Improving internal control systems in the public sector: the Eastern Cape department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture
- Authors: Mtshotshisa, Mongezi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Financial management Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32997 , vital:32489
- Description: It is important to note that control weaknesses are of two types. Firstly, design weaknesses are where controls are inadequately designed. Secondly, implementation weaknesses are where controls may be designed very well, but implementation by officials may be inadequate or irregular. Hence this study is about improving internal control systems in the public sector. The objective of this study is to determine how the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture can move from an unqualified audit report to a clean audit report. The researcher found that internal controls are very important in the operations of the department as a whole, especial in financial governance. The internal controls play an integral part in the organisation because all processes need controls as a tool to mitigate against the risks. In order for the department to prevent the emphasis of matter on audit reports or to achieve clean audit report, it must strengthen its internal controls. Although this study did not cover the issues of pre-determined objectives, implementation of internal controls is necessary for the improvement of reporting on performance information. The study concluded that the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture complies with international best practice pertaining to internal controls and financial reporting. The department has a great opportunity to obtain a clean audit report. It also has the potential to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of its internal controls by strengthening the functioning of the internal control committee, risk management committee as well as the finance committee (In Year Monitoring). The executive authority and senior management of the department are the people who should enforce the implementation of internal controls through the use of the internal control function of the department, although the audit committee assists in ensuring the effectiveness of these internal controls.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mtshotshisa, Mongezi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Financial management Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32997 , vital:32489
- Description: It is important to note that control weaknesses are of two types. Firstly, design weaknesses are where controls are inadequately designed. Secondly, implementation weaknesses are where controls may be designed very well, but implementation by officials may be inadequate or irregular. Hence this study is about improving internal control systems in the public sector. The objective of this study is to determine how the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture can move from an unqualified audit report to a clean audit report. The researcher found that internal controls are very important in the operations of the department as a whole, especial in financial governance. The internal controls play an integral part in the organisation because all processes need controls as a tool to mitigate against the risks. In order for the department to prevent the emphasis of matter on audit reports or to achieve clean audit report, it must strengthen its internal controls. Although this study did not cover the issues of pre-determined objectives, implementation of internal controls is necessary for the improvement of reporting on performance information. The study concluded that the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture complies with international best practice pertaining to internal controls and financial reporting. The department has a great opportunity to obtain a clean audit report. It also has the potential to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of its internal controls by strengthening the functioning of the internal control committee, risk management committee as well as the finance committee (In Year Monitoring). The executive authority and senior management of the department are the people who should enforce the implementation of internal controls through the use of the internal control function of the department, although the audit committee assists in ensuring the effectiveness of these internal controls.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Monetary policy and microfinance in Sub-Sahara Africa: Ghana’s perspective
- Authors: Wiredu, Nana Kwame
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- Ghana , Microfinance -- Ghana Ghana -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36037 , vital:33884
- Description: Ghana, like many other developing countries in Sub-Sahara Africa, recognises the important role that the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) play in economic development. These enterprises need an environment conducive to thriving and growth, to contribute to employment and overall output. A key pillar to this is access to affordable credit. Credit in itself is thought to be affected by monetary policy formulated and put forth by the central bank, on behalf of government. The pass-through effect of monetary policy on commercial banking rates, as charged by bank and non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), is a concern for MSMEs. Therefore, this study sought to highlight cause and effects relationship between monetary policy, the lending rate and private sector credit, and also sought to find a possible cushion for MSMEs through the microfinance targeting approach. Annual aggregate monetary time series data from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) was analysed. Multiple linear regression and analysis of variance test results reveal evidence of a significant and proportional effect of both the monetary policy rate and commercial banking rate on credit to the private sector. The key implication of the findings is that the pass-through effect of monetary policy negatively affects MSMEs. The study recommends that governments in Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA), and particularly the government of Ghana, should take into consideration the effects of monetary policy on MSMEs, when formulating monetary policies. It is also recommended that governments in SSA should formulate policies that enhance MSMEs access to adequate and affordable credit to enable it contribute more to economic growth. Perhaps, this can be done through microfinance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Wiredu, Nana Kwame
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- Ghana , Microfinance -- Ghana Ghana -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36037 , vital:33884
- Description: Ghana, like many other developing countries in Sub-Sahara Africa, recognises the important role that the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) play in economic development. These enterprises need an environment conducive to thriving and growth, to contribute to employment and overall output. A key pillar to this is access to affordable credit. Credit in itself is thought to be affected by monetary policy formulated and put forth by the central bank, on behalf of government. The pass-through effect of monetary policy on commercial banking rates, as charged by bank and non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), is a concern for MSMEs. Therefore, this study sought to highlight cause and effects relationship between monetary policy, the lending rate and private sector credit, and also sought to find a possible cushion for MSMEs through the microfinance targeting approach. Annual aggregate monetary time series data from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) was analysed. Multiple linear regression and analysis of variance test results reveal evidence of a significant and proportional effect of both the monetary policy rate and commercial banking rate on credit to the private sector. The key implication of the findings is that the pass-through effect of monetary policy negatively affects MSMEs. The study recommends that governments in Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA), and particularly the government of Ghana, should take into consideration the effects of monetary policy on MSMEs, when formulating monetary policies. It is also recommended that governments in SSA should formulate policies that enhance MSMEs access to adequate and affordable credit to enable it contribute more to economic growth. Perhaps, this can be done through microfinance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Renewable energy project financing for economic growth and development: the case of Zambia
- Authors: Banda, Zondwayo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Economic aspects -- Zambia , Energy industries -- Zambia -- Finance Economic development -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21527 , vital:29533
- Description: Energy is a critical component for the economic growth and development of developing countries. In particular Zambia’s economy requires energy in order to contribute to the reduction of poverty and inequalities in income and gender. Zambia faces an energy deficit which is compounded by lack of adequate financing and low electricity tariffs. The current energy deficit can challenge the achievement of such goals by Zambia. The aim of this research was to explore the impact of renewable energy project financing on Zambia’s economic growth and development. The mixed research methods through the use of questionnaires and interviews were used in achieving the research aim and objectives. In addition primary and secondary data were used as data sources for this research study. The current energy deficit in Zambia has negatively affected all the sectors in Zambia. In order to address the energy deficit, investments in the energy sector particularly through the use of project finance are required as such investments have the potential to improve energy generation, distribution and supply. Zambia has many sources of renewable energy such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass and geothermal making renewable energy project financing as the potential energy source to plug the energy deficit. By extension investments in renewable energy provide an opportunity for investors to expand their businesses and recoup their investments with high returns. Thus many sectors such as health, education, agriculture and service among others would benefit from the increased energy supply thereby improving their operations and spurring economic activities. Furthermore, renewable energy would improve access to energy in both urban and rural areas where electrification rates are as low as 25% and 3% respectively. Despite such positive impacts of renewable energy project the following account for the negative impacts: Externalisation of profits by investors; and, Over dependence on hydro-power. As energy is critical for economic growth and development of Zambia the major recommendations include the following: Seizing Project Finance Opportunities – with the abundance renewable energy resources such as solar, wind, geothermal and biomass, project finance in the form of debt and equity can be utilised to develop and implement renewable energy projects in order to improve energy generation, supply and distribution; Accelerating Renewable Energy Projects - Given the positive impacts of renewable energy project financing on economic growth and development in Zambia, renewable energy projects should be accelerated to result in increased economic growth and development; Removal of Red Tape - The government should reduce the red tape to ensure attraction of investments and implementation of renewable energy projects. Removal of red tape can accelerate investments and implementation of renewable energy projects as was the case in Kenya; Raising Awareness on Renewable Energy Benefits - Making investors and citizens aware (through investment forums and government websites) about the benefits of renewable energy would attract investors but would also allow local people to participate in the implementation of renewable energy projects. Further research – As this research involved organisations and participants in Lusaka province further research involving more participants and organisations outside Lusaka province is required to improve the research results. In addition further research is required to be conducted during reduced levels of energy deficits to improve research results. In this regard the recommendations are aimed at improving energy generation, distribution and supply so as to contribute to the economic growth and development of Zambia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Banda, Zondwayo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Economic aspects -- Zambia , Energy industries -- Zambia -- Finance Economic development -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21527 , vital:29533
