The reliability of firearm identification in South Africa : a comparative perspective
- Authors: Mutsavi, Tanyarara
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Forensic sciences Firearms -- Identification
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Law
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10850 , vital:35860
- Description: Crime has become a well-known and worrying fact of life in South Africa. It constrains the ability of citizens to participate actively and meaningfully in all spheres of social and economic life. In many cases where a crime is committed, a firearm is involved. In order to fight gun crime there is a need for the perpetrators to be prosecuted. For prosecution to take place, there must be evidence to link the suspects to the committed crime. This is when firearm identification as a form of expert scientific evidence comes into play. This type of evidence links the bullets and cartridges recovered from the crime scene to the suspect.s firearms through the process of matching which is done by using a comparison microscope. Expert scientific evidence like firearm identification evidence, needs to be scientifically reliable because unreliable evidence may lead to the conviction of the innocent and exoneration of the guilty. Case law, authoritative reports and other literature have shown that firearm identification is not scientific and therefore it is not reliable. This is a disturbing position, considering the fact that this type of evidence is still being used in courts and no alternative has been found thus far to replace it. This study therefore proposes some reforms and recommendations which have been registered in authoritative reports which assist South Africa in dealing with firearm identification evidence. To achieve reliability, some writers have suggested that South Africa should adopt the US approach with regard to admissibility where judges play a .gate keeping. role by making sure that expert evidence is reliable before it enters the court. However, this study argues that scientific reliability, in South Africa, should not be a criterion for admissibility, but should rather be a central factor in deciding what weight should be attached to the expert evidence given in a particular case. The reason for this is that, in South Africa, the jury system is not used and therefore the judge does not have to exercise a .gate keeping. role, as he or she will be the final arbiter as to whether the evidence is reliable. In this context, reliability is considered during cross-examination. Cross-examination by the defence is crucial and this study proposes some possible cross-examination questions that can be helpful in testing the reliability of firearm identification evidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mutsavi, Tanyarara
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Forensic sciences Firearms -- Identification
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Law
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10850 , vital:35860
- Description: Crime has become a well-known and worrying fact of life in South Africa. It constrains the ability of citizens to participate actively and meaningfully in all spheres of social and economic life. In many cases where a crime is committed, a firearm is involved. In order to fight gun crime there is a need for the perpetrators to be prosecuted. For prosecution to take place, there must be evidence to link the suspects to the committed crime. This is when firearm identification as a form of expert scientific evidence comes into play. This type of evidence links the bullets and cartridges recovered from the crime scene to the suspect.s firearms through the process of matching which is done by using a comparison microscope. Expert scientific evidence like firearm identification evidence, needs to be scientifically reliable because unreliable evidence may lead to the conviction of the innocent and exoneration of the guilty. Case law, authoritative reports and other literature have shown that firearm identification is not scientific and therefore it is not reliable. This is a disturbing position, considering the fact that this type of evidence is still being used in courts and no alternative has been found thus far to replace it. This study therefore proposes some reforms and recommendations which have been registered in authoritative reports which assist South Africa in dealing with firearm identification evidence. To achieve reliability, some writers have suggested that South Africa should adopt the US approach with regard to admissibility where judges play a .gate keeping. role by making sure that expert evidence is reliable before it enters the court. However, this study argues that scientific reliability, in South Africa, should not be a criterion for admissibility, but should rather be a central factor in deciding what weight should be attached to the expert evidence given in a particular case. The reason for this is that, in South Africa, the jury system is not used and therefore the judge does not have to exercise a .gate keeping. role, as he or she will be the final arbiter as to whether the evidence is reliable. In this context, reliability is considered during cross-examination. Cross-examination by the defence is crucial and this study proposes some possible cross-examination questions that can be helpful in testing the reliability of firearm identification evidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The representation of christian ministers in South African media : a study of Uzalo on South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC 1)
- Authors: Mbilase, Khanyisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Television programs -- South Africa Mass media -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa Mass media -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Communication
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9745 , vital:34909
- Description: This study aimed to evaluate the manner in which Christian Ministers are represented in South African media, a study of Uzalo a South African telenovela airing on SABC1, from Monday to Friday at 20:30 pm. According to the 2017 prime time statistics, the telenovela has attracted more than 9.1 million viewers and with that said the telenovela is assumed to have an extensive impact on the society. The study was conducted at Ntselamanzi village near Alice Town in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality. The study adopted a qualitative method and primary data was collected through focus groups and semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the selected episodes from the drama. The finding of this study revealed that, Christian Ministers in the telenovela are portrayed to be actively involved in criminal activities which then qualifies them to be associated with crime or be called criminals. The study further revealed that, Christian Ministers have commercialised churches as seen by the continuous mushrooming of churches in society. The study concluded that, the media representations of Christian Ministers were biased and focusing only on portraying Christian Ministers negatively. Lastly, framing and cultivation theories were used to explain how the role of Christian Ministers is crafted and presented to the audiences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mbilase, Khanyisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Television programs -- South Africa Mass media -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa Mass media -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Communication
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9745 , vital:34909
- Description: This study aimed to evaluate the manner in which Christian Ministers are represented in South African media, a study of Uzalo a South African telenovela airing on SABC1, from Monday to Friday at 20:30 pm. According to the 2017 prime time statistics, the telenovela has attracted more than 9.1 million viewers and with that said the telenovela is assumed to have an extensive impact on the society. The study was conducted at Ntselamanzi village near Alice Town in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality. The study adopted a qualitative method and primary data was collected through focus groups and semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the selected episodes from the drama. The finding of this study revealed that, Christian Ministers in the telenovela are portrayed to be actively involved in criminal activities which then qualifies them to be associated with crime or be called criminals. The study further revealed that, Christian Ministers have commercialised churches as seen by the continuous mushrooming of churches in society. The study concluded that, the media representations of Christian Ministers were biased and focusing only on portraying Christian Ministers negatively. Lastly, framing and cultivation theories were used to explain how the role of Christian Ministers is crafted and presented to the audiences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The return-to-work policy for injured and diseased workers
- Authors: Keti, Nosicelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employees -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa Workers' compensation Industrial accidents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31064 , vital:31307
- Description: Despite measures undertaken by employers in promoting safety in the workplace, employees become injured or diseased due to work related accidents. When an employee sustains a work related injury or disease that results in their short term or prolonged absence from work, it becomes crucial for the employer to return the injured or diseased employee back to work as quickly as possible. Returning employees back to work as early as possible becomes an important factor in reducing worker’s compensation costs. In South Africa, unlike developed countries like the United Kingdom, there is still a lack or absence of rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes. The lack or absence of suitable rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes that not only ensure that an injured or diseased employee is returned to work, but further enable such injured or diseased employee to attain, keep and progress in employment often results in employees becoming dependent on disability grants or social welfare payments. There is recognition that some effort is required to ensure that employees who have been affected by work related injuries or diseases are returned to gainful employment. The Committee of Inquiry into a Comprehensive System of Social Security for South Africa, in 2002, highlighted that “modern social protection policy making is no longer therapeutic but also pre-emptive and restorative or rehabilitative in nature”. The study investigated the need for the South African government and business to adopt and implement programmes or systems that are targeted at correcting or restoring the damage. This can be achieved through retraining, re-skilling and social integration of the injured or diseased employees. The findings indicate that despite recognition by the Compensation of Occupational Injuries and Disease Act (COIDA) of the need to establish and implement appropriate rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes, such programmes have still not been established in South Africa. There are, however, initiatives directed towards the establishment and implementation of these programmes and these are found in the proposed COIDA amendment Bill which prioritises rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW. Proposed in the Bill, is the imposition of incentives for those employers who successfully implement rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes within their workplaces and penalties against those who fail to comply with the provisions of the proposed Bill. Another relief can be seen in the form of the Road Accident Benefit Scheme (RABS) Bill, which will soon replace the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Unlike the RAF, which is primarily concerned about the compensation of road accident victims through lump sum payments, RABS will particularly focus on rehabilitation and vocational training and will offer payments in a structured manner to not only ensure the continual financial support of the accident victims, but further that the proposed scheme remains sustainable in the long term. Further findings are that although the Constitution of the v Republic of South Africa has adopted an international law friendly approach and the Bill of Rights is in support of the implementation of RTW measures, South African law is not aligned to international and regional standards. South Africa has still not ratified international instruments that promote the early return of injured or diseased employees back to work. In conclusion, South Africa needs to adopt and implement rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW measures or programmes for injured or diseased workers in order to address the high unemployment rate, poverty and dependence on State funded social assistance services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Keti, Nosicelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employees -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa Workers' compensation Industrial accidents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31064 , vital:31307
