Strategies used by subject advisors and facilitators to support lesson planning with an environmental learning focus : a case study of the Eastern Cape Neep-Get cluster
- Authors: Mbambisa, Nomaledi Peggy
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa Education and state -- South Africa Environmental education -- South Africa Competency-based education Curriculum change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1926 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007586
- Description: Over the past ten years, South Africa has undergone substantial changes, following the advent of democracy. Key amongst these changes being the transformation of educational policy. These policy changes have introduced new structural frameworks within which we operate (including myself as a subject advisor) and new roles for educators. These policy changes affect all the levels of the education system, and have an impact at school level, where teachers are now responsible for learning programme development (including a focus on lesson planning). Lesson planning in an outcomes-based education framework is a challenging aspect of policy implementation. South Africa is faced with the challenges associated with policy change and implementation. The role of the subject advisors and facilitators who support the teachers to make sense of the curriculum is crucial, as they provide the interface between policy and practice. They are the people who work most with teachers, and have a responsibility for curriculum implementation. This study aimed to explore the strategies which are used by subject advisors and facilitators to support teachers develop lesson plans with an environmental learning focus. A qualitative case study was conducted in which I looked at how the support processes were provided by the subject advisors and facilitators in the Eastern Cape in particular the NEEP-GET cluster in the Makana district. The study employed a range of data producing techniques such as questionnaires, interviews, document analysis and observation. The data was analysed to report the findings. The research indicates that some strategies are used to provide curriculum and pedagogical support and guidance, but that these are superficially treated and others have not been attempted at all. This therefore shows that further growth in this area is possible amongst the subject advisors. Recommendations relevant to both the subject advisors and the Department of Education so as to enhance the support processes and professional development of subject advisors have been made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Mbambisa, Nomaledi Peggy
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa Education and state -- South Africa Environmental education -- South Africa Competency-based education Curriculum change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1926 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007586
- Description: Over the past ten years, South Africa has undergone substantial changes, following the advent of democracy. Key amongst these changes being the transformation of educational policy. These policy changes have introduced new structural frameworks within which we operate (including myself as a subject advisor) and new roles for educators. These policy changes affect all the levels of the education system, and have an impact at school level, where teachers are now responsible for learning programme development (including a focus on lesson planning). Lesson planning in an outcomes-based education framework is a challenging aspect of policy implementation. South Africa is faced with the challenges associated with policy change and implementation. The role of the subject advisors and facilitators who support the teachers to make sense of the curriculum is crucial, as they provide the interface between policy and practice. They are the people who work most with teachers, and have a responsibility for curriculum implementation. This study aimed to explore the strategies which are used by subject advisors and facilitators to support teachers develop lesson plans with an environmental learning focus. A qualitative case study was conducted in which I looked at how the support processes were provided by the subject advisors and facilitators in the Eastern Cape in particular the NEEP-GET cluster in the Makana district. The study employed a range of data producing techniques such as questionnaires, interviews, document analysis and observation. The data was analysed to report the findings. The research indicates that some strategies are used to provide curriculum and pedagogical support and guidance, but that these are superficially treated and others have not been attempted at all. This therefore shows that further growth in this area is possible amongst the subject advisors. Recommendations relevant to both the subject advisors and the Department of Education so as to enhance the support processes and professional development of subject advisors have been made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Stress-inducible protein 1: a bioinformatic analysis of the human, mouse and yeast STI1 gene structure
- Authors: Aken, Bronwen Louise
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Molecular chaperones , Proteins -- Analysis , Heat shock proteins , Bioinformatics , Genetics -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3990 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004049 , Molecular chaperones , Proteins -- Analysis , Heat shock proteins , Bioinformatics , Genetics -- Data processing
- Description: Stress-inducible protein 1 (Sti1) is a 60 kDa eukaryotic protein that is important under stress and non-stress conditions. Human Sti1 is also known as the Hsp70/Hsp90 organising protein (Hop) that coordinates the functional cooperation of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) during the folding of various transcription factors and kinases, including certain oncogenic proteins and prion proteins. Limited studies have been conducted on the STI1 gene structure. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive description of human STI1 (hSTI1), mouse STI1 (mSTI1), and yeast STI1 (ySTI1) genes, using a bioinformatic approach. Genes encoded near the STI1 loci were identified for the three organisms using National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) MapViewer and the Saccharomyces Genome Database. Exon/intron boundaries were predicted using Hidden Markov model gene prediction software (HMMGene) and Genscan, and by alignment of the mRNA sequence with the genomic DNA sequence. Transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) were predicted by scanning the region 1000 base pairs (bp) upstream of the STI1 orthologues’ transcription start site (TSS) with Alibaba, Transcription element search software (TESS) and Transcription factor search (TFSearch). The promoter region was defined by comparing the number, type and position of TFBS across the orthologous STI1 genes. Additional putative TFBS were identified for ySTI1 by searching with software that aligns nucleic acid conserved elements (AlignACE) for over-represented motifs in the region upstream of the TSS of genes thought to be co-regulated with ySTI1. This study showed that hSTI1 and mSTI1 occur in a region of synteny with a number of genes of related function. Both hSTI1 and mSTI1 comprised 14 putative exons, while ySTI1 was encoded on a single exon. Human and mouse STI1 shared a perfectly conserved 55 bp region spanning their predicted TSS, although their TATA boxes were not conserved. A putative CpG island was identified in the region from -500 to +100 bp relative to the hSTI1 and mSTI1 TSS. This region overlapped with a region of high TFBS density, suggesting that the core promoter region was located in the region approximately 100 to 200 bp upstream of the TSS. Several conserved clusters of TFBS were also identified upstream of this promoter region, including binding sites for stimulatory protein 1 (Sp1), heat shock factor (HSF), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB), and the cAMP/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP). Microarray data suggested that ySTI1 was co-regulated with several heat shock proteins and substrates of the Hsp70/Hsp90 heterocomplex, and several putative regulatory elements were identified in the upstream region of these co-regulated genes, including a motif for HSF binding. The results of this research suggest several avenues of future experimental work, including the confirmation of the proposed core promoter, upstream regulatory elements, and CpG island, and the investigation into the co-regulation of mammalian STI1 with its surrounding genes. These results could also be used to inform STI1 gene knockout experiments in mice, to assess the biological importance of mammalian STI1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Aken, Bronwen Louise
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Molecular chaperones , Proteins -- Analysis , Heat shock proteins , Bioinformatics , Genetics -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3990 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004049 , Molecular chaperones , Proteins -- Analysis , Heat shock proteins , Bioinformatics , Genetics -- Data processing
