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The Algoa Bay region groundwater cycle – linking source to coast

  • Authors: Dodd, Carla
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Ecohydrology , Hydrology , Groundwater -- Management
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63722 , vital:73592
  • Description: Groundwater is a crucial component of freshwater supply globally, especially in water-scarce regions such as semi-arid climatic areas where surface water resources are climatically limited and further constrained during droughts. Groundwater resources are also important from an ecological perspective as they support numerous surface ecosystems including wetlands and rivers. Coastal groundwater discharge along the South African coast sustains supratidal spring-fed living microbialite ecosystems (SSLiME). These systems act as potential analogues for Earth’s earliest ecosystems and are therefore useful from a palaeoscientific and evolutionary perspective. The Southern Cape coast of South Africa is characterised by both fractured and intergranular aquifers and hosts the most extensive network of SSLiME reported globally. However, the region is frequently affected by water scarcity crises and consequently groundwater development and usage has increased. Yet, it is unclear to what extent coastal discharge is linked to inland aquifers and whether anthropogenic activities influence the quantity and quality of groundwater that flows into SSLiME. This thesis aims to assess the groundwater cycle of the Algoa Bay region along the Southern Cape coast by means of a multi-tracer study. Specifically, it endeavours to develop a better understanding of the hydrogeochemical connectivity between inland groundwater resources and coastal microbialite ecosystems. To achieve this, four groups of hydrochemical tracers were used: H- and O-isotope ratios, major cations and anions, organic micropollutants and macronutrients. Sampling strategies included monthly precipitation collection over twelve months (stable water isotopes), once-off groundwater collection from boreholes, inland springs and coastal discharge (all tracers). In addition, coastal groundwater discharge was sampled during a once-off repeat campaign (all tracers) and seasonally at selected sites (macronutrients). A local meteoric water line (LMWL) for the region was established and compared to the isotopic signature of groundwater. The results indicate that groundwater is likely recharged directly and with little evaporation. Furthermore, similarities in isotopic signatures between inland and coastal aquifer systems suggest some level of hydrogeological connectivity or similar environmental drivers of recharge, such as precipitation amount and moisture source. This is also supported by the physico-chemistry and major ionic composition of the groundwater samples. However, the major ion composition of groundwater is variable and, although it predominantly reflects the sodium-chloride nature of precipitation, lithological and spatial trends are apparent. For example, coastward trends such as increasing conductivity, calcium, total alkalinity, and nitrogen is evident. While isotopes and major ions inform on the environmental drivers and geogenic influence on groundwater recharge, the organic micropollutants and macronutrients provide insight into the nature of anthropogenic impacts on groundwater quality. Micropollutants quantified in the groundwater samples included artificial sweeteners, pharmaceuticals, a biocide, and an illicit drug. These compounds are mostly classed as wastewater indicators and indicate aquifer contamination from leaking reticulation systems and septic tanks. The highest concentrations are associated with the urban and coastal peri-urban areas, while groundwater from rural areas is often devoid of any micropollutants except sulfamic acid, which may be introduced during recharge from precipitation. Furthermore, the presence of selected compounds in groundwater discharge signifies that at least a component of the groundwater is derived from recent infiltration. Similarly, the macronutrient content of groundwater reflects the proximal land use. As such, coastal groundwater discharge sites adjacent to coastal villages reflect higher concentrations compared to rural sites. In addition, the nutrient load supplied to and discharged from SSLiME systems is quantified and the nutrient attenuation is estimated. This thesis contributes recent hydrogeochemical information for a structurally complex semi-arid area under both natural (drought conditions) and human (increased water use, degradation of aquifers) pressures. Collectively, the results indicate that coastal groundwater discharge is likely a mixture of both the intergranular and fractured aquifers and that anthropogenic activities in the hinterland is contaminating the groundwater. This study is an important addition to the baseline hydrological information available for the region and may be useful in terms of sustainable groundwater management strategies and development toward a socio-ecological optimum, especially as related to coastal microbialite system. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The asymmetric effects of the exchange rate on bilateral trade between the United Kingdom and Germany

  • Authors: Kamwiyo, Craig
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Foreign exchange rate , Foreign trade regulation -- Great Britain , Foreign trade regulation -- Germany , Commercial treaties
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65086 , vital:74021
  • Description: Brexit has given the United Kingdom greater autonomy over its international trade policies and as a result, there is a need to understand the dynamics around the effects of exchange rate on trade balances. Therefore, this study sought to investigate the effects of the pound to euro exchange rate on trade between the United Kingdom and Germany. In so doing, the study investigated the existence of the J-curve phenomenon in the bilateral trade balance. While most existing studies focus on aggregating the trade balance, this study considers disaggregating the trade balance at industrial level. Therefore, the disaggregated trade balance led to several unique studies catering for the twelve biggest industries that make up the trade balance. In addition, the study also does away with the assumption of linearity in the effects of exchange rate changes on the trade balance by making use of asymmetric analysis. For this purpose, the study uses the linear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) models to analyse monthly data over the period of January 2010 to August 2022. The results provide evidence supporting the existence of the J-curve effect among linear ARDL and NARLD models. Furthermore, it was found that the exchange rate had an asymmetric effect on trade both in the short run and long run. All in all, the results in this study are industry-specific, indicating that the effects of both an appreciation and depreciation of the exchange rate on the bilateral trade balances vary across industries. Considering the J-curve effect identified in six cases, and greater trade elasticities following a depreciation, the government should advocate for expansionary monetary policy by lowering interest rates to improve the trade balance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The Camdeboo-Mountain Zebra mega-reserve as an opportunity to protect viable populations of medium- to large-sized mammals