- Description: Despite measures undertaken by employers in promoting safety in the workplace, employees become injured or diseased due to work related accidents. When an employee sustains a work related injury or disease that results in their short term or prolonged absence from work, it becomes crucial for the employer to return the injured or diseased employee back to work as quickly as possible. Returning employees back to work as early as possible becomes an important factor in reducing worker’s compensation costs. In South Africa, unlike developed countries like the United Kingdom, there is still a lack or absence of rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes. The lack or absence of suitable rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes that not only ensure that an injured or diseased employee is returned to work, but further enable such injured or diseased employee to attain, keep and progress in employment often results in employees becoming dependent on disability grants or social welfare payments. There is recognition that some effort is required to ensure that employees who have been affected by work related injuries or diseases are returned to gainful employment. The Committee of Inquiry into a Comprehensive System of Social Security for South Africa, in 2002, highlighted that “modern social protection policy making is no longer therapeutic but also pre-emptive and restorative or rehabilitative in nature”. The study investigated the need for the South African government and business to adopt and implement programmes or systems that are targeted at correcting or restoring the damage. This can be achieved through retraining, re-skilling and social integration of the injured or diseased employees. The findings indicate that despite recognition by the Compensation of Occupational Injuries and Disease Act (COIDA) of the need to establish and implement appropriate rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes, such programmes have still not been established in South Africa. There are, however, initiatives directed towards the establishment and implementation of these programmes and these are found in the proposed COIDA amendment Bill which prioritises rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW. Proposed in the Bill, is the imposition of incentives for those employers who successfully implement rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes within their workplaces and penalties against those who fail to comply with the provisions of the proposed Bill. Another relief can be seen in the form of the Road Accident Benefit Scheme (RABS) Bill, which will soon replace the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Unlike the RAF, which is primarily concerned about the compensation of road accident victims through lump sum payments, RABS will particularly focus on rehabilitation and vocational training and will offer payments in a structured manner to not only ensure the continual financial support of the accident victims, but further that the proposed scheme remains sustainable in the long term. Further findings are that although the Constitution of the v Republic of South Africa has adopted an international law friendly approach and the Bill of Rights is in support of the implementation of RTW measures, South African law is not aligned to international and regional standards. South Africa has still not ratified international instruments that promote the early return of injured or diseased employees back to work. In conclusion, South Africa needs to adopt and implement rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW measures or programmes for injured or diseased workers in order to address the high unemployment rate, poverty and dependence on State funded social assistance services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The right of access to information as a means to empower citizens to participate in democratic processes : a case study of Zwelitsha, King Williams Town
- Authors: Ngcuka, Simtembile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Freedom of information Freedom of information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , (MPhil)Human Rights
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10839 , vital:35858
- Description: The Republic of South Africa is embedded from a society that has been beleaguered. Apartheid laws were used to treat people unequally, based on race, gander, ethnic group, background, colour, belief, culture and language. These laws prohibited association of people from different races and groups. The education system was also used to instil inferiority to disadvantaged people. This system promoted a culture of secrecy and unresponsive government. The new Constitution of the Republic of South Africa was adopted in 1996. This Constitution promotes democracy and equality amongst citizens of this country. It was also adopted to bridge injustices of the past. Democracy is about allowing every citizen to participate in the processes which are meant for the development of the country. The new Constitution provided that every citizen is equal; this means every citizen must enjoy equal human Rights. This includes the Right to participate in democratic processes which are taking place. Studies show that the Right of Access to Information empowers people to participate in democratic processes. This study examines the exercise in section 32 of the Republic of South Africa Constitution (1996), by Zwelitsha community as means to empower people in participating in democratic processes taking place in their community. This Right is reinforced by Promotion of Access to Information Act No. 2 of 2000 (PAIA). The research reveals that the community of Zwelitsha is not exercising this Right which often leads to violation of other Rights. The exercise of the Right of Access to Information increases awareness and knowledge of other existing Rights, and how they can be realised and defended. The recommendations in the study underscore the need to promote the Right of Access to Information as a means to empower citizens to participate in the democratic processes in their community. This study will take the community a step closer to reaching equality. It will also educate the community of the need and importance of exercising the Right of Access to Information. It will assist the community to be able to protect other Rights. An informed community is an empowered community that can also hold the state to account.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ngcuka, Simtembile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Freedom of information Freedom of information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , (MPhil)Human Rights
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10839 , vital:35858
- Description: The Republic of South Africa is embedded from a society that has been beleaguered. Apartheid laws were used to treat people unequally, based on race, gander, ethnic group, background, colour, belief, culture and language. These laws prohibited association of people from different races and groups. The education system was also used to instil inferiority to disadvantaged people. This system promoted a culture of secrecy and unresponsive government. The new Constitution of the Republic of South Africa was adopted in 1996. This Constitution promotes democracy and equality amongst citizens of this country. It was also adopted to bridge injustices of the past. Democracy is about allowing every citizen to participate in the processes which are meant for the development of the country. The new Constitution provided that every citizen is equal; this means every citizen must enjoy equal human Rights. This includes the Right to participate in democratic processes which are taking place. Studies show that the Right of Access to Information empowers people to participate in democratic processes. This study examines the exercise in section 32 of the Republic of South Africa Constitution (1996), by Zwelitsha community as means to empower people in participating in democratic processes taking place in their community. This Right is reinforced by Promotion of Access to Information Act No. 2 of 2000 (PAIA). The research reveals that the community of Zwelitsha is not exercising this Right which often leads to violation of other Rights. The exercise of the Right of Access to Information increases awareness and knowledge of other existing Rights, and how they can be realised and defended. The recommendations in the study underscore the need to promote the Right of Access to Information as a means to empower citizens to participate in the democratic processes in their community. This study will take the community a step closer to reaching equality. It will also educate the community of the need and importance of exercising the Right of Access to Information. It will assist the community to be able to protect other Rights. An informed community is an empowered community that can also hold the state to account.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The rise and fall of rugby in a South African township : the case study of Mdantsane, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Gaca, Ntobeko Wycliff
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Rugby football -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , African Studies
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10985 , vital:35972
- Description: Rugby is one of the popular sports not only in South Africa but also internationally. Rugby plays a major role in the development of communities. However in the township of Mdantsane which is located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, this sport has been declining over the past two decades, following an initial period of success and stability. In the past, Mdantsane Township was at the forefront in the development and progress of rugby in the country. Some of the prominent rugby players in the country were products of rugby clubs in Mdantsane. This study, therefore focuses on the rise and the fall of rugby in the township of Mdantsane in East London. The main objective of this study being to explore the factors responsible for its rise and fall in Mdantsane Township. This study adopts a qualitative approach to gather empirical data. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used for data collection. The findings of the study pointed to differences in the rugby sport between the period before and after the democratic dispensation in South Africa. The initial success story of rugby was eventually turned into a period of decline. The findings further show that governance, maladministration and transformation, were the main contributing factors of the decline. This study recommends more rugby studies in the township of Mdantsane in order to ascertain what the present role of rugby is in the township.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Gaca, Ntobeko Wycliff
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Rugby football -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , African Studies
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10985 , vital:35972
- Description: Rugby is one of the popular sports not only in South Africa but also internationally. Rugby plays a major role in the development of communities. However in the township of Mdantsane which is located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, this sport has been declining over the past two decades, following an initial period of success and stability. In the past, Mdantsane Township was at the forefront in the development and progress of rugby in the country. Some of the prominent rugby players in the country were products of rugby clubs in Mdantsane. This study, therefore focuses on the rise and the fall of rugby in the township of Mdantsane in East London. The main objective of this study being to explore the factors responsible for its rise and fall in Mdantsane Township. This study adopts a qualitative approach to gather empirical data. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used for data collection. The findings of the study pointed to differences in the rugby sport between the period before and after the democratic dispensation in South Africa. The initial success story of rugby was eventually turned into a period of decline. The findings further show that governance, maladministration and transformation, were the main contributing factors of the decline. This study recommends more rugby studies in the township of Mdantsane in order to ascertain what the present role of rugby is in the township.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of African languages in the South African legal system: towards a transformative agenda