- Description: Stress-inducible protein 1 (Sti1) is a 60 kDa eukaryotic protein that is important under stress and non-stress conditions. Human Sti1 is also known as the Hsp70/Hsp90 organising protein (Hop) that coordinates the functional cooperation of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) during the folding of various transcription factors and kinases, including certain oncogenic proteins and prion proteins. Limited studies have been conducted on the STI1 gene structure. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive description of human STI1 (hSTI1), mouse STI1 (mSTI1), and yeast STI1 (ySTI1) genes, using a bioinformatic approach. Genes encoded near the STI1 loci were identified for the three organisms using National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) MapViewer and the Saccharomyces Genome Database. Exon/intron boundaries were predicted using Hidden Markov model gene prediction software (HMMGene) and Genscan, and by alignment of the mRNA sequence with the genomic DNA sequence. Transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) were predicted by scanning the region 1000 base pairs (bp) upstream of the STI1 orthologues’ transcription start site (TSS) with Alibaba, Transcription element search software (TESS) and Transcription factor search (TFSearch). The promoter region was defined by comparing the number, type and position of TFBS across the orthologous STI1 genes. Additional putative TFBS were identified for ySTI1 by searching with software that aligns nucleic acid conserved elements (AlignACE) for over-represented motifs in the region upstream of the TSS of genes thought to be co-regulated with ySTI1. This study showed that hSTI1 and mSTI1 occur in a region of synteny with a number of genes of related function. Both hSTI1 and mSTI1 comprised 14 putative exons, while ySTI1 was encoded on a single exon. Human and mouse STI1 shared a perfectly conserved 55 bp region spanning their predicted TSS, although their TATA boxes were not conserved. A putative CpG island was identified in the region from -500 to +100 bp relative to the hSTI1 and mSTI1 TSS. This region overlapped with a region of high TFBS density, suggesting that the core promoter region was located in the region approximately 100 to 200 bp upstream of the TSS. Several conserved clusters of TFBS were also identified upstream of this promoter region, including binding sites for stimulatory protein 1 (Sp1), heat shock factor (HSF), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB), and the cAMP/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP). Microarray data suggested that ySTI1 was co-regulated with several heat shock proteins and substrates of the Hsp70/Hsp90 heterocomplex, and several putative regulatory elements were identified in the upstream region of these co-regulated genes, including a motif for HSF binding. The results of this research suggest several avenues of future experimental work, including the confirmation of the proposed core promoter, upstream regulatory elements, and CpG island, and the investigation into the co-regulation of mammalian STI1 with its surrounding genes. These results could also be used to inform STI1 gene knockout experiments in mice, to assess the biological importance of mammalian STI1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Supervision : a Foucaultian exploration of institutional and interpersonal power relations between postgraduate supervisors, their students and the university domain
- Authors: Rau, Asta
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Foucault, Michel, 1926-1984 -- Methodology Foucault, Michel, 1926-1984 -- Criticism and interpretation Graduate students -- Supervision of Dissertations, Academic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003671
- Description: Supervision is widely acknowledged as influencing the quality of postgraduate theses, and by association, of postgraduates. Despite this, publications on conducting research offer far less guidance on managing the supervision relationship than on the practicalities of producing a thesis. In-depth, qualitative supervision studies are few and fewer still examine power in the supervision relationship. Michel Foucault’s insights are used to explore the question: How do postgraduate supervisors and their Master’s students experience the supervision relationship and how are the dynamics of interpersonal and institutional power implicated in these relationships? Foucault argues that power relations always involve resistances; these function primarily through institutionalized discourses to produce different forms of knowledge, one form of which is identity or subjectivity. Accordingly, power relations are explored in terms of thesis-as-product, person-as-product and the impact of both on the mediation of knowledge in the educational domain. Four institutionalized discourses in the university domain are examined: · Commercial educational management discourse: targets academics through issues of quality assurance, throughput, publication, research productivity and funding. · Anarchic educational leadership discourse: integrates quantum principles with commercial demands, change management strategies and meaningful participation. · Humanistic discourse: favours a pastoral ethic and is person-centered. · Holistic discourse: cultivates ecological sensibility and values the interconnectedness of all aspects of being-in-the-world. Data collected in sixteen semi-structured interviews with three matched supervisor-student pairs selected from the humanities and education faculties of one South African university, are presented as case studies. Data analysis combines grounded theory techniques with selected aspects of Foucault’s methods. A conceptual model is devised to analyse how participants use resistance strategies to interface their autonomy and dependency with their expectations, abilities, and professional and pastoral care. The research yields rich data in which several thematic correlations in interpersonal and institutional power dynamics are grounded. These include: the significance of supervisor-student matching; links between expectations, abilities, the way participants negotiate power and the quality of professional and pastoral care they experience; the benefit of personal affinity to thesis-as-product and person-as-product; and the impact of commercial demands on participants’ power relations. Participants tend to reproduce the discourses in which they are embedded and adopt or adapt aspects of contesting discourses to this end. Potential avenues are identified for improving supervision practice and for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Rau, Asta
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Foucault, Michel, 1926-1984 -- Methodology Foucault, Michel, 1926-1984 -- Criticism and interpretation Graduate students -- Supervision of Dissertations, Academic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003671
- Description: Supervision is widely acknowledged as influencing the quality of postgraduate theses, and by association, of postgraduates. Despite this, publications on conducting research offer far less guidance on managing the supervision relationship than on the practicalities of producing a thesis. In-depth, qualitative supervision studies are few and fewer still examine power in the supervision relationship. Michel Foucault’s insights are used to explore the question: How do postgraduate supervisors and their Master’s students experience the supervision relationship and how are the dynamics of interpersonal and institutional power implicated in these relationships? Foucault argues that power relations always involve resistances; these function primarily through institutionalized discourses to produce different forms of knowledge, one form of which is identity or subjectivity. Accordingly, power relations are explored in terms of thesis-as-product, person-as-product and the impact of both on the mediation of knowledge in the educational domain. Four institutionalized discourses in the university domain are examined: · Commercial educational management discourse: targets academics through issues of quality assurance, throughput, publication, research productivity and funding. · Anarchic educational leadership discourse: integrates quantum principles with commercial demands, change management strategies and meaningful participation. · Humanistic discourse: favours a pastoral ethic and is person-centered. · Holistic discourse: cultivates ecological sensibility and values the interconnectedness of all aspects of being-in-the-world. Data collected in sixteen semi-structured interviews with three matched supervisor-student pairs selected from the humanities and education faculties of one South African university, are presented as case studies. Data analysis combines grounded theory techniques with selected aspects of Foucault’s methods. A conceptual model is devised to analyse how participants use resistance strategies to interface their autonomy and dependency with their expectations, abilities, and professional and pastoral care. The research yields rich data in which several thematic correlations in interpersonal and institutional power dynamics are grounded. These include: the significance of supervisor-student matching; links between expectations, abilities, the way participants negotiate power and the quality of professional and pastoral care they experience; the benefit of personal affinity to thesis-as-product and person-as-product; and the impact of commercial demands on participants’ power relations. Participants tend to reproduce the discourses in which they are embedded and adopt or adapt aspects of contesting discourses to this end. Potential avenues are identified for improving supervision practice and for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Synthesis and electrocatalytic properties of polymerizable metallophthalocyanines
- Authors: Obirai, Joseph Chinye
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines Electrochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4447 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007733
