining of contemporary chiefs and cultural festivals in 21st-century Zambia, this article delinks cosmopolitanism and Afropolitanism from the city and associated attitudes of urbanity. Positioning place as a trickster character, it argues for a nuanced understanding of time-space imaginaries that refuses to bind people and identities to closed-down notions of place. In this article I propose the term cosmolocal, suggesting that the cosmolocal is an outward-engaging orientation that understands place as a profoundly discursive and situational process and that has the potential to exist anywhere. Many contemporary chiefs in Zambia embrace cosmolocalism, enabling them to escape the limitations of being viewed merely as custodians of culture who are limited to the space of the village framed historically as the warehouse of culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Simbao, Ruth K
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146044 , vital:38490 , DOI 10.1080/19301944.2018.1532379
- Description: The spatialization of Africa is fraught, and places within Africa tend to be stereotyped by geographies of morality and simplistic rural/urban divides. Focusing on the spatial, cultural, and political bargaining of contemporary chiefs and cultural festivals in 21st-century Zambia, this article delinks cosmopolitanism and Afropolitanism from the city and associated attitudes of urbanity. Positioning place as a trickster character, it argues for a nuanced understanding of time-space imaginaries that refuses to bind people and identities to closed-down notions of place. In this article I propose the term cosmolocal, suggesting that the cosmolocal is an outward-engaging orientation that understands place as a profoundly discursive and situational process and that has the potential to exist anywhere. Many contemporary chiefs in Zambia embrace cosmolocalism, enabling them to escape the limitations of being viewed merely as custodians of culture who are limited to the space of the village framed historically as the warehouse of culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Cost-effectiveness of public policy for the long‐term conservation of private lands: What is the deal?
- Nolte, Christopher, de Vos, Alta, Schöttker, Olivier
- Authors: Nolte, Christopher , de Vos, Alta , Schöttker, Olivier
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/415837 , vital:71293 , xlink:href="https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/cost-effectiveness-public-policy-long-term/docview/2326874018/se-2"
- Description: Long-term strategies for private-land conservation are experiencing a surge in scholarly attention. This interest is timely and justified. Globally, many important biodiversity values occur on private lands and are therefore subject to private land use decisions that can threaten their persistence in the absence of protection. Public and private actors spend billions of dollars annually to ensure the long-term protection and enhancement of public ecosystem services on private lands. Many governments recognize and strengthen “privately protected areas” (PPAs) as part of long-term protection obligations under the Aichi Biodiversity Targets (Stolton, Redford, and Dudley, 2014). As public policy makers deliberate over the best strategies to enhance private-land protection, they need to understand how cost-effective these different policy options are, and how they compare to each other.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nolte, Christopher , de Vos, Alta , Schöttker, Olivier
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/415837 , vital:71293 , xlink:href="https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/cost-effectiveness-public-policy-long-term/docview/2326874018/se-2"
- Description: Long-term strategies for private-land conservation are experiencing a surge in scholarly attention. This interest is timely and justified. Globally, many important biodiversity values occur on private lands and are therefore subject to private land use decisions that can threaten their persistence in the absence of protection. Public and private actors spend billions of dollars annually to ensure the long-term protection and enhancement of public ecosystem services on private lands. Many governments recognize and strengthen “privately protected areas” (PPAs) as part of long-term protection obligations under the Aichi Biodiversity Targets (Stolton, Redford, and Dudley, 2014). As public policy makers deliberate over the best strategies to enhance private-land protection, they need to understand how cost-effective these different policy options are, and how they compare to each other.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Could enemy release explain invasion success of Sagittaria platyphylla in Australia and South Africa?.
- Kwong, Raelene M, Sagliocco, Jean Louis, Harms, Nathan E, Butler, Kym L, Martin, Grant D, Green, Peter T
- Authors: Kwong, Raelene M , Sagliocco, Jean Louis , Harms, Nathan E , Butler, Kym L , Martin, Grant D , Green, Peter T
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76881 , vital:30633 , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aquabot.2018.11.011
- Description: Sagittaria platyphylla (delta arrowhead) is an emergent aquatic macrophyte native to southeastern United States of America that has been introduced into Australia and South Africa as an ornamental pond and aquarium plant. Compared to plants in the native range, S. platyphylla in the introduced range have greater reproductive capacity and form extensive infestations that dominate shallow waterbodies. One explanation for the invasive success of S. platyphylla in introduced countries is that plants are devoid of biotic pressures that would regulate population abundance in their native range (the enemy release hypothesis). We previously reported on field surveys that documented the number of pathogens and insect herbivores associated with S. platyphylla in native and introduced ranges. Here, we quantify the damage caused by these natural enemies to S. platyphylla in the two ranges. As predicted, damage to plants caused by pathogens and insect herbivores was much greater in the native than the introduced range at both the plant and population level. In introduced regions herbivory was low (less than 10%) in every plant part, while in North America insect damage to fruiting heads was 46% (of fruiting heads attacked), damage to leaves was between 33 to 57%, and internal herbivore damage to petioles and the inflorescence scapes was 56% and 43% respectively. Pathogen damage to leaves was between 39 to 57% of leaves per plant affected, compared to 9% in Australia and 8% in South Africa. This lack of biotic resistance from herbivores and disease may have facilitated S. platyphylla invasion in Australia and South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Kwong, Raelene M , Sagliocco, Jean Louis , Harms, Nathan E , Butler, Kym L , Martin, Grant D , Green, Peter T
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76881 , vital:30633 , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aquabot.2018.11.011
- Description: Sagittaria platyphylla (delta arrowhead) is an emergent aquatic macrophyte native to southeastern United States of America that has been introduced into Australia and South Africa as an ornamental pond and aquarium plant. Compared to plants in the native range, S. platyphylla in the introduced range have greater reproductive capacity and form extensive infestations that dominate shallow waterbodies. One explanation for the invasive success of S. platyphylla in introduced countries is that plants are devoid of biotic pressures that would regulate population abundance in their native range (the enemy release hypothesis). We previously reported on field surveys that documented the number of pathogens and insect herbivores associated with S. platyphylla in native and introduced ranges. Here, we quantify the damage caused by these natural enemies to S. platyphylla in the two ranges. As predicted, damage to plants caused by pathogens and insect herbivores was much greater in the native than the introduced range at both the plant and population level. In introduced regions herbivory was low (less than 10%) in every plant part, while in North America insect damage to fruiting heads was 46% (of fruiting heads attacked), damage to leaves was between 33 to 57%, and internal herbivore damage to petioles and the inflorescence scapes was 56% and 43% respectively. Pathogen damage to leaves was between 39 to 57% of leaves per plant affected, compared to 9% in Australia and 8% in South Africa. This lack of biotic resistance from herbivores and disease may have facilitated S. platyphylla invasion in Australia and South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Counter-memory and and–and: aesthetics and temporalities for living together
