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The biology of the sand shark Rhinobatos Annulatus, in Algoa Bay with notes on other elasmobranchs

  • Authors: Rossouw, Gideon Johannes
  • Date: 1983
  • Subjects: Sand sharks , Guitarfishes
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52802 , vital:44061
  • Description: The biology of the lesser sand shark, Rhinobatos annulatus, was studied off sandy beaches in Algoa Bay over a period of two years. Tagging studies, due to low numbers tagged, did not reveal major movements. However, comparison of numbers of sand sharks caught off the beach and deep water during summer and winter months suggested that migration occurred during these seasons with the animals being inshore in summer. Annual rings on the vertebral centra were used to determine age. Both sexes can reach a maximum age of seven years. Conventional growth curves could not be fitted and empirical curves were used to illustrate growth. The reproductive cycle was investigated and indicated that both sexes matured after three years of age. The breeding season was during late summer when the shallow water was utilized as a nursery area. The sand shark is an aplacental viviparous species with a gestation period of 10 months. Breeding occurred every year and fecundity increased with total body length to a maximum litter size of 10 young. The most important prey items taken inshore were the mysid Gastrosaccus psammodytes, the prawn Macropetasma africanum, the crab Ovalipes punctatus and the sand mussels Donax spp. Differential predation by different length classes of sand shark resulted from a dynamic zonation of these different size classes in the surf zone. Smallest individuals fed closest inshore. Seasonal variation recorded in the hepatosomatic index was primarily due to the accumulation of hepatic lipids. This variation showed significant correlations with the breeding cycle in adult sand sharks. The contribution of liver lipids to the formation of egg yolk was estimated and found to be secondary to lipid reserves for maintenance. Liver colour varied depended on the amount of liver lipids. Ancillary observations were made of other elasmobranchs in the surf zone. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Science, 1983
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  • Date Issued: 1983

Population structure, production, growth, reproduction and the ecology of Atherina breviceps Valenciennes, 1935 (Pisces : Atherinidae) and Gilchristella aestuaria (Gilchrist, 1914) (Pisces : Clupeidae), from two southern Cape coastal lakes

  • Authors: Ratte, Theodore Wilhlelm
  • Date: 1989-01
  • Subjects: Silversides , Clupeidae -- South Africa -- Cape of Good Hope
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50878 , vital:43029
  • Description: Over the period October 1978 to January 1981, a total of 147 853 Atherina breviceps with a total biomass of 55 2B0,7 g and 107 046 Gilchristella aestuaria with a total biomass of 33 708,9 g were collected in the Swartvlei System and 151 531 A. breviceps with a total biomass of 727 795,0 g and 51 258 G. aestuaria with a total biomass of 12 231,5 g were collected in Groenvlei, to determine their population structure, production, growth, reproduction and ecology in both systems. A. breviceps and G. aestuaria were collected from nine and eleven estuaries respectively, including Groenvlei, along the Cape coast to determine the degree of genetic divergence of both these two species in Groenvlei. It was found that the mature 0-year-old A. breviceps and the 2-year-old G. aestuaria dominated the catches in the Swartvlei System, whereas the juvenile 0-year-olds and 1-year-olds of both species respectively, dominated the catches in Groenvlei. The Swartvlei System and Groenvlei produced respectively between 10-12 metric tons of A. breviceps and between 5-3 metric tons of G. aestuaria annually. A. breviceps and G. aestuana in the Swartvlei System and Groenvlei attain observed ages of between 3 years and 7-8 years respectively. The main spawning period for both species is between spring-autumn in Groenvlei and for A. breviceps in the Swartvlei System. G. aestuaria has a continuous winter-summer spawning in the Swartvlei System. A. breviceps and G. aestuaria in Groenvlei have diverged to such an extent from these two species' populations in other systems, that A. breviceps and G. aestuaria in Groenvlei should receive a priority conservation status. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, 1989
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  • Date Issued: 1989-01

Morphodynamics of headland bypass dunefields, with special reference to the Cape St Francis headland, Eastern Cape, South Africa

  • Authors: Burkinshaw, Jennifer Ruth
  • Date: 1998-01
  • Subjects: Sand dunes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Cape St Francis
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52814 , vital:44206
  • Description: The temperate Cape south coast, South Africa, is characterised by a series of log-spiral bays bound by low-relief rocky headlands. In South Africa corridors of transverse dunes crossing the headlands are referred to as headland bypass dunefields (HBDs). Sand blown off upwind beaches is transported across the headlands towards the downwind bays, bypassing the littoral route around the headlands. The key to the development of the HBDs is the presence of sandy beaches upwind of the headlands which lie athwart the prevailing winds. The low relief of the headlands and their shoreline configuration, coupled with their exposure to the marine wind regime, are such that the predominant high energy, westerly winds blow directly onshore. The local longshore drift system plays a critical role in replenishing beach sand deflated by the wind. The "type" HBDs occur in the Eastern Cape on the prominent Cape St Francis and Cape Recife headlands where HBDs have been active since at least the Mid to Late Pleistocene. The dunefields have length/width ratios ranging from 3 to over 10. Sand coverage within HBDs is metasaturated, i.e., the transverse dunes are separated by well-defined interdune areas. Average dune height in the larger dunefields in the Eastern Cape is 9-10 m. The HBDs are commonly bound by sidewalls that develop along the interface between the dunefields and vegetation. The stabilised sidewalls provide the most prominent record of former HBD activity and can influence subsequent HBD morphology. The Oyster Bay dunefield on the Cape St Francis headland was chosen for a study of the aeolian morphodynamic processes that operate within these systems. The dunefield currently operates over a distance of about 14 km and a width of 500 - 1200 m; it is at present cut off from its sand source. Shallow lakes develop in the interdune areas after periods of high rainfall. A 2 week airflow study recorded wind speed along the prevailing wind axis of the Oyster Bay dunefield during spring 1990. Wind speed increased significantly downstream until at least the mid-dunefield area during both the prevailing westerly and seasonal easterly winds. The downwind wind speed increase can be partially attributed to topographic acceleration of airflow as it is compressed over the low cape. The extent of the wind speed increase can vary depending on the land/sea temperature contrasts and the temperature structure of the lower atmosphere. Wind speed recorded across the width of the dunefield was slowed down along the margins by vegetation, while a faster core moved down the centre of the dunefield. Rates of dune movement along the prevailing wind axis show a general correspondence between the volume of sand transported eastwards in different areas of the dunefield and the airflow pattern down the length of the dunefield. Sand is transported most efficiently in the centre of the dunefield where westerly flow is at its maximum. Sand transport calculated from dune migration rates is about 50% of potential sand transport calculated from wind data, as flow is metasaturated. Flow off sandy beaches may be naturally below saturation owing to the effect of intertidal moisture and salts binding the sand. In the Eastern Cape metasaturation can be further enhanced by the downwind entrapment of sand by vegetation along the dunefield margins and within wet interdune areas. The 2-dimensional model for bedform development within HBDs focuses on the downwind extension of the dunefields and transmission of sand through the systems. The combination of the high transport capacity of the wind downwind and metasaturated flow maintains the transport of sand across headlands. HBDs operate aerodynamically as erosional or sediment bypassing systems although deflation of the wet interdune areas is limited. Fully functional short HBDs are the most likely to operate with neutral sediment budgets. Long systems are more susceptible to spatial and temporal effects that modify the sandflux through the systems and hence the outflux from the systems. The Oyster Bay dunefield operates with a mildly positive sediment budget because of sediment entrapment downwind. The morphology and morphodynamic behaviour of HBDs is in contrast to that of the tabular transgressive dunefields that form parallel to the shores of the large log-spiral bays of Algoa Bay and St Francis Bay. The existing morphological classification of transgressive dunefields needs to be revised to include headland bypass dunefields. Keywords: headland bypass dunefields, transgressive coastal dunefields, aeolian morphodynamics, Cape St Francis, Cape south coast. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, 1998
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  • Date Issued: 1998-01