- Authors: Docrat, Zakeera
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Forensic linguistics -- South Africa , Communication in law -- South Africa , Language policy -- South Africa , Linguistic rights -- South Africa , Court interpreting and translating -- South Africa , African languages -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60809 , vital:27833
- Description: This interdisciplinary thesis, partly located in the emerging discipline of forensic linguistics, seeks to investigate the status and use of African languages in the South African legal system and how language can be used as a tool to transform the legal system. The research commences with an overview of the development of African languages in the legal system, pre and post Apartheid. The research proceeds to an overview of scholarly literature concerning the role of legislation, language policy and planning in regulating the use of African languages in the legal system, in order to give effect to South Africa’s constitutional provisions and enable linguistic transformation of the legal system. This research furthermore provides a critique of the constitutional language framework in relation to language rights of litigants in the legal system, when accessing justice through the medium of an African language. To this effect the research advances cases conducted in their entirety in an African language, illustrating that it is both possible and practicable. This research engages critically with the legislative and policy frameworks of the legal system, where issues concerning the equal recognition and use of African languages are highlighted. Language demographics in the form of statistics are provided, illustrative of the fact that the majority of South African’s speak an African language as their mother tongue. Additionally, the statistics provide that litigants in the legal system have poor proficiency in English, the language of record in courts. The research addresses the legislative and policy deficiencies of the non insertion of language requirements for legal practitioners and judicial officers that reflect the language demographics. Furthermore the need for linguistically competent legal practitioners and judicial officers is discussed in giving meaning to the constitutional language rights of litigants. A Canadian comparative jurisprudential case study is advanced, that can be emulated by the South African legal system. The Canadian model offers a precise and effective constitutional, legislative and policy framework where language rights are purposively interpreted in cases conducted in the official languages of the country. Furthermore the Canadian model provides that legal practitioners and judicial officers are linguistically competent in the official languages of the province in which they practice. This thesis highlights the issues hindering real transformation of the legal system, and concludes with recommendations which are both legally and linguistically sound.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Docrat, Zakeera
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Forensic linguistics -- South Africa , Communication in law -- South Africa , Language policy -- South Africa , Linguistic rights -- South Africa , Court interpreting and translating -- South Africa , African languages -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60809 , vital:27833
- Description: This interdisciplinary thesis, partly located in the emerging discipline of forensic linguistics, seeks to investigate the status and use of African languages in the South African legal system and how language can be used as a tool to transform the legal system. The research commences with an overview of the development of African languages in the legal system, pre and post Apartheid. The research proceeds to an overview of scholarly literature concerning the role of legislation, language policy and planning in regulating the use of African languages in the legal system, in order to give effect to South Africa’s constitutional provisions and enable linguistic transformation of the legal system. This research furthermore provides a critique of the constitutional language framework in relation to language rights of litigants in the legal system, when accessing justice through the medium of an African language. To this effect the research advances cases conducted in their entirety in an African language, illustrating that it is both possible and practicable. This research engages critically with the legislative and policy frameworks of the legal system, where issues concerning the equal recognition and use of African languages are highlighted. Language demographics in the form of statistics are provided, illustrative of the fact that the majority of South African’s speak an African language as their mother tongue. Additionally, the statistics provide that litigants in the legal system have poor proficiency in English, the language of record in courts. The research addresses the legislative and policy deficiencies of the non insertion of language requirements for legal practitioners and judicial officers that reflect the language demographics. Furthermore the need for linguistically competent legal practitioners and judicial officers is discussed in giving meaning to the constitutional language rights of litigants. A Canadian comparative jurisprudential case study is advanced, that can be emulated by the South African legal system. The Canadian model offers a precise and effective constitutional, legislative and policy framework where language rights are purposively interpreted in cases conducted in the official languages of the country. Furthermore the Canadian model provides that legal practitioners and judicial officers are linguistically competent in the official languages of the province in which they practice. This thesis highlights the issues hindering real transformation of the legal system, and concludes with recommendations which are both legally and linguistically sound.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of civil society organizations in the consolidation of democracy : cases from Cameroon and South Africa
- Authors: Ayuk, Enu Rene
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Civil Society Organization -- South Africa Social movements Democracy -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M. Soc. Sc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9319 , vital:34321
- Description: This study investigates the role played by civil society organizations in the consolidation of democracy. It is a comparative study between South Africa and Cameroon. This study utilizes the Habermasian critical theory of civil society which emanates from the liberal ideology of democracy. The objectives of the study were to look at the legislations regulating the operation of NGOs, the activities carried out to consolidate democracy and the challenges faced by these organizations in both South Africa and Cameroon. The qualitative method was used for data collection for the study. Interviews were carried out with NGOs officials and the data was analyzed using thematic analyses. The research found out that there is a liberal legislative framework governing the activities of NGOs in South Africa. On the other hand, though Cameroon laws on association seem liberal, a careful study of these laws revealed a concerted effort from the state to constrain the operation of NGOs. NGOs in South Africa carryout activities such as picketing, publicity stunts, human rights awareness campaigns, anti-corruption campaigns, lobbying of parliament, protests, mass mobilization and public interest litigation to consolidate democracy.In Cameroon, NGOs are involved in activities like strike actions, public protest, human rights and anti-corruption campaign as well as public interest litigation to consolidate democracy. However, South African NGOs face challenges like administrative bottlenecks, legal draws backs, sporadic hostility from the state, inadequate funding and lack of staff capacity. In Cameroon, NGOs faced the following challenges; restrictive legal framework, arbitrary arrests and detention of activists, financial constraints, lack of staff capacity, lack of infrastructure, corruption and internal divisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ayuk, Enu Rene
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Civil Society Organization -- South Africa Social movements Democracy -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M. Soc. Sc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9319 , vital:34321
- Description: This study investigates the role played by civil society organizations in the consolidation of democracy. It is a comparative study between South Africa and Cameroon. This study utilizes the Habermasian critical theory of civil society which emanates from the liberal ideology of democracy. The objectives of the study were to look at the legislations regulating the operation of NGOs, the activities carried out to consolidate democracy and the challenges faced by these organizations in both South Africa and Cameroon. The qualitative method was used for data collection for the study. Interviews were carried out with NGOs officials and the data was analyzed using thematic analyses. The research found out that there is a liberal legislative framework governing the activities of NGOs in South Africa. On the other hand, though Cameroon laws on association seem liberal, a careful study of these laws revealed a concerted effort from the state to constrain the operation of NGOs. NGOs in South Africa carryout activities such as picketing, publicity stunts, human rights awareness campaigns, anti-corruption campaigns, lobbying of parliament, protests, mass mobilization and public interest litigation to consolidate democracy.In Cameroon, NGOs are involved in activities like strike actions, public protest, human rights and anti-corruption campaign as well as public interest litigation to consolidate democracy. However, South African NGOs face challenges like administrative bottlenecks, legal draws backs, sporadic hostility from the state, inadequate funding and lack of staff capacity. In Cameroon, NGOs faced the following challenges; restrictive legal framework, arbitrary arrests and detention of activists, financial constraints, lack of staff capacity, lack of infrastructure, corruption and internal divisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of ecological processes in structuring reef fish communities in the Agulhas Ecoregion, South Africa
- Authors: Dyer, Alexander
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Reef fishes -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Reef fishes -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Marine biodiversity -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Biotic communities -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Sparidae -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Reef fishes -- Size -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63899 , vital:28504