- Description: Energy is a critical component for the economic growth and development of developing countries. In particular Zambia’s economy requires energy in order to contribute to the reduction of poverty and inequalities in income and gender. Zambia faces an energy deficit which is compounded by lack of adequate financing and low electricity tariffs. The current energy deficit can challenge the achievement of such goals by Zambia. The aim of this research was to explore the impact of renewable energy project financing on Zambia’s economic growth and development. The mixed research methods through the use of questionnaires and interviews were used in achieving the research aim and objectives. In addition primary and secondary data were used as data sources for this research study. The current energy deficit in Zambia has negatively affected all the sectors in Zambia. In order to address the energy deficit, investments in the energy sector particularly through the use of project finance are required as such investments have the potential to improve energy generation, distribution and supply. Zambia has many sources of renewable energy such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass and geothermal making renewable energy project financing as the potential energy source to plug the energy deficit. By extension investments in renewable energy provide an opportunity for investors to expand their businesses and recoup their investments with high returns. Thus many sectors such as health, education, agriculture and service among others would benefit from the increased energy supply thereby improving their operations and spurring economic activities. Furthermore, renewable energy would improve access to energy in both urban and rural areas where electrification rates are as low as 25% and 3% respectively. Despite such positive impacts of renewable energy project the following account for the negative impacts: Externalisation of profits by investors; and, Over dependence on hydro-power. As energy is critical for economic growth and development of Zambia the major recommendations include the following: Seizing Project Finance Opportunities – with the abundance renewable energy resources such as solar, wind, geothermal and biomass, project finance in the form of debt and equity can be utilised to develop and implement renewable energy projects in order to improve energy generation, supply and distribution; Accelerating Renewable Energy Projects - Given the positive impacts of renewable energy project financing on economic growth and development in Zambia, renewable energy projects should be accelerated to result in increased economic growth and development; Removal of Red Tape - The government should reduce the red tape to ensure attraction of investments and implementation of renewable energy projects. Removal of red tape can accelerate investments and implementation of renewable energy projects as was the case in Kenya; Raising Awareness on Renewable Energy Benefits - Making investors and citizens aware (through investment forums and government websites) about the benefits of renewable energy would attract investors but would also allow local people to participate in the implementation of renewable energy projects. Further research – As this research involved organisations and participants in Lusaka province further research involving more participants and organisations outside Lusaka province is required to improve the research results. In addition further research is required to be conducted during reduced levels of energy deficits to improve research results. In this regard the recommendations are aimed at improving energy generation, distribution and supply so as to contribute to the economic growth and development of Zambia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Ansong, Ama Yiadomaa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa Gross domestic product -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21494 , vital:29527
- Description: Numerous studies have investigated FDI and the possible benefits for African countries in terms of job creation opportunities, technology transfers, growth and development. Despite these potential benefits, FDI also has its negative effects on the host country in terms of market dominance, profit repatriation and loss of tax revenue if tax incentives are offered. In an effort to attract more FDI, host countries have undertaken various policy incentives to attract foreign investors. This study examines the trends and determinants of FDI flows to South Africa and other African countries. The period chosen for this study is from 1990- 2016. The study commences with a background study of FDI and GDP. Various literature offerings and different schools of thought with regard to FDI are also deliberated. To offer a better understanding of the relationship between FDI and GDP, econometric estimation was employed. The econometric estimation methods employed were, Unit Root, Johansen Cointegration, Vector Error Correction (VECM), Impulse Response Test, Variance Decomposition and the Granger Causality Test. Based on Granger causality test it can be concluded that South Africa’s economic growth attracts FDI and not vice versa. South Africa must therefore focus on growing its economy to attract more FDI.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ansong, Ama Yiadomaa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa Gross domestic product -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21494 , vital:29527
- Description: Numerous studies have investigated FDI and the possible benefits for African countries in terms of job creation opportunities, technology transfers, growth and development. Despite these potential benefits, FDI also has its negative effects on the host country in terms of market dominance, profit repatriation and loss of tax revenue if tax incentives are offered. In an effort to attract more FDI, host countries have undertaken various policy incentives to attract foreign investors. This study examines the trends and determinants of FDI flows to South Africa and other African countries. The period chosen for this study is from 1990- 2016. The study commences with a background study of FDI and GDP. Various literature offerings and different schools of thought with regard to FDI are also deliberated. To offer a better understanding of the relationship between FDI and GDP, econometric estimation was employed. The econometric estimation methods employed were, Unit Root, Johansen Cointegration, Vector Error Correction (VECM), Impulse Response Test, Variance Decomposition and the Granger Causality Test. Based on Granger causality test it can be concluded that South Africa’s economic growth attracts FDI and not vice versa. South Africa must therefore focus on growing its economy to attract more FDI.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The implications of landfill closure for waste reclaimers in rural local municipalities : the case of Fort Beaufort landfill, Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality, Eastern Cape South Africa
- Authors: Ntongana, Kwasa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal Sanitary landfills Waste disposal sites -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6027 , vital:29482
- Description: Poverty and unemployment in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape is forcing thousands of vulnerable people into waste picking. There is growing recognition that waste re-claimers contribute to the local economy, to public health and to environmental sustainability. However, they often face low social status, tragic living and working conditions, and little support from local governments. The waste reclaimers of the Raymond Mhlaba Municipal area are unemployed, experiencing a poorer quality of life and feeling even more socially and economically excluded from the rest of society because of the “limitations” on landfill salvaging currently. Moreover, they have developed feelings of resentment and anger that have resulted in defiant acts of trespassing and theft. This social development study highlights the implications of landfill closure for waste salvagers in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. Landfilling has been the main method for municipal waste disposal in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. To combat the effects of uncontrolled release of landfill gases, the uncontrolled release of leachate that may affect water quality many landfills in the Eastern Cape are being considered for close down and for rehabilitation. To consider as well is the socio-economic backlog and anticipated population growth in the province, which means that landfill salvaging will continue to be an important source of revenue for the poor and homeless. This research used observation, semi-structured one-on-one interviewing, focus group interviewing and questionnaires as well as conducted a review of waste management policy-related documents and secondary data analysis in this qualitative research to analyse the social and the economic impacts. The research found that waste reclaimers in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality area disagreed with the closure of the Fort Beaufort landfill because of what the researcher assumed to be a lack of general environmental awareness and because of their vulnerability to poverty. Research findings also highlight that waste reclamation can be considered as a viable option to minimize waste at landfills and waste reclaimers have shown an increasing interest and commitment to being trained formally to continue reclamation work. This study has suggested disadvantages in rural landfill closure, without feasible alternatives. Focus must move away from extending waste collection and closing down landfills and instead improve final disposal and initiating minimisation- recycling programs as part of their strategies through the formation of waste cooperatives. This research suggests formalizing and controlling waste recovery to cater for the immediate and most basic needs of the poor. The recommendations will hopefully influence thinking about waste management policy planning and implementation in general, and be of service to furthering Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality achieve goals of sustainable employment creation and poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ntongana, Kwasa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal Sanitary landfills Waste disposal sites -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6027 , vital:29482
- Description: Poverty and unemployment in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape is forcing thousands of vulnerable people into waste picking. There is growing recognition that waste re-claimers contribute to the local economy, to public health and to environmental sustainability. However, they often face low social status, tragic living and working conditions, and little support from local governments. The waste reclaimers of the Raymond Mhlaba Municipal area are unemployed, experiencing a poorer quality of life and feeling even more socially and economically excluded from the rest of society because of the “limitations” on landfill salvaging currently. Moreover, they have developed feelings of resentment and anger that have resulted in defiant acts of trespassing and theft. This social development study highlights the implications of landfill closure for waste salvagers in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. Landfilling has been the main method for municipal waste disposal in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. To combat the effects of uncontrolled release of landfill gases, the uncontrolled release of leachate that may affect water quality many landfills in the Eastern Cape are being considered for close down and for rehabilitation. To consider as well is the socio-economic backlog and anticipated population growth in the province, which means that landfill salvaging will continue to be an important source of revenue for the poor and homeless. This research used observation, semi-structured one-on-one interviewing, focus group interviewing and questionnaires as well as conducted a review of waste management policy-related documents and secondary data analysis in this qualitative research to analyse the social and the economic impacts. The research found that waste reclaimers in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality area disagreed with the closure of the Fort Beaufort landfill because of what the researcher assumed to be a lack of general environmental awareness and because of their vulnerability to poverty. Research findings also highlight that waste reclamation can be considered as a viable option to minimize waste at landfills and waste reclaimers have shown an increasing interest and commitment to being trained formally to continue reclamation work. This study has suggested disadvantages in rural landfill closure, without feasible alternatives. Focus must move away from extending waste collection and closing down landfills and instead improve final disposal and initiating minimisation- recycling programs as part of their strategies through the formation of waste cooperatives. This research suggests formalizing and controlling waste recovery to cater for the immediate and most basic needs of the poor. The recommendations will hopefully influence thinking about waste management policy planning and implementation in general, and be of service to furthering Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality achieve goals of sustainable employment creation and poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The influence of microfinance lending on economic growth in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Matema, Travy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Microfinance -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Zimbabwe Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31819 , vital:31848