- Authors: Tello, Verónica
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146077 , vital:38493 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1177/1750698019876002
- Description: This essay traces a critical genealogy of counter-memory – spanning critical theory, film and contemporary art – bound to what Rosi Braidotti terms nomadic subjectivity. Engaging with the work of feminist and postcolonial theorists and artists, this essay charts the import of nomadic subjectivity as a method for staying with the many times and histories of global contemporaneity. It aims to move beyond thinking of counter-memory as simply a means to maintain or register erased and/or contested histories, or as a dialectical mnemonic system. It charts an alternative concept of counter-memory, one that is post-dialectical, not bound to the formulas of either/or, us/them or self/other, but which is instead committed to the endless accumulation and proximities of things – the and–and.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Tello, Verónica
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146077 , vital:38493 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1177/1750698019876002
- Description: This essay traces a critical genealogy of counter-memory – spanning critical theory, film and contemporary art – bound to what Rosi Braidotti terms nomadic subjectivity. Engaging with the work of feminist and postcolonial theorists and artists, this essay charts the import of nomadic subjectivity as a method for staying with the many times and histories of global contemporaneity. It aims to move beyond thinking of counter-memory as simply a means to maintain or register erased and/or contested histories, or as a dialectical mnemonic system. It charts an alternative concept of counter-memory, one that is post-dialectical, not bound to the formulas of either/or, us/them or self/other, but which is instead committed to the endless accumulation and proximities of things – the and–and.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Creating value through experiential marketing for mobile network operators in Ghana
- Authors: Yiadom, Michael Boakye
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Target marketing -- Ghana , Branding (Marketing) -- Ghana Marketing -- Ghana Telecommunication -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44357 , vital:37158
- Description: Experiential marketing and value creation have become paramount for businesses, worldwide, to remain competitive and sustainable. Due to the global economic crisis which put all public and private sector businesses under financial stress, experiential marketing has become necessary as a mechanism in facilitating value creation for the mobile network operators (MNOs) in Ghana to survive and to outdo their counterparts in the industry. The effective and efficient implementation of the experiential marketing programmes and campaigns, aside from helping these businesses in deriving value, could further assist the government of Ghana in its quest to develop the telecommunications industry. The government has stated that the mobile network industry of the country should be based upon the principles of open markets and fair competition, which requires strong policies and strategies in experiential marketing to create value as well as to survive. It must be noted that a unique product or service experience creates a memorable customer experience where emotion has a significant impact on business performance in terms of customer satisfaction, retention, and loyalty, as well as growth in sales and revenue and return on capital employed (ROCE). It is of the utmost importance, therefore, that network operators have the necessary resources and techniques in experiential marketing to facilitate sustainable value creation in the industry, as a lack of proper resources and implementation strategies can hinder the successful creation of value. Given this situation, this study sought to create value through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana. The study sought to empirically test a hypothetical model reflecting 11 independent variables on experiential marketing (i.e. mediating variables), particularly with proper attention to the experiential value gained by consumers after consumption. Also, the study addressed the contribution of all mobile components, namely processes, physical evidence, and people, in experiential marketing and creating value for businesses. The remaining hypothesis aimed at identifying the impact of the mediating variable (i.e. experiential marketing) on the dependent variable (i.e. business value) to assess how value is created through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana. The outcome of the primary research helped in recommending strategies that could be employed by businesses for improving competitiveness and sustainability. The debate about value creation through experiential marketing to MNOs in Ghana is not available. Consequently, this study attempted to develop a hypothetical model to provide a scientific, theoretical, and empirical contribution to MNOs, other businesses, and the entire telecommunications industry of Ghana in order to aid them in creating value through experiential marketing. To achieve the objectives of this study, a quantitative approach using a face-to-face self-administered questionnaire was adopted to test the hypotheses. The participants were randomly selected based on the 10 regions to which they belong in the country. With a visit to the regional offices of the mobile operators, the questionnaires were conveniently administered. A total of 384 participants were selected through a stratification sampling and, in addition, a total of 31 participants were conveniently added, producing a total of 415 respondents who completed the survey. Based on the analysis of various secondary sources, a hypothetical model regarding creating value through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana was constructed. The proposed hypothetical model indicated that the mediating variable of experiential marketing, with sub-variables related to experiential mix (i.e. sense, feel, think, act, and relate) and experiential value (i.e. emotional, functional, and social), is possibly influenced by the independent variables. This influence is also known as the mobile mix, namely 1) physical evidence with sub-variables related to the physical environment, building and spatial layout, and corporate branding; 2) process with sub-variables related to technology development, research and development, and machines and operation; and 3) people with sub-elements related to input and output logistics, marketing and customers services, human resource management, and procurement managing. The business value (i.e. the dependent variables) was identified as consisting of sales value, growth value, and return on capital employed value (ROEV). IBM’s SPSS AMOS (Version 25) was utilised for data analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data of respondents leading to easy interpretation by the researcher. Inferential statistical analysis was utilised to test for relationships between identified variables by using a validity test, a reliability test, correlation, and a structural equation model (SEM). The empirical results revealed that the mobile mix (i.e. the independent variables) has a significant positive influence and relationship with experiential marketing (i.e. the mediating variables). On the other hand, experiential marketing was identified as having a significant positive influence on business value (i.e. the dependent variables). The majority of the respondents agreed concerning the variable items measuring experiential marketing and its influence on creating value to MNOs in Ghana. It is envisaged that the empirical evidence provided in this study could assist MNOs in Ghana in understanding the factors influencing experiential marketing and its role in creating value and, thereby, assist these businesses in strategy development and decision-making. This study provides relevant and practical recommendations that could make MNOs in Ghana generate sustainable long-term value. Thus, the objectives of this study were achieved, and the research problem was answered. This study could also act as a foundation for other studies, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge in this regard.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Yiadom, Michael Boakye