- Description: Local, niche-based processes, which arise from the interplay between biotic interactions and abiotic constraints are considered to be important regulators of community structure. However, it is increasingly recognised that patterns of diversity can also be strongly influenced by dispersal-driven processes. While empirical research on the diversity of coral reef fishes on shallow tropical reefs has contributed greatly to the development of general concepts in ecology, there have been considerably fewer studies on the processes which shape the diversity of fish communities on shallow (10 - 30 m) and deep (30 - 75 m) rocky reefs. Consequently, it is less clear at which spatial scales niche partitioning and dispersal limitation contribute most strongly to the structure of reef-associated fish communities within rocky reef ecosystems. To address this caveat, research was conducted at four rocky reef complexes within the warm-temperate Agulhas Ecoregion, South Africa. The diversity of reef-associated fishes was sampled by baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs) to incorporate the range of heterogeneous reef habitat in Tsitsikamma National Park Marine Protected Area (TNP MPA) and Algoa Bay (AB). To examine how niche-based and dispersal-driven processes influence patterns of diversity among species within the dominant family of resident fishes, the sparids (Sparidae), components of diversity were quantified at several spatial scales. Turnover in the number of species which locally co-occurred was found to be largely driven by the limited dispersal of species over hundreds of kilometres. When relative species abundances were taken into account, sparid communities were characterised by higher than expected rates of compositional turnover among local habitat patches separated by hundreds to thousands of metres of contiguous reef. Patterns of compositional turnover were associated with the spatial aggregation of conspecifics, particularly at scales which facilitate the post-settlement dispersal of fishes. Niche-based segregation of species along the depth gradient was found to be the primary driver of compositional turnover among both protected and exploited communities. However, spatial structuring within reefs, which was independent of variation in the environment, suggests that compositional differences among communities are also influenced by the limited post-settlement dispersal of resident fishes to adjacent areas during their ontogeny. Together, the results suggest that the diversity of reef-associated sparids is likely to depend both on an adequate diversity of suitable reef habitat and a sufficient degree of spatial connectivity to facilitate ontogenetic habitat shifts. Taxon-based descriptors of diversity do not adequately account for ecological difference among conspecifics within size-structured populations. To test whether differences in body size facilitated coexistence among sparid fishes, the number of species which coexisted at the local scale was related to variation in the size structure of communities. In communities which have been historically protected from fishing, local coexistence between a greater number of species was promoted by reduced levels of intraspecific variation in size of fishes. This suggests that, among species with similar trophic requirements, further niche segregation along a prey-size and body-size gradient is likely to mitigate the direct impacts of competition for shared food resources. Among exploited communities, size structure did not influence the number of species which coexisted at the local scale. This finding suggests that fishing-induced mortality of larger-bodied fishes is likely to remove some of the constraints to colonisation which arise from asymmetries in competitive fitness between small and large-bodied fishes. Together, these results highlight the importance of post-settlement processes and population size structure to the maintenance of reef-associated fish diversity within contiguous rocky reef habitats.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Dyer, Alexander
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Reef fishes -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Reef fishes -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Marine biodiversity -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Biotic communities -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Sparidae -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Reef fishes -- Size -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63899 , vital:28504
- Description: Local, niche-based processes, which arise from the interplay between biotic interactions and abiotic constraints are considered to be important regulators of community structure. However, it is increasingly recognised that patterns of diversity can also be strongly influenced by dispersal-driven processes. While empirical research on the diversity of coral reef fishes on shallow tropical reefs has contributed greatly to the development of general concepts in ecology, there have been considerably fewer studies on the processes which shape the diversity of fish communities on shallow (10 - 30 m) and deep (30 - 75 m) rocky reefs. Consequently, it is less clear at which spatial scales niche partitioning and dispersal limitation contribute most strongly to the structure of reef-associated fish communities within rocky reef ecosystems. To address this caveat, research was conducted at four rocky reef complexes within the warm-temperate Agulhas Ecoregion, South Africa. The diversity of reef-associated fishes was sampled by baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs) to incorporate the range of heterogeneous reef habitat in Tsitsikamma National Park Marine Protected Area (TNP MPA) and Algoa Bay (AB). To examine how niche-based and dispersal-driven processes influence patterns of diversity among species within the dominant family of resident fishes, the sparids (Sparidae), components of diversity were quantified at several spatial scales. Turnover in the number of species which locally co-occurred was found to be largely driven by the limited dispersal of species over hundreds of kilometres. When relative species abundances were taken into account, sparid communities were characterised by higher than expected rates of compositional turnover among local habitat patches separated by hundreds to thousands of metres of contiguous reef. Patterns of compositional turnover were associated with the spatial aggregation of conspecifics, particularly at scales which facilitate the post-settlement dispersal of fishes. Niche-based segregation of species along the depth gradient was found to be the primary driver of compositional turnover among both protected and exploited communities. However, spatial structuring within reefs, which was independent of variation in the environment, suggests that compositional differences among communities are also influenced by the limited post-settlement dispersal of resident fishes to adjacent areas during their ontogeny. Together, the results suggest that the diversity of reef-associated sparids is likely to depend both on an adequate diversity of suitable reef habitat and a sufficient degree of spatial connectivity to facilitate ontogenetic habitat shifts. Taxon-based descriptors of diversity do not adequately account for ecological difference among conspecifics within size-structured populations. To test whether differences in body size facilitated coexistence among sparid fishes, the number of species which coexisted at the local scale was related to variation in the size structure of communities. In communities which have been historically protected from fishing, local coexistence between a greater number of species was promoted by reduced levels of intraspecific variation in size of fishes. This suggests that, among species with similar trophic requirements, further niche segregation along a prey-size and body-size gradient is likely to mitigate the direct impacts of competition for shared food resources. Among exploited communities, size structure did not influence the number of species which coexisted at the local scale. This finding suggests that fishing-induced mortality of larger-bodied fishes is likely to remove some of the constraints to colonisation which arise from asymmetries in competitive fitness between small and large-bodied fishes. Together, these results highlight the importance of post-settlement processes and population size structure to the maintenance of reef-associated fish diversity within contiguous rocky reef habitats.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of empathy in emotionally intelligent leadership: an integrative review
- Greyling, Candice, De Jager, Marina
- Authors: Greyling, Candice , De Jager, Marina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Emotional intelligence -- Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22123 , vital:29842
- Description: Empathy is regarded as a fundamental interpersonal skill. Interpersonal skills are the life skills that we make use of every day to communicate and interact with other people, both individually and in groups. In this study, empathy is given prominence as a component of emotional intelligence. The concept emotional intelligence has enjoyed great popularity in recent years. In this study leadership denotes any person in a leadership position within an organisation. Extensive research has been done on the impact of emotional intelligence on organisations and leadership. Therefore, the aim of this study is to critically analyse the available evidence and to provide a clear review and synthesis of the role that empathy plays in emotionally intelligent leadership. The methodology used in this study will be that of an integrative review. An integrative review summarises the best-quality empirical evidence of the benefits and limitations of a specific practice to provide recommendations for future research. Data to be reviewed include articles in scholarly journals, books, theses and computerised databases. International and national literature involving both quantitative and qualitative research studies will be reviewed. As both qualitative and quantitative research studies will be of focus in this integrative review, rigour in both research methods was considered. The reviewer also considered four ethical considerations, namely: quality, transparency, honesty and plagiarism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Greyling, Candice , De Jager, Marina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Emotional intelligence -- Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22123 , vital:29842
- Description: Empathy is regarded as a fundamental interpersonal skill. Interpersonal skills are the life skills that we make use of every day to communicate and interact with other people, both individually and in groups. In this study, empathy is given prominence as a component of emotional intelligence. The concept emotional intelligence has enjoyed great popularity in recent years. In this study leadership denotes any person in a leadership position within an organisation. Extensive research has been done on the impact of emotional intelligence on organisations and leadership. Therefore, the aim of this study is to critically analyse the available evidence and to provide a clear review and synthesis of the role that empathy plays in emotionally intelligent leadership. The methodology used in this study will be that of an integrative review. An integrative review summarises the best-quality empirical evidence of the benefits and limitations of a specific practice to provide recommendations for future research. Data to be reviewed include articles in scholarly journals, books, theses and computerised databases. International and national literature involving both quantitative and qualitative research studies will be reviewed. As both qualitative and quantitative research studies will be of focus in this integrative review, rigour in both research methods was considered. The reviewer also considered four ethical considerations, namely: quality, transparency, honesty and plagiarism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of enterprise risk management in the success of South African short-term insurance companies
- Authors: Ntwana, Lwandile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Risk management -- South Africa , Insurance companies -- South Africa Insurance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33758 , vital:33015
- Description: Short-term insurance companies, though they are in a business of managing risks for other companies; they themselves are vulnerable to different types of risks in their operation. The pressure from the Financial Services Board and the ratings agencies has also added to the risk management burden faced by short-term insurance companies. For this study four generic types of risks were identified as the key risks each insurance company needs to focus on in order to ensure success and survival in their operations. Implementation of enterprise risk management framework has thus become a necessity for every short-term insurance company in order to effectively mitigate the complex risks brought by the ever-changing business environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the significance of the relationship between enterprise risk management and the success and survival of the companies in the short-term insurance industry in order to develop and implement strategies to manage risks effectively. This study specifically looked at these types of risks: operational risks, financial risks, market risks and reputational risks; and these have been identified as generic risks that can be used as a guide for companies who intend implementing an enterprise risk management framework. An empirical study was conducted using a population of 45 short-term insurance companies who operate in South Africa; and for this study a response rate of 53% was achieved. The methodology adopted in the study included the research design, research methods and test for tests for validity and reliability. The results were analysed and discussed. The key findings from the empirical study indicated that, there is a relationship between operational risk, market risk and reputational risk; and the success and survival of short-term insurance companies in South Africa. Secondary literature also emphasised the importance of enterprise risk management on the success and survival of short-term insurance companies in South Africa. Adoption and implementation of enterprise risk management remains vital for short-term insurance companies in South Africa as a tool to help manage the very complex risks facing the industry on daily basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ntwana, Lwandile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Risk management -- South Africa , Insurance companies -- South Africa Insurance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33758 , vital:33015