  • Authors: Davis, Kristen
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Mammals -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Wildlife conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63711 , vital:73590
  • Description: Conservation planning has focused extensively on representation of species in protected areas (PAs), rather than achieving the persistence of these species in PAs. Consequently, most PAs do not support viable populations of many species represented within them, particularly large mammals, resulting in extinction debt risks. The challenge is therefore to identify opportunities to achieve viable populations and to develop and implement conservation plans to achieve this, e.g., expand and connect existing PAs. A recent meta-analysis provides a minimum viable population (MVP) estimate of 5 000 individuals for mammals. This value was used as the target for modelling conservation opportunities for the South African endemic Cape mountain zebra (Equus zebra zebra), blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi), black wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou) and co-existing medium- and large-sized mammal species. This study focused on the region between the Camdeboo and Mountain Zebra national parks (ca. 736 000 ha). Within the envisaged Camdeboo-Mountain Zebra (C-MZ) mega-reserve, a spreadsheet model was used to estimate potential herbivore population sizes, spatial requirement data were used to estimate potential omnivore and insectivore population sizes, and herbivore densities were used to estimate potential large carnivore population sizes. I show that 12 (the three endemic grazers and nine co-existing species) of the 28 modelled medium- and large-sized mammal species will potentially exceed 5 000 individuals, the MVP target, within the envisaged mega-reserve. The remaining 16 species show potential to reach substantial population sizes, however, will likely require ongoing metapopulation management. Using a conservation planning approach, I identify priority areas for the conservation of suitable habitat for Cape mountain zebra, blesbok, and black wildebeest within the envisaged mega-reserve, thus indirectly identifying priority areas for the conservation of these endemic species. I show that the potential incorporation of these priority areas within the envisaged mega-reserve will contribute considerably to the conservation of all focal species. In addition, the potential incorporation of these priority areas will contribute to PA expansion and significantly improve connectivity between existing PAs within the envisaged C-MZ mega-reserve. The importance of adequately-sized PAs to support viable populations of focal species is thus evident, and will ensure their long-term survival and ability to persist by allowing population and evolutionary scale processes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The curious case of Albert Ellis: a psychobiographical case study

  • Authors: van Rensburg, Philip
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Psychotherapy , Ellis, Albert -- Interviews , Rational emotive behavior therapy
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63928 , vital:73627
  • Description: Although much has been written on the life and work of American psychologist Albert Ellis, none of the literature adopts a specific psychobiographical framework and no instrumental case studies on the life of Ellis exist. The primary aim of this psychobiographical case study is to provide a psychobiographical exploration and description of aspects of Albert Ellis’ life within his sociohistorical context. More specifically, Ellis’ upbringing with an immigrant past and the role this has played relating to Ellis’ curiosity towards issues of sex and women. The findings of this psychobiographical case study will also be conveyed to inform on the role that culture and cultural diversity has on how an individual experiences and deals with conflict in their life. A specific area of interest in this study is the culture of the twentieth century, with a special focus on the relationship individuals had with sex, as well as examining the lived experience of immigrants during this time. Aspects of Albert Ellis' life within the sociohistorical context of the twentieth century is illustrated by using certain psychological techniques to the available biographical data. This is accomplished by looking at Ellis' experiences and how they influenced the creation of his own paradigm of rational emotive behaviour therapy. Furthermore, Ellis is conceptualised using Karen Horney’s theory of the dynamic relationship, which exists between cultural processes and conflicting human character traits and their impact on behavioural motivation. This study adopts an inductive research approach. Therefore, it implements an instrumental, single-case research design and is exploratory-descriptive in nature. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling and data will be analysed utilising three linked subprocesses theorised by Miles and Huberman. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The demographic-specific prey preferences of lions and cheetahs, and potential impacts on prey populations

  • Authors: Dreyer, Nicola Bondi
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Predation (Biology) , Animal populations , Animal ecology
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63733 , vital:73593
  • Description: Understanding prey selection offers predictive insights into predator-prey interactions, which can be extended to explore the impacts of predators on prey populations. Prey availability and vulnerability vary across species, demographic classes, body sizes, and seasons. Traditional prey selection models for large carnivores, based on estimates of prey body size, assume uniform vulnerability across prey demographic classes and seasons, failing to account for these variations. This study aims to contrast seasonal shifts in demographic-specific prey preferences between lions and cheetahs and examine the potential impact of their demographic-specific predation patterns on a range of prey species across a body size spectrum. It was predicted that cheetahs would shift their selection from adults and juveniles of smaller prey species in the dry season to neonates and juveniles of both smaller and larger prey species in the wet season, while lions would select adults irrespective of the season. Additionally, predation focusing on adults would have a greater impact on prey populations compared to predation focusing on non-adults. Furthermore, it was predicted that prey populations experiencing demographic-specific selection from both lions and cheetahs would be impacted more than species selected by only one predator. Degrees of preference (DOP) were estimated based on prey availability (camera traps) and prey use (GPS clusters) for lion and cheetah populations in Lapalala Wilderness Reserve. Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale, and Shape (GAMLSS) were used to determine seasonal shifts in demographic-specific prey preferences. The seasonal-demographic specific predation patterns of lion and cheetah, along with prey vital rates extracted from the literature, were then used to model potential predation impacts on prey populations using both Leslie-Usher and Lefkovitch matrix models. Lions preferred larger adult prey such as blue wildebeest, eland, and buffalo, while cheetahs preferred smaller prey, particularly juveniles of small to intermediate-sized species like impala, kudu, blue wildebeest, and zebra. Both predators showed seasonal shifts in demographic-specific prey preferences, with lions selecting adult buffalo during the dry season and juvenile buffalo in the wet season, and cheetahs selecting juveniles in the dry season and neonates and juveniles during the wet season. Lions and cheetahs exerted the highest degree of top-down limitations on their preferred prey. Predation on adult prey had a greater effect on prey population growth rates than predation on non-adults, especially in the dry season. Intermediate-sized prey species experienced the highest predation pressures, while larger prey species were more affected than smaller ones, contrary to the size-nested predation hypothesis. My study represents a first effort in the southern hemisphere to model the demographic impacts of multiple predators on diverse prey species, incorporating seasonal and demographic-specific prey preferences. The findings emphasise the importance of incorporating prey demographics and seasonality in predator-prey studies as these refined studies have implications for the management and conservation of both predator and prey populations. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The determinants of foreign direct investment inflows into South Africa