Applications of camphor-derived chiral auxiliaries in the asymmetric synthesis of α-amino acids and other systems

  • Authors: Matjila, Joseph Moemise
  • Date: 1998-04
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191501 , vital:45106
  • Description: A viable synthetic route to camphor-derived imino lactones as precursors for the asymmetric synthesis of a-amino acids has been established. Several synthetic strategies have been investigated and the required regioisomeric imino lactones were finally obtained via the step-wise condensation of JV-(carbobenzyloxy)glycine with the a-ketols, 3-exo-hydroxycamphor and 2-exo- hydroxy-3-bomanone. Enolates of the camphor imino lactones, generated using potassium tert- butoxide, were reacted with a range of alkyl halides. Dialkylation was observed using the 2-imino lactone, while the regioisomeric 3-imino lactone derivative gave monoalkylated products with diastereoselectivities, shown by NMR spectroscopy, to range from 43% d.e. for the methylated product to > 99% d.e. for larger alkyl groups. The expected preference for endo-alkylation is supported by NMR (chemical shift, coupling constant and NOE) data and was confirmed by acidic hydrolysis of the pentylated 3-imino lactone to afford the known acid. Computer modelling, with the software package HYPERCHEM®, was used to explore the conformational properties of the alkylated products and their enolate precursors. Exploratory work on the enantiomeric beneficiation of racemic amino acids, using alkylated imino lactone derivatives, revealed preferential exo-protonation of the enolate intermediates. Asymmetric Baylis-Hillman reactions between a novel camphor-derived acrylic ester and a range of aldehydes afforded the corresponding 2-(hydroxyalkyl)acrylates in up to 59% d.e., the observed stereoselectivities being sensitive to both steric and electronic factors. Attempts to prepare imino lactone derivatives from ketopinic acid, although unsuccessful, led to the isolation of two novel W-(carbobenzyloxy)glycinates, whose structures were established by 1- and 2-D NMR spectroscopy. Attempts to prepare "BINAP" analogues from dibomyl ether's also proved unsuccessful, but the investigation led to the discovery of a third, novel dibomyl ether. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 1998
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  • Date Issued: 1998-04

Main thesis title: Onderwysers se belewing van multikulturele onderwys

  • Authors: Strydom, Louise
  • Date: 1999-04
  • Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
  • Language: Afrikaans
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60003 , vital:62732
  • Description: The South African Schools’ Act of 1996 terminated segregated education in South Africa. Multi-cultural education has become a reality in the new democratic South Africa. As a result of this major shift in policy, the researcher probed for an answer to the following question: “How does the teacher, especially the teacher already in service, experience this new situation regarding multi-cultural education?” To find an answer to this question, a literature study and empirical research, making use of a representative sample of respondents in the Southern Cape, were undertaken. The researcher has personally experienced the challenges of having to adapt from a mono-cultural teaching environment to a multi-cultural teaching environment at school level, hence a further interest in this research problem. Relevant terminology was highlighted and a brief historical synopsis of the course that multi-cultural education took in Western societies such as the USA, Canada, Australia and Britain was studied. These sources were utilised to draw a comparison with the South African situation. A concise synopsis of the history of multi-cultural education in South Africa was also undertaken to highlight the complexity of the educational situation presently being experienced in South Africa. The empirical research, with a target group representing teachers in the Southern Cape, was undertaken by means of a self-compiled questionnaire to make an analysis of teachers’ attitudes, expectations and perceptions of multi-cultural education as experienced in the classroom. The information obtained from the respondents indicated a generally positive attitude towards multi-cultural education amongst teachers. A great need for in-service training also became evident. xvi The researcher has thus made recommendations regarding in-service training that she thinks is of utmost importance. The practical problems that were highlighted during the research, make a vital contribution towards the successful implementation of multi-cultural education in South Africa. , Thesis (DEd) -- Faculty of Education, 1999
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  • Date Issued: 1999-04

Reactor development and process optimisation for the bioremediation of phenolic wastewaters by trametes species