- Description: Given the importance of the potential of microfinance lending as a means of addressing poverty alleviation and fostering economic growth especially in developing countries, this study evaluates the influence of MFI lending on economic growth in Zimbabwe. Hence this study will provide empirical evidence as to whether MFI lending has an influence on economic growth in Zimbabwe. The study employed the Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) Model using quarterly data from 2000- 2016. The stationary tests revealed that the dependent variable was I(1) and the independent variables had mixed stationarity properties l(0) and l(1). The ARDL Bounds Co-integration test showed that there is co-integration between microfinance and economic growth. The findings of the Error Correction Model indicated that microfinance positively influences economic growth. Furthermore, by investing in microfinance lending the economy will be positively influenced within a year’s time. This study provides justification for the pursual of capitalising on microfinance lending as well as for Developmental Institutions and the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe to prioritise funding for microfinance lending.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Matema, Travy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Microfinance -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Zimbabwe Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31819 , vital:31848
- Description: Given the importance of the potential of microfinance lending as a means of addressing poverty alleviation and fostering economic growth especially in developing countries, this study evaluates the influence of MFI lending on economic growth in Zimbabwe. Hence this study will provide empirical evidence as to whether MFI lending has an influence on economic growth in Zimbabwe. The study employed the Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) Model using quarterly data from 2000- 2016. The stationary tests revealed that the dependent variable was I(1) and the independent variables had mixed stationarity properties l(0) and l(1). The ARDL Bounds Co-integration test showed that there is co-integration between microfinance and economic growth. The findings of the Error Correction Model indicated that microfinance positively influences economic growth. Furthermore, by investing in microfinance lending the economy will be positively influenced within a year’s time. This study provides justification for the pursual of capitalising on microfinance lending as well as for Developmental Institutions and the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe to prioritise funding for microfinance lending.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The nature and use of family mediation by social workers in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Rundare, Tichainda Mactilda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Family mediation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Communication in families Families -- Psychological aspects Interpersonal conflict Social workers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Social service -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34844 , vital:33463
- Description: Parental conflict profoundly affects many children globally and in South Africa. In recent times, both the undeveloped and developed countries have witnessed high levels of divorce cases with a resultant negative effect on the children. Poor communication escalates conflict, thereby affecting the decision making of the parents. The ongoing parental conflict commences before the divorce and it is likely to intensify after divorce if not properly managed or resolved. Private family mediators help the parents to regain trust to enable communication regarding contact and care of their children. Therefore, it is imperative to understand how conflict intensifies in order to manage it effectively as conflict introduces change. Despite, the importance of this type of research, there is still an existence of a gap in the literature concerning the need to inform social workers to consider family mediation as an area of specialisation. This will assist in resolving parental disputes during divorce and ensuring the welfare of the children. This study is going to fill the existing knowledge gap by exploring how family mediators influence divorcing parents to renegotiate on the new roles. In this qualitative study, private family mediators in Port Elizabeth were interviewed, on how they assist divorcing parents to communicate on the care and contact of their children. Purposive sampling and snowball sampling were used to select the participants. Face-to-face unstructured interviews were used to gather thick and rich data which was then thematically analysed. The findings revealed that family mediators helped parents improve parent-child relationships and reduce their parental conflicts. In addition, during orientation the mediators informed divorcing parents about litigation, so that the parents are aware of what to expect in the event of failure to reach a settlement in mediation. Most of the people are unaware of family mediation, opting for litigation which escalates emotions and family members become frustrated affecting the adaption of children. The findings show that the participants were concerned on the way mediation is conducted in Port Elizabeth, as some law professionals referred divorce cases to unauthentic mediators. The lawyers tend to intensify the emotional state of the divorcing parties which escalate conflict resulting in re-litigation. The family mediators reiterated that there is “professional jealous” from the lawyers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Rundare, Tichainda Mactilda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Family mediation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Communication in families Families -- Psychological aspects Interpersonal conflict Social workers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Social service -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34844 , vital:33463
- Description: Parental conflict profoundly affects many children globally and in South Africa. In recent times, both the undeveloped and developed countries have witnessed high levels of divorce cases with a resultant negative effect on the children. Poor communication escalates conflict, thereby affecting the decision making of the parents. The ongoing parental conflict commences before the divorce and it is likely to intensify after divorce if not properly managed or resolved. Private family mediators help the parents to regain trust to enable communication regarding contact and care of their children. Therefore, it is imperative to understand how conflict intensifies in order to manage it effectively as conflict introduces change. Despite, the importance of this type of research, there is still an existence of a gap in the literature concerning the need to inform social workers to consider family mediation as an area of specialisation. This will assist in resolving parental disputes during divorce and ensuring the welfare of the children. This study is going to fill the existing knowledge gap by exploring how family mediators influence divorcing parents to renegotiate on the new roles. In this qualitative study, private family mediators in Port Elizabeth were interviewed, on how they assist divorcing parents to communicate on the care and contact of their children. Purposive sampling and snowball sampling were used to select the participants. Face-to-face unstructured interviews were used to gather thick and rich data which was then thematically analysed. The findings revealed that family mediators helped parents improve parent-child relationships and reduce their parental conflicts. In addition, during orientation the mediators informed divorcing parents about litigation, so that the parents are aware of what to expect in the event of failure to reach a settlement in mediation. Most of the people are unaware of family mediation, opting for litigation which escalates emotions and family members become frustrated affecting the adaption of children. The findings show that the participants were concerned on the way mediation is conducted in Port Elizabeth, as some law professionals referred divorce cases to unauthentic mediators. The lawyers tend to intensify the emotional state of the divorcing parties which escalate conflict resulting in re-litigation. The family mediators reiterated that there is “professional jealous” from the lawyers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The perception of Khayelitsha women on socioeconomic gains since 1994
- Authors: Stofile-Hlahla, Linda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Women -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Economic conditions , Empowerment -- Women -- South Africa -- Cape Town Women -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35267 , vital:33688
- Description: Post 1994, empowerment became the buzz word in the South African new dispensation and has been on the agenda of almost every democratic elected South African President including the current one. However, there is a perceived confusion on the meaning of the word as others believe that is a false affirmative action while others believe that it requires enablers and cannot only be individually driven in the absence of such resources. Empowerment in context refers to a process whereby those who has been denied opportunities in terms of making remarkable life choices gains such an ability in terms of power to improve their living state and of those around them. For women, it is a capacity to be dependent in terms of choices such as economic participation through business ventures or choice of marriage and more. However, the reality does not necessary mean that such choices are liveable. The lack of empowerment of women is strongly linked to socio-economic, political, stereotypic tendencies associated with culture and requires some concerted efforts by all including communities since its manifestation affects families, communities and nations. Its plight is mostly evident in the villages, rural communities and townships and as results has draws the attention of the researcher to establish such factors that hinders empowerment of women in the 22 years of democracy. The aim of the study is to establish whether women in Khayelitsha have been able to realise socio economic gains (i.e. economic empowerment) since 1994. This study intends to do so by examining perception of women regarding factors that hamper their economic empowerment in Khayelitsha, Western Cape. Additional to that, is the perception of how government strategies including policies have enhanced their socio-economic participation or discrimination of women to defeat the notion of disempowerment. It will provide recommendations on how the system can be improved to prioritise the needs of the women and later improve implementation of the women empowerment strategies. A sample of 46 focus group participants were identified and the qualitative research approach was exploited to gain first-hand knowledge of such perceptions. The focus group study found that women empowerment is still a far-fetched dream and cannot be achieved until all barriers are removed. Moreover, the government mechanisms to facilitate economic empowerment of women are not known and does not benefit all women. It has also found out that such mechanisms are not the answer to every woman`s troubles. The study recommends the following: Government should intensify policy implementation and expansion of the programmes to reach those poor women where sometimes information does not come to them. Government should intensify accountability checks especial in the grassroots level where most women are found. Women should be afforded opportunities and support to realise their full potential. Young women should be motivated to inculcate the culture of willingness to learn amongst themselves, by being involved in community projects as volunteers. The culture of “Vukuzenzele” need to be strengthened so that people can move away from the culture of dependency. Women need to be enlightened to be involved in their communities. Communities need to be capacitated on the notion of empowerment against the existing government policies and programmes. In case where policy gap is observed, policy review must be embarked on. The playing field need to level against discrimination by gender and capacitate women to take opportunities in areas that are male dominated. Government agencies need to be visible for communities to know their purpose and roles in making government realise its agenda. Access to finance for women should be prioritised for women to establish or expand their businesses. Lastly, Government need to devise means for people to be at the forefront of their development such that; they make informed choices, identify market opportunities, sustainable products and seek information to generate income through self-employment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Stofile-Hlahla, Linda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Women -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Economic conditions , Empowerment -- Women -- South Africa -- Cape Town Women -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35267 , vital:33688