  • Authors: Campher, Renate
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , South Africa -- Foreign economic relations
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64907 , vital:73958
  • Description: Through mechanisms such as knowledge transfer and productivity spillovers, foreign direct investment (FDI) is viewed as a critical driver of growth in developing economies. The flow of FDI into a country can benefit both the investing entity and the host government. This study employed ordinary least square (OLS) regression to examine the factors that determine FDI in South Africa using time series data from 1996 to 2021. The results demonstrate that gross domestic product (GDP), institutional quality, trade openness, the regulatory environment, and the real effective exchange rate (REER) all have positive effects on FDI flows into South Africa. To sustain and promote FDI inflows, the government of South Africa must ensure that the country remains attractive for investment by better promoting good governance, creating jobs to increase growth, maintaining free and fair elections in 2024, forging alliances with trading partners outside of Africa, speeding up all policy processes that may hinder the inflow of FDI, and decreasing government debt. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The determinants of job satisfaction in the renewable energy sector in South Africa

  • Authors: Mienie, Alice
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa , Work ethic -- South Africa , Work -- Psychological aspects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65175 , vital:74041
  • Description: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within South Africa face unique challenges, including the quality of education of prospective employees, ailing educational infrastructure and a lack of financial support. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the phenomenon, known as the great resignation. During this time a significant number of people quit their jobs, citing various reasons, including poor working conditions, lack of recognition and a toxic work culture. This has highlighted the importance of effective organisational talent management strategies across various industries. The renewable energy sector in South Africa plays a vital role in the government’s National Development Plan 2030, in particular, as it relates to the elimination of poverty. At the same time, employees in all sectors, including the renewable energy sector, are continuously assessing whether their employer is meeting their professional and personal needs. Therefore, ensuring their job satisfaction is a crucial organisational consideration, as job satisfaction has been linked to positive employee outcomes, including motivation, and retention. It is also important for organisations to have a clear idea of the factors that promote job satisfaction. Studies on job satisfaction is limited in the renewable energy sector, specifically in the South African context. For this reason, this study was deemed important in filling this gap. The purpose of this study was to identify the determinants of job satisfaction in an organisation in the renewable energy sector in South Africa. In the past, job satisfaction had been assessed in this organisation using an employee net promotor score (eNPS). It was believed that this measure was limited, as it did not provide an indication of the factors contributing to job satisfaction. A detailed literature review was conducted to understand what job satisfaction entails, the determinants thereof, how it is measured and its impact on , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The development of a continuous improvement culture causal framework to enhance effectiveness in a South African port environment

  • Authors: Schoeman, Nicole Therese
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Continuous improvement process , Organizational change , Corporate culture
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64786 , vital:73908
  • Description: Significant competition challenges confront South Africa's port sector. The sector is also essential to the Eastern Cape Province's economic and social standing. This study was conducted with the objective of helping the port industry in South Africa apply the continuous improvement (CI) philosophy more successfully. The formation of an organisational culture that was conducive to CI was accomplished via the identification of key leadership practices and behaviours. The principal objective of the study was to ascertain, examine, and conduct an empirical examination of the potential impact of diverse leadership practices and behaviours on the culture of the organisation. As a result, the goal of the study was to combine well-researched theories and findings about general organisational culture with more recent findings and firsthand knowledge about CI culture and its significance for the effective execution of CI methodology. Formulating a causal framework for CI culture was the main objective of this work. A literature study was conducted on organisational culture, CI principles, and the port industry. This assessment clearly supported CI as a proven strategy for port industry improvement. One of the main reasons why so many organisations are unable to properly deploy CI is the misalignment of their organisational cultures. Furthermore, there was proof of the crucial part that the conduct and behaviour of leaders might play in the formation of a CI culture. Based on the research study, a framework was created to direct these activities and behaviours. The research methodology used to ultimately create the framework was through an empirical study using a quantitative approach. This quantitative approach was used to evaluate eight hypotheses of this study. Additionally, the validity and reliability of the study was also assessed. The eight major types of leadership actions addressed in this framework, and was tested through the hypotheses, included supportive leadership, process management, employee empowerment, organisational values, reward system, external interaction, customer focus, and future orientation. The association between the eight criteria and the existence of CI culture was then investigated empirically using a structured questionnaire. After this, the data was extensively analysed and statistically scrutinised. The findings showed a substantial positive correlation between the degree of CI culture that was presently in place (dependent variable) and four of the eight categories (independent variables). The four categories were external interaction, process management, organisational values, and supportive leadership. After illustrating these connections, the study's recommendations and conclusions were presented in accordance with the data. The recommendations include improving the framework even more by giving additional information about the precise leadership behaviors connected to each variable and increasing the scope of the study to more than just one sample from one port in South Africa. , Thesis (MEng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Engineering, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The effect of education on youth unemployment in South Africa

  • Authors: Erasmus, Lana
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Youth -- Employment -- South Africa , Unemployed youth -- South Africa , Youth -- South Africa -- Economic conditions
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64975 , vital:73999
  • Description: This study investigates the complex relationship between education and youth unemployment in South Africa, utilising data from the 2021 General Household Survey. Employing Logit and Probit models, the research analyses the impact of various factors on the likelihood of youth unemployment, such as education level, province, gender, age, race, type of institution, internet access, access to electricity, and household income. The findings of the study reveal that having a diploma, undergraduate degree, honours/postgraduate diploma, M-Tech, or master’s degree decreases the probability of youth unemployment. Factors such as being white, belonging to the age groups 25-29 or 30-34, and higher household income also reduce the likelihood of unemployment. However, residing in certain provinces such as Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Northwest, or Limpopo increases the probability of youth unemployment. The sensitivity analysis establishes differences between provinces where mining activities are or are not the main industry. Notable variations include the impact of education on unemployment likelihood and demographic factors affecting different regions. In conclusion, this study contributes valuable insights to policymaking efforts aimed at addressing youth unemployment in South Africa. By examining the intricate connection between education and employment, the research advocates for targeted interventions to bridge the education-employment gap and cultivate a more inclusive labour market for the nation's youth. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The effectiveness of Coega Development Corporation’s financing subsidiary in enabling small and medium enterprise construction projects