  • Authors: Ryan, Daniel Reginald
  • Date: 2004-04
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191487 , vital:45103
  • Description: In many service industries, the source of a company’s value has shifted from capital to knowledge and ideas, the quality of which is dependent on its employees (Wooldridge, 2006). In fact, human resources can be considered part of factor conditions which can positively impact on a firm’s competitive context. This impact can ultimately translate into improved financial results (Porter and Kramer, 2002). There is therefore a growing interest in ways to attract and retain talent. According to the managers of many big companies, well communicated corporate responsibility practices can improve staff attraction as well as retention rates by improving morale (CSRwire, 2002). To explore this, a small, creative company in Johannesburg which engages in charity work was selected as a case study, with the goal being to understand whether their culture of good deeds has a positive impact on staff wellbeing. While the owner of the company actively attempts to make the company an enjoyable place to work at, he appears to have initiated the philanthropic activities in a true spirit of giving, rather than with the motive of engaging staff in order to make more money. Nevertheless, the researcher’s investigative stance is that of an enlightened egoist, and the study focuses on the business case of giving being beneficial to the giver (ultimately the company) in the long term, as well as to the recipient. While the danger of suggesting that philanthropy could be instrumentalised is acknowledged (Morton, 2004), the investigation explores the possibility because such evidence could persuade other companies to become more socially concerned. Through a qualitative approach involving interviews, observation and analysis of video footage, it becomes apparent that there is clearly value for the staff in the charity work they do. Unfortunately the multiple initiatives undertaken to keep staff morale high at the company make it impossible to establish a clear link between the philanthropy and overall wellbeing, but as the study was conducted in the phenomenological paradigm the main concern was with understanding the experience of participants. However, an unexpected finding was that the employees derive great satisfaction from using their professional skills for charity work rather than just donating money to the charity. They feel that their skills uniquely position them to make significant changes to the lives of others, which gives them a sense of pride and achievement that they don’t necessarily experience in their ordinary activities at work. On the basis of this, it is recommended that companies look to involve staff with projects that require their specific expertise when evaluating philanthropic initiatives. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2004
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  • Date Issued: 2004-04

Human agency and development: re-politicizing human development

  • Authors: Ncube, Moreblessings
  • Date: 2008
  • Subjects: Political participation , Communities , Agent (Philosophy)
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26291 , vital:65235
  • Description: This thesis presents a value-laden understanding of development that acknowledges that development is human centered. The study re-emphasizes that human development which has become a powerful element of current development discourse is not just a social, economic and technological challenge; it is also an institutional and political challenge. The study therefore analyzes the notion of human development with the intention of improving it by placing more emphasis on the aspect of politics and human agency (the ability to act and be an agent of one‘s life). Politics here is understood beyond its usual institutional focus or identification with government, politicians and parliaments to include a much wider and much more important and dynamic range of activities found in all human groups such as institutions and societies. The study then demonstrates that since development is a process, individuals need to work collectively towards a common good so as to realize their development potential. This means creating a confederation of development where governments, citizens and non-governmental organizations work in partnership guided by a culture of collectiveness (civic culture) in order to produce more empowered citizens. The major argument in this study is the concern for citizens to effectively participate in areas that affect and impact on their lives and consequently be in a position to hold accountable institutions that affect their decision making capabilities. Hence human agency in this study signifies and can be justified as an important aspect of the process of participation leading to empowerment. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2008
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  • Date Issued: 2008

Human agency and development: re-politicizing human development

  • Authors: Ncube, Moreblessings
  • Date: 2008
  • Subjects: Political participation , Agent (Philosophy) , Citizenship
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26625 , vital:65680
  • Description: This thesis presents a value-laden understanding of development that acknowledges that development is human centered. The study re-emphasizes that human development which has become a powerful element of current development discourse is not just a social, economic and technological challenge; it is also an institutional and political challenge. The study therefore analyzes the notion of human development with the intention of improving it by placing more emphasis on the aspect of politics and human agency the ability to act and be an agent of ones life. Politics here is understood beyond its usual institutional focus or identification with government, politicians and parliaments to include a much wider and much more important and dynamic range of activities found in all human groups such as institutions and societies. The study then demonstrates that since development is a process, individuals need to work collectively towards a common good so as to realize their development potential. This means creating a confederation of development where governments, citizens and non-governmental organizations work in partnership guided by a culture of collectiveness civic culture in order to produce more empowered citizens. The major argument in this study is the concern for citizens to effectively participate in areas that affect and impact on their lives and consequently be in a position to hold accountable institutions that affect their decision making capabilities. Hence human agency in this study signifies and can be justified as an important aspect of the process of participation leading to empowerment. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2008
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  • Date Issued: 2008

Human agency and development: re-politicizing human development

  • Authors: Ncube, Moreblessings
  • Date: 2008
  • Subjects: Political participation , Agent (Philosophy) , Communities
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29100 , vital:76641
  • Description: This thesis presents a value-laden understanding of development that acknowledges that development is human centered. The study re-emphasizes that human development which has become a powerful element of current development discourse is not just a social, economic and technological challenge; it is also an institutional and political challenge. The study therefore analyzes the notion of human development with the intention of improving it by placing more emphasis on the aspect of politics and human agency (the ability to act and be an agent of one‘s life). Politics here is understood beyond its usual institutional focus or identification with government, politicians and parliaments to include a much wider and much more important and dynamic range of activities found in all human groups such as institutions and societies. The study then demonstrates that since development is a process, individuals need to work collectively towards a common good so as to realize their development potential. This means creating a confederation of development where governments, citizens and non-governmental organizations work in partnership guided by a culture of collectiveness (civic culture) in order to produce more empowered citizens. The major argument in this study is the concern for citizens to effectively participate in areas that affect and impact on their lives and consequently be in a position to hold accountable institutions that affect their decision making capabilities. Hence human agency in this study signifies and can be justified as an important aspect of the process of participation leading to empowerment. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2008
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  • Date Issued: 2008

Intergovermental policy integration and poverty eradication in a developmental state: the case of the PGDP and Amathole IDP in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