- Description: The syntheses, spectral and electrochemical characterization of new family electropolymerizable pyrrole, thiophene and mercaptopyrimidin substituted metallophthalocyanine (MPc) complexes are described. Tetraamino substituted chromium and manganese phthalocyanine complexes were also synthesized and characterized. The spectral and electrochemical results are comparable to literature reports. The complexes formed stable films when deposited on electrode surfaces. The MPc films were formed by electropolymerization, drop-dry method and self-assembling. Nickel hydroxide-like electrodes were formed by electrotransformation of nickel-tetra-4- (pyrrol-1-yl)phenoxy phthalocyanine polymer films to the corresponding PcNi-O-NiPc modified electrodes in alkaline solution. The thiophene, mercaptopyrimidine functionalized MPcs and amino group containing complexes formed good self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold electrode. The electrode modification processes were reproducible. The conductivities of the electrode were dependent on the surface concentrations of the complexes as a function of electropolymerization scan numbers. The electrodes showed good catalytic responses toward L-cysteine, nitrite, nitric oxide (NO), glycine, phenol and its derivative and oxygen. The results also suggest that the presence of thio groups on the ring substituents lowers the oxidation potential of Lcysteine more compared to literature values. The stability of the amperometric responses toward the various analytes is used to diagnose the applicability of the materials for electroanalytical purposes. The limits of detection for L-cysteine, nitrite, NO and glycine were in the range of ~10⁻⁷ to 10⁻⁵ mol dm⁻³.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Obirai, Joseph Chinye
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines Electrochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4447 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007733
- Description: The syntheses, spectral and electrochemical characterization of new family electropolymerizable pyrrole, thiophene and mercaptopyrimidin substituted metallophthalocyanine (MPc) complexes are described. Tetraamino substituted chromium and manganese phthalocyanine complexes were also synthesized and characterized. The spectral and electrochemical results are comparable to literature reports. The complexes formed stable films when deposited on electrode surfaces. The MPc films were formed by electropolymerization, drop-dry method and self-assembling. Nickel hydroxide-like electrodes were formed by electrotransformation of nickel-tetra-4- (pyrrol-1-yl)phenoxy phthalocyanine polymer films to the corresponding PcNi-O-NiPc modified electrodes in alkaline solution. The thiophene, mercaptopyrimidine functionalized MPcs and amino group containing complexes formed good self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold electrode. The electrode modification processes were reproducible. The conductivities of the electrode were dependent on the surface concentrations of the complexes as a function of electropolymerization scan numbers. The electrodes showed good catalytic responses toward L-cysteine, nitrite, nitric oxide (NO), glycine, phenol and its derivative and oxygen. The results also suggest that the presence of thio groups on the ring substituents lowers the oxidation potential of Lcysteine more compared to literature values. The stability of the amperometric responses toward the various analytes is used to diagnose the applicability of the materials for electroanalytical purposes. The limits of detection for L-cysteine, nitrite, NO and glycine were in the range of ~10⁻⁷ to 10⁻⁵ mol dm⁻³.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Synthesis, photochemical and photophysical properties of phthalocyanine derivatives
- Authors: Maqanda, Weziwe Theorine
- Date: 2005 , 2013-06-18
- Subjects: Photochemotherapy , Phthalocyanines , Zinc , Magnesium
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4436 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007472 , Photochemotherapy , Phthalocyanines , Zinc , Magnesium
- Description: Substituted zinc and magnesium phthalocyanine and porphyrazine derivatives were synthesized according to the reported procedures. The magnesium and zinc phthalocyanine and porphyrazine derivatives were synthesized by ring enlargement of subphthalocyanine and statistical condensation of the two phthalonitrile derivatives. Characterization of the complexes involved the use of infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, and Maldi-TOF spectroscopy (for selected compounds) and elemental analysis. Photochemical and photophysical properties of the complexes in non-aqueous solution was then investigated. Photobleaching quantum yields are in order of 10⁻⁵ indicating their relative photostability. Complexes containing more electron-donating substituents were more easily oxidized. For complexes 66 and 69 (as these complexes have the same number of substituents but differ in the metal center) photobleaching quantum yield for the ZincPc complex 69 was slightly less than that of the MgPc complex 66. Singlet oxygen quantum yields of the various complexes in DMSO using diphenylisobenzofuran (DPBF) as a quencher in organic solvents were determined. Singlet oxygen quantum yields of the complexes range from 0.23 to 0.67. High values of Φ[subscript]Δ ZnPc complexes was observed compared to the corresponding MgPc, complexes. This was evidenced by complexes 66 and 69 with Φ[subscript]Δ values of Φ[subscript]Δ = 0.26 and 0.40, respectively. Varying number of phenoxy substituents, complex 71 gave significantly large value of Φ[subscript]Δ compared to 70 (that is, the presence of more electron-donating substituted group, gave higher singlet oxygen quantum yields (0 .67 and 0.25 for 71 and 70 repectively). The triplet quantum yields and triplet lifetimes were determined by laser flash photolysis for selected compounds. The triplet quantum yields increase as the number of substituents increases e.g 68 > 67 > 66. Comparing porphyrazine complexes (63, 64 and 65), 63 with benzene attached to the ring, has higher triplet state lifetime (420 μs) compared to 64 and 65 containing long alkyl chain and tertbutyl substituents, 350 and 360 μs,respectively). The observed Φ[subscript]f values for 68 and 63 were quiet suprising, since low values are observed compared to the rest of the complexes (e.g 0.03 and 0.02 respectively). Although these values seem so low, they are sufficient for fluorescence imaging applications. The Φ[subscript]f values for the complexes under study are within the range reported for complexes currently used for PDT. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Maqanda, Weziwe Theorine
- Date: 2005 , 2013-06-18
- Subjects: Photochemotherapy , Phthalocyanines , Zinc , Magnesium
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4436 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007472 , Photochemotherapy , Phthalocyanines , Zinc , Magnesium
- Description: Substituted zinc and magnesium phthalocyanine and porphyrazine derivatives were synthesized according to the reported procedures. The magnesium and zinc phthalocyanine and porphyrazine derivatives were synthesized by ring enlargement of subphthalocyanine and statistical condensation of the two phthalonitrile derivatives. Characterization of the complexes involved the use of infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, and Maldi-TOF spectroscopy (for selected compounds) and elemental analysis. Photochemical and photophysical properties of the complexes in non-aqueous solution was then investigated. Photobleaching quantum yields are in order of 10⁻⁵ indicating their relative photostability. Complexes containing more electron-donating substituents were more easily oxidized. For complexes 66 and 69 (as these complexes have the same number of substituents but differ in the metal center) photobleaching quantum yield for the ZincPc complex 69 was slightly less than that of the MgPc complex 66. Singlet oxygen quantum yields of the various complexes in DMSO using diphenylisobenzofuran (DPBF) as a quencher in organic solvents were determined. Singlet oxygen quantum yields of the complexes range from 0.23 to 0.67. High values of Φ[subscript]Δ ZnPc complexes was observed compared to the corresponding MgPc, complexes. This was evidenced by complexes 66 and 69 with Φ[subscript]Δ values of Φ[subscript]Δ = 0.26 and 0.40, respectively. Varying number of phenoxy substituents, complex 71 gave significantly large value of Φ[subscript]Δ compared to 70 (that is, the presence of more electron-donating substituted group, gave higher singlet oxygen quantum yields (0 .67 and 0.25 for 71 and 70 repectively). The triplet quantum yields and triplet lifetimes were determined by laser flash photolysis for selected compounds. The triplet quantum yields increase as the number of substituents increases e.g 68 > 67 > 66. Comparing porphyrazine complexes (63, 64 and 65), 63 with benzene attached to the ring, has higher triplet state lifetime (420 μs) compared to 64 and 65 containing long alkyl chain and tertbutyl substituents, 350 and 360 μs,respectively). The observed Φ[subscript]f values for 68 and 63 were quiet suprising, since low values are observed compared to the rest of the complexes (e.g 0.03 and 0.02 respectively). Although these values seem so low, they are sufficient for fluorescence imaging applications. The Φ[subscript]f values for the complexes under study are within the range reported for complexes currently used for PDT. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Talk radio and public debate : a case study of three Ugandan radio stations
- Authors: Ogoso, Erich Opolot
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Radio stations -- Uganda , Radio broadcasting -- Social aspects -- Uganda , Radio broadcasting -- Political aspects -- Uganda , Radio talk shows -- Uganda , Interviewing on radio -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3514 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007723 , Radio stations -- Uganda , Radio broadcasting -- Social aspects -- Uganda , Radio broadcasting -- Political aspects -- Uganda , Radio talk shows -- Uganda , Interviewing on radio -- Uganda