  • Authors: Heynes, Vincent Ernest
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Coega Development Corporation , Small business -- Management , Construction industry -- Management , Project managers Project management
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65013 , vital:74006
  • Description: Globally, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the driving force that keeps the economy of a country going and although the overall economic contribution of SMEs is impressive worldwide, in South Africa (SA), there is a high rate of failure amongst SMEs. Although the survival rate is low, South African SMEs contribute up to 22% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the economy. SME funding is a critical component of this growth and access to finance is one of the primary challenges that SMEs face in the country, along with a supportive environment to facilitate SME survival and growth. The formation of what was initially Industrial Development Zones (IDZs), now Special Economic Zones (SEZs), was one instrument introduced by the South African government to bolster the economy through upscaling manufacturing capacity, increase exports and create employment. The first SEZ in SA, Coega, managed by the Coega Development Corporation (CDC), a state-owned enterprise (SoE) based in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) with operations throughout SA. A major shortcoming in the development of the SMEs operating in the SEZ, was the inability to access the project finance required to commence construction projects once they were awarded a tender. The CDC established an internal finance subsidiary, Small Business Finance and Support (SBFS), in June 2014. The aim of this study, therefore, is to explore the effectiveness of the project financing offered by SBFS in enabling the execution of SME construction clients’ projects. The interpretivist paradigm, following a qualitative research approach was chosen to evaluate the effectiveness of the SBFS operations and determine how their funding enabled the completion of construction SME projects. Input was obtained from 20 participants involved in CDC construction projects, namely three Project Managers, three Programme Managers, two Mentors and 12 Clients via telephonic, face to face and virtual Microsoft Teams using self-developed semi-structured interview schedules. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. The trustworthiness of the study was ensured in terms of credibility through triangulation, dependability through the creation of an audit trail, transferability through generalisation of individuals with similarities, and conformability through verification. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The effectiveness of implementing mediation resolutions in Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) in Kariega 1994-2021

  • Authors: Makasi, Lwando
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Volkswagen (Firm) , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63207 , vital:73233
  • Description: This study aimed to generate an in-depth understanding of how the resolutions are being implemented post-mediation process and the labour union, which in this study is the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) and the mediator in the process of managing collective disputes between the employer and employee utilising mediation. The study was limited to the Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) Kariega plant, therefore, the findings are contextually limited to the VWSA Kariega plant. The theoretical frameworks for this study were relative deprivation theory, frustration-aggression theory, Marxism, and dysfunctional and functional social conflict. These were utilised to explore and describe the phenomenon under investigation. This study employed a qualitative method to answer the research questions and address its problem statement. The data were collected through focus group discussions and elite interviews. The study used a purposive sampling technique, and the sample included 33 participants. The primary research question was: Were the agreements mediated at the VWSA Kariega plant effectively implemented between 1994 and 2021? The study’s findings imply that for the effective implementation of mediation resolutions, the following should be considered: implementing resolutions within the given timeframe, parties at mediation adapting and accommodating new technological changes and disasters at the National Bargaining Forum (NBF) level, prioritising the education and training of shop stewards and VWSA management representatives on NBF agreements, including the implementation thereof. Managing pertinent issues concerning NUMSA and the Automobile Manufacturers Employers Organisation (AMEO), interpreting NBF agreements, and ensuring that parties differentiate between the Labour Relations Act No. 66 of 1995 (LRA) and NBF processes. At the policy level, the findings imply that parties need to understand the LRA’s role and the process of resolving conflict utilising the formal processes stipulated in the LRA and why the LRA cannot override the NBF agreement as an informal process of managing conflict. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The effectiveness of the findings of the auditor-general in the control of public funds: a case of Bojanala platinum District Municipality

  • Authors: Tshivhenga, Gilbert
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: South Africa. -- Office of the Auditor-General -- Appropriations and expenditures , Finance, Public South Africa -- Auditing , Expenditures, Public -- Cost effectiveness
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62791 , vital:72957
  • Description: The study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the Auditor-General’s findings in controlling public funds, with specific reference to the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality. The research is comprised of six chapters. The research adopted the qualitative research methodology approach. The study provides academic input into public administration, specifically for improving service delivery performance, control and financial performance management in municipalities. The study could contribute to the establishment of effective methods for monitoring municipalities’ control of public funds. The research also identified several strengths and weaknesses of the BPDM, which are vital for effective and efficient service delivery to the community. It is envisaged that other municipalities in South Africa will learn something from it. Furthermore, this research study envisages promoting the best control of public funds within the BPDM and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery to ensure communities’ well-being and dignity. Based on the findings primarily from the literature review and empirical survey, various recommendations are presented on how the existing status quo of the BPDM can be changed to enhance the better control of public funds, which can assist in service delivery and are aligned with the Batho Pele principles. If these recommendations are adopted, the BPDM will be able to deal with the developmental obstacles it currently faces more effectively and efficiently. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2023
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The effects of late payments by government on building contractors

  • Authors: Piliso, Zhané Mary-Ann
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Contractors , Building -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Finance -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Employees -- Finance -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64761 , vital:73888
  • Description: The built environment in South Africa encounters the challenge of late payment. The issue of late payment has posed a major challenge to the service delivery efforts of government agencies. The delay in remunerating contractors adversely impacts their cash flow and impedes the expansion of their businesses. The construction industry is capital-demanding, and the timely payment of contractors by clients serves to mitigate cash flow challenges experienced by contractors. The main objective of the study was to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of governments late payments to building contractors in the Eastern Cape. The study therefore examined the experiences of building contractors in the Eastern Cape. The secondary objectives were to identify reasons for late payment and how it affects the cash flow of the contractor; to examine the implications of late payment and the effect it has on business growth; and to determine the reasons behind loss of productivity on site caused by late payment. The study was conducted within a quantitative research paradigm. The epistemological stance of the researcher was objectivist. The population for this study consists of building contractors based in the Eastern Cape Province registered with the Masters Builders Association (EC). A probability sample was used to identify the participants in this research. The data was collected using a survey as the primary research strategy. The survey findings suggest that many issues, including inadequate client finance, prolonged processing time for payment documentation, and non-standard payment methods, all lead to delayed payments to the contractor. The findings of the empirical study showed that, despite the lack of particular laws or regulations governing the construction industry’s payment systems, the sector nonetheless uses a number of common guidelines to guide payment practices. The pay-if-paid approach is associated with several limitations, since the contractor cannot always receive full payments as a result of incomplete or defective projects. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The effects of selected samples on the bio-stimulatory capacity and anti-aging effects of red light on human skin cells