  • Authors: Hofisi, Costa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2571-6991
  • Date: 2009
  • Subjects: Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa , Public administration -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25744 , vital:64475
  • Description: The post-apartheid South African government inherited an economy characterised by a dichotomy between well developed and affluent whites and the underdeveloped and impoverished African blacks. This dichotomy was manifest in sharp divisions with regard to access to decent housing, health, education and transport just to mention a few, thus reflecting poverty, as a widespread phenomenon. Since 1994, the South African government has made major efforts aimed at addressing poverty, however, that poverty persists, despite the efforts, cannot be contested. One of the major challenges has been the disjuncture between policies at various spheres of government. This study examines the articulation between two spheres of government focusing on the Provincial Growth and Development Programme of the Eastern Cape and the integrated development plan of Amathole District Municipality. Currently not much research has been carried out in this area. This study illuminates various analytical and practical issues and hopefully provides a useful basis for improvement in the government’s declared commitment to poverty eradication. Triangulating qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, the study aimed to investigate the integration of the Provincial Growth and Development Program and the Integrated Development Plan and the contribution of these policy instruments towards poverty eradication in the Eastern Cape. A further aim was to analyse community participation in and knowledge of the PGDP and Amathole IDP and how they have been effective. This was an empirically grounded study, based on the use of a combination of data collection methods, analysis of primary and secondary sources of data including government documents, administering in-depth interviews to a range of informants within government, the community and a questionnaire survey of a sample drawn from members of the community in the Amatole District Municipality and, finally the use of Amatole district as a case study which was the major unit of analysis. The findings from the study revealed that there is a plethora of challenges confronting policy integration, often resulting in institutional paralysis and inertia. Such challenges vary from lack of capacity in local government, lack of political will, policy shifts, a plethora of legislation, competing if not conflicting priorities, nonattendance of Intergovernmental forums, lack of cooperation by sector departments, contradictions between legislation, policy inconsistencies, conceptual imprecision and conceptual blurring. Moreover, the neo-liberal ideology informing development planning not only in the province, but in South Africa as a whole as propagated by western main stream economists leaves benefits indeed merely ‘trickling down’ to the poor and not ‘pouring’, such that the transition in South Africa has been reduced to an ‘elite transition’. The research results confirm, as observed elsewhere, that experiences of several developing countries over the past decades do not appear to support the trickle down hypothesis. On the other hand, community participation is also stifled by lack of participatory spaces, poor participatory methodologies and structures which make participation difficult while the poor remain trapped in the vicious cycle of poverty. Real participation goes beyond ‘passive development objects’ and ‘recipients of development’ to ensuring that people are empowered to become ‘masters of their own development’ within the context of a participatory democratic developmental state. There is need for not only a thorough examination of the political use of the ‘local’, the ‘poor’ but even the very conceptualisation of participation and its methodologies for effective community participation to be realised. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2009
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  • Date Issued: 2009

Global leadership competencies in the industrial development zones in South Africa

  • Authors: Dweba, Zandisile Moses https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0001-1095
  • Date: 2009-06
  • Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Industrialization
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24046 , vital:62312
  • Description: In the literature reviewed a lack in leadership competencies to deal with globalisation and global trends within the South African organisation context (Fontyn, 2001; Tizard, 2001; Kriek, 2002) was identified which led to questions being raised on the prevalence of these essential global leadership competencies within South African transnational and global organisations. Realising the need for the development of an outwardly focused and globally competitive leadership model this study sought to investigate:  The key generic leadership competencies relevant to globalisation  The specific relevant leadership competencies and their prevalence within the industrial development zones  Whether or not the surveyed individual competencies were significant and had an impact on global leadership competencies that rendered leaders capable of operating in a global environment. A multi-method research plan was followed in order to consolidate existing knowledge on global leadership competencies and then to expand upon that knowledge. The approach was preferred due to the lack of leadership competency research within Industrial Development Zones. The study consisted of a qualitative study leading to the assessment of the current state of knowledge and understanding of the global leadership competencies. This phase was aimed at stimulating a debate on the topic in preparation for the quantitative phase which investigated the prevalence of these global leadership competencies within the Industrial Development Zones. Through the literature review, fifteen global leadership competencies were identified and these formed the basis for the questionnaire used for data collection. This list of global leadership competencies should, however, not be seen as an exhaustive list as opinions varied on leadership competencies relevant to globalisation (Msomi, 2001; Rossouw & Bews, 2002). iv In the findings of this study:  The respondents largely confirmed the prevalence of the global leadership competencies in the Industrial Development Zones.  While there existed high internal consistency of the variables measured, the demonstration of the competencies by leaders in the Industrial Development Zones, as perceived by the respondents, was found to be largely insignificant and as such had no impact on global leadership competencies and the ability of the zones‟ leaders to operate in a global environment. The recommendations that ensue should, in view of the limitations cited, be implemented with caution as their generalisability might be limited. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2009
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  • Date Issued: 2009-06

Effects of social and ecological factors on cattle grazing strategies in semi-arid communal rangelands of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