- Description: Short-term insurance companies, though they are in a business of managing risks for other companies; they themselves are vulnerable to different types of risks in their operation. The pressure from the Financial Services Board and the ratings agencies has also added to the risk management burden faced by short-term insurance companies. For this study four generic types of risks were identified as the key risks each insurance company needs to focus on in order to ensure success and survival in their operations. Implementation of enterprise risk management framework has thus become a necessity for every short-term insurance company in order to effectively mitigate the complex risks brought by the ever-changing business environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the significance of the relationship between enterprise risk management and the success and survival of the companies in the short-term insurance industry in order to develop and implement strategies to manage risks effectively. This study specifically looked at these types of risks: operational risks, financial risks, market risks and reputational risks; and these have been identified as generic risks that can be used as a guide for companies who intend implementing an enterprise risk management framework. An empirical study was conducted using a population of 45 short-term insurance companies who operate in South Africa; and for this study a response rate of 53% was achieved. The methodology adopted in the study included the research design, research methods and test for tests for validity and reliability. The results were analysed and discussed. The key findings from the empirical study indicated that, there is a relationship between operational risk, market risk and reputational risk; and the success and survival of short-term insurance companies in South Africa. Secondary literature also emphasised the importance of enterprise risk management on the success and survival of short-term insurance companies in South Africa. Adoption and implementation of enterprise risk management remains vital for short-term insurance companies in South Africa as a tool to help manage the very complex risks facing the industry on daily basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of field and garden cultivation for food security under a changing climate: the case of Fairbairn and Ntloko villages, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Brooks, Haydn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- Economic aspects -- Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Climatic changes -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Food -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/58013 , vital:27019
- Description: The world is becoming more complex due to the increasing occurrence of social-ecological change. This is particularly evident in the developing world, especially on the African continent, where existing vulnerabilities (i.e. endemic poverty, weak governance, overpopulation and HIV/AIDS) are being exacerbated by the impact of climate change. Climate change poses a very real threat to millions of Africans, especially those who rely on the natural world for their livelihoods. The increasing variability of climate and rainfall patterns are said to have dire consequences on agricultural production which is the main livelihood activity of rural dwellers across the continent. The impacts of such change and variability include, changes in the frequency and intensity of droughts, flooding and heavy storms, leading to worsening soil conditions, desertification as well as disease and pest out-breaks which will likely result in reduced crop and livestock yields. A reduction in agricultural production will likely have a negative effect on the food security of millions of people. This study was conducted in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, in two rural villages, Fairbairn and Ntloko located in the former Ciskei homeland, with the purpose of exploring the nexus between climate change, cultivation and food security. This study combined social-ecological thinking with that of political ecology to create a robust lens, in which to analyse the complex interactions between humans and the environment. A mixed methods approach was used to gather the data which consisted of a household survey, using a structured questionnaire as well as semi-structured interviews with various respondents. Quantitative data were analysed using Excel and Statistica 13, whilst coding was used for qualitative data. The main aim of the study was to explore the extent and characteristics of cultivation in the two study sites, the role of household food production in food security as well as the challenges that local cultivator’s face with regards to climate change. In recent decades, there has been a decline in rural agricultural production with many fields that were previously cultivated, lying vacant and unused. However, as this study found, cultivation is still important as over 50% of sampled households cultivated a small area within the homestead. This was mainly done to supplement household food expenditure in order to save cash incomes. The results also found that although participants had perceived negative changes in climate and rainfall (amount, onset, duration), it was not considered the most important challenge for own production. Rather, lack of fencing and capital were seen as major hindrances to efficient own production. Understanding the complexity of own production and food security under a changing climate can help form better and more resilient policies and strategies for rural development, in addition to strengthening future livelihoods of rural people in an ever changing world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Brooks, Haydn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- Economic aspects -- Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Climatic changes -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Food -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/58013 , vital:27019
- Description: The world is becoming more complex due to the increasing occurrence of social-ecological change. This is particularly evident in the developing world, especially on the African continent, where existing vulnerabilities (i.e. endemic poverty, weak governance, overpopulation and HIV/AIDS) are being exacerbated by the impact of climate change. Climate change poses a very real threat to millions of Africans, especially those who rely on the natural world for their livelihoods. The increasing variability of climate and rainfall patterns are said to have dire consequences on agricultural production which is the main livelihood activity of rural dwellers across the continent. The impacts of such change and variability include, changes in the frequency and intensity of droughts, flooding and heavy storms, leading to worsening soil conditions, desertification as well as disease and pest out-breaks which will likely result in reduced crop and livestock yields. A reduction in agricultural production will likely have a negative effect on the food security of millions of people. This study was conducted in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, in two rural villages, Fairbairn and Ntloko located in the former Ciskei homeland, with the purpose of exploring the nexus between climate change, cultivation and food security. This study combined social-ecological thinking with that of political ecology to create a robust lens, in which to analyse the complex interactions between humans and the environment. A mixed methods approach was used to gather the data which consisted of a household survey, using a structured questionnaire as well as semi-structured interviews with various respondents. Quantitative data were analysed using Excel and Statistica 13, whilst coding was used for qualitative data. The main aim of the study was to explore the extent and characteristics of cultivation in the two study sites, the role of household food production in food security as well as the challenges that local cultivator’s face with regards to climate change. In recent decades, there has been a decline in rural agricultural production with many fields that were previously cultivated, lying vacant and unused. However, as this study found, cultivation is still important as over 50% of sampled households cultivated a small area within the homestead. This was mainly done to supplement household food expenditure in order to save cash incomes. The results also found that although participants had perceived negative changes in climate and rainfall (amount, onset, duration), it was not considered the most important challenge for own production. Rather, lack of fencing and capital were seen as major hindrances to efficient own production. Understanding the complexity of own production and food security under a changing climate can help form better and more resilient policies and strategies for rural development, in addition to strengthening future livelihoods of rural people in an ever changing world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of formal education in improving agricultural production: case of lower Gqumashe, Raymond Mhlaba Municipality
- Authors: Jafta, Siwongiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity , Non-formal education , Farmers -- Education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Anthropology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10273 , vital:35387
- Description: This study seeks to examine economic activity using anthropological perspective at Lower Gqumahashe. This settlement possesses natural resources that favour agricultural development. For instance, water resources include Tyhume River, which is the main source of irrigation. Tyhume Rive is the perennial river that runs along the study area. Other possible sources of irrigation are local livestock dams and the main water pipe supplying University of Fort Hare and Alice town. This study is an attempt to determine the impact of formal education on agricultural productivity at Lower Gqumahashe. The study population was female local farmers who were actively involved in agricultural activities during the course of investigation. The researcher used empirical research design. The researcher realized that empirical research design would offer her an opportunity for intense or prolonged contact with research informants in order to have a holistic picture of their behavior. The findings of the study reveal that low level of formal education of farmers impacts negatively on agricultural productivity in the study area. The study recommends that local female farmers should be encouraged to participate in adult basic education using incentives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Jafta, Siwongiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity , Non-formal education , Farmers -- Education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Anthropology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10273 , vital:35387
- Description: This study seeks to examine economic activity using anthropological perspective at Lower Gqumahashe. This settlement possesses natural resources that favour agricultural development. For instance, water resources include Tyhume River, which is the main source of irrigation. Tyhume Rive is the perennial river that runs along the study area. Other possible sources of irrigation are local livestock dams and the main water pipe supplying University of Fort Hare and Alice town. This study is an attempt to determine the impact of formal education on agricultural productivity at Lower Gqumahashe. The study population was female local farmers who were actively involved in agricultural activities during the course of investigation. The researcher used empirical research design. The researcher realized that empirical research design would offer her an opportunity for intense or prolonged contact with research informants in order to have a holistic picture of their behavior. The findings of the study reveal that low level of formal education of farmers impacts negatively on agricultural productivity in the study area. The study recommends that local female farmers should be encouraged to participate in adult basic education using incentives.