  • Authors: Rudolph, Carlen
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Cell culture -- Technique , Dermatologic agents , Collagen , Biochemistry -- Technique
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64347 , vital:73677
  • Description: Photobiomodulation (PBM) has gained a remarkable interest in the cosmeceutical industry, with research demonstrating supporting evidence for its use as anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating strategies. It is defined as photons at a non-thermal irradiance or non-ionizing photonic energy that trigger photochemical changes within the cellular structure to alter certain biological activities. Lasers were the main focus during the developmental years of light-based treatments, but since the introduction of non-ablative, light-emitting diode (LED) devices, the focus has changed because of the reduced concerns associated with lasers, such as costs, ablation cutting, thermally coagulating tissue, no downtime needed after treatment, and no trained staff needed for operation. The precise biochemical mechanism for PBM is still to be elucidated; however, accepted theories suggest that it has an influence on the activity of cytochrome c oxidase, a complex located in the electron transport chain, or on the viscosity of the interfacial water layer (IWL) of the mitochondrial membrane. The interaction of those cellular components with the light then leads to the primary responses of increased ROS, ATP production, and intracellular calcium, which ultimately leads to the stimulation of secondary responses that are desired for skin rejuvenation and anti-aging, such as cell proliferation and collagen production. There is controversy surrounding photobiomodulation (PBM), mostly because of the incomplete understanding behind its biochemical mechanism and the number of parameters that require optimization; however, it still poses as a promising field for research into anti-aging properties, as seen in the literature. Besides the use of devices for skin rejuvenation and anti-aging strategies, it is not uncommon to see plant extracts and other natural products being used in current skin care products for the same reason? This is mostly because of their promising bioactivities, some of which include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, collagen-stimulating, and cell-proliferating activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the bio-stimulatory capacity of red light on skin cells and to evaluate possible effects it could have in combination with samples that already show promising anti-aging properties in research. The samples that were selected for this study are: Aspalathus linearis (rooibos) unfermented extract, L-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate, mangrove bee honey, stingless bee honey, Sargassum oligocystum (brown seaweed) and Ulva fasciata (green seaweed).It was found that red light irradiation did indeed stimulate the primary responses of ROS, ATP production, and intracellular calcium levels in HaCaT keratinocytes, as proposed in the hypothesised theory. However, none of the proposed secondary responses to cell proliferation or collagen production were demonstrated. In fact, the opposite was observed for cell proliferation and collagen production, where red light irradiation seemed to be cytostatic towards Hs27 fibroblast cells and caused significant decreases in collagen production. Red light energy dosages of 10, 20 and 30 J/cm2, yielded different primary responses with 20 and 30 J/cm2 generally causing more significant stimulation than that of 10 J/cm2. It should also be noted that even if the desired secondary responses were not observed in this study, it does not mean that red light does not have the capacity to still stimulate them. It is clear that the responses are energy dosage-dependent, and it is suggested that lower energy dosages could possibly lead to cell proliferation and that longer incubation periods post-irradiation are required before measuring the endpoint of collagen production. For the combination of red light irradiation and selected test samples, it was demonstrated that the order of samples that yielded the best outcomes is: stingless bee honey > mangrove bee honey > U. fasciata > S. oligocystum > 2-PAA > green rooibos. Unexpected results were demonstrated for green rooibos in the presence and absence of red light, which included decreased ATP production and collagen biosynthesis. Further investigation is therefore needed to have a better understanding of these unanticipated results. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The horizontal application of the environmental right to Juristic persons at sea

  • Authors: Maseka, Ntemesha Mwila
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Environmental law--South Africa , Marine Living Resources Act , Marine environment
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctorial theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66098 , vital:74350
  • Description: Due to its vast resources, the ocean has been designated the new “economic frontier”. States are focusing on unlocking this potential to boost economic growth, employment and innovation. Because of their substantial resources, corporations are key actors in driving the development of the ocean economy. Although corporations undeniably contribute significantly to realising the ocean economy’s potential, their main activities—including offshore oil and gas exploration and production and fishing—pose great threats to marine ecosystems. This harm to the marine environment may also threaten and adversely impact many people’s lives, health, well-being, livelihood, culture and traditions. In the South African context, this reality is notably seen through Operation Phakisa. This government initiative aims to unlock the economic potential of the ocean economy to expedite the implementation of solutions to poverty, unemployment and inequality. This race to utilise the oceans and its resources brings to the fore the interaction between the right to have the environment protected and socio-economic development anticipated in section 24 of the South African Constitution. The South African Constitution through section 8(2) acknowledges that non-State actors such as corporations can abuse human rights in horizontal relationships. However, unlike the State, non-State actors are only bound in certain circumstances. Therefore, this thesis examines whether and, if so, to what extent section 24 of the Constitution binds juristic persons at sea. This thesis examines the direct application of international norms to non-State actors to determine how international human rights law addresses non-State actors' conduct that impairs an individual’s guaranteed rights. It was determined that international human rights law has an indirect horizontal effect. This means that in cases where a non-State actor impairs an individual’s human rights, international law permits the victim to hold the State responsible for the violation rather than the non-State actor who was the perpetrator. For a non-State actor to incur direct obligations to uphold certain human rights, the State must create these obligations in its domestic law. The thesis explored how the South African Bill of Rights imposes direct human rights obligations on non-State actors in a horizontal dispute. It was found that whether an entrenched right binds a non-State actor depends on a multi-factor enquiry confirmed by the Constitutional Court. Based on that enquiry, it concluded that the environmental right is capable of and suitable for horizontal application. Furthermore, non-State actors can bear positive and negative constitutional human rights obligations arising from the environmental right. A failure to comply with these obligations would violate this constitutional right. The most significant findings of this thesis pertain to the applicability of South Africa’s human rights law framework at sea. This is because the legal regime applicable at sea differs from that on land. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea assigns jurisdiction to States in the different maritime zones for different purposes. To elucidate South Africa's rights and obligations as delineated in the LOSC, the thesis focused on two examples: the exploitation of marine living resources and the prospection, exploration, and exploitation of marine non-living resources. Subsequently, the extent to which South Africa has taken measures in its domestic law to implement those rights and duties was assessed. In addition, this approach was appropriate because questions concerning the horizontal application of the South African Bill of Rights necessitate contextual analysis and cannot be answered a priori and in the abstract. Using the multi-factor enquiry, the study showed that, in principle, section 24 of the Constitution might bind juristic persons within South Africa’s territorial jurisdiction, exclusive economic zone jurisdiction, continental shelf jurisdiction and under South Africa’s personal jurisdiction. Furthermore, juristic persons who control vessels registered in South Africa or control a vessel entitled to be registered in South Africa but has departed to a place outside South Africa without being registered might also be constitutionally bound based on flag State jurisdiction. The sole means of preventing South Africa from exercising its authority this way requires severing the jurisdictional connection between South Africa and the juristic person. It was recommended that in ocean-related matters, the connecting factor between South Africa and the juristic person must be considered as an additional factor in the enquiry to determine whether a particular right binds that juristic person. Additionally, since the scope of corresponding rights-holders are “everyone”, even people outside South Africa present in places where the juristic person who is the corresponding duty- bearer operates or where their conduct is felt can hold these actors accountable for their constitutional human rights obligations. , Thesis (LLD) -- Faculty of Law, 2024
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The horizontal application of the environmental right to juristic persons at sea