  • Authors: Moyo, Bethwell (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7524-9028)
  • Date: 2009-09
  • Subjects: Communal rangelands--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Grazing--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Range Management--South Africa--Eastern Cape South Africa Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25461 , vital:64279
  • Description: Communal rangelands are the main source of livestock feed for resource poor communal farmers. They are characterized by heavy stocking and poor management which is perceived to be the cause of the prevalent degradation hence the incessant calls for introduction of rotational grazing. Rotational grazing has been associated with improved rangeland condition and animal performance in commercial farms, hence the call that it needs to be introduced in communal areas. Management of communal rangelands within the rotational grazing context requires some fundamental understanding of the relationship between current rangeland use, socio-economic and ecological factors determining the present use of these areas. The objective of this study was to assess how historic tenure and patterns of use have influenced grazing practices and institutional structures, and to identify institutional and ecological factors determining present grazing strategies. Focus group discussions and questionnaire surveys in 11 communities revealed that villagers consider fences and paddocks as the best intervention to improve range management. Furthermore, it was shown that lack of strong local-level institutions, little or no knowledge of veld management, absence of rules and lack of seasonal restrictions on rangeland resource use are additional constraints that need to be considered for any rotational grazing intervention to be embraced. Communal areas vary in household head profiles, and this affects the livestock ownership patterns, which indirectly influences rangeland management. The fact that most of the income for communal area people is from state grants, makes farming secondary and the attention put on rangeland management would therefore be minimal. At present the weak local level institutions would therefoe make any plans to introduce rotational grazing difficult. Communal area grazing strategies are further influenced by rangeland heterogeneity caused by different factors. To understand these factors, the relationship between vegetation parameters in different patches and associated soil parameters was examined. Heterogeneity due to seasonal variation in the biomass of herbaceous vegetation was observed at Magwiji‘s sweetveld, with frequently selected patches having a significantly (p < 0.05) higher biomass in autumn (791 kg ha-1) and winter (528 kg ha-1), while in summer and spring there was no significant (p > 0.05) difference in biomass between frequently selected and less selected patches. The present situation in which communal areas support large livestock populations under continuous grazing is due to the fact that cattle would adjust to changes in forage availability by seeking higher biomass patches in times of forage scarcity as observed in Magwiji. At the coastal forest thornveld of Mnyameni the Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) showed that the first axis was significantly correlated with soil organic carbon (r = -1, p < 0.05). Furthermore, the species that were significantly correlated with the first axis were Cynodon dactylon and Pennisetum clandestinum. These species were mainly found in sites that were preferred in April and June. At the sourveld of Upper Mnxe the first axis was significantly correlated with soil pH (r = 0.9, p < 0.05). At this rangeland, sites selected in June were associated with alkaline soils; characterized by a history of human settlement and dominated by Eragrostis superba and Heteropogon contortus. Soil electrical conductivity (EC) separated species (r = 0.9; p < 0.05) along the first axis at Magwiji, with mountain top sites selected in April and June having low EC and dominated by Digitaria eriantha, Eragrostis superba and Andropogon appendiculatus. Rangeland heterogeneity is caused by various factors, ranging from human disturbance to topography. These factors have an effect on the soil properties, and therefore, vegetation and thus lead to the observed heterogeneity which shapes the utilization patterns of these rangelands, and hence their continued support of large populations of livestock. To understand the effects of seasonal and spatial variation in resource use pattern and implications on range management, differences in cattle activity patterns in relation to veld type, season, daytime, management type (kraaling) and forage quality were examined. Seasonal activity patterns were only significant at Upper Mnxe (p < 0.05), with percent of time spent grazing (77 percent), resting (35 percent) and walking (24 percent) being higher in April, November and June respectively. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2009
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  • Date Issued: 2009-09

Re-thinking rural development through agriculture

  • Authors: Matunhu, Jephias (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8415-5867)
  • Date: 2010
  • Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24532 , vital:63067
  • Description: This study addresses the problem of abject rural poverty in the post-apartheid South Africa with specific reference to the Amathole Rural District (ARD) in the Eastern Cape Province (the poorest province in the country). Abject poverty is conceptualized as inability to meet the basic human needs such as food, water, shelter and clothes. The study is premised in the revisionist trajectory of rural economic development, which regards agriculture as the ‘engine’ for rural development. The thesis addressed the following issues on rural poverty reduction in the ARD; the efficacy of rural agriculture in rural poverty reduction, value-adding to rural farm produce, support that is required and social factors that may affect the residents’ ability to fight poverty through agriculture? The thesis adopted the concurrent transformative mixed research methodology; and data were collected from a purposive sample of 138 respondents using unstructured interviews and semi-structured questionnaires. Data were collected with the help of research assistance. The study established that the ARD residents were keen to fight abject poverty through rural agriculture but were constrained by the lack of arable land, financial resources, technological support, corruption and HIV/AIDs. In view of the above findings, the thesis concluded that deep collaboration and participation of strategic partners such as government, the rural residents, NGOs and the business sector is essential in the implementation of pro-poor strategies in the ARD. The thesis also called for further research into the following areas that have a direct influence on the efficacy of rural agriculture on the ARD’s development; ICT and development, the rural residents’ attitude towards savings and on the political economy of cooperative ventures in rural agriculture. The thesis also encouraged further research to establish new linkages and roles of the following pertinent partners in ARD’s development; government, the rural residents, NGOs and the business sector. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
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  • Date Issued: 2010

Rethinking water service delivery system in Zimbabwe: a case study of Kwekwe Municipality