- Description: Post 1994, empowerment became the buzz word in the South African new dispensation and has been on the agenda of almost every democratic elected South African President including the current one. However, there is a perceived confusion on the meaning of the word as others believe that is a false affirmative action while others believe that it requires enablers and cannot only be individually driven in the absence of such resources. Empowerment in context refers to a process whereby those who has been denied opportunities in terms of making remarkable life choices gains such an ability in terms of power to improve their living state and of those around them. For women, it is a capacity to be dependent in terms of choices such as economic participation through business ventures or choice of marriage and more. However, the reality does not necessary mean that such choices are liveable. The lack of empowerment of women is strongly linked to socio-economic, political, stereotypic tendencies associated with culture and requires some concerted efforts by all including communities since its manifestation affects families, communities and nations. Its plight is mostly evident in the villages, rural communities and townships and as results has draws the attention of the researcher to establish such factors that hinders empowerment of women in the 22 years of democracy. The aim of the study is to establish whether women in Khayelitsha have been able to realise socio economic gains (i.e. economic empowerment) since 1994. This study intends to do so by examining perception of women regarding factors that hamper their economic empowerment in Khayelitsha, Western Cape. Additional to that, is the perception of how government strategies including policies have enhanced their socio-economic participation or discrimination of women to defeat the notion of disempowerment. It will provide recommendations on how the system can be improved to prioritise the needs of the women and later improve implementation of the women empowerment strategies. A sample of 46 focus group participants were identified and the qualitative research approach was exploited to gain first-hand knowledge of such perceptions. The focus group study found that women empowerment is still a far-fetched dream and cannot be achieved until all barriers are removed. Moreover, the government mechanisms to facilitate economic empowerment of women are not known and does not benefit all women. It has also found out that such mechanisms are not the answer to every woman`s troubles. The study recommends the following: Government should intensify policy implementation and expansion of the programmes to reach those poor women where sometimes information does not come to them. Government should intensify accountability checks especial in the grassroots level where most women are found. Women should be afforded opportunities and support to realise their full potential. Young women should be motivated to inculcate the culture of willingness to learn amongst themselves, by being involved in community projects as volunteers. The culture of “Vukuzenzele” need to be strengthened so that people can move away from the culture of dependency. Women need to be enlightened to be involved in their communities. Communities need to be capacitated on the notion of empowerment against the existing government policies and programmes. In case where policy gap is observed, policy review must be embarked on. The playing field need to level against discrimination by gender and capacitate women to take opportunities in areas that are male dominated. Government agencies need to be visible for communities to know their purpose and roles in making government realise its agenda. Access to finance for women should be prioritised for women to establish or expand their businesses. Lastly, Government need to devise means for people to be at the forefront of their development such that; they make informed choices, identify market opportunities, sustainable products and seek information to generate income through self-employment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The relevance of conflict management in response to gangsterism: a case study of a community – based organisation in Gelvandale
- Authors: Hiles, Ronel Bernadette
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Gangs -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Community organization -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Port Elizabeth (South Africa) -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22189 , vital:29869
- Description: This research study sought to provide a primary base from which key strategies can be developed to address the gangsterism, drug and violence challenges in Gelvandale, in an effort to bring about peace and stability in this community and the surrounding areas. It also examined at the relevance of conflict management in response to gangsterism and the daily struggles of NGOs and the community. Gangsterism and violence in the Northern Areas have evolved in the last decade to an extent where the police sometimes fear to go and investigate. This problem stems from decades of socio-economic difficulties and a struggle for a better life in the Coloured community. The Group Areas Act of the 1960s still affects people of colour and marginalises them greatly. It is important that Gelvandale and the surrounding areas be recognised as the heart of the gang problem in the EC and that it demands the urgent attention of policy makers, law enforcement and civil society. Many organisations like ES are doing their best to bring about peace in the Northern Areas but it is difficult without the full support and cooperation of the community and especially the police. It is recommended that NMU work together with NGOs and NPOs to give them guidance and training sessions on negotiations, mediations and facilitation. The Northern Areas has a protracted political and social history which deserves more attention, acknowledgement and direction from authorities, policy makers and researchers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Hiles, Ronel Bernadette
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Gangs -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Community organization -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Port Elizabeth (South Africa) -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22189 , vital:29869
- Description: This research study sought to provide a primary base from which key strategies can be developed to address the gangsterism, drug and violence challenges in Gelvandale, in an effort to bring about peace and stability in this community and the surrounding areas. It also examined at the relevance of conflict management in response to gangsterism and the daily struggles of NGOs and the community. Gangsterism and violence in the Northern Areas have evolved in the last decade to an extent where the police sometimes fear to go and investigate. This problem stems from decades of socio-economic difficulties and a struggle for a better life in the Coloured community. The Group Areas Act of the 1960s still affects people of colour and marginalises them greatly. It is important that Gelvandale and the surrounding areas be recognised as the heart of the gang problem in the EC and that it demands the urgent attention of policy makers, law enforcement and civil society. Many organisations like ES are doing their best to bring about peace in the Northern Areas but it is difficult without the full support and cooperation of the community and especially the police. It is recommended that NMU work together with NGOs and NPOs to give them guidance and training sessions on negotiations, mediations and facilitation. The Northern Areas has a protracted political and social history which deserves more attention, acknowledgement and direction from authorities, policy makers and researchers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of microfinance institutions in poverty alleviation in Limpopo province
- Authors: Hlungwani, Kholofelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Small business -- Finance Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30320 , vital:30930
- Description: In many developing nations, the majority of poor people live in rural areas. Yet, most of them do not have access to financial services needed to sustain their living standards. Poverty remains high in many developing nations, despite numerous non-government and government efforts to alleviate poverty through microfinance. Further, poor people are not unique to rural areas; they are present in urban areas too. Poverty remains prevalent and much remains to be done to improve the quality of life for the poor people. This study examines the role of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in poverty alleviation for both rural and urban areas of Limpopo Province. This study was aimed at investigating how MFIs are benefiting low-income earners in the rural and urban areas of Limpopo Province. Mopani District in Limpopo Province was the study area. Forty five MFIs clients were interviewed as well as ten MFIs in the. This study adopted a mixed research approach. Primary data was collected through structured and semi-structured questionnaires, while secondary data was collected from published and unpublished materials. The findings of the study revealed that MFIs operating in Mopani District only provide credit facilities to their clients. The services are provided to all gender, salary earners, pensioners and residents of both rural and urban areas. The interest charges on the credit ranged from 5% to 40%. The collateral security required was certified ID, payslip, bankcard, and proof of residence and personal assets. The study established that those clients that accessed loans from MFIs were able to improve their standard of living through start up and expanding their businesses, paying school fees, building and improving their house and affording private health facilities. The research found out that there are challenges faced by both MFIs and MFIs clients. MFIs indicated that they faced challenges such as increased competition, lack of information about the client, profit performance and attracting low –income clients. However, the clients indicated that MFIs charge high interest rates. The respondents recommend that MFIs could lessen interest rate, increase on the amount given as loans to their clients and assess repayment capabilities before offering loans. For MFIs client’s respondents recommend that to improve the standard of living clients could get investment opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Hlungwani, Kholofelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Small business -- Finance Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30320 , vital:30930