- Description: This study is a comparative examination of approaches to talk radio as a genre on three Ugandan radio stations. The aim is to draw conclusions, from observations made about these stations, about the potential of talk radio to encourage public debate around social issues and improve democratic participation despite pertinent challenges in Uganda. The study first outlines a theoretical framework, which is informed by Habermas's theory of the media as a 'public sphere'. This framework is applied to an exploration of traditions of talk radio that have emerged globally in order to assess the potential of these traditions to play a role in contributing to the establishment of such a 'public sphere'. The study then goes on to discuss the historical development of radio in Uganda and the establishment of the current broadcast landscape. The focus is on the way in which this history has been defined by a struggle around public expression, in which government has repeatedly sought ways to control media as a vehicle for public expression. It is proposed that Ugandan talk radio has the potential to play an important role in ensuring broad participation in public expression. It is against this background that the study then describes and analyses the development of the talk genre at three Ugandan radio stations (each one an example of, respectively, a commercial, community and public service station). It is explained that staff on all three stations emphasise the importance of talk radio in encouraging participation, by their audiences, in the public debate of social and political issues. It is argued that, because of limitations that exist within these stations, none of the talk show teams fully realize the potential of the genre for participation in such debate. The picture that emerges is one of unequal access, with those sections of radio audiences in positions of privilege being further empowered, while those on the margins remain excluded from public discussion. The study finally recommends ways to improve public participation on Ugandan talk radio, noting the need to review government support, the problems of organizational culture within the stations, the need for more guidelines on practical arrangements around talk show production and the question of contradictions that exist at policy level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Ogoso, Erich Opolot
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Radio stations -- Uganda , Radio broadcasting -- Social aspects -- Uganda , Radio broadcasting -- Political aspects -- Uganda , Radio talk shows -- Uganda , Interviewing on radio -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3514 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007723 , Radio stations -- Uganda , Radio broadcasting -- Social aspects -- Uganda , Radio broadcasting -- Political aspects -- Uganda , Radio talk shows -- Uganda , Interviewing on radio -- Uganda
- Description: This study is a comparative examination of approaches to talk radio as a genre on three Ugandan radio stations. The aim is to draw conclusions, from observations made about these stations, about the potential of talk radio to encourage public debate around social issues and improve democratic participation despite pertinent challenges in Uganda. The study first outlines a theoretical framework, which is informed by Habermas's theory of the media as a 'public sphere'. This framework is applied to an exploration of traditions of talk radio that have emerged globally in order to assess the potential of these traditions to play a role in contributing to the establishment of such a 'public sphere'. The study then goes on to discuss the historical development of radio in Uganda and the establishment of the current broadcast landscape. The focus is on the way in which this history has been defined by a struggle around public expression, in which government has repeatedly sought ways to control media as a vehicle for public expression. It is proposed that Ugandan talk radio has the potential to play an important role in ensuring broad participation in public expression. It is against this background that the study then describes and analyses the development of the talk genre at three Ugandan radio stations (each one an example of, respectively, a commercial, community and public service station). It is explained that staff on all three stations emphasise the importance of talk radio in encouraging participation, by their audiences, in the public debate of social and political issues. It is argued that, because of limitations that exist within these stations, none of the talk show teams fully realize the potential of the genre for participation in such debate. The picture that emerges is one of unequal access, with those sections of radio audiences in positions of privilege being further empowered, while those on the margins remain excluded from public discussion. The study finally recommends ways to improve public participation on Ugandan talk radio, noting the need to review government support, the problems of organizational culture within the stations, the need for more guidelines on practical arrangements around talk show production and the question of contradictions that exist at policy level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Tertiary treatment in integrated algal ponding systems
- Authors: Wells, Charles Digby
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Sewage -- Purification -- Anaerobic treatment , Water -- Purification -- Biological treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4068 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006162 , Sewage -- Purification -- Anaerobic treatment , Water -- Purification -- Biological treatment
- Description: Inadequate sanitation is one of the leading causes of water pollution and consequently illness in many underdeveloped countries, including South Africa and, specifically, the Eastern Cape Province, where cholera has become endemic. As modern wastewater treatment processes are often energy intensive and expensive, they are not suitable for use in these areas. There is thus a need to develop more sustainable wastewater treatment technologies for application in smaller communities. The integrated algal ponding system (IAPS) was identified as a possible solution to this wastewater management problem and was investigated for adaptation to local conditions, at the Rhodes University Environmental Experimental Field Station in Grahamstown, South Africa. The system was monitored over a period of nine years, with various configuration adjustments of the high rate algal pond (HRAP) unit operation investigated. Under standard operating conditions, the system was able to achieve levels of nutrient and organic removal comparable with conventional wastewater treatment works. The mean nitrate level achieved in the effluent was below the 15mg.l-1 South African discharge standard, however, nitrate removal in the IAPS was found to be inconsistent. Although the system was unable to sustain chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal to below the 75mg.l-1 South African discharge standard, a removal rate of 87% was recorded, with the residual COD remaining in the form of algal biomass. Previous studies in the Eastern Cape Province have shown that few small wastewater treatment works produce effluent that meets the microbial count specification. Therefore, in addition to the collation of IAPS data from the entire nine year monitoring period, this study also investigated the use of the HRAP as an independent unit operation for disinfection of effluent from small sewage plants. It was demonstrated that the independent high rate algal pond (IHRAP) as a free standing unit operation could consistently produce water with Escherichia coli counts of 0cfu.100ml-1. The observed effect was related to a number of possible conditions prevailing in the system, including elevated pH, sunlight and dissolved oxygen. It was also found that the IHRAP greatly enhanced the nutrient removal capabilities of the conventional IAPS, making it possible to reliably and consistently maintain phosphate and ammonium levels in the final effluent to below 5mg.l-1 and 2mg.l-1 respectively (South African discharge standards are 10mg.l-1 and 3mg.l-1 in each case). The quality of the final effluent produced by the optimisation of the IAPS would allow it to be used for irrigation, thereby providing an alternative water source in water stressed areas. The system also proved to be exceptionally robust and data collected during periods of intensive and low management regimes were broadly comparable. Results of the 9 year study have demonstrated reliable performance of the IAPS and its use an appropriate, sustainable wastewater treatment option for small communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Wells, Charles Digby
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Sewage -- Purification -- Anaerobic treatment , Water -- Purification -- Biological treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4068 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006162 , Sewage -- Purification -- Anaerobic treatment , Water -- Purification -- Biological treatment