  • Authors: Mupindu, Wisemen
  • Date: 2010
  • Subjects: Water-supply -- Zimbabwe
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24117 , vital:62379
  • Description: This study examines the perceived scarcity of household water service delivery in the city of Kwekwe under the Midlands province of Zimbabwe. Kwekwe Municipality appears to be characterized by an erratic supply of clean water for household use. The city of Kwekwe has experienced an unreliable domestic water service delivery system since the beginning of this millennium. This study aims to investigate the causes of the problem, its extent, impact and what could be done to mitigate the problem. The study employs interviews, questionnaires, observations and document analyses to establish that population growth, ageing equipment, a lack of foreign currency and local funding, as well as a lack of expertise and of political will have contributed to the poor domestic water supply in the city of Kwekwe. The city of Kwekwe needs to commit itself to improving the current situation by involving the community, constructing more storage facilities, and by putting monitoring and evaluation mechanisms in place. The research design took the form of a case study of Kwekwe Municipality. A mixture of qualitative and quantitative research designs were used in this study. The qualitative/interpretivist approach was more dominant, allowing some overlapping with the quantitative/positivist paradigm whenever this was considered reasonable. The study sample consisted of a conveniently assembled sample of 120 respondents. The target population for the study comprised of 110 residents of Kwekwe urban and 10 Kwekwe City Municipality Water Authorities from the Works Department. This study focuses on the 4 residential areas of Kwekwe Municipality. The data collection instruments include questionnaires and focus group interviews. Electronically recorded, in-depth interviews were held with the water authorities and the consumers to establish their perceptions on the best practice of the water service delivery system in Zimbabwe. The data collection tools contained a preliminary section on the biological data of the respondents. All data was subjected to either qualitative or quantitative analysis techniques in order to strike a balance between the structured survey instruments and the anecdotes of the respondents. Quantitative data was analyzed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), while qualitative data was subjected to document analysis which entailed classifying the data, extracting themes, identifying patterns, tallying and quantifying responses and making generalizations out of these patterns. This implies that the research methodology focused on the method, tools and techniques used to assist in achieving the objectives of the study and answering the research questions that the research seeks to address. The term research methodology is used, in this study, to refer to the philosophical assumptions, values, and theories which inform and underpin the way in which a particular research method is used. In this study, the case study research design was used as the operational framework for data gathering. The case study research method is essentially grounded in the interpretive research paradigm. To this end, the study sought the perceptions of both the consumers and the water authorities. The major finding of the study is that the ability of Kwekwe Municipality to provide household water service delivery to its consumers is slightly below average. However, there was a slight improvement in the household water service delivery but consumers are still remaining dissatisfied. Another finding, related to this one, was that the electricity deficiency cost the efficacy of Kwekwe Municipality in its provision of household water service delivery. The study proposes that more studies which seek to interrogate the domestic water service delivery system of the Zimbabwean Municipalities should be embarked upon by the state. The study also recommends that service delivery training programmes be implemented in order to enhance the competence of the water authorities. Furthermore, the study suggests that consumers be placed at the center of household water debates when policies, rules and regulations of the water service delivery system are formulated. Finally, the study implores that municipalities need to have their own reserves and generators for emergency cases during electricity power cuts. It is imperative that the water reservoirs constantly hold 4 days‟ worth of water capacity. The municipality of Kwekwe must refurbish the entire water reticulation system. Municipalities must carry out an audit of water meter readings and also confirm that all water meters are functional. Manpower to read the correct meter reading should be increased in number and must have reliable transport. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
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  • Date Issued: 2010

International legal protection of women's reproductive rights: a comparative analysis of abortion laws and policies in four jurisdictions-Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa and U.S.A.

  • Authors: Abiodun, Adeleke Funminiyi
  • Date: 2010-10
  • Subjects: Abortion -- Law and legislation , Reproductive right
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25839 , vital:64491
  • Description: The subject matter of abortion law is extremely broad and multi-disciplinary. While naturally having its basis in criminal and constitutional law of individual states, the global development of abortion discourse has been influenced by the need to protect the reproductive rights of women as a sub-set of international human rights laws; thereby advocating not only the decriminalisation of abortion but also, that individual State should take affirmative actions in promoting abortion as a right for every woman. However, that induced abortion is a punishable criminal act or a “protectable” woman’s reproductive right remains controversial due to the plethora of perspectives, beliefs and reservations held by different groups of people which are multi-dimensional and contradictory. This thesis therefore attempts a comparative study of abortion laws and policies in four jurisdictions: Nigeria and Ghana, operating criminalised abortion laws, South Africa and United States which operate liberalised/permissive abortion laws and policies. The study basically examines the legal status and reproductive rights of women to legal and safe abortion within the existing legal framework of national laws of the four selected jurisdictions vis-à-vis the legal protection offered by various international instruments on human rights. While we show that strict and restrictive abortion laws, and also, failure of States to create conditions for safe abortion constitute infractions of the reproductive rights of women, we submit further that over-liberalisation of abortion laws and policies could also amount to infringement of the basic rights of other people, thus there is need to ensure a legal and acceptable balance. The study finally acknowledges the role of international human rights laws in the protection of women’s right to legal and safe abortion but asserts that there can be no universally acceptable morality to which the whole world could subsume in term of women’s right to abortion due to the interplay of socio-cultural, religious, and moral affiliations of the people in different communities. , Thesis (LLD) -- Faculty of Law, 2010
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  • Date Issued: 2010-10

Evaluation of the impact of financial fraud and corruption on the sustainable development of selected municipalities in South Africa