- Description: In many developing nations, the majority of poor people live in rural areas. Yet, most of them do not have access to financial services needed to sustain their living standards. Poverty remains high in many developing nations, despite numerous non-government and government efforts to alleviate poverty through microfinance. Further, poor people are not unique to rural areas; they are present in urban areas too. Poverty remains prevalent and much remains to be done to improve the quality of life for the poor people. This study examines the role of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in poverty alleviation for both rural and urban areas of Limpopo Province. This study was aimed at investigating how MFIs are benefiting low-income earners in the rural and urban areas of Limpopo Province. Mopani District in Limpopo Province was the study area. Forty five MFIs clients were interviewed as well as ten MFIs in the. This study adopted a mixed research approach. Primary data was collected through structured and semi-structured questionnaires, while secondary data was collected from published and unpublished materials. The findings of the study revealed that MFIs operating in Mopani District only provide credit facilities to their clients. The services are provided to all gender, salary earners, pensioners and residents of both rural and urban areas. The interest charges on the credit ranged from 5% to 40%. The collateral security required was certified ID, payslip, bankcard, and proof of residence and personal assets. The study established that those clients that accessed loans from MFIs were able to improve their standard of living through start up and expanding their businesses, paying school fees, building and improving their house and affording private health facilities. The research found out that there are challenges faced by both MFIs and MFIs clients. MFIs indicated that they faced challenges such as increased competition, lack of information about the client, profit performance and attracting low –income clients. However, the clients indicated that MFIs charge high interest rates. The respondents recommend that MFIs could lessen interest rate, increase on the amount given as loans to their clients and assess repayment capabilities before offering loans. For MFIs client’s respondents recommend that to improve the standard of living clients could get investment opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The understanding and adoption of e-finance by small and medium enterprises (SMES)
- Authors: Loleka, Siyasanga
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Small business -- Technological innovations Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22354 , vital:29946
- Description: This study seeks to find out what the understanding and adoption of e-finance is by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The study defines the concepts related to efinance namely, e-services and micro-finance and well as other related IT for development concepts. Firstly, the study identifies benefits of adoption and use of efinance as decreased transaction costs, increased access to financial information and increased access to financial products and services. Secondly the barriers to the adoption of e-finance are identified as poor privacy, security and safety; poor IT telecommunications infrastructure; uncertain IT regulatory and policy and low T training and skills. The results produced by the study confirm a high understanding of e-finance amongst SMEs and all benefits and barriers are confirmed except for one, decreased transaction costs. The study recommends that further research be conducted on this benefit as it may no longer be relevant, especially for developing countries. Limitations of the study include the relatively small sample size and snowballing sampling method used.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Loleka, Siyasanga
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Small business -- Technological innovations Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22354 , vital:29946
- Description: This study seeks to find out what the understanding and adoption of e-finance is by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The study defines the concepts related to efinance namely, e-services and micro-finance and well as other related IT for development concepts. Firstly, the study identifies benefits of adoption and use of efinance as decreased transaction costs, increased access to financial information and increased access to financial products and services. Secondly the barriers to the adoption of e-finance are identified as poor privacy, security and safety; poor IT telecommunications infrastructure; uncertain IT regulatory and policy and low T training and skills. The results produced by the study confirm a high understanding of e-finance amongst SMEs and all benefits and barriers are confirmed except for one, decreased transaction costs. The study recommends that further research be conducted on this benefit as it may no longer be relevant, especially for developing countries. Limitations of the study include the relatively small sample size and snowballing sampling method used.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An analysis of quota conflicts in the fishing industry of the Western Cape: the plight of the small scale fisher sector from 1994 to the present day
- Authors: Green, Michael Anthony
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Small-scale fisheries -- South Africa Fishery policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18838 , vital:28736
- Description: This treatise tracks the sequence of events that took place within the South African Fishing Industry post 1994, and focuses specifically on the plight of the small scale artisanal fisher sector, which operates in the in-shore and near-shore coastal waters of the Western and Southern Cape. In exploring this area of conflict, it focuses on the attempts of this sector to gain official recognition, sanction and inclusion in the country’s statutory framework. It is an intensive investigation into the activities of the various role players, being this fisher sector, various fishing bodies, the government and business, and through personal interactions with these stakeholders, a diverse set of perceptions and perspectives is detailed. Through the use of Participlan methodology, utilised in one-on-one interactions as well as focus group workshops, issues relating to the past, present and future are surfaced, leading to what the different entities believe to be a collective way forward. The dissertation concludes that there is a need for the three entities as defined, to communicate on a formalised basis in order to progress issues relating to the management, protection and sustainability of the in-shore and near-shore fish resources. It shows further that there is a desire and willingness across all these sectors to share ideas and thoughts in a structured environment to establish a common ground and to create a solution to resolve this conflict scenario. Specifically, the study illustrates that the small-scale artisanal fisher sector is a justifiable participant in the fishing industry, warranting recognition and inclusion as a distinct entity in the country’s Marine Living Resources Act.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Green, Michael Anthony
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Small-scale fisheries -- South Africa Fishery policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18838 , vital:28736
- Description: This treatise tracks the sequence of events that took place within the South African Fishing Industry post 1994, and focuses specifically on the plight of the small scale artisanal fisher sector, which operates in the in-shore and near-shore coastal waters of the Western and Southern Cape. In exploring this area of conflict, it focuses on the attempts of this sector to gain official recognition, sanction and inclusion in the country’s statutory framework. It is an intensive investigation into the activities of the various role players, being this fisher sector, various fishing bodies, the government and business, and through personal interactions with these stakeholders, a diverse set of perceptions and perspectives is detailed. Through the use of Participlan methodology, utilised in one-on-one interactions as well as focus group workshops, issues relating to the past, present and future are surfaced, leading to what the different entities believe to be a collective way forward. The dissertation concludes that there is a need for the three entities as defined, to communicate on a formalised basis in order to progress issues relating to the management, protection and sustainability of the in-shore and near-shore fish resources. It shows further that there is a desire and willingness across all these sectors to share ideas and thoughts in a structured environment to establish a common ground and to create a solution to resolve this conflict scenario. Specifically, the study illustrates that the small-scale artisanal fisher sector is a justifiable participant in the fishing industry, warranting recognition and inclusion as a distinct entity in the country’s Marine Living Resources Act.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An exploration of conflict related to land holding entities in the South African land reform process
- Authors: Georghiades, George
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Land reform -- South Africa Land tenure -- South Africa , Conflict management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15600 , vital:28275
- Description: This evaluative study aims to identify and analyse conflicts within the South African land reform process that have manifested within Communal Property Institutions, and so doing, devising and providing a mechanism that will assist conflict practitioners to approach these conflicts in an informed manner. It further intends to provide for an approach in order to restore social justice to the land reform process, and so doing, suggesting resolution mechanisms to assist in the process for the reasons that this restoration of land rights was originally intended. This study further seeks to investigate the causes, actions and consequences of protagonistic land claimants and beneficiaries within the land reform process, who have created conflict within their communal property institutions, at the expense of those beneficiaries who are subsequently deprived of their land rights. According to Coate and Rosati (1988), human needs are a powerful source of explanation of human behaviour and social interaction. All individuals have needs that they strive to satisfy, either by using a system of “acting on the fringes” or acting as a reformist or revolutionary. Given this condition, social systems must be responsive to individual needs, or be subject to instability and forced change, possibly through violence or conflict). Humans need a number of essentials to survive. According to the renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow and the conflict scholar John Burton, these essentials go beyond just food, water, and shelter. They include both physical and non-physical elements needed for human growth and development, as well as all those things humans are innately driven to attain. For Maslow, needs are hierarchical in nature. That is, each need has a specific ranking or order of obtainment. Maslow's needs pyramid starts with the basic items of food, water, and shelter. These are followed by the need for safety and security, then belonging or love, self-esteem, and finally, personal fulfilment (Rothman J, 1997). Burton and other needs theorists who have adopted Maslow's ideas to conflict theory, however, perceive human needs in a different way, being rather as an emergent collection of human development essentials (Burton J, 1990). Furthermore, they contend needs do not have a hierarchical order. Rather, needs are sought simultaneously in an intense and relentless manner (Rothman J, 1997). Needs theorists' list of human essentials include safety, a sense of belonging (love), self esteem, personal fulfilment,identity, cultural security, freedom, distributive justice, and participation. The South African land restoration process relies largely on the Constitution of South Africa (1996), with the preamble thereof as its tenets. The three land reform programmes that emanate from the Constitution are the Land Redistribution Programme, the Land Tenure Reform programme, and the Land Restitution programme, which have been used in this study as the point of departure from which deviations are measured and analysed. A number of Communal property Institutions have been considered, the findings of which have been evaluated, investigated and analysed, in order to achieve the aims of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An exploration of conflict related to land holding entities in the South African land reform process
- Authors: Georghiades, George
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Land reform -- South Africa Land tenure -- South Africa , Conflict management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15600 , vital:28275