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Target marketing -- Ghana , Branding (Marketing) -- Ghana Marketing -- Ghana Telecommunication -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44357 , vital:37158
- Description: Experiential marketing and value creation have become paramount for businesses, worldwide, to remain competitive and sustainable. Due to the global economic crisis which put all public and private sector businesses under financial stress, experiential marketing has become necessary as a mechanism in facilitating value creation for the mobile network operators (MNOs) in Ghana to survive and to outdo their counterparts in the industry. The effective and efficient implementation of the experiential marketing programmes and campaigns, aside from helping these businesses in deriving value, could further assist the government of Ghana in its quest to develop the telecommunications industry. The government has stated that the mobile network industry of the country should be based upon the principles of open markets and fair competition, which requires strong policies and strategies in experiential marketing to create value as well as to survive. It must be noted that a unique product or service experience creates a memorable customer experience where emotion has a significant impact on business performance in terms of customer satisfaction, retention, and loyalty, as well as growth in sales and revenue and return on capital employed (ROCE). It is of the utmost importance, therefore, that network operators have the necessary resources and techniques in experiential marketing to facilitate sustainable value creation in the industry, as a lack of proper resources and implementation strategies can hinder the successful creation of value. Given this situation, this study sought to create value through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana. The study sought to empirically test a hypothetical model reflecting 11 independent variables on experiential marketing (i.e. mediating variables), particularly with proper attention to the experiential value gained by consumers after consumption. Also, the study addressed the contribution of all mobile components, namely processes, physical evidence, and people, in experiential marketing and creating value for businesses. The remaining hypothesis aimed at identifying the impact of the mediating variable (i.e. experiential marketing) on the dependent variable (i.e. business value) to assess how value is created through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana. The outcome of the primary research helped in recommending strategies that could be employed by businesses for improving competitiveness and sustainability. The debate about value creation through experiential marketing to MNOs in Ghana is not available. Consequently, this study attempted to develop a hypothetical model to provide a scientific, theoretical, and empirical contribution to MNOs, other businesses, and the entire telecommunications industry of Ghana in order to aid them in creating value through experiential marketing. To achieve the objectives of this study, a quantitative approach using a face-to-face self-administered questionnaire was adopted to test the hypotheses. The participants were randomly selected based on the 10 regions to which they belong in the country. With a visit to the regional offices of the mobile operators, the questionnaires were conveniently administered. A total of 384 participants were selected through a stratification sampling and, in addition, a total of 31 participants were conveniently added, producing a total of 415 respondents who completed the survey. Based on the analysis of various secondary sources, a hypothetical model regarding creating value through experiential marketing for MNOs in Ghana was constructed. The proposed hypothetical model indicated that the mediating variable of experiential marketing, with sub-variables related to experiential mix (i.e. sense, feel, think, act, and relate) and experiential value (i.e. emotional, functional, and social), is possibly influenced by the independent variables. This influence is also known as the mobile mix, namely 1) physical evidence with sub-variables related to the physical environment, building and spatial layout, and corporate branding; 2) process with sub-variables related to technology development, research and development, and machines and operation; and 3) people with sub-elements related to input and output logistics, marketing and customers services, human resource management, and procurement managing. The business value (i.e. the dependent variables) was identified as consisting of sales value, growth value, and return on capital employed value (ROEV). IBM’s SPSS AMOS (Version 25) was utilised for data analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data of respondents leading to easy interpretation by the researcher. Inferential statistical analysis was utilised to test for relationships between identified variables by using a validity test, a reliability test, correlation, and a structural equation model (SEM). The empirical results revealed that the mobile mix (i.e. the independent variables) has a significant positive influence and relationship with experiential marketing (i.e. the mediating variables). On the other hand, experiential marketing was identified as having a significant positive influence on business value (i.e. the dependent variables). The majority of the respondents agreed concerning the variable items measuring experiential marketing and its influence on creating value to MNOs in Ghana. It is envisaged that the empirical evidence provided in this study could assist MNOs in Ghana in understanding the factors influencing experiential marketing and its role in creating value and, thereby, assist these businesses in strategy development and decision-making. This study provides relevant and practical recommendations that could make MNOs in Ghana generate sustainable long-term value. Thus, the objectives of this study were achieved, and the research problem was answered. This study could also act as a foundation for other studies, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge in this regard.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Critical determinants of service quality for the port of cape town users
- Authors: Thomas, Darren Roger
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physical distribution of goods -- Management , Business logistics -- South Africa -- Cape Town Harbors -- South Africa -- Cape Town Shipping -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43845 , vital:37052
- Description: This research study was motivated by the daily observed operational experiences from the perspective of the researcher’s logistics business. Poor levels of operational service quality were observed in the Port of Cape Town during the 2017/2018 “wind season” which occurs from September to March, where the port lost more than 1200-man hours due to wind delays. The poor levels of operational service quality are further compounded by the effects of the wind delays and its impact on congestion at the port which results in financial loss to importers and exporters and their intermodal service providers. Nearly ninety six percent (96%) of exports from South Africa are by sea, therefore South Africa’s trade with the rest of the world is by sea. Thus, ports are important economic contributors and play an important role for both inbound and outbound logistics. Service quality failures affect business-to-business players in the logistics chain. Port users suffer financial and reputational damage when containers, which are shipped via the port, are delayed due to service quality failures. The purpose of this treatise was to determine what the critical determinants of service quality for the Port of Cape Town users are. To achieve this a conceptual research model was developed, where six variables were identified that have an influence on service quality. The six variables identified are Communication, Competence, Access, Reliability, Understanding/Knowing Customer and Tangibles. A literature review was then conducted to determine what the difference between B2C and B2B operational service quality is. This was done by investigating both the similarities and differences between B2C and B2B and providing a review of service quality and customer satisfaction. Similarly, a literature review was also conducted to investigate the contrasts between international and local port service quality. This was achieved by investigating the importance of ports and an overview of the South African port network. An overview of the Port of Cape Town was then provided where inefficiencies in the Port of Cape Town are