- 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 role of migrants in the Pan Africanist struggle for liberation from 1962 to 1963 : the case of Cofimvaba
- Authors: Mwanda, Sindiswa Christina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- History -- 1962-1963 South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1962-1963
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , History
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9883 , vital:35107
- Description: The perspective of South African liberation history needs to be balanced by recalling events that might otherwise be overshadowed by the subsequent electoral dominance of the African National Congress since 1994. This study is concerned with one such: the Cofimvaba struggles of 1962-3 which was organised by Cofimvaba migrants under the ideology of the Pan Africanist Congress. Whereas previous historians have based their accounts mainly on trial records, this thesis strives to recover the migrants’ own perspective through intensive and detailed interviews with the surviving veterans. It aims to provide an accurate historical account of the role played by migrant labourers, thereby correcting the historical distortions arising from overreliance on official sources to record the memories and perceptions of the struggle veterans, as exemplified by transcripts of interviews with and thereby provide some balance to the overall perspective of South African liberation history. The thesis opens with a description of the situation on the ground in Cofimvaba and Western Thembuland which gave rise to resistance. It continues with a discussion of the Pan-African Congress, especially in the Western Cape, the labour centre where most Cofimvaba migrants were concentrated. It proceeds to a detailed narrative of the events in Cofimvaba, more especially the battle of Ntlonze. The final chapter concludes with a critical reassessment of previous historical work, showing that the role of the migrants and the non-elite require greater appreciation and respect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mwanda, Sindiswa Christina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- History -- 1962-1963 South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1962-1963
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , History
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9883 , vital:35107
- Description: The perspective of South African liberation history needs to be balanced by recalling events that might otherwise be overshadowed by the subsequent electoral dominance of the African National Congress since 1994. This study is concerned with one such: the Cofimvaba struggles of 1962-3 which was organised by Cofimvaba migrants under the ideology of the Pan Africanist Congress. Whereas previous historians have based their accounts mainly on trial records, this thesis strives to recover the migrants’ own perspective through intensive and detailed interviews with the surviving veterans. It aims to provide an accurate historical account of the role played by migrant labourers, thereby correcting the historical distortions arising from overreliance on official sources to record the memories and perceptions of the struggle veterans, as exemplified by transcripts of interviews with and thereby provide some balance to the overall perspective of South African liberation history. The thesis opens with a description of the situation on the ground in Cofimvaba and Western Thembuland which gave rise to resistance. It continues with a discussion of the Pan-African Congress, especially in the Western Cape, the labour centre where most Cofimvaba migrants were concentrated. It proceeds to a detailed narrative of the events in Cofimvaba, more especially the battle of Ntlonze. The final chapter concludes with a critical reassessment of previous historical work, showing that the role of the migrants and the non-elite require greater appreciation and respect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of renewable energy projects in solving South Africa’s energy crisis
- Authors: Mjoli, Anthony Lunga
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- South Africa , Wind power -- South Africa Solar energy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32171 , vital:31972
- Description: Renewable energy has played a critical role in improving the economy of South Africa as well as the lives of the citizens. There have been a lot of advantages in using renewable energy such as increased access to electricity, job creation and increased investment. This research project sought to give insight into the effectiveness of renewable energy projects in resolving the nation’s power crises. The research problem was motivated by the power outages that took place in South Africa for close to half a decade between 2010 and 2015. The introduction of renewable energy versus nuclear energy caused wide-spread debates in the business, political and social sectors inter alias. The renewable energy sector started off as a controversial issue across South Africa, with a lot of critics regarding it as an expensive trial and era method of tackling the energy crisis. The researcher purposed to explore on the role of renewable energy projects in solving South Africa’s energy crisis. The specific objectives of the research were to investigate and evaluate how the renewable energy projects contribute to improving the energy supply; to examine the effectiveness of the renewable energy projects in improving the energy supply; and to provide a critical appraisal of the constraints faced renewable energy projects in improving the energy supply in South Africa. The role of renewable energy projects in solving South Africa’s energy crisis is a controversial issue inviting many debates within the realm of scholarship pertaining to energy development. Thus literature was reviewed to give an understanding of the realities associated with the energy status in South Africa at present in order to have an in-depth understanding of the concerns, which need to be dealt with if renewable energy is to play a vital role in the alleviation of the plight of South Africa’s energy crisis. The literature review was part of the secondary data, therefore, the focus thereof led to the adoption of an interpretive stance as the favoured research methodology. A content analysis in case study approach was therefore, used to describe the role of renewable energy projects in solving South Africa’s energy crisis. The research focused on two main renewable energy sources wind and solar energy respectively. The results show that wind energy dominates the RE sector with 3342.59MW of electricity which accounts for approximately 53% of the total production. Solar energy in its various forms accounts for approximately 46% of the total production. Biomass, small hydro and land fill gas account for less than 2% of the total production. The research showed that wind and solar energy are the main renewable energy sources that combat the energy crisis in South Africa. The researcher concluded that there no longer exists a crisis in the South African energy sector. Secondly the researcher concluded that RE has significantly contributed to the energy mix, thereby playing a crucial role in the aversion of the afore-mentioned crisis. Thirdly, the researcher concluded that while the RE sector is growing at an impressive rate, coal will remain the cheapest and dominant source of energy in the foreseeable future of South Africa up to 2050 and possibly beyond.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mjoli, Anthony Lunga
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- South Africa , Wind power -- South Africa Solar energy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32171 , vital:31972
- Description: Renewable energy has played a critical role in improving the economy of South Africa as well as the lives of the citizens. There have been a lot of advantages in using renewable energy such as increased access to electricity, job creation and increased investment. This research project sought to give insight into the effectiveness of renewable energy projects in resolving the nation’s power crises. The research problem was motivated by the power outages that took place in South Africa for close to half a decade between 2010 and 2015. The introduction of renewable energy versus nuclear energy caused wide-spread debates in the business, political and social sectors inter alias. The renewable energy sector started off as a controversial issue across South Africa, with a lot of critics regarding it as an expensive trial and era method of tackling the energy crisis. The researcher purposed to explore on the role of renewable energy projects in solving South Africa’s energy crisis. The specific objectives of the research were to investigate and evaluate how the renewable energy projects contribute to improving the energy supply; to examine the effectiveness of the renewable energy projects in improving the energy supply; and to provide a critical appraisal of the constraints faced renewable energy projects in improving the energy supply in South Africa. The role of renewable energy projects in solving South Africa’s energy crisis is a controversial issue inviting many debates within the realm of scholarship pertaining to energy development. Thus literature was reviewed to give an understanding of the realities associated with the energy status in South Africa at present in order to have an in-depth understanding of the concerns, which need to be dealt with if renewable energy is to play a vital role in the alleviation of the plight of South Africa’s energy crisis. The literature review was part of the secondary data, therefore, the focus thereof led to the adoption of an interpretive stance as the favoured research methodology. A content analysis in case study approach was therefore, used to describe the role of renewable energy projects in solving South Africa’s energy crisis. The research focused on two main renewable energy sources wind and solar energy respectively. The results show that wind energy dominates the RE sector with 3342.59MW of electricity which accounts for approximately 53% of the total production. Solar energy in its various forms accounts for approximately 46% of the total production. Biomass, small hydro and land fill gas account for less than 2% of the total production. The research showed that wind and solar energy are the main renewable energy sources that combat the energy crisis in South Africa. The researcher concluded that there no longer exists a crisis in the South African energy sector. Secondly the researcher concluded that RE has significantly contributed to the energy mix, thereby playing a crucial role in the aversion of the afore-mentioned crisis. Thirdly, the researcher concluded that while the RE sector is growing at an impressive rate, coal will remain the cheapest and dominant source of energy in the foreseeable future of South Africa up to 2050 and possibly beyond.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of the CCMA and bargaining councils in labour dispute resolution
- Authors: Mkalipi, Thembinkosi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration , Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa Collective bargaining -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32182 , vital:31977