- Description: Inadequate sanitation is one of the leading causes of water pollution and consequently illness in many underdeveloped countries, including South Africa and, specifically, the Eastern Cape Province, where cholera has become endemic. As modern wastewater treatment processes are often energy intensive and expensive, they are not suitable for use in these areas. There is thus a need to develop more sustainable wastewater treatment technologies for application in smaller communities. The integrated algal ponding system (IAPS) was identified as a possible solution to this wastewater management problem and was investigated for adaptation to local conditions, at the Rhodes University Environmental Experimental Field Station in Grahamstown, South Africa. The system was monitored over a period of nine years, with various configuration adjustments of the high rate algal pond (HRAP) unit operation investigated. Under standard operating conditions, the system was able to achieve levels of nutrient and organic removal comparable with conventional wastewater treatment works. The mean nitrate level achieved in the effluent was below the 15mg.l-1 South African discharge standard, however, nitrate removal in the IAPS was found to be inconsistent. Although the system was unable to sustain chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal to below the 75mg.l-1 South African discharge standard, a removal rate of 87% was recorded, with the residual COD remaining in the form of algal biomass. Previous studies in the Eastern Cape Province have shown that few small wastewater treatment works produce effluent that meets the microbial count specification. Therefore, in addition to the collation of IAPS data from the entire nine year monitoring period, this study also investigated the use of the HRAP as an independent unit operation for disinfection of effluent from small sewage plants. It was demonstrated that the independent high rate algal pond (IHRAP) as a free standing unit operation could consistently produce water with Escherichia coli counts of 0cfu.100ml-1. The observed effect was related to a number of possible conditions prevailing in the system, including elevated pH, sunlight and dissolved oxygen. It was also found that the IHRAP greatly enhanced the nutrient removal capabilities of the conventional IAPS, making it possible to reliably and consistently maintain phosphate and ammonium levels in the final effluent to below 5mg.l-1 and 2mg.l-1 respectively (South African discharge standards are 10mg.l-1 and 3mg.l-1 in each case). The quality of the final effluent produced by the optimisation of the IAPS would allow it to be used for irrigation, thereby providing an alternative water source in water stressed areas. The system also proved to be exceptionally robust and data collected during periods of intensive and low management regimes were broadly comparable. Results of the 9 year study have demonstrated reliable performance of the IAPS and its use an appropriate, sustainable wastewater treatment option for small communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The anatomy and distribution of the cyperaceae in the Eastern Cape region of South Africa
- Authors: Sonnenberg, Bernd Jürgen
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Cyperaceae Cyperaceae -- Anatomy Cyperaceae -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4228 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003797
- Description: The principal objective of this investigation, was to collect the family Cyperaceae and to study their leaf, bract and culm anatomy. The second was to examine the collection for unique structures or forms, whilst a third was to classify the Cyperaceae according to their photosynthetic structures and types. Distribution of the Cyperaceae within the broad region defined as the Eastern Cape would be influenced by rainfall pattern. It was expected that C₃ species would predominate in more mesic environments and habitats, whilst the C₄ species would be found in drier less favourable habitats. Collection within the region (November 1993 to late January 1997), yielded 106 species, totalling some 600 specimens. Both sub-families of the Cyperaceae (Caricoideae and Cyperoideae), eight tribes (Abildgaardieae, Cariceae, Cypereae, Hypotvtreae, Rhynchosporeae, Shoeneae, Sirpeae and Slerieae) and twenty five genera were found to be present. Sixty percent of the species were C₃ and forty percent were C₄. Sixteen new species, which had not been collected within the boundaries of the region previously were also found. Over 43 percent of the species collected had unique anatomical characteristics that appeared to be influenced by habitat and or climate influenced. These are the characters influenced by hydromorphic, mesomorphic and xeromorphic environments. These anatomical characters: Thickness of leaves and bracts; thickness of the adaxial and abaxial epidermis of the leaves and bracts; flush, sunken and raised stomata; presence or absence of bulliform cells; presence and distribution of sclerenchymatous structures; presence or absence of a hypodermis; presence or absence of cavities in the leaves, bracts and culms; mesophyll or ground tissue structure, and the presence or absence of secretary structures. A few noteworthy anatomical characters that are influenced by climate are present in Cladium mariscus subsp. jamaicense (Schoeneae), the Cariceae, the Cypereae and the Sclerieae. Within Cladium mariscus subsp. jamaicense the pseudo-dorsiventral leaves and bracts, as well as the large lamina cavities, containing trans-lamina girders are unique. Papillate epidermal cells are limited to the tribe Cariceae. In the Cypereae many of the species lack bulliform cells and hypodermal layers. In Pycreus cooperi (Cypereae) the vascular bundles of the leaves and bracts, appear to be stacked in rows, that are inter-spaced with lamina cavities. In the Sclerieae the mesophyll structure is specific to the species level. Unique anatomical characteristics were also present in the leaves, bracts and culms of the genus Carpha. In this genus distinctive lateral vascular bundles were present abutting the large bundles and/or midrib bundle. The most distinctive anatomical characteristics that could be used to separate the members of the Cyperaceae were the structures and associated structures related to the photosynthetic pathway. The Eastern Cape Cyperaceae could be divided into three distinct groups based on photosynthetic structure, namely one C₃, a C₄ and a potential C₃-C₄ intermediate group. The C₃ group was found to have non-radiate mesophyll and an outer parenchymatous sheath with small chloroplasts (Cariceae, Cyperaceae [in part], Hypolytreae (Chrysithrix capensis], Rhynchosporeae [R. brownii], Schoeneae, Scirpeae and Sclerieae). The C₄ group has radiate mesophyll and an inner parenchymatous sheath with enlarged chloroplasts (Kranz or PCR sheath). The C₄ species are present in tribes Abildgaardieae, Cypereae (in part) and Rhynchosporeae (R. barrosiana). In the Eastern Cape, a few species with C₃ anatomy have anatomical characteristics that are similar to the species with C₄ anatomy (Cyathocoma hexandra [bracts], Cyperus tennellus var. tennellus [leaves and bracts], Ficinia bulbosa [leaves], F. dura [leaves and bracts], F. lateralis coastal [leaves and bracts], F. oligantha [bracts], F. pingiour [bracts], F. stolonifera [leaves and bracts], F. tribracteata [leaves and bracts], F. zeyheri [leaves and bracts], Isolepis cernua [leaves and bracts], I. costata var. macra [bracts], Schoenus nigricans [leaves], Scirpus nodosus [bracts] and Tetraria cuspidata [leaves and bracts)). The vascular bundles within this intermediate group, fall within the Hattersleyand Watson (1975) minimal cell lateral count and maximal cell distal count criteria for C₄ grass species. However, no biochemical data exists to see whether they are C₃-C₄ intermediates or whether the Hattersley and Watson (1975) C₄ criteria for grasses applies to smaller, or scutiform Cyperaceae or not. Based on the results presented here, five distinct structural forms/types were found to be present in the C₃, C₄ and C₃-C₄ intermediate groups. The C₃ and the potential C₃-C₄ intermediate species may be divided into two types, based on the number of vascular sheaths present. In the first or A-type, vascular bundles are surrounded by two sheaths and in the more dominant B-type, by three. The A-type was found in the Cypereae (Cyperus denudatus and C. textilis) and most of the Scirpeae. B-type anatomy occurred in the Cariceae, Cypereae (c. difformis, C. pulcher, C. sphaerospermus, C. tennellus var. tennellus and P. mundii), Hypolytreae, Rhynchosporeae (R. brownii), Schoeneae, Scirpeae (Bolboschoenus maritimus, Ficinia cinnamomea, F. fascicularis, F. lateralis both, F. pingiour, the genus Fuirena, I. diabolica, I. fluitans, I. prolifera and Schoenoplectus paludicola) and Sclerieae tribes. Based on the vascular sheath structure, the C₄ species could be divided into three groups, namely bulbostyloid, chlorocyperoid and fimbristyloid, where the bulbostyloid structure occurred in Bulbostylis schoenoides. Cyperus (in part), Kyllinga, Mariscus and Pycreus (except P. mundii) had a chlorocyperoid structure. Genera with fimbristyloid structure were recorded in the genera Abildgaardia, Bulbostylis and Fimbristylis. The bulbostyloid type represents a potential a fifth C₄ anatomical type within the C₄ Cyperaceae. As a result of this observation, it is possible that the C₄ syndrome may have evolved five times in the Cyperaceae and not four as previously suggested by Bruhl and Perry (1995) and by Soros and Dengler (2001). The C₃ Cyperaceae species within the Eastern Cape are more dominant in higher elevation habitats the C₄ species, similar to the C₃ grasses. The only C₄ species that occur at high elevations are those with three sheaths. The C₃ and C₄ species within the region occur in similar low rainfall habitat ranges, where the C₄'s are more dominant in xeric habitats on drier soils than the C₃ species, similar to the grasses. Where more C₃ species occur in higher rainfall habitats than the C₄ species. With the exception of the Afromontane Bulbostylis schoenoides and R. barrosiana, the C₄ species similar to the grasses are dominant in high light and temperature habitats with low rainfall, unlike the C₄ Cyperaceae of Japan and America. Only five species occur in the desert like conditions of the Karoo-Namib biome (Cyperus laevigatus, C. rupestris var. rupestris, I. cernua, M. capensis and M. uitenhagensis), which have less than 250mm of rainfall per annum. Only three species are habitat-specific or may be endemic to a specific area within the Eastern Cape, namely A. capensis, Chrysithrix capensis and R. barrosiana. A. capensis in marshes on the Amatole mountains near Alice and Hogsback. C. capensis to the Tstsikamma mountains of the Wite Els Bosch forests. R. barrosiana to the marshlands of the Cape Morgan coastal Nature reserve at Kei Mouth. The anatomical types of the C₃ and more especially C₄ Cyperaceae are not specifically found in a particular rainfall regime or habitat type, which is contrary to the thesis hypothesis. However, the C₃ species are mostly correlated with hydrophytic to mesic habitats, with the exception of Ficinia and the two sheathed species. Ficinia is dominant in mesic grasslands and halophytic habitats. The two sheathed C₃ species are mostly present in halophytic habitats. The C₄ species are also more dominant in mesic to xerophytic grasslands, as expected in the hypothesis. Where only a few species occur in habitats correlated with increasing rainfall and temperature similar to the C₄ Cyperaceae of Japan and America. It may thus be that the development and evolution of the different C₄ anatomical forms (or phylogenetic forms) within the Cyperaceae may have enabled these species to establish themselves in habitats that were alien to their origins. It may be that the ability to regulate photoassimilate and water transport within the Cyperaceae enables their success in a dynamic and unpredictable climate, such as the Eastern Cape. Many of the anatomical characteristics reported in this thesis and its appendices are unique to the tribes, genera and/or species of the Eastern Cape Cyperaceae and thus may be valuable to future taxonomic classifications of the family. The research presented here should provide a good working platform for future, more detailed research on this often forgotten component of the vegetation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Sonnenberg, Bernd Jürgen