discussed. Service quality in selected international ports are then discussed before the chapter was concluded by providing a review of service quality at the port of Cape Town’s two closest international competitors. The methodological approach to the study was quantitative research using a survey strategy to test the conceptual model. Analysis was performed through descriptive and inferential statics. Based on the analysis, the study could conclude by making important managerial recommendations that the management of the Port of Cape Town could implement to improve the level of Operational Service Quality at the port. Some of the recommendations are, that the ports staff should be trained in the importance of proactive communication. Port staff should receive regular training with respect to their operational functions. The port should provide a platform which will allow port users to raise concerns or provide compliments related to container operations or port staff interactions. Before communicating start up times after port stoppages, the port needs to take in to consideration the necessary time required to get staff back to their operational posts and other start-up operations when advising the port reopening time to port users. Port management should implement a better maintenance programme for the container handling equipment as it was the respondent’s perception that the handling equipment used in the port is not always in good working condition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Thomas, Darren Roger
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physical distribution of goods -- Management , Business logistics -- South Africa -- Cape Town Harbors -- South Africa -- Cape Town Shipping -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43845 , vital:37052
- Description: This research study was motivated by the daily observed operational experiences from the perspective of the researcher’s logistics business. Poor levels of operational service quality were observed in the Port of Cape Town during the 2017/2018 “wind season” which occurs from September to March, where the port lost more than 1200-man hours due to wind delays. The poor levels of operational service quality are further compounded by the effects of the wind delays and its impact on congestion at the port which results in financial loss to importers and exporters and their intermodal service providers. Nearly ninety six percent (96%) of exports from South Africa are by sea, therefore South Africa’s trade with the rest of the world is by sea. Thus, ports are important economic contributors and play an important role for both inbound and outbound logistics. Service quality failures affect business-to-business players in the logistics chain. Port users suffer financial and reputational damage when containers, which are shipped via the port, are delayed due to service quality failures. The purpose of this treatise was to determine what the critical determinants of service quality for the Port of Cape Town users are. To achieve this a conceptual research model was developed, where six variables were identified that have an influence on service quality. The six variables identified are Communication, Competence, Access, Reliability, Understanding/Knowing Customer and Tangibles. A literature review was then conducted to determine what the difference between B2C and B2B operational service quality is. This was done by investigating both the similarities and differences between B2C and B2B and providing a review of service quality and customer satisfaction. Similarly, a literature review was also conducted to investigate the contrasts between international and local port service quality. This was achieved by investigating the importance of ports and an overview of the South African port network. An overview of the Port of Cape Town was then provided where inefficiencies in the Port of Cape Town are discussed. Service quality in selected international ports are then discussed before the chapter was concluded by providing a review of service quality at the port of Cape Town’s two closest international competitors. The methodological approach to the study was quantitative research using a survey strategy to test the conceptual model. Analysis was performed through descriptive and inferential statics. Based on the analysis, the study could conclude by making important managerial recommendations that the management of the Port of Cape Town could implement to improve the level of Operational Service Quality at the port. Some of the recommendations are, that the ports staff should be trained in the importance of proactive communication. Port staff should receive regular training with respect to their operational functions. The port should provide a platform which will allow port users to raise concerns or provide compliments related to container operations or port staff interactions. Before communicating start up times after port stoppages, the port needs to take in to consideration the necessary time required to get staff back to their operational posts and other start-up operations when advising the port reopening time to port users. Port management should implement a better maintenance programme for the container handling equipment as it was the respondent’s perception that the handling equipment used in the port is not always in good working condition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Critical Success Factors for Enhanced Information Systems Capabilities in Water Billing Processes: A Case Study of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Naki, Avuyile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information networks -- Security measures Computer security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13793 , vital:39712
- Description: Water is a nation's most precious resource as humans depend upon it for their lives and livelihoods. Water resources, therefore, require efficient and strategic management by those entities tasked with such a responsibility. Municipalities manage the water distribution to local citizens, but experience challenges due to the numerous tasks involved in water management. A major challenge that municipalities face is inefficiencies in water management business processes due to immature information system capabilities. Many studies focus on the infrastructure-related challenges such as ageing pipes, but little emphasis is placed on the information system-based challenges in water management and their relationship to the local water consumer. Therefore, the focus of this research investigation was on the water billing process activities and the information systems involved in these activities. The study collected primary data by conducting a focus group comprising seven respondents working in water billing-related processes and then conducted semi-structured interviews with two managers at the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). The Nvivo software tool was used to organise the collected data. Finally, the collected data was analysed using the principles of thematic analysis. Firstly, the primary evidence indicates that the water billing information systems that are used at BCMM are unintegrated. Secondly, that there are numerous manual processes in the water billing-related processes, which lead to mistakes in the capturing of consumer data. Thirdly, the analysis confirms that BCMM is faced with water management challenges. Fourthly, the analysis revealed that there is inadequate communication between various water billing information systems that are used, which results in delays in data capturing, errors and outdated information. The findings conclude that BCMM has immature water billing information system capabilities and that there are problems related to water processes. The research investigation derived several critical success factors (CSFs) for BCMM to action to ensure that their water billing information systems are enhanced. The CSFs were reviewed by the two managers used for the study in order to ascertain their relevance to the context and were considered relevant by the managers. Therefore, the recommendation is that BCMM, and other municipalities with similar contexts, should action the proposed CSFs to enhance their water billing-related information systems capabilities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Naki, Avuyile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information networks -- Security measures Computer security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13793 , vital:39712