- Description: This evaluative study aims to identify and analyse conflicts within the South African land reform process that have manifested within Communal Property Institutions, and so doing, devising and providing a mechanism that will assist conflict practitioners to approach these conflicts in an informed manner. It further intends to provide for an approach in order to restore social justice to the land reform process, and so doing, suggesting resolution mechanisms to assist in the process for the reasons that this restoration of land rights was originally intended. This study further seeks to investigate the causes, actions and consequences of protagonistic land claimants and beneficiaries within the land reform process, who have created conflict within their communal property institutions, at the expense of those beneficiaries who are subsequently deprived of their land rights. According to Coate and Rosati (1988), human needs are a powerful source of explanation of human behaviour and social interaction. All individuals have needs that they strive to satisfy, either by using a system of “acting on the fringes” or acting as a reformist or revolutionary. Given this condition, social systems must be responsive to individual needs, or be subject to instability and forced change, possibly through violence or conflict). Humans need a number of essentials to survive. According to the renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow and the conflict scholar John Burton, these essentials go beyond just food, water, and shelter. They include both physical and non-physical elements needed for human growth and development, as well as all those things humans are innately driven to attain. For Maslow, needs are hierarchical in nature. That is, each need has a specific ranking or order of obtainment. Maslow's needs pyramid starts with the basic items of food, water, and shelter. These are followed by the need for safety and security, then belonging or love, self-esteem, and finally, personal fulfilment (Rothman J, 1997). Burton and other needs theorists who have adopted Maslow's ideas to conflict theory, however, perceive human needs in a different way, being rather as an emergent collection of human development essentials (Burton J, 1990). Furthermore, they contend needs do not have a hierarchical order. Rather, needs are sought simultaneously in an intense and relentless manner (Rothman J, 1997). Needs theorists' list of human essentials include safety, a sense of belonging (love), self esteem, personal fulfilment,identity, cultural security, freedom, distributive justice, and participation. The South African land restoration process relies largely on the Constitution of South Africa (1996), with the preamble thereof as its tenets. The three land reform programmes that emanate from the Constitution are the Land Redistribution Programme, the Land Tenure Reform programme, and the Land Restitution programme, which have been used in this study as the point of departure from which deviations are measured and analysed. A number of Communal property Institutions have been considered, the findings of which have been evaluated, investigated and analysed, in order to achieve the aims of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An investigation of the functional responsibilities of the municipal councillors at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality during the Implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP)
- Authors: Nkombela, Lizwi Eric
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Municipal officials and employees -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Local government -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20132 , vital:29129
- Description: The study is undertaken to investigate the functional responsibilities of the municipal councillors at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality during the implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP). It aims to examine the experiences and perceptions that ward councillors have of their representative and participatory roles, including the support provided by the local government during the implementation of the IDP at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. In the statement of the problem, the researcher has provided the basis and the rationale for this study. This study is undertaken against the backdrop of protest on service delivery as the current local government system struggles to effectively provide basic services to communities, as well as attend to their economic and social development needs. There are various factors that contribute to effective governance of local government, however, for the sake of this research not all of them will be studied by the researcher. The researcher has indicated some of the limitations in this study and will only focus on the ward councillors and their functional responsibilities at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. The contextualization of this study is premised on the existing theoretical, legislative and conceptual views that apply to functional responsibilities of the municipal councillors and these were drawn from various sources to quantitatively obtain the data for this study. The study also explains the research design and methodology applied to elicit information from a sample of 31 ward councillors of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. The quantitative data which was received through questionnaires was presented, analysed and discussed by the researcher. The researcher used the frequency distribution and percentage in order to draw up the conclusions and recommendations. The quantitative data revealed to a greater extent a positive response from the 31 ward councillors regarding their experiences and perceptions of their representative and participatory roles and their understanding of the support provided by the local government during the implementation of the IDP at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nkombela, Lizwi Eric
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Municipal officials and employees -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Local government -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20132 , vital:29129
- Description: The study is undertaken to investigate the functional responsibilities of the municipal councillors at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality during the implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP). It aims to examine the experiences and perceptions that ward councillors have of their representative and participatory roles, including the support provided by the local government during the implementation of the IDP at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. In the statement of the problem, the researcher has provided the basis and the rationale for this study. This study is undertaken against the backdrop of protest on service delivery as the current local government system struggles to effectively provide basic services to communities, as well as attend to their economic and social development needs. There are various factors that contribute to effective governance of local government, however, for the sake of this research not all of them will be studied by the researcher. The researcher has indicated some of the limitations in this study and will only focus on the ward councillors and their functional responsibilities at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. The contextualization of this study is premised on the existing theoretical, legislative and conceptual views that apply to functional responsibilities of the municipal councillors and these were drawn from various sources to quantitatively obtain the data for this study. The study also explains the research design and methodology applied to elicit information from a sample of 31 ward councillors of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. The quantitative data which was received through questionnaires was presented, analysed and discussed by the researcher. The researcher used the frequency distribution and percentage in order to draw up the conclusions and recommendations. The quantitative data revealed to a greater extent a positive response from the 31 ward councillors regarding their experiences and perceptions of their representative and participatory roles and their understanding of the support provided by the local government during the implementation of the IDP at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Challenges in distribution of old age pensions in Lesotho
- Authors: Sejanamane, Nkhahle Daniel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Old age pensions -- Lesotho Aging -- Economic aspects -- Lesotho , Defined contribution pension plans -- Lesotho Retirement income -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20477 , vital:29293
- Description: The research set out to explore the nature of challenges in distribution of old age pensions in Lesotho. Poor institutional capacity failed the implementing agency, the Department of Pensions; to set up competent administrative structures to run run the pensions effectively and efficiently. A number of challenges have been identified, some of which were: inadequate supervision of the paying officers, fraud by workers and community agents, missing funds, insufficient resources, inadequate administrative capacity, overworked employees, faulty targeting, soft and discriminatory approach to non-compliance with rules and multiple use of identity documents by recipients. On the other hand, a number of opportunities have been identified to counteract the challenges. The main recommendation of the study was the engagement of mobile phone-based money transfer facilities to transfer the old age pensions from the government to the recipients. The Department of Pensions should make use of baseline database like information from civil registration agency like the Ministry of Home Affairs to confirm the validity of the pension recipients. Other recommendations included moving the division of old age pensions from the Pensions Department to the Ministry of Social Development which is the controlling body for other forms of social grants in Lesotho. The Ministry of Social Development is regarded as well equipped with qualified staff and facilities to deal with vulnerable people like the elderly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Sejanamane, Nkhahle Daniel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Old age pensions -- Lesotho Aging -- Economic aspects -- Lesotho , Defined contribution pension plans -- Lesotho Retirement income -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20477 , vital:29293
- Description: The research set out to explore the nature of challenges in distribution of old age pensions in Lesotho. Poor institutional capacity failed the implementing agency, the Department of Pensions; to set up competent administrative structures to run run the pensions effectively and efficiently. A number of challenges have been identified, some of which were: inadequate supervision of the paying officers, fraud by workers and community agents, missing funds, insufficient resources, inadequate administrative capacity, overworked employees, faulty targeting, soft and discriminatory approach to non-compliance with rules and multiple use of identity documents by recipients. On the other hand, a number of opportunities have been identified to counteract the challenges. The main recommendation of the study was the engagement of mobile phone-based money transfer facilities to transfer the old age pensions from the government to the recipients. The Department of Pensions should make use of baseline database like information from civil registration agency like the Ministry of Home Affairs to confirm the validity of the pension recipients. Other recommendations included moving the division of old age pensions from the Pensions Department to the Ministry of Social Development which is the controlling body for other forms of social grants in Lesotho. The Ministry of Social Development is regarded as well equipped with qualified staff and facilities to deal with vulnerable people like the elderly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Conflict between local government and civil society pertaining to sanitation in South Africa
- De Ujfalussy, Andrea Benedicta
- Authors: De Ujfalussy, Andrea Benedicta
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sanitation -- South Africa -- Politics and government Conflict management -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14939 , vital:27911
- Description: This study seeks to determine whether the conflict between the City of Cape Town (CCT) and the Social Justice Coalition (SJC) is resulting in positive or negative outcomes from the perspective of the residents concerned. In principle, engagement, between civil society and local government should lead to an improvement in terms of the meeting of needs or wants for those communities whose interests are being contested, or at the very least an improved understanding of the plans and challenges faced by both. Further, the engagement and/or conflict between local government and civil society, if positive, should ideally lead to greater understanding between all stakeholders and the strengthening of relations between them government, civil society and the relevant community interests. The motivation of this study is to explore the unanswered issues such as, whether the SJC has gone beyond the use of acceptable tactics associated with responsible and effective civil society actors and whether it would be justified if they have; if the SJC’s actions have resulted in an actual improvement in the accelerated realization of the socio-economic rights of the communities whose interests they purport to represent; whether the communities ‘represented’ by the SJC see them as their effective advocate for the interests and concerns ; if the issue of sanitation is the primary issue for the residents concerned as claimed by the SJC; if the residents of the communities concerned feel the same animosity to the CCT that the SJC does.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: De Ujfalussy, Andrea Benedicta