- Description: A feature of collective bargaining is that it has a habit of ending in deadlock. However, in the event of a dispute, an aggrieved party is not free to call an immediate strike or lockout. The Labour Relations Act of 1956 and the Labour Relations Act of 1995 (“the LRA”) provided for a strict procedure to be followed in an event of a dispute. The law before 1995 regarded industrial action in the case of a dispute that did not follow the procedure as an illegal act attracting criminal sanction. The law then distinguished between a dispute of right and a dispute of interest. Like many countries, South Africa, has a very violent history regarding the resolution of labour disputes. This is illustrated by the force and brutality that was used to solve the 1913 white miners’ strike after martial law was declared. The reaction of the employers and the state was more brutal. The same violence and brutality were applied in the 1914 railway-workers strike and the 1946 African workers strike. The most important purpose of labour law is to ensure labour peace will prevail in the labour market and to regulate relations between employer and employee. Labour peace ensures that the economy functions effectively and if this happens, society at large benefits greatly. In Chapter 1 of the LRA one of the purposes of the LRA is stated as: “the effective resolution of labour disputes.” This section is intended to give effect section 23(1) of the Constitution, which provide that, ‘‘everyone has the right to fair labour practices’’1. This treatise will analyse the role of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (the CCMA) in dispute resolution; its functions and jurisdiction, ensure labour peace and whether the dispute resolution system provided in the law and implemented by the different dispute resolution institutions have succeeded to advance Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 [1996]. Economic development, social justice, labour peace and the democratisation of the workplace to fulfil the purpose of the LRA. Under the previous Labour Relations Act2 (the “1956 LRA”) disputes were resolved through three main institutions namely, Conciliation Boards, Industrial Councils and the Industrial Court3. A Conciliation Board was on ad hoc - body established by the Minister of Manpower on application by any one of the parties in dispute. There was no requirement for an agreement between the disputing parties to apply for the establishment of a Conciliation Board. Either party could approach the Minister for its establishment. This application could be made on the workers side by one or more registered trade unions, one or more employees, or one or more registered trade unions. On the employer’s side, the application can be made by one or more registered employers’ organisations or, one or more employers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mkalipi, Thembinkosi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa -- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration , Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa Collective bargaining -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32182 , vital:31977
- Description: A feature of collective bargaining is that it has a habit of ending in deadlock. However, in the event of a dispute, an aggrieved party is not free to call an immediate strike or lockout. The Labour Relations Act of 1956 and the Labour Relations Act of 1995 (“the LRA”) provided for a strict procedure to be followed in an event of a dispute. The law before 1995 regarded industrial action in the case of a dispute that did not follow the procedure as an illegal act attracting criminal sanction. The law then distinguished between a dispute of right and a dispute of interest. Like many countries, South Africa, has a very violent history regarding the resolution of labour disputes. This is illustrated by the force and brutality that was used to solve the 1913 white miners’ strike after martial law was declared. The reaction of the employers and the state was more brutal. The same violence and brutality were applied in the 1914 railway-workers strike and the 1946 African workers strike. The most important purpose of labour law is to ensure labour peace will prevail in the labour market and to regulate relations between employer and employee. Labour peace ensures that the economy functions effectively and if this happens, society at large benefits greatly. In Chapter 1 of the LRA one of the purposes of the LRA is stated as: “the effective resolution of labour disputes.” This section is intended to give effect section 23(1) of the Constitution, which provide that, ‘‘everyone has the right to fair labour practices’’1. This treatise will analyse the role of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (the CCMA) in dispute resolution; its functions and jurisdiction, ensure labour peace and whether the dispute resolution system provided in the law and implemented by the different dispute resolution institutions have succeeded to advance Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 [1996]. Economic development, social justice, labour peace and the democratisation of the workplace to fulfil the purpose of the LRA. Under the previous Labour Relations Act2 (the “1956 LRA”) disputes were resolved through three main institutions namely, Conciliation Boards, Industrial Councils and the Industrial Court3. A Conciliation Board was on ad hoc - body established by the Minister of Manpower on application by any one of the parties in dispute. There was no requirement for an agreement between the disputing parties to apply for the establishment of a Conciliation Board. Either party could approach the Minister for its establishment. This application could be made on the workers side by one or more registered trade unions, one or more employees, or one or more registered trade unions. On the employer’s side, the application can be made by one or more registered employers’ organisations or, one or more employers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of the school management team in ensuring quality education: a case study of the iQonce high school in the Buffalo City Metro Education District in Eastern Cape
- Authors: Fudam, Noluthando
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: School management teams School management and organization|
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13348 , vital:39636
- Description: Since 1994, South Africa has undergone drastic fundamental changes in almost every sphere of society. Within education, the change has seen the significant transformation of the education system. One of the primary aims for the transformation of the education system was to provide quality education to all the children of the Republic of South Africa. The School Management Teams (SMTs) were introduced in order to increase accountability within a transformed education system. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of SMTs in ensuring quality education, with the aim of finding sustainable ways of improving the quality of education at the Iqonce high school at the Iqonce high school and the department of Education in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were: a) To assess the role played by SMT in enhancing quality education at Iqonce high school in King Williams Town. b) To assess the role played by SMTs in enhancing quality education. c) To assess the challenges faced by the SMT in managing quality education and the functionality of the school. d) To identify training needs for SMTs to operate in their full capacity educational leadership and management. e) To explore an alternative policy framework that will help the SMTs in enhancing quality education. A qualitative research approach was employed and included an interview guide. Participants included four (4) SMT members, six (6) educators and six (6) parents drawn from the SGB of the Iqonce high school in the Buffalo City Metro Education District. Research findings indicated that the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) does not fully support the SMT members at Iqonce high school in their role of ensuring quality education. The study made numerous recommendations which included training of SMT members on how to manage the school. The ECDoE must work very closely with SMT members at Iqonce high school, also listens to their concerns. The teachers must understand that in order for SMTs to work effectively they need their support, even other stakeholders must support SMTs. There needs to be sound annual plans with targets that show how the annual target will be achieved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Fudam, Noluthando
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: School management teams School management and organization|
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13348 , vital:39636
- Description: Since 1994, South Africa has undergone drastic fundamental changes in almost every sphere of society. Within education, the change has seen the significant transformation of the education system. One of the primary aims for the transformation of the education system was to provide quality education to all the children of the Republic of South Africa. The School Management Teams (SMTs) were introduced in order to increase accountability within a transformed education system. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of SMTs in ensuring quality education, with the aim of finding sustainable ways of improving the quality of education at the Iqonce high school at the Iqonce high school and the department of Education in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were: a) To assess the role played by SMT in enhancing quality education at Iqonce high school in King Williams Town. b) To assess the role played by SMTs in enhancing quality education. c) To assess the challenges faced by the SMT in managing quality education and the functionality of the school. d) To identify training needs for SMTs to operate in their full capacity educational leadership and management. e) To explore an alternative policy framework that will help the SMTs in enhancing quality education. A qualitative research approach was employed and included an interview guide. Participants included four (4) SMT members, six (6) educators and six (6) parents drawn from the SGB of the Iqonce high school in the Buffalo City Metro Education District. Research findings indicated that the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) does not fully support the SMT members at Iqonce high school in their role of ensuring quality education. The study made numerous recommendations which included training of SMT members on how to manage the school. The ECDoE must work very closely with SMT members at Iqonce high school, also listens to their concerns. The teachers must understand that in order for SMTs to work effectively they need their support, even other stakeholders must support SMTs. There needs to be sound annual plans with targets that show how the annual target will be achieved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of the state-owned enterprises in the developmental state of South Africa: a case study of Transnet
- Authors: Mayedwa, Vuyile Arthur
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Government business enterprises -- South Africa , Government corporations -- South Africa Economic development -- Political aspects -- South Africa Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32375 , vital:32028
- Description: The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, together with the National Development Plan (which is a government policy for the country), envisions the achievement of a developmental state (DS). In 2012 the African National Congress (ANC) Government brought a guiding document of national importance into being, known as the National Development Plan, which refers to South Africa as a developmental state. Developmental states are usually associated with development in a number of sectors of the country’s industries as well as high economic growth. This model has been successful in the East Asian countries of Japan and Singapore and could be emulated by South Africa. The National Development Plan (NDP) categorically expresses that South Africa is a developmental state (DS) and this research builds on that premise, citing inroads made and challenges faced by the country in the realization of the developmental mandate and the role performed by SOEs. Fourie (2014:30) holds that in South Africa, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) contribute significantly towards the economic development of the country, the Southern Africa region and international communities, as they attract capital equipment, finance and cooperative partnerships. This treatise investigates the role of the state-owned enterprises in the developmental state of South Africa. This treatise comprises five chapters and is based on the assumption that South African SOEs are ineffective in their contribution to the country’s transformation and socio-economic development mandate. The problem may be misalignment with the mandate set out by the Constitution and the NDP. This study provides a brief historical background on the evolution of SOEs in South Africa and a discussion regarding developmental states and the role of SOEs in developmental states. SOEs face a number of challenges and solutions need to be found. This study discusses two possible solutions, namely privatization and restructuring. The study surmises that the call to privatize is brought to the fore by the numerous failures of a number of SOEs, such as SAA. Restructuring SOEs is discussed as well as the new mandate for SOEs. Lastly, there is a discussion on the extent to which state-owned enterprises have succeeded in complying with South Africa’s developmental mandate. A literature review was conducted of previous and related research material. This study utilised a qualitative research method and the researcher ensured the validity and reliability of the secondary data that was referenced in this study. Due attention was paid to all ethical considerations and any form of harm, manipulation and malpractice was avoided. Chapter 4 includes the presentation and analysis of the data and the study’s findings are discussed in relation to the research questions and objectives that guided the study. The main problem under investigation was whether state-owned enterprises (SOEs) were responding to South Africa’s developmental agenda. This study found that the State must perform a leadership role in creating an enabling environment to drive the performance of SOEs in delivering their mandate and ensuring that SOEs are aligned with the mandate of the National Development Plan. The final chapter presents a number of recommendations that evolved from the results of the study. If adopted, these recommendations could enable the SOEs to deal with the developmental mandate given to them, ultimately assisting the SOEs to become more efficient and effective agents for development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mayedwa, Vuyile Arthur