- Description: Water is a nation's most precious resource as humans depend upon it for their lives and livelihoods. Water resources, therefore, require efficient and strategic management by those entities tasked with such a responsibility. Municipalities manage the water distribution to local citizens, but experience challenges due to the numerous tasks involved in water management. A major challenge that municipalities face is inefficiencies in water management business processes due to immature information system capabilities. Many studies focus on the infrastructure-related challenges such as ageing pipes, but little emphasis is placed on the information system-based challenges in water management and their relationship to the local water consumer. Therefore, the focus of this research investigation was on the water billing process activities and the information systems involved in these activities. The study collected primary data by conducting a focus group comprising seven respondents working in water billing-related processes and then conducted semi-structured interviews with two managers at the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). The Nvivo software tool was used to organise the collected data. Finally, the collected data was analysed using the principles of thematic analysis. Firstly, the primary evidence indicates that the water billing information systems that are used at BCMM are unintegrated. Secondly, that there are numerous manual processes in the water billing-related processes, which lead to mistakes in the capturing of consumer data. Thirdly, the analysis confirms that BCMM is faced with water management challenges. Fourthly, the analysis revealed that there is inadequate communication between various water billing information systems that are used, which results in delays in data capturing, errors and outdated information. The findings conclude that BCMM has immature water billing information system capabilities and that there are problems related to water processes. The research investigation derived several critical success factors (CSFs) for BCMM to action to ensure that their water billing information systems are enhanced. The CSFs were reviewed by the two managers used for the study in order to ascertain their relevance to the context and were considered relevant by the managers. Therefore, the recommendation is that BCMM, and other municipalities with similar contexts, should action the proposed CSFs to enhance their water billing-related information systems capabilities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Critical success factors of South African construction companies
- Authors: Lombard, Daniel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Planning -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Management Construction industry -- South Africa Success in business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42229 , vital:36637
- Description: The aim of the study was to identify the driving forces of the South African construction industry for registered cidb Grade 9 companies. The next objective was to identify the critical success factors (CSF) that are required to be used by the forward-looking and pro-active cidb Grade 9 companies. The most important critical success factors were then highlighted to form a core group of CSFs for construction industry. From this core group of CSFs an attempt was then made to identify business strategies that can assist companies in gaining a competitive advantage in the construction industry of South Africa. The research was based on the problem statement from which the sub-questions and hypothesis were derived. The primary data was collected through a mixed method of quantitative and qualitative research. A ontological philosophy was used for the research to effectively collaborate with the mixed method of research used. The approach of the research was a mix of both inductive and deductive, as it pursued to identify the forces and factors dominating the construction industry. The study subsequently determined what business strategies best suit these results. The research questionnaire was distributed between senior managers of grade 9 cidb construction companies and found that the most eminent driving forces of the industry are political and government decision making, as well as economic conditions. The CSFs showed a clear indication of what the respondents perceived as the most important factors. Although there have been many advances in technology and processes over the years, the most important CSF for contractors are still the processes of bidding and tendering and the factors relating to these. The qualitative research portion of the study was an investigation on what business strategies were best related to the key driving forces and most important CSFs. Interviews were held with directors of cidb grade 9 construction companies. The themes that were identified from the analyses of the qualitative data were that business strategies relevant to differentiation, diversification, cost leadership or hybrid were seen as the most effective for construction companies. The bidding and tendering process is not merely the same process that it used to be. Frequent reviews of what the industry is going through have also become a major necessity. The research was limited to companies registered as grade 9 with the Construction Industry Development Board. The research is seen as valued as the construction industry is highly important towards the development of the economy of a country and the impact that it has on communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Lombard, Daniel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Planning -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Management Construction industry -- South Africa Success in business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42229 , vital:36637
- Description: The aim of the study was to identify the driving forces of the South African construction industry for registered cidb Grade 9 companies. The next objective was to identify the critical success factors (CSF) that are required to be used by the forward-looking and pro-active cidb Grade 9 companies. The most important critical success factors were then highlighted to form a core group of CSFs for construction industry. From this core group of CSFs an attempt was then made to identify business strategies that can assist companies in gaining a competitive advantage in the construction industry of South Africa. The research was based on the problem statement from which the sub-questions and hypothesis were derived. The primary data was collected through a mixed method of quantitative and qualitative research. A ontological philosophy was used for the research to effectively collaborate with the mixed method of research used. The approach of the research was a mix of both inductive and deductive, as it pursued to identify the forces and factors dominating the construction industry. The study subsequently determined what business strategies best suit these results. The research questionnaire was distributed between senior managers of grade 9 cidb construction companies and found that the most eminent driving forces of the industry are political and government decision making, as well as economic conditions. The CSFs showed a clear indication of what the respondents perceived as the most important factors. Although there have been many advances in technology and processes over the years, the most important CSF for contractors are still the processes of bidding and tendering and the factors relating to these. The qualitative research portion of the study was an investigation on what business strategies were best related to the key driving forces and most important CSFs. Interviews were held with directors of cidb grade 9 construction companies. The themes that were identified from the analyses of the qualitative data were that business strategies relevant to differentiation, diversification, cost leadership or hybrid were seen as the most effective for construction companies. The bidding and tendering process is not merely the same process that it used to be. Frequent reviews of what the industry is going through have also become a major necessity. The research was limited to companies registered as grade 9 with the Construction Industry Development Board. The research is seen as valued as the construction industry is highly important towards the development of the economy of a country and the impact that it has on communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Cryptic species of a water hyacinth biological control agent revealed in South Africa: host specificity, impact, and thermal tolerance