  • Authors: Okubena, Olumuyiwa Olamilekan
  • Date: 2010-12
  • Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa , Fraud -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25569 , vital:64335
  • Description: This thesis explored the pernicious effects of financial fraud and corruption and the importance of the rule of law, transparency and accountability of public sector. These critical conditions serve as the foundation for the effective and efficient governance and the economic growth of a nation, especially through utilizing the opportunities provided by globalization through increased investment and trade. The thesis looks at the importance of upholding the rule of law and fostering transparency and accountability in the public sector in combating financial fraud and corruption, particularly as components of effective national strategies. The rule of law, transparency and accountability in the public sector serve not only as means to counter financial fraud and corruption but also as fundamental conditions of effective governance. It was discovered that financial fraud and corruption is a complex phenomenon, present in all countries. Its causes are engendered by conditions of underdevelopment. Hence, its effects hinder and impede the development process itself. It was also confirmed that financial fraud and corruption are co-determined by many other factors, including cultural and moral values. The motivation to remain honest may be weakened by low public official’s salaries, promotion of personnel unconnected to performance, dysfunctional government budgets, loss of organizational purpose, bad example by chief official’s and political leaders, or long established patron-client relationships, in which the sharing of bribes or the exchange of favors has become entrenched. Financial fraud and corruption can be highly concentrated at the top of a political system and associated with political power, or broadly based at lower levels in the system, associated with administrative processes and discretionary powers. Hence, bribes can be blatant or subtle and take many different forms, including cash payments, job offers, scholarships, foreign trips or political and other favors. Furthermore, the development of sustainable local authorities however is an ambitious issue that requires local authorities to focus on the improvement of the quality of life of present and future communities without depleting the natural resources at their disposal. For sustainable and equitable development, this study espouses on the far-reaching implications for local authorities through multiple regression analysis due to various economic, social and institutional challenges that have to be taken into consideration when a process to promote sustainable development is considered. To comprehensively actualize the implications of financial fraud and corruption on the sustainable development of local authorities, a multistage cluster sampling, a form of probability sampling technique was adopted. Semantically, to identify the research paradigms suitable for this study, a hybrid approach to research design was used (quantitative and qualitative). This however enables the impact of financial fraud and corruption on the sustainable development of selected local authorities in South Africa to be ascertained. Moreover, the study explores the circumstances and implications surrounding financial fraud and corruption in the local authorities in South-Africa. Financial fraud and corruption tends to emerge when an organization or a public official has monopoly power over a good or service that generates rent, has the discretionary power to decide who will receive it, and is not accountable. Financial fraud and corruption’s roots are grounded in a country’s social and cultural history, political and economic development, bureaucratic traditions and policies. This study also identifies that, direct and indirect factors promote financial fraud and corruption. Direct factors include regulations and authorizations, taxation, spending decisions, provision of goods and services at below market prices, and financing political parties. On the other hand, quality of bureaucracy, level of public sector wages, penalty systems, institutional controls, and transparency of rules, laws, and processes are the indirect factors that promote financial fraud and corruption. Financial fraud and corruption is a symptom of deep institutional weaknesses that leads to inefficient economic, social, and political outcomes. It reduces economic growth, retards long-term foreign and domestic investments, enhances inflation, depreciates national currency, reduces expenditures for education and health, increases military expenditures, misallocates talent to rent-seeking activities, pushes firms underground, distorts markets and the allocation of resources, increases income inequality and poverty, reduces tax revenue, increases child and infant mortality rates, distorts the fundamental role of the government (on enforcement of contracts and protection of property. Nonetheless, this study concludes that financial fraud and corruption impedes economic efficiency which could slow or shrink economic growth. This will adversely affect all income classes, especially the most vulnerable, the poor. The effect of financial fraud and corruption through investment expenditure on health and education critical to sustainable development was noted in this study. In practice, the distinction between governance and government and the resultant mechanisms directed at local sustainable development do not seem to be clear. Hence, lack of understanding of the meaning of sustainability and governance for local development is still lacking. Recommendations on the serious consequences of financial fraud and corruption on economic growth, capital formation, poverty and inequality to foster and address sustainable development are also provided in this study. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
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  • Date Issued: 2010-12

Functionalized Ru(II) polypyridines and phthalocyanines: Potential dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells(DSSCs)

  • Authors: Adeloye, Adewale Olufunsho https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1736-5738
  • Date: 2011-01
  • Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Dye-sensitized solar cells
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24365 , vital:62645
  • Description: This study describes the design, synthesis, characterization and preliminary investigation of the solar-to-electrical energy conversion efficiency of ruthenium(II) functionalized polypyridine and phthalocyanine complexes with extended π-conjugation. Polypyridinyl functionalized with anthracene, 2,3-dimethylacrylic acid and 1-methoxy-1-buten-3-yne were synthesized and characterized by infrared, UV-Vis, photoluminescence, 1H and 13C NMR and elemental analysis. The functionalized polypyridine molecules were used to synthesize various ruthenium(II) homoleptic/heteroleptic and/or heteronuclear complexes and their photophysical and electrochemical properties evaluated. The preliminary results of the solar-to-electrical conversion efficiencies of some synthesized Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes were presented in chapter 5. It was found out as expected that the ruthenium(II) polypyridine complexes containing either heteronuclear polypyridine ligands or their thiocyanate analogues of the types [Ru(L1)2L2(PF6)2], [RuL1(L2)2(PF6)2] and [RuL1L2(NCS)2], showed better photophysical properties (red-shifted metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) transitions concomitant with enhanced molar extinction coefficients), luminescence and interesting electrochemical redox properties than those containing homonuclear ligand types [Ru(L1)3(PF6)2]. The ruthenium(II) anthracenyl functionalized phthalocyanine complexes which were obtained by electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions in the peripheral positions gave good solubility properties in various organic solvents and also showed interesting near infrared absorption and electroredox characteristics. Cyclic and square wave voltammetries of these complexes revealed major redox processes and the numbers of electron(s) transfer were determined by chronocoulometry. It was established that a mono- and/or multi-electronic transfer reactions can occur in the various ruthenium(II) complexes. The photophysical properties of some complexes showed them to be better and promising candidates in the design of chemosensors, organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and as photosensitizers, while their redox-active natures make them potential mediators in electron-transfer for various photochemical processes. However, due to low surface concentration and/or adsorption of some tested complexes on TiO2 semiconductor nanocrystalline particle, low currents were generated and the highest solar-to- electrical conversion efficiency recorded in this study was 0.10 percent. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2011
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2011-01

Functionalized Ru(II) polypyridines and phthalocyanines: Potential dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells(DSSCs)

  • Authors: Adeloye, Adewale Olufunsho https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1736-5738
  • Date: 2011-01
  • Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Dye-sensitized solar cells
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24343 , vital:62638
  • Description: This study describes the design, synthesis, characterization and preliminary investigation of the solar-to-electrical energy conversion efficiency of ruthenium(II) functionalized polypyridine and phthalocyanine complexes with extended π-conjugation. Polypyridinyl functionalized with anthracene, 2,3-dimethylacrylic acid and 1-methoxy-1-buten-3-yne were synthesized and characterized by infrared, UV-Vis, photoluminescence, 1H and 13C NMR and elemental analysis. The functionalized polypyridine molecules were used to synthesize various ruthenium(II) homoleptic/heteroleptic and/or heteronuclear complexes and their photophysical and electrochemical properties evaluated. The preliminary results of the solar-to-electrical conversion efficiencies of some synthesized Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes were presented in chapter 5. It was found out as expected that the ruthenium(II) polypyridine complexes containing either heteronuclear polypyridine ligands or their thiocyanate analogues of the types [Ru(L1)2L2(PF6)2], [RuL1(L2)2(PF6)2] and [RuL1L2(NCS)2], showed better photophysical properties (red-shifted metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) transitions concomitant with enhanced molar extinction coefficients), luminescence and interesting electrochemical redox properties than those containing homonuclear ligand types [Ru(L1)3(PF6)2]. The ruthenium(II) anthracenyl functionalized phthalocyanine complexes which were obtained by electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions in the peripheral positions gave good solubility properties in various organic solvents and also showed interesting near infrared absorption and electroredox characteristics. Cyclic and square wave voltammetries of these complexes revealed major redox processes and the numbers of electron(s) transfer were determined by chronocoulometry. It was established that a mono- and/or multi-electronic transfer reactions can occur in the various ruthenium(II) complexes. The photophysical properties of some complexes showed them to be better and promising candidates in the design of chemosensors, organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and as photosensitizers, while their redox-active natures make them potential mediators in electron-transfer for various photochemical processes. However, due to low surface concentration and/or adsorption of some tested complexes on TiO2 semiconductor nanocrystalline particle, low currents were generated and the highest solar-to-electrical conversion efficiency recorded in this study was 0.10 percent. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2011
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2011-01