  • Authors: Maseka, Ntemesha Mliwa
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Economic zones (Law of the sea) , Law of the sea , Criminal liability of juristic persons -- South Africa , Environmental Law , Territorial waters
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65739 , vital:74233
  • Description: Due to its vast resources, the ocean has been designated the new “economic frontier”. States are focusing on unlocking this potential to boost economic growth, employment and innovation. Because of their substantial resources, corporations are key actors in driving the development of the ocean economy. Although corporations undeniably contribute significantly to realising the ocean economy’s potential, their main activities—including offshore oil and gas exploration and production and fishing—pose great threats to marine ecosystems. This harm to the marine environment may also threaten and adversely impact many people’s lives, health, well-being, livelihood, culture and traditions. In the South African context, this reality is notably seen through Operation Phakisa. This government initiative aims to unlock the economic potential of the ocean economy to expedite the implementation of solutions to poverty, unemployment and inequality. This race to utilise the oceans and its resources brings to the fore the interaction between the right to have the environment protected and socio-economic development anticipated in section 24 of the South African Constitution. The South African Constitution through section 8(2) acknowledges that non-State actors such as corporations can abuse human rights in horizontal relationships. However, unlike the State, non-State actors are only bound in certain circumstances. Therefore, this thesis examines whether and, if so, to what extent section 24 of the Constitution binds juristic persons at sea. This thesis examines the direct application of international norms to non-State actors to determine how international human rights law addresses non-State actors' conduct that impairs an individual’s guaranteed rights. It was determined that international human rights law has an indirect horizontal effect. This means that in cases where a non-State actor impairs an individual’s human rights, international law permits the victim to hold the State responsible for the violation rather than the non-State actor who was the perpetrator. For a non-State actor to incur direct obligations to uphold certain human rights, the State must create these obligations in its domestic law. The thesis explored how the South African Bill of Rights imposes direct human rights obligations on non-State actors in a horizontal dispute. It was found that whether an entrenched right binds a non-State actor depends on a multi-factor enquiry confirmed by the Constitutional Court. Based on that enquiry, it concluded that the environmental right is capable of and suitable for horizontal application. Furthermore, non-State actors can bear positive and negative constitutional human rights obligations arising from the environmental right. A failure to comply with these obligations would violate this constitutional right. The most significant findings of this thesis pertain to the applicability of South Africa’s human rights law framework at sea. This is because the legal regime applicable at sea differs from that on land. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea assigns jurisdiction to States in the different maritime zones for different purposes. To elucidate South Africa's rights and obligations as delineated in the LOSC, the thesis focused on two examples: the exploitation of marine living resources and the prospection, exploration and exploitation of marine non-living resources. Subsequently, the extent to which South Africa has taken measures in its domestic law to implement those rights and duties was assessed. In addition, this approach was appropriate because questions concerning the horizontal application of the South African Bill of Rights necessitate contextual analysis and cannot be answered a priori and in the abstract. Using the multi-factor enquiry, the study showed that, in principle, section 24 of the Constitution might bind juristic persons within South Africa’s territorial jurisdiction, exclusive economic zone jurisdiction, continental shelf jurisdiction and under South Africa’s personal jurisdiction. Furthermore, juristic persons who control vessels registered in South Africa or control a vessel entitled to be registered in South Africa but has departed to a place outside South Africa without being registered might also be constitutionally bound based on flag State jurisdiction. The sole means of preventing South Africa from exercising its authority this way requires severing the jurisdictional connection between South Africa and the juristic person. It was recommended that in ocean-related matters, the connecting factor between South Africa and the juristic person must be considered as an additional factor in the enquiry to determine whether a particular right binds that juristic person. Additionally, since the scope of corresponding rights-holders are “everyone”, even people outside South Africa present in places where the juristic person who is the corresponding duty-bearer operates or where their conduct is felt can hold these actors accountable for their constitutional human rights obligations. , Thesis (LLD) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Public Law, 2024
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The host potential of wheel-and-axle polyaromatic compounds