- Paterson, Iain D, Coetzee, Julie A, Weyl, Philip S R, Griffith, Tamzin C, Voogt, Nina, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Paterson, Iain D , Coetzee, Julie A , Weyl, Philip S R , Griffith, Tamzin C , Voogt, Nina , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/423982 , vital:72113 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/eea.12812"
- Description: The discovery that cryptic species are more abundant than previously thought has implications for weed biological control, as there is a risk that cryptic species may be inadvertently released with consequences for the safety of the practice. A cryptic species of a biological control agent released for the control of the invasive alien macrophyte, water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (C. Mart.) Solms. (Pontederiaceae), was recently discovered in South Africa. The two species were considered a single species prior to genetic analysis and interbreeding experiments. The original biological control agent retains the name Eccritotarsus catarinensis (Carvalho) (Heteroptera: Miridae) whereas the new species has been described as Eccritotarsus eichhorniae Henry. In this study, we compared the host specificity, efficacy, and thermal physiologies of the two species. The host specificity of the two species within the Pontederiaceae was very similar and both are safe for release in South Africa. Comparison of the per capita impact of the two species indicated that E. eichhorniae was the more damaging species but this is likely to be influenced by temperature, with E. catarinensis being more effective under lower temperatures and E. eichhorniae being more effective under higher temperatures. Releasing the correct species for the thermal environment of each release site will improve the level of control of water hyacinth in South Africa. This example highlights the need to keep populations of biological control agents from different native range collection localities separate, and to screen for host specificity and efficacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Paterson, Iain D , Coetzee, Julie A , Weyl, Philip S R , Griffith, Tamzin C , Voogt, Nina , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/423982 , vital:72113 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/eea.12812"
- Description: The discovery that cryptic species are more abundant than previously thought has implications for weed biological control, as there is a risk that cryptic species may be inadvertently released with consequences for the safety of the practice. A cryptic species of a biological control agent released for the control of the invasive alien macrophyte, water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (C. Mart.) Solms. (Pontederiaceae), was recently discovered in South Africa. The two species were considered a single species prior to genetic analysis and interbreeding experiments. The original biological control agent retains the name Eccritotarsus catarinensis (Carvalho) (Heteroptera: Miridae) whereas the new species has been described as Eccritotarsus eichhorniae Henry. In this study, we compared the host specificity, efficacy, and thermal physiologies of the two species. The host specificity of the two species within the Pontederiaceae was very similar and both are safe for release in South Africa. Comparison of the per capita impact of the two species indicated that E. eichhorniae was the more damaging species but this is likely to be influenced by temperature, with E. catarinensis being more effective under lower temperatures and E. eichhorniae being more effective under higher temperatures. Releasing the correct species for the thermal environment of each release site will improve the level of control of water hyacinth in South Africa. This example highlights the need to keep populations of biological control agents from different native range collection localities separate, and to screen for host specificity and efficacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
CubiCal: a fast radio interferometric calibration suite exploiting complex optimisation
- Authors: Kenyon, Jonathan
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Interferometry , Radio astronomy , Python (Computer program language) , Square Kilometre Array (Project)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92341 , vital:30711
- Description: The advent of the Square Kilometre Array and its precursors marks the start of an exciting era for radio interferometry. However, with new instruments producing unprecedented quantities of data, many existing calibration algorithms and implementations will be hard-pressed to keep up. Fortunately, it has recently been shown that the radio interferometric calibration problem can be expressed concisely using the ideas of complex optimisation. The resulting framework exposes properties of the calibration problem which can be exploited to accelerate traditional non-linear least squares algorithms. We extend the existing work on the topic by considering the more general problem of calibrating a Jones chain: the product of several unknown gain terms. We also derive specialised solvers for performing phase-only, delay and pointing error calibration. In doing so, we devise a method for determining update rules for arbitrary, real-valued parametrisations of a complex gain. The solvers are implemented in an optimised Python package called CubiCal. CubiCal makes use of Cython to generate fast C and C++ routines for performing computationally demanding tasks whilst leveraging multiprocessing and shared memory to take advantage of modern, parallel hardware. The package is fully compatible with the measurement set, the most common format for interferometer data, and is well integrated with Montblanc - a third party package which implements optimised model visibility prediction. CubiCal's calibration routines are applied successfully to both simulated and real data for the field surrounding source 3C147. These tests include direction-independent and direction dependent calibration, as well as tests of the specialised solvers. Finally, we conduct extensive performance benchmarks and verify that CubiCal convincingly outperforms its most comparable competitor.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Kenyon, Jonathan
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Interferometry , Radio astronomy , Python (Computer program language) , Square Kilometre Array (Project)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92341 , vital:30711
- Description: The advent of the Square Kilometre Array and its precursors marks the start of an exciting era for radio interferometry. However, with new instruments producing unprecedented quantities of data, many existing calibration algorithms and implementations will be hard-pressed to keep up. Fortunately, it has recently been shown that the radio interferometric calibration problem can be expressed concisely using the ideas of complex optimisation. The resulting framework exposes properties of the calibration problem which can be exploited to accelerate traditional non-linear least squares algorithms. We extend the existing work on the topic by considering the more general problem of calibrating a Jones chain: the product of several unknown gain terms. We also derive specialised solvers for performing phase-only, delay and pointing error calibration. In doing so, we devise a method for determining update rules for arbitrary, real-valued parametrisations of a complex gain. The solvers are implemented in an optimised Python package called CubiCal. CubiCal makes use of Cython to generate fast C and C++ routines for performing computationally demanding tasks whilst leveraging multiprocessing and shared memory to take advantage of modern, parallel hardware. The package is fully compatible with the measurement set, the most common format for interferometer data, and is well integrated with Montblanc - a third party package which implements optimised model visibility prediction. CubiCal's calibration routines are applied successfully to both simulated and real data for the field surrounding source 3C147. These tests include direction-independent and direction dependent calibration, as well as tests of the specialised solvers. Finally, we conduct extensive performance benchmarks and verify that CubiCal convincingly outperforms its most comparable competitor.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Culicoides species as potential vectors of African horse sickness virus in the southern regions of South Africa:
- Riddin, Megan A, Venter, G J, Labuschagne, K, Villet, Martin H
- Authors: Riddin, Megan A , Venter, G J , Labuschagne, K , Villet, Martin H
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140727 , vital:37913 , DOI: 10.1111/mve.12391