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Cyperaceae Cyperaceae -- Anatomy Cyperaceae -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4228 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003797
- Description: The principal objective of this investigation, was to collect the family Cyperaceae and to study their leaf, bract and culm anatomy. The second was to examine the collection for unique structures or forms, whilst a third was to classify the Cyperaceae according to their photosynthetic structures and types. Distribution of the Cyperaceae within the broad region defined as the Eastern Cape would be influenced by rainfall pattern. It was expected that C₃ species would predominate in more mesic environments and habitats, whilst the C₄ species would be found in drier less favourable habitats. Collection within the region (November 1993 to late January 1997), yielded 106 species, totalling some 600 specimens. Both sub-families of the Cyperaceae (Caricoideae and Cyperoideae), eight tribes (Abildgaardieae, Cariceae, Cypereae, Hypotvtreae, Rhynchosporeae, Shoeneae, Sirpeae and Slerieae) and twenty five genera were found to be present. Sixty percent of the species were C₃ and forty percent were C₄. Sixteen new species, which had not been collected within the boundaries of the region previously were also found. Over 43 percent of the species collected had unique anatomical characteristics that appeared to be influenced by habitat and or climate influenced. These are the characters influenced by hydromorphic, mesomorphic and xeromorphic environments. These anatomical characters: Thickness of leaves and bracts; thickness of the adaxial and abaxial epidermis of the leaves and bracts; flush, sunken and raised stomata; presence or absence of bulliform cells; presence and distribution of sclerenchymatous structures; presence or absence of a hypodermis; presence or absence of cavities in the leaves, bracts and culms; mesophyll or ground tissue structure, and the presence or absence of secretary structures. A few noteworthy anatomical characters that are influenced by climate are present in Cladium mariscus subsp. jamaicense (Schoeneae), the Cariceae, the Cypereae and the Sclerieae. Within Cladium mariscus subsp. jamaicense the pseudo-dorsiventral leaves and bracts, as well as the large lamina cavities, containing trans-lamina girders are unique. Papillate epidermal cells are limited to the tribe Cariceae. In the Cypereae many of the species lack bulliform cells and hypodermal layers. In Pycreus cooperi (Cypereae) the vascular bundles of the leaves and bracts, appear to be stacked in rows, that are inter-spaced with lamina cavities. In the Sclerieae the mesophyll structure is specific to the species level. Unique anatomical characteristics were also present in the leaves, bracts and culms of the genus Carpha. In this genus distinctive lateral vascular bundles were present abutting the large bundles and/or midrib bundle. The most distinctive anatomical characteristics that could be used to separate the members of the Cyperaceae were the structures and associated structures related to the photosynthetic pathway. The Eastern Cape Cyperaceae could be divided into three distinct groups based on photosynthetic structure, namely one C₃, a C₄ and a potential C₃-C₄ intermediate group. The C₃ group was found to have non-radiate mesophyll and an outer parenchymatous sheath with small chloroplasts (Cariceae, Cyperaceae [in part], Hypolytreae (Chrysithrix capensis], Rhynchosporeae [R. brownii], Schoeneae, Scirpeae and Sclerieae). The C₄ group has radiate mesophyll and an inner parenchymatous sheath with enlarged chloroplasts (Kranz or PCR sheath). The C₄ species are present in tribes Abildgaardieae, Cypereae (in part) and Rhynchosporeae (R. barrosiana). In the Eastern Cape, a few species with C₃ anatomy have anatomical characteristics that are similar to the species with C₄ anatomy (Cyathocoma hexandra [bracts], Cyperus tennellus var. tennellus [leaves and bracts], Ficinia bulbosa [leaves], F. dura [leaves and bracts], F. lateralis coastal [leaves and bracts], F. oligantha [bracts], F. pingiour [bracts], F. stolonifera [leaves and bracts], F. tribracteata [leaves and bracts], F. zeyheri [leaves and bracts], Isolepis cernua [leaves and bracts], I. costata var. macra [bracts], Schoenus nigricans [leaves], Scirpus nodosus [bracts] and Tetraria cuspidata [leaves and bracts)). The vascular bundles within this intermediate group, fall within the Hattersleyand Watson (1975) minimal cell lateral count and maximal cell distal count criteria for C₄ grass species. However, no biochemical data exists to see whether they are C₃-C₄ intermediates or whether the Hattersley and Watson (1975) C₄ criteria for grasses applies to smaller, or scutiform Cyperaceae or not. Based on the results presented here, five distinct structural forms/types were found to be present in the C₃, C₄ and C₃-C₄ intermediate groups. The C₃ and the potential C₃-C₄ intermediate species may be divided into two types, based on the number of vascular sheaths present. In the first or A-type, vascular bundles are surrounded by two sheaths and in the more dominant B-type, by three. The A-type was found in the Cypereae (Cyperus denudatus and C. textilis) and most of the Scirpeae. B-type anatomy occurred in the Cariceae, Cypereae (c. difformis, C. pulcher, C. sphaerospermus, C. tennellus var. tennellus and P. mundii), Hypolytreae, Rhynchosporeae (R. brownii), Schoeneae, Scirpeae (Bolboschoenus maritimus, Ficinia cinnamomea, F. fascicularis, F. lateralis both, F. pingiour, the genus Fuirena, I. diabolica, I. fluitans, I. prolifera and Schoenoplectus paludicola) and Sclerieae tribes. Based on the vascular sheath structure, the C₄ species could be divided into three groups, namely bulbostyloid, chlorocyperoid and fimbristyloid, where the bulbostyloid structure occurred in Bulbostylis schoenoides. Cyperus (in part), Kyllinga, Mariscus and Pycreus (except P. mundii) had a chlorocyperoid structure. Genera with fimbristyloid structure were recorded in the genera Abildgaardia, Bulbostylis and Fimbristylis. The bulbostyloid type represents a potential a fifth C₄ anatomical type within the C₄ Cyperaceae. As a result of this observation, it is possible that the C₄ syndrome may have evolved five times in the Cyperaceae and not four as previously suggested by Bruhl and Perry (1995) and by Soros and Dengler (2001). The C₃ Cyperaceae species within the Eastern Cape are more dominant in higher elevation habitats the C₄ species, similar to the C₃ grasses. The only C₄ species that occur at high elevations are those with three sheaths. The C₃ and C₄ species within the region occur in similar low rainfall habitat ranges, where the C₄'s are more dominant in xeric habitats on drier soils than the C₃ species, similar to the grasses. Where more C₃ species occur in higher rainfall habitats than the C₄ species. With the exception of the Afromontane Bulbostylis schoenoides and R. barrosiana, the C₄ species similar to the grasses are dominant in high light and temperature habitats with low rainfall, unlike the C₄ Cyperaceae of Japan and America. Only five species occur in the desert like conditions of the Karoo-Namib biome (Cyperus laevigatus, C. rupestris var. rupestris, I. cernua, M. capensis and M. uitenhagensis), which have less than 250mm of rainfall per annum. Only three species are habitat-specific or may be endemic to a specific area within the Eastern Cape, namely A. capensis, Chrysithrix capensis and R. barrosiana. A. capensis in marshes on the Amatole mountains near Alice and Hogsback. C. capensis to the Tstsikamma mountains of the Wite Els Bosch forests. R. barrosiana to the marshlands of the Cape Morgan coastal Nature reserve at Kei Mouth. The anatomical types of the C₃ and more especially C₄ Cyperaceae are not specifically found in a particular rainfall regime or habitat type, which is contrary to the thesis hypothesis. However, the C₃ species are mostly correlated with hydrophytic to mesic habitats, with the exception of Ficinia and the two sheathed species. Ficinia is dominant in mesic grasslands and halophytic habitats. The two sheathed C₃ species are mostly present in halophytic habitats. The C₄ species are also more dominant in mesic to xerophytic grasslands, as expected in the hypothesis. Where only a few species occur in habitats correlated with increasing rainfall and temperature similar to the C₄ Cyperaceae of Japan and America. It may thus be that the development and evolution of the different C₄ anatomical forms (or phylogenetic forms) within the Cyperaceae may have enabled these species to establish themselves in habitats that were alien to their origins. It may be that the ability to regulate photoassimilate and water transport within the Cyperaceae enables their success in a dynamic and unpredictable climate, such as the Eastern Cape. Many of the anatomical characteristics reported in this thesis and its appendices are unique to the tribes, genera and/or species of the Eastern Cape Cyperaceae and thus may be valuable to future taxonomic classifications of the family. The research presented here should provide a good working platform for future, more detailed research on this often forgotten component of the vegetation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The application of the monthly time step Pitman rainfall-runoff model to the Kafue River basin of Zambia