  • Authors: Vorgers, Jarryd Allister
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Supramolecular chemistry
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64426 , vital:73704
  • Description: In this work, wheel-and-axle compounds 1,4-phenylene-bis(diphenylmethanol) (H1), 1,4-phenylene-bis(di-p-tolylmethanol) (H2) and 1,4-phenylene-bis(di-p-fluorophenylmethanol) (H3) were investigated for their host behaviour in various pyridyl and heterocyclic guest mixtures. These host compounds were readily synthesized by means of Grignard addition reactions on dimethyl terephthalate, employing the aryl halides bromobenzene for H1 (73% yield), p-bromotoluene for H2 (69%) and p-bromofluorobenzene for H3 (70%). Molecular modelling calculations demonstrated that the various C-C-C angles differed between the computed low energy host conformers and those in the host molecules from their PYR-containing crystal structures. However, specified ‘torsion’ angles were in close agreement. Compound 1,4-phenylene-bis(diphenylmethanol) (H1) possessed the ability to form 1:2 host-guest (H:G) complexes with each of pyridine (PYR) and 2-, 3- and 4-methylpyridine (2MP, 3MP and 4MP). Furthermore, H1 showed preferential behaviour towards PYR and 4MP when presented with various mixtures of these four pyridines. Due to the high selectivity coefficients calculated in many instances (the selectivity coefficient, K, is a measure of the selectivity of a host compound for one particular guest in a mixture), it was demonstrated that H1 would be suitable for separations/purifications for many of the mixtures investigated in this work through host-guest chemistry strategies. (These pyridines are difficult to separate by means of the more conventional fractional distillations because of very similar boiling points.) Single crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) analyses revealed that 4MP and 3MP experienced hydrogen bonds with the host molecule which were similar in distance, while the hydrogen bond distance between H1 and 4MP was shorter than that between H1 and 2MP. Furthermore, the hydrogen bond angles in complexes with the preferred PYR and 4MP guest species were more linear than in those having 2MP and 3MP. Additionally, preferred PYR and 4MP experienced significant π‧‧‧π contacts with nearby guest molecules, while disfavoured 2MP and 3MP did not interact in this fashion. Hirshfeld surface analyses demonstrated that PYR and 4MP (favoured) were involved in a greater percentage of (guest)N‧‧H(host) , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The impact of Basel III higher capital and liquidity requirements on the profitability of South African banks

  • Authors: Mdandalaza, Zuko Ludwig
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Corporations -- Finance -- South Africa , Corporate governance -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctorate , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62355 , vital:72614
  • Description: This study employs a robust quantitative research design meticulously tailored to investigate the nuanced impact of Basel III capital and liquidity requirements on the profitability of South African banks. The data collection process is anchored in a rigorous approach, driven by the acquisition and meticulous review of financial statements sourced from a carefully curated sample of South Africa’s banks. Ensuring the sample’s representativeness is of paramount importance for bolstering the study’s findings. To this end, a purposive sampling technique, distinguished for its deliberate selection methodology, was applied judiciously. This method yielded the selection of 10 banks, chosen carefully to encapsulate a cross-section of the South African banking landscape, so enhancing the research’s validity and robustness. The analysis of this intricate dataset is underpinned by advanced statistical techniques, with regression analysis the principal analytical tool. Specifically, the study harnesses the Arellano-Bond generalised method of moments (GMM), a sophisticated yet versatile statistical methodology appropriate for disentangling complex relationships in longitudinal data. This analytical approach is perfectly suited to trace the nuanced interactions between Basel III’s capital and liquidity requirements and the profitability trajectories of South African banks. Spanning a 12- year timeframe, 2010 to 2022, this study attempts to encapsulate the evolution of the banking landscape in the wake of Basel III’s implementation. This extensive temporal scope enables the research to capture both short-term fluctuations and long-term trends, enriching its insights and lending depth to the analysis. The first objective of this study was to unravel the intricate web of macro-specific and bank-specific factors influencing the profitability of banks in South Africa. Net interest margin (NIM), a pivotal metric reflecting bank profitability and efficiency, was central to the investigation. Empirical insights gleaned from the analysis revealed several key determinants of NIM for South African banks. Notably, NIM displayed a high degree of persistence over time. This suggests that South African banks do not adjust swiftly to changes in market conditions, emphasising the importance for bank managers of considering the long-term repercussions of their decisions on interest, income and expenses. The results also illuminated a set of critical variables closely linked to NIM. These include credit loss, non-interest income, market concentration, stability (Z-score) and inflation. These variables collectively underscored the banks’ ability to navigate the multi-faceted landscape of risks and uncertainties in the banking sector, including credit risk, operational risk, market risk and inflationrisk. The positive relationship between these variables and NIM indicated the banks’ adeptness at passing on costs and risks to customers through higher interest rates or fees, all while leveraging their market power and diversification strategies. Conversely, a negative and significant association emerged between NIM and bank size, GDP per capita, private credit and the repo rate. These variables underscored the competitive pressure and macroeconomic dynamics influencing the demand for and supply of credit in the banking sector. In this context, the negative relationship suggested that larger banks, those operating in more developed and competitive markets, and those encountering lower policy rates, tend to exhibit lower NIM. These banks, due to heightened competition and lower demand for credit, face diminished interest income and narrower margins. Notably, variables like cost-to-income ratio, funding structure and loan-to-deposit ratio did not emerge as significant in explaining NIM for South African banks. This implies that these variables exert a relatively weaker influence on the profitability and efficiency of South African banks, or that their effects are subsumed by other variables in the model. The second objective examined the effect of higher capital buffers on bank profitability. Empirical findings revealed a negative yet statistically insignificant co-efficient for the CET1 variable in the regression analysis. This observation indicated that there is no substantial relationship between Basel III Tier 1 capital ratio (CET1) and bank profitability, as measured by NIM, among South African banks. This suggests that Basel III capital requirements do not have a significant influence on the profitability and efficiency of these banks, or their effect varies depending on other bank-specific or macroeconomic variables. The third objective focused on the effect of Basel III liquidity regulations, epitomised by the liquidity coverage ratio (LCR), on bank profitability in South Africa. Empirical results revealed a negative but statistically insignificant relationship between LCR and NIM. This observation indicates that Basel III liquidity regulations exert no discernible effect on the net interest income of South African banks. This finding could be attributed to the fact that South African banks had already fortified their liquidity positions prior to Basel III implementation, adhering to stringent regulatory requirements and prudent liquidity management practices. As a result, the introduction of LCR did not pose a significant alteration or constraint on the liquidity standing and profitability of South African banks. It also implies that other factors, like market conditions, funding structures or asset compositions, play more pivotal roles than the LCR in shaping the profitability of South African banks. These factors may influence the net interest spread, cost of funds or risk-adjusted returns of these banks. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, School of Economics, 2024
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The impact of Basel III higher capital and liquidity requirements on the profitability of South African banks