- Description: African horse sickness (AHS), a disease of equids caused by the AHS virus, is of major concern in South Africa. With mortality reaching up to 95% in susceptible horses and the apparent reoccurrence of cases in regions deemed non‐endemic, most particularly the Eastern Cape, epidemiological research into factors contributing to the increase in the range of this economically important virus became imperative. The vectors, Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), are considered unable to proliferate during the unfavourable climatic conditions experienced in winter in the province, although the annual occurrence of AHS suggests that the virus has become established and that vector activity continues throughout the year. Surveillance of Culicoides within the province is sparse and little was known of the diversity of vector species or the abundance of known vectors, Culicoides imicola and Culicoides bolitinos. Surveillance was performed using light trapping methods at selected sites with varying equid species over two winter and two outbreak seasons, aiming to determine diversity, abundance and vector epidemiology of Culicoides within the province. The research provided an updated checklist of Culicoides species within the Eastern Cape, contributing to an increase in the knowledge of AHS vector epidemiology, as well as prevention and control in southern Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Riddin, Megan A , Venter, G J , Labuschagne, K , Villet, Martin H
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140727 , vital:37913 , DOI: 10.1111/mve.12391
- Description: African horse sickness (AHS), a disease of equids caused by the AHS virus, is of major concern in South Africa. With mortality reaching up to 95% in susceptible horses and the apparent reoccurrence of cases in regions deemed non‐endemic, most particularly the Eastern Cape, epidemiological research into factors contributing to the increase in the range of this economically important virus became imperative. The vectors, Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), are considered unable to proliferate during the unfavourable climatic conditions experienced in winter in the province, although the annual occurrence of AHS suggests that the virus has become established and that vector activity continues throughout the year. Surveillance of Culicoides within the province is sparse and little was known of the diversity of vector species or the abundance of known vectors, Culicoides imicola and Culicoides bolitinos. Surveillance was performed using light trapping methods at selected sites with varying equid species over two winter and two outbreak seasons, aiming to determine diversity, abundance and vector epidemiology of Culicoides within the province. The research provided an updated checklist of Culicoides species within the Eastern Cape, contributing to an increase in the knowledge of AHS vector epidemiology, as well as prevention and control in southern Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Cultural clusters as a local economic development strategy in rural, small town areas: the Sarah Baartman District in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Drummond, Fiona Jane
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cultural industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Creative ability -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Arts -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Culture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/71568 , vital:29879
- Description: It is increasingly recognized that the cultural and creative industries (CCIs) can play an important role in economic growth and development. Governments around the world, including South Africa, are implementing culture‐led economic growth and development strategies on national and regional scales. CCIs tend to cluster around large cities because of existing hard and soft infrastructure such as networking advantages and access to skilled labour, however, much less is known about the potential of the CCIs to drive rural development. This thesis thus investigates the potential of the CCIs to cluster in small towns and rural areas. Moreover, it examines the relationship between the CCIs and socio‐economic development. The CCIs have been touted as a catalyst for economic growth and development and so have often been used in urban regeneration schemes. The Sarah Baartman District (SBD) of South Africa’s Eastern Cape has identified culture as a potential new economic driver. Establishing a new development path is necessary as the former economic mainstay, agriculture, has declined in the region, creating poverty and unemployment problems. However, the SBD has only small towns which, according to the literature, are not suited to CCI clustering. Despite this, there is evidence of cultural clustering in some of the SBD’s small towns like Nieu Bethesda and Bathurst. This research therefore conducted an audit of the CCIs in the district and used geographic information systems (GIS) to map their locations by UNESCO Framework of Cultural Statistics (FCS) domains in order to determine the extent to which clustering has occurred in a small town setting. The audit identified 1 048 CCIs operating in the district and determined that clustering is possible within some small towns, depending on their demographic, economic, social, geographic and historic characteristics. For small towns where clusters exist or the potential for cluster formation is present, the domains in which the town holds a comparative advantage, based on domain proportions and location quotients, should be pursued for local economic development (LED). In this case, Visual Arts and Crafts and Cultural Heritage were prominent throughout the district while Design and Creative Services and Performance and Celebration had small regional concentrations. Theory suggests that the presence of CCIs is linked to higher levels of economic development as the creative class is more likely to be attracted to more highly developed areas, usually large cities. Furthermore, spillover effects from cultural activity promotes further development under the virtuous cycle. To investigate the relationship between CCI clusters and socio‐economic development, the locational data of municipal level CCI numbers is overlaid with a regional development indicator, a socio‐economic status index, which is based on census data and includes economic and social components. Results show that there is a general positive trend of CCIs locating in larger numbers (clustering) in areas with higher socio‐economic development performances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Drummond, Fiona Jane
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cultural industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Creative ability -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Arts -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Culture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/71568 , vital:29879
- Description: It is increasingly recognized that the cultural and creative industries (CCIs) can play an important role in economic growth and development. Governments around the world, including South Africa, are implementing culture‐led economic growth and development strategies on national and regional scales. CCIs tend to cluster around large cities because of existing hard and soft infrastructure such as networking advantages and access to skilled labour, however, much less is known about the potential of the CCIs to drive rural development. This thesis thus investigates the potential of the CCIs to cluster in small towns and rural areas. Moreover, it examines the relationship between the CCIs and socio‐economic development. The CCIs have been touted as a catalyst for economic growth and development and so have often been used in urban regeneration schemes. The Sarah Baartman District (SBD) of South Africa’s Eastern Cape has identified culture as a potential new economic driver. Establishing a new development path is necessary as the former economic mainstay, agriculture, has declined in the region, creating poverty and unemployment problems. However, the SBD has only small towns which, according to the literature, are not suited to CCI clustering. Despite this, there is evidence of cultural clustering in some of the SBD’s small towns like Nieu Bethesda and Bathurst. This research therefore conducted an audit of the CCIs in the district and used geographic information systems (GIS) to map their locations by UNESCO Framework of Cultural Statistics (FCS) domains in order to determine the extent to which clustering has occurred in a small town setting. The audit