- Mwelwa, Elenestina Mutekenya
- Authors: Mwelwa, Elenestina Mutekenya
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Kafue River (Zambia) , Kafue Flats (Zambia) , Floodplains -- Zambia , Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006171 , Kafue River (Zambia) , Kafue Flats (Zambia) , Floodplains -- Zambia , Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models
- Description: This thesis presents a discussion on the study undertaken in the application of the monthly time step Pitman rainfall-runoff model to the Kafue River basin. The study constituted one of the initial steps in the capacity building and expansion of the application of hydrologic models in the southern African region for water resources assessment, one of the core areas of the Southern African FRIEND project (Flow Regimes from International Experimental Network Data). The research process was undertaken in four major stages, each stage working towards achieving the research objectives. The first stage was the preparation of spatial data which included the selection and delineation of sub-catchments and inclusion of spatial features required to run the Pitman model and transferring the spatial data into SPATSIM. The second stage was the preparation of input data, mainly rainfall, streamflow, evaporation, and water abstraction data. This information was then imported into SPATSIM, which was able to assist in the further preparation of data by assessment of the input data quality, linking of observed flows and spatial interpolation of point rainfall data to average catchment rainfall in readiness for running and calibration of the model. The third stage was the running and calibration of the Pitman model. Use was made of both the automatic calibration facility, as well as manual calibration by means of the time series graph display and analysis facility of SPATSIM. Model calibration was used to obtain the best fit and an acceptable correlation between the simulated and the observed flows and to obtain simulation parameter sets for sub-catchments and regions within the Kafue catchment. The fourth stage was the analysis and evaluation of the model results. This included verification of results over different time periods and validation and testing of parameter transfers to other catchments. This stage also included the evaluation of SPATSIM as a tool for applying the model and as a database for the processing and storage of water resources data. The study’s output includes: A comprehensive database of hydrometeorological, physical catchment characteristics, landuse and water abstraction information for the Kafue basin; calibrated Pitman model parameters for the sub-catchments within the Kafue basin; recommendations for future work and data collection programmes for the application of the model. The study has also built capacity by facilitating training and exposure to rainfall-runoff models (specifically the Pitman model) and associated software, SPATSIM. In addition, the dissemination of the results of this study will serve as an effective way of raising awareness on the application of the Pitman model and the use of the SPATSIM software within Zambia and the region. The overall Pitman model results were found to be satisfactory and the calibrated model is able to reproduce the observed spatial and temporal variations in streamflow characteristics in the Kafue River basin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Mwelwa, Elenestina Mutekenya
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Kafue River (Zambia) , Kafue Flats (Zambia) , Floodplains -- Zambia , Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:6032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006171 , Kafue River (Zambia) , Kafue Flats (Zambia) , Floodplains -- Zambia , Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models
- Description: This thesis presents a discussion on the study undertaken in the application of the monthly time step Pitman rainfall-runoff model to the Kafue River basin. The study constituted one of the initial steps in the capacity building and expansion of the application of hydrologic models in the southern African region for water resources assessment, one of the core areas of the Southern African FRIEND project (Flow Regimes from International Experimental Network Data). The research process was undertaken in four major stages, each stage working towards achieving the research objectives. The first stage was the preparation of spatial data which included the selection and delineation of sub-catchments and inclusion of spatial features required to run the Pitman model and transferring the spatial data into SPATSIM. The second stage was the preparation of input data, mainly rainfall, streamflow, evaporation, and water abstraction data. This information was then imported into SPATSIM, which was able to assist in the further preparation of data by assessment of the input data quality, linking of observed flows and spatial interpolation of point rainfall data to average catchment rainfall in readiness for running and calibration of the model. The third stage was the running and calibration of the Pitman model. Use was made of both the automatic calibration facility, as well as manual calibration by means of the time series graph display and analysis facility of SPATSIM. Model calibration was used to obtain the best fit and an acceptable correlation between the simulated and the observed flows and to obtain simulation parameter sets for sub-catchments and regions within the Kafue catchment. The fourth stage was the analysis and evaluation of the model results. This included verification of results over different time periods and validation and testing of parameter transfers to other catchments. This stage also included the evaluation of SPATSIM as a tool for applying the model and as a database for the processing and storage of water resources data. The study’s output includes: A comprehensive database of hydrometeorological, physical catchment characteristics, landuse and water abstraction information for the Kafue basin; calibrated Pitman model parameters for the sub-catchments within the Kafue basin; recommendations for future work and data collection programmes for the application of the model. The study has also built capacity by facilitating training and exposure to rainfall-runoff models (specifically the Pitman model) and associated software, SPATSIM. In addition, the dissemination of the results of this study will serve as an effective way of raising awareness on the application of the Pitman model and the use of the SPATSIM software within Zambia and the region. The overall Pitman model results were found to be satisfactory and the calibrated model is able to reproduce the observed spatial and temporal variations in streamflow characteristics in the Kafue River basin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The assessment and management of bycatch and discards in the South African demersal trawl fishery
- Authors: Walmsley, Sarah Ann
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Bycatches (Fisheries) Fishery management -- South Africa Fisheries -- South Africa Trawls and trawling -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5228 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005071
- Description: Over the past few decades it has become recognised that an ecosystem approach is required to manage world fisheries. Management strategies must ensure that non-target (bycatch) as well as target catches are sustainable. To achieve this, detailed commercial catch and biological information is required. The composition of catches made by trawlers operating off the south and west coasts of South Africa was investigated. Distinct fishing areas were identified on each coast, based on target species and fishing depth. Catch composition differed markedly among the areas defined. Although hake Merluccius sp. dominated South Coast catches, a large proportion of the catch was composed of bycatch. On the West Coast, hake dominated catches and this domination increased with increasing depth. On both coasts approximately 90% of the observed nominal catch was processed and landed. Estimates of annual discards suggested that the fishery discarded 38 thousand tons of fish per annum (16% of the nominal trawl catch). The data also indicated that hake discarding, the capture of linefish and the increased targeting of high value species might be cause for concern. Spatial analysis indicated that a variety of factors such as trawling position, catch size and catch composition affects bycatch dynamics. The monkfish Lophius vomerinus is a common bycatch species that has been increasingly targeted by demersal trawlers. This study showed that L. vomerinus is a slow-growing, long-lived species (West Coast males L∞ = 68.50cm TL, t₀ = -1.69yr, K = 0.10yr⁻¹; West Coast females L∞ = 110.23cm TL, t₀ = -1.54yr, K = 0.05yr⁻¹; South Coast sexes combined L∞ = 70.12cm TL, t₀ = - 0.80yr, K = 0.11yr⁻¹), that matures at approximately 6 years of age. These traits could have serious management implications for the species. Per-recruit analysis suggested that the stock might be overexploited, although further investigation is required to confirm this. Solutions were suggested for each of the concerns raised, taking cognisance of the differences observed between the South and West Coasts and the economic dependence of South Coast companies on bycatch. The needs of future research were considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Walmsley, Sarah Ann