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sanitation -- South Africa -- Politics and government Conflict management -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14939 , vital:27911
- Description: This study seeks to determine whether the conflict between the City of Cape Town (CCT) and the Social Justice Coalition (SJC) is resulting in positive or negative outcomes from the perspective of the residents concerned. In principle, engagement, between civil society and local government should lead to an improvement in terms of the meeting of needs or wants for those communities whose interests are being contested, or at the very least an improved understanding of the plans and challenges faced by both. Further, the engagement and/or conflict between local government and civil society, if positive, should ideally lead to greater understanding between all stakeholders and the strengthening of relations between them government, civil society and the relevant community interests. The motivation of this study is to explore the unanswered issues such as, whether the SJC has gone beyond the use of acceptable tactics associated with responsible and effective civil society actors and whether it would be justified if they have; if the SJC’s actions have resulted in an actual improvement in the accelerated realization of the socio-economic rights of the communities whose interests they purport to represent; whether the communities ‘represented’ by the SJC see them as their effective advocate for the interests and concerns ; if the issue of sanitation is the primary issue for the residents concerned as claimed by the SJC; if the residents of the communities concerned feel the same animosity to the CCT that the SJC does.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Credit risk management in development finance institutions and SMME sustainability
- Authors: Derrocks, Velda Charmaine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Credit -- Management Business enterprises -- Finance , Small business -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14862 , vital:27884
- Description: Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) make a significant contribution to the South African Economy. Regardless of size, these businesses have the ability to create employment, make a generous contribution to tax collections, uplift communities and serve as a beacon of hope for those trapped in the cycle of poverty and unemployment. However, SMMEs lack access to much-needed financial resources that are critical for their growth. Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) aim to bridge the gap between the SMME’s financial needs and the development of the respective SMME businesses, by providing funding to entrepreneurs with potentially viable businesses and ideas. Debt funding to these SMMEs are based on sound commercial lending principles that take various non-quantitative variables into account. The sustainability of SMMEs is a primary concern to all participants in the economy, as it is known that SMME failure rates are high Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact that the credit risk management practices of DFIs have on the sustainability of SMMEs, by examining a case study of a typical DFI. An electronic questionnaire survey was considered as an appropriate measurement method for this study. The targeted population of the study included SMMEs in the Eastern Cape that are Trust for Urban Housing (TUHF) clients and 23 SMMEs were identified as part of the study sampling frame. A total number of 14 questionnaires were returned out of the 23 targeted SMMEs - giving a response rate of 61%. The quantitative data was processed using the STATISTICA program, leading to appropriate descriptive statistical analyses. In order to better understand the impact of credit risk management practices on the sustainability of SMMEs, a hypothesis was formulated and linear regression analysis was used to establish the statistical significance of certain credit risk principles and sustainability characteristics. The results of the empirical study revealed that credit risk management practises do impact on the sustainability of SMMEs. Further, by testing the hypothesis, it was also revealed that certain sustainability variables are regarded as more important than others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Derrocks, Velda Charmaine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Credit -- Management Business enterprises -- Finance , Small business -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14862 , vital:27884
- Description: Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) make a significant contribution to the South African Economy. Regardless of size, these businesses have the ability to create employment, make a generous contribution to tax collections, uplift communities and serve as a beacon of hope for those trapped in the cycle of poverty and unemployment. However, SMMEs lack access to much-needed financial resources that are critical for their growth. Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) aim to bridge the gap between the SMME’s financial needs and the development of the respective SMME businesses, by providing funding to entrepreneurs with potentially viable businesses and ideas. Debt funding to these SMMEs are based on sound commercial lending principles that take various non-quantitative variables into account. The sustainability of SMMEs is a primary concern to all participants in the economy, as it is known that SMME failure rates are high Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact that the credit risk management practices of DFIs have on the sustainability of SMMEs, by examining a case study of a typical DFI. An electronic questionnaire survey was considered as an appropriate measurement method for this study. The targeted population of the study included SMMEs in the Eastern Cape that are Trust for Urban Housing (TUHF) clients and 23 SMMEs were identified as part of the study sampling frame. A total number of 14 questionnaires were returned out of the 23 targeted SMMEs - giving a response rate of 61%. The quantitative data was processed using the STATISTICA program, leading to appropriate descriptive statistical analyses. In order to better understand the impact of credit risk management practices on the sustainability of SMMEs, a hypothesis was formulated and linear regression analysis was used to establish the statistical significance of certain credit risk principles and sustainability characteristics. The results of the empirical study revealed that credit risk management practises do impact on the sustainability of SMMEs. Further, by testing the hypothesis, it was also revealed that certain sustainability variables are regarded as more important than others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Donor funds and economic dependence: an investigation of community-driven development in the Eastern Cape, Chris Hani District Municipality
- Authors: Roto, Khanyile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Flow of funds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century South Africa -- Politics and government -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19982 , vital:29017
- Description: This research focused mainly on the progress of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-driven development projects (CDDs) in assisting the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) community. The research identified the main types of CDDs that are found in the CHDM as agricultural, caregivers, manufacturing, tourism, performing arts, and education services. Thirty-eight NGOs participated in this project with two participants representing each NGO. These NGOs were looked at from a thematic perspective. Three main themes emerged, namely; a) the quality of life in CHDM or specifically in the areas of operation of the NGOs, b) operations of the NGOs where the name and main objectives CDDs were identified, and c) challenges, funding and impact of the CDDs. This research set out to ask the following questions: What is the nature and origin of projects operational in Chris Hani District? What is the impact and sustainability of donor-aided projects on CDD in the Chris Hani District? Can NGO projects be sustained without donor aid? Are there any alternative forms of funding apart from donor funds? To answer these questions, a number of qualitative methods and techniques were used to collect and analyse data. These included focus group discussions with project beneficiaries, observations of projects, activities and individual project participants, and key informant interviews with different categories of respondents depending on their roles and level of involvement in the implementation of projects as well as their experience in the implementation of donor-aided programmes. These discussions were guided by different interview schedules with respective respondents. Random and snowball sampling methods were used to choose the respondents as well as groups that participated in the study. The research also focused on assessing the survivability of donor-aided NGO projects if the donor funds were discontinued for any reason. It sought to determine the continuity and feasibility of developmental projects and their impact on the socio- economic welfare of the rural poor in the Chris Hani District without donations. This research found evidence indicating that, by and large, NGOs in the Chris Hani District play a crucial role in CDD. Be that as it may, this research established that on average, 98 per cent of NGOs had been economically and socially affected by the donor-funded projects. It was established that, on average, the donor dependency ratio was 74 per cent. It was also seen that most donor-funded projects could only survive for 12 days if the funding was withdrawn. However, this hypothetical withdrawal of funds does not cause much concern because of the security found in the funding types of the NGOs in the Chris Hani District. In practical terms, these community-driven projects are likely to continue for decades ceteris paribus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Roto, Khanyile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Flow of funds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century South Africa -- Politics and government -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19982 , vital:29017
- Description: This research focused mainly on the progress of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-driven development projects (CDDs) in assisting the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) community. The research identified the main types of CDDs that are found in the CHDM as agricultural, caregivers, manufacturing, tourism, performing arts, and education services. Thirty-eight NGOs participated in this project with two participants representing each NGO. These NGOs were looked at from a thematic perspective. Three main themes emerged, namely; a) the quality of life in CHDM or specifically in the areas of operation of the NGOs, b) operations of the NGOs where the name and main objectives CDDs were identified, and c) challenges, funding and impact of the CDDs. This research set out to ask the following questions: What is the nature and origin of projects operational in Chris Hani District? What is the impact and sustainability of donor-aided projects on CDD in the Chris Hani District? Can NGO projects be sustained without donor aid? Are there any alternative forms of funding apart from donor funds? To answer these questions, a number of qualitative methods and techniques were used to collect and analyse data. These included focus group discussions with project beneficiaries, observations of projects, activities and individual project participants, and key informant interviews with different categories of respondents depending on their roles and level of involvement in the implementation of projects as well as their experience in the implementation of donor-aided programmes. These discussions were guided by different interview schedules with respective respondents. Random and snowball sampling methods were used to choose the respondents as well as groups that participated in the study. The research also focused on assessing the survivability of donor-aided NGO projects if the donor funds were discontinued for any reason. It sought to determine the continuity and feasibility of developmental projects and their impact on the socio- economic welfare of the rural poor in the Chris Hani District without donations. This research found evidence indicating that, by and large, NGOs in the Chris Hani District play a crucial role in CDD. Be that as it may, this research established that on average, 98 per cent of NGOs had been economically and socially affected by the donor-funded projects. It was established that, on average, the donor dependency ratio was 74 per cent. It was also seen that most donor-funded projects could only survive for 12 days if the funding was withdrawn. However, this hypothetical withdrawal of funds does not cause much concern because of the security found in the funding types of the NGOs in the Chris Hani District. In practical terms, these community-driven projects are likely to continue for decades ceteris paribus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Economic development in the Eastern Cape: a case study of agricultural projects