identified 1 048 CCIs operating in the district and determined that clustering is possible within some small towns, depending on their demographic, economic, social, geographic and historic characteristics. For small towns where clusters exist or the potential for cluster formation is present, the domains in which the town holds a comparative advantage, based on domain proportions and location quotients, should be pursued for local economic development (LED). In this case, Visual Arts and Crafts and Cultural Heritage were prominent throughout the district while Design and Creative Services and Performance and Celebration had small regional concentrations. Theory suggests that the presence of CCIs is linked to higher levels of economic development as the creative class is more likely to be attracted to more highly developed areas, usually large cities. Furthermore, spillover effects from cultural activity promotes further development under the virtuous cycle. To investigate the relationship between CCI clusters and socio‐economic development, the locational data of municipal level CCI numbers is overlaid with a regional development indicator, a socio‐economic status index, which is based on census data and includes economic and social components. Results show that there is a general positive trend of CCIs locating in larger numbers (clustering) in areas with higher socio‐economic development performances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Culturally-informed coping strategies of posttraumatic stress disorders among the black Africans in the greater Accra region of Ghana and black Africans in the eastern cape of South Africa
- Authors: Thompson, Sandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Posttraumatic stress disorder
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44625 , vital:38154
- Description: The influence of culture in coping with Posttraumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) has been highlighted in literature. However, these culture specific coping strategies are not as yet, extensively explored. The research sought to explore and describe the culturally - informed coping strategies of PTS D among the black Africans in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana and black Africans in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A qualitative methodological approach was used to explore the phenomenon under study. Purposive non - probability sampling was employed to obtain access to participants who could inform the objectives of the study. Data was collected using semi - structured interviews with traumatised individuals and focus group discussions with cultural leaders. All interviews were audio - recorded, transcribed, translated and analysed using thematic content analysis to facilitate the description and comparison of the similarities and distinctive features emerging from the two African communities. The findings indicated that a number of cultural factors influence interpretation of symptoms of PTSD and the adopted coping strategies. Participants’ understanding of symptoms of PTSD relied heavily on Christian Religious and African cultural understandings. It was evident that almost all explanations were purely spiritual and minimal knowledge was expressed on cognitive interpretations. A great deal of emphasis by the Ghanaians and isiXhosa of South Africa, was on dreams and such interpretations were deferred to an authoritative individual (especially the traditional healer). An obvious hierarchy for coping emerged with the traditional healer playing a major role for the Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants. Performing rites and the use of plants were essential to healing for these group of individuals. Whereas, the Coloured - Afrikaans made reference to a higher power “God”. An outstanding observation was the extent to which Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants have incorporated Christian and traditional practices (i.e. praying to God, performing rites and using herbs or plants). Even where an individual did not wish to mix practice because of upbringing, they acknowledged the existence and effectiveness of these practices. Colonisation was drawn on as an explanation for such mixed practices. The advent of Christianity was explained as having established Western culture (specifically Christianity) that is incorporated by participants. The Coloured - Afrikaans on the other hand, were consistent with the Christian practices “prayers to God”. A great deal of consistency however existed among all participants. Social support was considered very important. Talking with family and friends were relevant to the healing process as it gets rid of distorted thought patterns and avoids isolation considered as a serious current threat to healing. While there was an element of cognitive understanding, Western based treatment using cognitive restructuring was not a treatment option. Clinical practitioners or Psychologists that come into contact with the black Ghanaians and black South Africans should consider collaborative treatment strategies using the draft checklist as a guide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Thompson, Sandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Posttraumatic stress disorder
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44625 , vital:38154
- Description: The influence of culture in coping with Posttraumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) has been highlighted in literature. However, these culture specific coping strategies are not as yet, extensively explored. The research sought to explore and describe the culturally - informed coping strategies of PTS D among the black Africans in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana and black Africans in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A qualitative methodological approach was used to explore the phenomenon under study. Purposive non - probability sampling was employed to obtain access to participants who could inform the objectives of the study. Data was collected using semi - structured interviews with traumatised individuals and focus group discussions with cultural leaders. All interviews were audio - recorded, transcribed, translated and analysed using thematic content analysis to facilitate the description and comparison of the similarities and distinctive features emerging from the two African communities. The findings indicated that a number of cultural factors influence interpretation of symptoms of PTSD and the adopted coping strategies. Participants’ understanding of symptoms of PTSD relied heavily on Christian Religious and African cultural understandings. It was evident that almost all explanations were purely spiritual and minimal knowledge was expressed on cognitive interpretations. A great deal of emphasis by the Ghanaians and isiXhosa of South Africa, was on dreams and such interpretations were deferred to an authoritative individual (especially the traditional healer). An obvious hierarchy for coping emerged with the traditional healer playing a major role for the Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants. Performing rites and the use of plants were essential to healing for these group of individuals. Whereas, the Coloured - Afrikaans made reference to a higher power “God”. An outstanding observation was the extent to which Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants have incorporated Christian and traditional practices (i.e. praying to God, performing rites and using herbs or plants). Even where an individual did not wish to mix practice because of upbringing, they acknowledged the existence and effectiveness of these practices. Colonisation was drawn on as an explanation for such mixed practices. The advent of Christianity was explained as having established Western culture (specifically Christianity) that is incorporated by participants. The Coloured - Afrikaans on the other hand, were consistent with the Christian practices “prayers to God”. A great deal of consistency however existed among all participants. Social support was considered very important. Talking with family and friends were relevant to the healing process as it gets rid of distorted thought patterns and avoids isolation considered as a serious current threat to healing. While there was an element of cognitive understanding, Western based treatment using cognitive restructuring was not a treatment option. Clinical practitioners or Psychologists that come into contact with the black Ghanaians and black South Africans should consider collaborative treatment strategies using the draft checklist as a guide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019