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Government business enterprises -- South Africa , Government corporations -- South Africa Economic development -- Political aspects -- South Africa Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32375 , vital:32028
- Description: The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, together with the National Development Plan (which is a government policy for the country), envisions the achievement of a developmental state (DS). In 2012 the African National Congress (ANC) Government brought a guiding document of national importance into being, known as the National Development Plan, which refers to South Africa as a developmental state. Developmental states are usually associated with development in a number of sectors of the country’s industries as well as high economic growth. This model has been successful in the East Asian countries of Japan and Singapore and could be emulated by South Africa. The National Development Plan (NDP) categorically expresses that South Africa is a developmental state (DS) and this research builds on that premise, citing inroads made and challenges faced by the country in the realization of the developmental mandate and the role performed by SOEs. Fourie (2014:30) holds that in South Africa, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) contribute significantly towards the economic development of the country, the Southern Africa region and international communities, as they attract capital equipment, finance and cooperative partnerships. This treatise investigates the role of the state-owned enterprises in the developmental state of South Africa. This treatise comprises five chapters and is based on the assumption that South African SOEs are ineffective in their contribution to the country’s transformation and socio-economic development mandate. The problem may be misalignment with the mandate set out by the Constitution and the NDP. This study provides a brief historical background on the evolution of SOEs in South Africa and a discussion regarding developmental states and the role of SOEs in developmental states. SOEs face a number of challenges and solutions need to be found. This study discusses two possible solutions, namely privatization and restructuring. The study surmises that the call to privatize is brought to the fore by the numerous failures of a number of SOEs, such as SAA. Restructuring SOEs is discussed as well as the new mandate for SOEs. Lastly, there is a discussion on the extent to which state-owned enterprises have succeeded in complying with South Africa’s developmental mandate. A literature review was conducted of previous and related research material. This study utilised a qualitative research method and the researcher ensured the validity and reliability of the secondary data that was referenced in this study. Due attention was paid to all ethical considerations and any form of harm, manipulation and malpractice was avoided. Chapter 4 includes the presentation and analysis of the data and the study’s findings are discussed in relation to the research questions and objectives that guided the study. The main problem under investigation was whether state-owned enterprises (SOEs) were responding to South Africa’s developmental agenda. This study found that the State must perform a leadership role in creating an enabling environment to drive the performance of SOEs in delivering their mandate and ensuring that SOEs are aligned with the mandate of the National Development Plan. The final chapter presents a number of recommendations that evolved from the results of the study. If adopted, these recommendations could enable the SOEs to deal with the developmental mandate given to them, ultimately assisting the SOEs to become more efficient and effective agents for development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of traditional leaders in rural development in the Lukhanji Local Municipality
- Authors: Mani, Nontsikelelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tribal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31973 , vital:31868
- Description: This study investigates the role of traditional leaders in the development of their communities. The villages in the Whittlesea area within Lukhanji Local Municipality were chosen as sample of study. The aim was to investigate the involvement of traditional leaders in the delivery of quality services to their communities. To achieve this, literature on the role of traditional leaders was reviewed. Case studies from other countries on the subject matter were also reviewed. The second objective was to look at the relationship between the traditional leaders and the democratically elected councillors. The support rendered by the Lukhanji Local Municipality in terms of capacity building programmes for traditional leaders was also examined. This was done in order to check mechanisms used by the municipality to strengthen the capacity of the traditional leaders as one of the agents of service delivery. Face to face interviews were conducted with the selected sample of traditional leaders and ward councillors to conduct the research. The findings were that if the traditional leaders can be well capacitated, they can play a crucial role to enhance service delivery and also in the monitoring of the services rendered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mani, Nontsikelelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tribal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31973 , vital:31868
- Description: This study investigates the role of traditional leaders in the development of their communities. The villages in the Whittlesea area within Lukhanji Local Municipality were chosen as sample of study. The aim was to investigate the involvement of traditional leaders in the delivery of quality services to their communities. To achieve this, literature on the role of traditional leaders was reviewed. Case studies from other countries on the subject matter were also reviewed. The second objective was to look at the relationship between the traditional leaders and the democratically elected councillors. The support rendered by the Lukhanji Local Municipality in terms of capacity building programmes for traditional leaders was also examined. This was done in order to check mechanisms used by the municipality to strengthen the capacity of the traditional leaders as one of the agents of service delivery. Face to face interviews were conducted with the selected sample of traditional leaders and ward councillors to conduct the research. The findings were that if the traditional leaders can be well capacitated, they can play a crucial role to enhance service delivery and also in the monitoring of the services rendered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of women's agricultural cooperatives in meeting United Nations sustainable development goals
- Authors: Boni, Ntomboxolo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Millennium Development Goals , Agriculture, Cooperative -- South Africa , Cooperative societies -- South Africa , Women in agriculture -- South Africa , Rural development -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21768 , vital:29775
- Description: The majority of the people in South Africa were poor prior 1994, especially those in the rural areas. Poverty in the rural areas affected mostly the women. The government of South Africa designed support programmes to mainstream women into the economy, although it had its own challenges, such as the non-participation of women in their own development and the top-down approach that at times was used by the government in the implementation of the programmes. Owing to the nature of the rural areas, agriculture was identified as a sector that had a potential to improve the economy in order to address the challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. Since 2005 the concept of cooperative development has been a vehicle that has the potential to address the aforementioned challenges. In order for the cooperative development to run efficiently and effectively and in line with the cooperative principles and values, the government should keep the independence of this sector in mind by engaging the cooperatives in all the activities that were affecting the cooperative sector through their cooperative movement.The findings of the study showed that the agricultural cooperatives have not yet addressed poverty fully. All their members were employed and at times employment opportunities were extended to their community members, but the income earned was not satisfying its members. The women felt that they were not in control of their development as they lacked the capacity to lead and they were still led by the men in their cooperatives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Boni, Ntomboxolo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Millennium Development Goals , Agriculture, Cooperative -- South Africa , Cooperative societies -- South Africa , Women in agriculture -- South Africa , Rural development -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21768 , vital:29775
- Description: The majority of the people in South Africa were poor prior 1994, especially those in the rural areas. Poverty in the rural areas affected mostly the women. The government of South Africa designed support programmes to mainstream women into the economy, although it had its own challenges, such as the non-participation of women in their own development and the top-down approach that at times was used by the government in the implementation of the programmes. Owing to the nature of the rural areas, agriculture was identified as a sector that had a potential to improve the economy in order to address the challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. Since 2005 the concept of cooperative development has been a vehicle that has the potential to address the aforementioned challenges. In order for the cooperative development to run efficiently and effectively and in line with the cooperative principles and values, the government should keep the independence of this sector in mind by engaging the cooperatives in all the activities that were affecting the cooperative sector through their cooperative movement.The findings of the study showed that the agricultural cooperatives have not yet addressed poverty fully. All their members were employed and at times employment opportunities were extended to their community members, but the income earned was not satisfying its members. The women felt that they were not in control of their development as they lacked the capacity to lead and they were still led by the men in their cooperatives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018