- Authors: Dyalo, Nolutho
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15589 , vital:28274
- Description: This study seeks to evaluate economic development in the Eastern Cape Province, with a special focus on the agricultural sector. It focuses on the role that Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) play in stimulating economic development. To achieve this, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) was considered as a case study in assessing DFI’s support to the agricultural sector in the province. The study will also look into the corporation’s adherence to the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP) and its strategic programmes. The study examines how the agricultural initiatives financed by ECDC contribute to economic development in the province. It will also assess whether those agricultural projects may impact the local communities through poverty alleviation. In order to address the research problem and to achieve the research objectives, available literature and empirical work related to the relationship between financial system development and economic development was reviewed. The research revealed that the role played by the ECDC with regard to Agricultural Projects has not been entirely effective to add value to economic development in the province, mainly caused by the lack of non – financial support by skilled people from the corporation, after limited funding was made available. From the investigation, the findings indicate that the effective mplementation of these projects require strengthened capacity, which requires more skilled officials from the corporation to assist the agricultural enterprises in managing the projects; and more funding that will assist the projects to reach sustainability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Dyalo, Nolutho
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15589 , vital:28274
- Description: This study seeks to evaluate economic development in the Eastern Cape Province, with a special focus on the agricultural sector. It focuses on the role that Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) play in stimulating economic development. To achieve this, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) was considered as a case study in assessing DFI’s support to the agricultural sector in the province. The study will also look into the corporation’s adherence to the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP) and its strategic programmes. The study examines how the agricultural initiatives financed by ECDC contribute to economic development in the province. It will also assess whether those agricultural projects may impact the local communities through poverty alleviation. In order to address the research problem and to achieve the research objectives, available literature and empirical work related to the relationship between financial system development and economic development was reviewed. The research revealed that the role played by the ECDC with regard to Agricultural Projects has not been entirely effective to add value to economic development in the province, mainly caused by the lack of non – financial support by skilled people from the corporation, after limited funding was made available. From the investigation, the findings indicate that the effective mplementation of these projects require strengthened capacity, which requires more skilled officials from the corporation to assist the agricultural enterprises in managing the projects; and more funding that will assist the projects to reach sustainability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring HIV and AIDS workplace programmes in the tourism industry of Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Mahlangeni, Iviwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention and control -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Prevention and control -- South Africa , Tourism -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Health Programmes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9197 , vital:26473
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore and describe HIV and AIDS workplace programmes and policies (WPPs) in the tourism industry of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) in South Africa. This study adopted a quantitative and qualitative approach, in other words, a mixed approach. The reason for using more than one method of inquiry was to obtain a deeper understanding of the tourism industry of NMBM in terms of examined behaviour, and of the meaning of occurrences in the industry. To gather qualitative data concerning HIV and AIDS programmes, key informant stakeholders in the tourism industry at global, national, provincial, and local levels were identified to conduct in-depth interviews. These respondents were selected using the non-probability sampling method of quota sampling. This is a type of stratified sampling in which the selection of the strata within the sample is not random, but rather is typically left to the discretion of the interviewer (Wienclaw, 2015). One respondent for each level of the industry was selected, resulting in four key informant stakeholders participating in the qualitative research component of this study. The initial criterion for participation in the quantitative portion for this study was that tourism businesses based in NMBM must be able to produce robust evidence of HIV and AIDS WPPs. The researcher selected the probability sampling method of stratified random sampling with proportional allocation. This technique considers the known characteristics of the population (Wienclaw, 2015). A database of tourism businesses was obtained from the local tourism organisation, who are members of the governing body for local tourism. This database was cleaned, to eliminate any data that did not meet the participation criterion for the study. Ten per cent of the total number of businesses in the cleaned database were sampled. The simplest approach to sampling is to merely randomly select from the population by, for example, having a computer choose names at random from a list, or by selecting names from a hat (Wienclaw, 2015). Therefore, every fifth business listed on the sampled database was selected to participate. Unfortunately, surveys tend to have notoriously low return rates, and people are frequently reluctant to give out information over the phone. This was also the case for most of the tourism businesses in the sample. When emailed or telephoned, they refused to participate for various reasons. Some stated that HIV does not affect their business; others reported that their businesses were too small and therefore they could not afford to implement these programmes. Some businesses were hearing about the WPP for the very first time, while several others responded with simple disinterest in participating. The findings of the study are that although tourism is viewed as an important industry that contributes to the economy, tourism businesses do not include any intervention programmes with which to respond to the threat of HIV and AIDS to their businesses. Additionally, there is neither leadership nor support from any level of the tourism industry, to create a conducive environment for the adoption of HIV and AIDS WPPs by tourism businesses. The primary reason for the lack of uptake of these programmes is ignorance across cascading levels of the tourism industry, which includes tourism businesses. Additionally, a number of perceived barriers, such as size of business, are cited as the reasons why tourism workplaces in the NMBM fail to participate in HIV and AIDS WPPs. It is anticipated that this study will create further awareness of HIV and AIDS WPPs, in an industry that seems to have limited knowledge about such programmes. This study will also provide guidance regarding the requirements to implement effective HIV and AIDS WPPs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mahlangeni, Iviwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention and control -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Prevention and control -- South Africa , Tourism -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Health Programmes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9197 , vital:26473
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore and describe HIV and AIDS workplace programmes and policies (WPPs) in the tourism industry of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) in South Africa. This study adopted a quantitative and qualitative approach, in other words, a mixed approach. The reason for using more than one method of inquiry was to obtain a deeper understanding of the tourism industry of NMBM in terms of examined behaviour, and of the meaning of occurrences in the industry. To gather qualitative data concerning HIV and AIDS programmes, key informant stakeholders in the tourism industry at global, national, provincial, and local levels were identified to conduct in-depth interviews. These respondents were selected using the non-probability sampling method of quota sampling. This is a type of stratified sampling in which the selection of the strata within the sample is not random, but rather is typically left to the discretion of the interviewer (Wienclaw, 2015). One respondent for each level of the industry was selected, resulting in four key informant stakeholders participating in the qualitative research component of this study. The initial criterion for participation in the quantitative portion for this study was that tourism businesses based in NMBM must be able to produce robust evidence of HIV and AIDS WPPs. The researcher selected the probability sampling method of stratified random sampling with proportional allocation. This technique considers the known characteristics of the population (Wienclaw, 2015). A database of tourism businesses was obtained from the local tourism organisation, who are members of the governing body for local tourism. This database was cleaned, to eliminate any data that did not meet the participation criterion for the study. Ten per cent of the total number of businesses in the cleaned database were sampled. The simplest approach to sampling is to merely randomly select from the population by, for example, having a computer choose names at random from a list, or by selecting names from a hat (Wienclaw, 2015). Therefore, every fifth business listed on the sampled database was selected to participate. Unfortunately, surveys tend to have notoriously low return rates, and people are frequently reluctant to give out information over the phone. This was also the case for most of the tourism businesses in the sample. When emailed or telephoned, they refused to participate for various reasons. Some stated that HIV does not affect their business; others reported that their businesses were too small and therefore they could not afford to implement these programmes. Some businesses were hearing about the WPP for the very first time, while several others responded with simple disinterest in participating. The findings of the study are that although tourism is viewed as an important industry that contributes to the economy, tourism businesses do not include any intervention programmes with which to respond to the threat of HIV and AIDS to their businesses. Additionally, there is neither leadership nor support from any level of the tourism industry, to create a conducive environment for the adoption of HIV and AIDS WPPs by tourism businesses. The primary reason for the lack of uptake of these programmes is ignorance across cascading levels of the tourism industry, which includes tourism businesses. Additionally, a number of perceived barriers, such as size of business, are cited as the reasons why tourism workplaces in the NMBM fail to participate in HIV and AIDS WPPs. It is anticipated that this study will create further awareness of HIV and AIDS WPPs, in an industry that seems to have limited knowledge about such programmes. This study will also provide guidance regarding the requirements to implement effective HIV and AIDS WPPs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017