  • Authors: Mdandalaza, Zuko Ludwig
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Basel III , Bank capital , Banks and banking, International , International finance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65153 , vital:74038
  • Description: This study employs a robust quantitative research design meticulously tailored to investigate the nuanced impact of Basel III capital and liquidity requirements on the profitability of South African banks. The data collection process is anchored in a rigorous approach, driven by the acquisition and meticulous review of financial statements sourced from a carefully curated sample of South Africa’s banks. Ensuring the sample’s representativeness is of paramount importance for bolstering the study’s findings. To this end, a purposive sampling technique, distinguished for its deliberate selection methodology, was applied judiciously. This method yielded the selection of 10 banks, chosen carefully to encapsulate a cross-section of the South African banking landscape, thus enhancing the research’s validity and robustness. The analysis of this intricate dataset is underpinned by advanced statistical techniques, with regression analysis as the principal analytical tool. Specifically, the study harnesses the Arellano-Bond generalized method of moments (GMM), a sophisticated yet versatile statistical methodology appropriate for disentangling complex relationships in longitudinal data. This analytical approach is perfectly suited to trace the nuanced interactions between Basel III’s capital and liquidity requirements and the profitability trajectories of South African banks. Spanning a 12-year timeframe, 2010 to 2022, this study attempts to encapsulate the evolution of the banking landscape in the wake of Basel III’s implementation. This extensive temporal scope enables the research to capture both short-term fluctuations and long-term trends, enriching its insights and lending depth to the analysis. The first objective of this study was to unravel the intricate web of macro-specific and bank-specific factors influencing the profitability of banks in South Africa. Net interest margin (NIM), a pivotal metric reflecting bank profitability and efficiency, was central to the investigation. Empirical insights gleaned from the analysis revealed several key determinants of NIM for South African banks. Notably, NIM displayed a high degree of persistence over time. This suggests that South African banks do not adjust swiftly to changes in market conditions, emphasizing the importance for bank managers of considering the long-term repercussions of their decisions on interest, income, and expenses. The results also illuminated a set of critical variables closely linked to NIM. These include credit loss, non-interest income, market concentration, stability (Z-score), and inflation. These variables collectively underscored the banks’ ability to navigate the multi-faceted landscape of risks and uncertainties in the banking sector, including credit risk, operational risk, market risk, and inflation risk. The positive relationship between these variables and NIM indicated the banks’ adeptness at passing on costs and risks to customers through higher interest rates or fees, all while leveraging their market power and diversification strategies. Conversely, a negative and significant association emerged between NIM and bank size, GDP per capita, private credit, and the repo rate. These variables underscored the competitive pressure and macroeconomic dynamics influencing the demand for and supply of credit in the banking sector. In this context, the negative relationship suggested that larger banks, those operating in more developed and competitive markets, and those encountering lower policy rates, tend to exhibit lower NIM. These banks, due to heightened competition and lower demand for credit, face diminished interest income and narrower margins. Notably, variables like cost-to-income ratio, funding structure, and loan-to-deposit ratio did not emerge as significant in explaining NIM for South African banks. This implies that these variables exert a relatively weaker influence on the profitability and efficiency of South African banks, or that their effects are subsumed by other variables in the model. The second objective examined the effect of higher capital buffers on bank profitability. Empirical findings revealed a negative yet statistically insignificant co-efficient for the CET1 variable in the regression analysis. This observation indicated that there is no substantial relationship between Basel III Tier 1 capital ratio (CET1) and bank profitability, as measured by NIM, among South African banks. This suggests that Basel III capital requirements do not have a significant influence on the profitability and efficiency of these banks, or their effect varies depending on other bank-specific or macroeconomic variables. The third objective focused on the effect of Basel III liquidity regulations, epitomized by the liquidity coverage ratio (LCR), on bank profitability in South Africa. Empirical results revealed a negative but statistically insignificant relationship between LCR and NIM. This observation indicates that Basel III liquidity regulations exert no discernible effect on the net interest income of South African banks. This finding could be attributed to the fact that South African banks had already fortified their liquidity positions before Basel III implementation, adhering to stringent regulatory requirements and prudent liquidity management practices. As a result, the introduction of LCR did not pose a significant alteration or constraint on the liquidity standing and profitability of South African banks. It also implies that other factors, like market conditions, funding structures, or asset compositions, play more pivotal roles than the LCR in shaping the profitability of South African banks. These factors may influence the net interest spread, cost of funds, or risk-adjusted returns of these banks. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2024
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The impact of covid-19 on SMEs: a case study of the pay-TV installation sector in Johannesburg

  • Authors: Lwabi, Anathi
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Small business -- Management -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Cable television -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65097 , vital:74022
  • Description: Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMES), generally abbreviated as SMEs, are enterprises that have revenues, assets or number of employees that are below a certain level. Each country applies an industry-specific criteria when determining enterprises that meet the definition of an SME (Ward, 2020). According to Faye and Goldblum (2022), SMEs are essential employers, and they are vital in job creation. In creating jobs, SMEs thus, contribute to alleviation of poverty and this leads to an improvement in the standards of living of a country’s inhabitants. Through improved employment levels from job creation contributed by SMEs, a country’s economy also grows. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted to extensive job losses in developing countries because many SMEs contracted their workforce during the pandemic (Faye & Goldblum, 2022). Many non-essential service businesses were prohibited from operating during the pandemic. Governments around the world introduced strict measures to contain the impact of the coronavirus and these included restrictions on travel, business operations and face-to-face interactions (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, 2020). The president of South Africa announced that people needed work permits that would allow them to go to work if they were essential workers, or provided essential services if they were self-employed (Pretorius, 2020). This is how strict the restrictions were, thereby completely blocking non-essential service SMEs from operating. Hence, the objective of the study was to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the Pay TV installation sector in Johannesburg and inferences were made for SMEs in general, with regards to how they were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the research primary and secondary objectives, literature review was conducted, identifying the contribution of SMEs on a country’s social status and economic growth. Other aspects that were reviewed in existing literature included but not limited to factors that contribute to the success and failure of SMEs, challenges faced by SMEs in South Africa, SMEs resilience at times of crises and impact of COVID-19 on SMEs. The study followed a qualitative research approach, and six open-ended questions were asked during the interviews with participants. The aim was to allow participants to express themselves genuinely and authentically to gain a better insight of the impact of COVID-19 on SMEs. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2024-04
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