The role of the Department of Education in addressing the education of children living and working in the street in the Eastern Cape:

  • Authors: Mawisa, Nompumelelo Mavis
  • Date: 2011-01
  • Subjects: Street children , Social Conditions , Education
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23337 , vital:57354
  • Description: A UNICEF report on the drastic effects of child labour in developing countries indicates there are 4040 million children under the age of 18 not attending school (1977). Many are street and working children who deserve the chance, but face parental neglect and poverty to attend school and become conscious and productive citizens. Non-formal education has been identified as an alternative to traditional schooling, in which children learn vocational trades or academic subjects, aimed at enhancing their lives. This alternative approach is considered non-formal education because it is typically short–term and non – degree granting. Though non-formal education can be used for rehabilitation purposes, it cannot replace ultimate schooling. All children want to graduate and compete in the job market. The main aim of this study is to determine the role of the Department of Education in addressing the education of children working and living in the street in the Eastern Cape. The children working and living in the street phenomenon is a major development problem that is experienced all over the developing world. A major cause of this problem in the Eastern Cape is drop–outs due to parental negligence and poverty. To assist children working and living in the street and those in conflict with the law, child and youth care centres in East London, King William’s Town and Queenstown have been established. However, they have not had a very noticeable impact on the magnitude of the problem. Potential for such an impact seems to lie in the domain of collaboration with other non-governmental organisations, other departments and education providers. This study evaluated the quality of education of child and youth care centres and non-formal education programmes in providing education to children working and living in the street, with a view to highlighting the difference that formal education in mainstream schools has, in relation to these centres. The descriptive survey design was used in this study. The sample comprised ten children working and living in the street three child and youth care centres in East London, King William’s Town and Queenstown, ten children working and living in the street in East London, three managers from these centres, and two managers from the Department of Education and the Department of Social Development. The study employed the purposive sampling technique. Data to answer the research questions were collected mainly through questionnaires and interviews. The following conclusions were drawn from this study regarding empowering of children who are working and living in the street: (1) children were acutely cognisant of their impoverished positions in society but were unable to alleviate their economic burdens due to poverty. (2) The lack of teacher training strongly impacted on the children’s self concept to achieve empowerment (3) Non-formal education programmes should be used temporary whilst children working and living in the street are being rehabilitated. Thereafter children should join mainstream schools where they can obtain certificates on completion of their studies. The age factor should be considered when administering non-formal education. (4) Parents were the most important stakeholders in facilitating the enrolment of children in schools and monitoring their attendance. (5) Collaboration of all relevant stakeholders in the education of children working and living in the street is key to their education. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2011
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  • Date Issued: 2011-01

ZIMBABWE’S LIBERATION STRUGGLE: A CRITICAL DECADE OF THE ZIMBABWE AFRICAN NATIONAL UNION (ZANU)’S GUERRILLA WAR, 1970-1980

  • Authors: Dzimbanhete, Jephias Andrew (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7648-8722)
  • Date: 2011-01
  • Subjects: National Liberation Movements -- Zimbabwe , Guerillas , Zimbabwe -- History -- Chimurenga
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23315 , vital:57048
  • Description: This study offers a comprehensive examination of the Zimbabwean war of independence depicting the mobilisation of forces of liberation against an intransigent colonial Rhodesian settler state during a critical decade of the 1970s. Its introductory outline presents a broad historical context to the decolonisation processes in Africa. It also introduces the two liberation movements that drove the war of independence, and these revolved around the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU) and the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU). The empirical chapters of the thesis narrow the focus to the main research subject, that explain the ZANU’s guerrilla warfare and how that was launched under the military wing of the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA). The study looks, particularly on how and why that formation assembled groundswell support and generated pervasive intelligence to operate relentlessly against the Rhodesian colonial government resulting in a compromised independence in 1980. In addition to a wide-ranging survey of literature that deals with the Zimbabwean war of independence, the production of this thesis is thoroughly grounded on empirical methods that hinge on archival research and oral testimonies. The study breaks new ground in outlining the various facets and different phases of the Zimbabwean liberation war. It reveals that the liberation fighters were not merely provided with arms and deployed to fight the Rhodesian army. Rather they underwent a methodical process, which comprised recruitment, extensive training and fundamental political education. This re-represents an alternative narrative or even eccentric paradigm to that persistently presented within the conventional Zimbabwean liberation war historiography. The thesis breaks further new ground in discussing the complex nature of how intelligence gathering and propaganda uses were also centrally linked to the cooperation of or assistance from the various segments of the colonial African society. Its empirical chapters outline the various actions undertaken by the various groups and individuals, the language they adopted in expressing themselves and the convivial connections between them and the guerrilla fighters in the countryside as the war front expanded within the home boundaries. Chapters also explore in greater detail how the liberation movement bred the complex relation and contestation between the political formation of ZANU and its military wing, ZANLA. The uneven power relations between these two formations somehow dictated the course and the outcome of the liberation war. As a result a constitutional settlement or military victory became the two options by which the Rhodesian question could be resolved in the later 1970s. As it turned out, attempts to seek a constitutional solution became a feature of diplomatic dimensions of the postcolonial Rhodesian political landscape. The study concludes with the latter point. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2011
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2011-01
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