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Bycatches (Fisheries) Fishery management -- South Africa Fisheries -- South Africa Trawls and trawling -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5228 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005071
- Description: Over the past few decades it has become recognised that an ecosystem approach is required to manage world fisheries. Management strategies must ensure that non-target (bycatch) as well as target catches are sustainable. To achieve this, detailed commercial catch and biological information is required. The composition of catches made by trawlers operating off the south and west coasts of South Africa was investigated. Distinct fishing areas were identified on each coast, based on target species and fishing depth. Catch composition differed markedly among the areas defined. Although hake Merluccius sp. dominated South Coast catches, a large proportion of the catch was composed of bycatch. On the West Coast, hake dominated catches and this domination increased with increasing depth. On both coasts approximately 90% of the observed nominal catch was processed and landed. Estimates of annual discards suggested that the fishery discarded 38 thousand tons of fish per annum (16% of the nominal trawl catch). The data also indicated that hake discarding, the capture of linefish and the increased targeting of high value species might be cause for concern. Spatial analysis indicated that a variety of factors such as trawling position, catch size and catch composition affects bycatch dynamics. The monkfish Lophius vomerinus is a common bycatch species that has been increasingly targeted by demersal trawlers. This study showed that L. vomerinus is a slow-growing, long-lived species (West Coast males L∞ = 68.50cm TL, t₀ = -1.69yr, K = 0.10yr⁻¹; West Coast females L∞ = 110.23cm TL, t₀ = -1.54yr, K = 0.05yr⁻¹; South Coast sexes combined L∞ = 70.12cm TL, t₀ = - 0.80yr, K = 0.11yr⁻¹), that matures at approximately 6 years of age. These traits could have serious management implications for the species. Per-recruit analysis suggested that the stock might be overexploited, although further investigation is required to confirm this. Solutions were suggested for each of the concerns raised, taking cognisance of the differences observed between the South and West Coasts and the economic dependence of South Coast companies on bycatch. The needs of future research were considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The biology of suburban olive thrushes (Turdus olivaceus olivaceus) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Bonnevie, Bo Tørris
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Thrushes , Turdus , Thrushes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Turdus -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5651 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005333 , Thrushes , Turdus , Thrushes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Turdus -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigated the biology of the Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus olivaceus in Grahamstown, South Africa from 1998 to 2003. Behavioural differences between males and females, parent-young interactions, development of fledglings, and the role of song and moult in territorial behaviour were investigated. Comparisons of biometrics, moult and survival were made using Olive Thrush ringing data from other regions. There were no significant differences in mass, wing length or survival rate between the Eastern and Western Cape provinces, but primary wing moult started earlier in the Western Cape and coincided with the end of the main breeding periods in both provinces. Both males and females of breeding pairs remained in and defended their territories throughout the year, but there was some evidence that territorial defence was strongest during the breeding periods. Roughly, every 100 eggs laid produce 50 fledglings. Out of these 20 to 30 reach the age of independence at approximately 50 days, and only five of these juvenile birds reach maturity. Adult survival was estimated at 80%, with a mean life expectancy of 4.5 years and a conservative estimate of maximum lifespan of 11 years. Using ringing data and museum specimens, the Olive Thrush was compared with the Karoo Thrush Turdus smithi, a former race of the Olive Thrush. Olive Thrushes had shorter bills and wings, but were heavier than Karoo Thrushes from the Cradock district. There were also differences in bill and eye-ring colouration between these populations. No morphological differences were found between the sexes in either species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Bonnevie, Bo Tørris
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Thrushes , Turdus , Thrushes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Turdus -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5651 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005333 , Thrushes , Turdus , Thrushes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Turdus -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigated the biology of the Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus olivaceus in Grahamstown, South Africa from 1998 to 2003. Behavioural differences between males and females, parent-young interactions, development of fledglings, and the role of song and moult in territorial behaviour were investigated. Comparisons of biometrics, moult and survival were made using Olive Thrush ringing data from other regions. There were no significant differences in mass, wing length or survival rate between the Eastern and Western Cape provinces, but primary wing moult started earlier in the Western Cape and coincided with the end of the main breeding periods in both provinces. Both males and females of breeding pairs remained in and defended their territories throughout the year, but there was some evidence that territorial defence was strongest during the breeding periods. Roughly, every 100 eggs laid produce 50 fledglings. Out of these 20 to 30 reach the age of independence at approximately 50 days, and only five of these juvenile birds reach maturity. Adult survival was estimated at 80%, with a mean life expectancy of 4.5 years and a conservative estimate of maximum lifespan of 11 years. Using ringing data and museum specimens, the Olive Thrush was compared with the Karoo Thrush Turdus smithi, a former race of the Olive Thrush. Olive Thrushes had shorter bills and wings, but were heavier than Karoo Thrushes from the Cradock district. There were also differences in bill and eye-ring colouration between these populations. No morphological differences were found between the sexes in either species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The biophysical dynamics of the Lower Shire River Floodplain fisheries in Malawi
- Authors: Chimatiro, Sloans Kalumba
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Shire River Valley (Malawi and Mozambique) Fisheries -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5243 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005086
- Description: Fishes of African floodplains typically comprise populations having short life cycles, relatively few age groups, more generalised feeding behaviour, and which experience spawning success that is strongly influenced by abiotic factors such as hydrological regime of the river, climatic seasonality and habitat characteristics. In addition, African river-floodplain ecosystems do not have appropriate predictive models for estimating yield in these ecosystems. While most predictive models developed to date for floodplain fisheries have taken into account morpho-edaphic factors, they have generally excluded climatic factors as a mega-determinant of the variability of floodplain fisheries. The principle aim of this thesis has been to develop a predictive management model that incorporates data on essential biological aspects of the target species, characteristics of the habitat as well as overall climatic factors, and thus allow for adaptive management of the fisheries in a continuously fluctuating floodplain environment. Lower Shire Floodplain (34 ⁰ 45’ – 35 ⁰ E and 16 ⁰ 00’-17 ⁰ 15’ S) in Malawi, one of the major rivers-floodplains in the Zambezi Basin, was used to test this type of model. The major hypothesis tested in this study was that “the dynamics of the fishery of Lower Shire Floodplain are driven by and adapted to the seasonal, but predictable, hydro-climatic regime of the floodplain”. The specific objectives were: to describe the floodplain’s climate and hydrological pattern; to develop a quantitative characterisation of the major habitats of the Lower Shire Floodplain; to assess the fishery in terms of size, gear utilisation, gear selectivity and yield; to assess the biological parameters of the target species, necessary for the management of the fishery; to analyse how water fluctuation in the floodplain affects the recruitment and life history of the two target species; and to develop of a predictive hydro-climatic model to benefit the management of the fisheries. The climate of the floodplain was characterised by low (765 ± 198 mm) and fairly variable (Cv = 27%) rainfall, which largely occurred between December and January. The area was generally humid (mean RH 68%), with mild to hot (25- 33ºC) and variable monthly mean diurnal (12ºC) temperature. Four quarterly hydro-climatic seasons were identified and comprised: Quarter 1 (Jul-Sep) characterised by hot, dry weather with a low flood regime; Quarter 2 (Oct-Dec) hot, windy, wet weather with low-but-rising flood regime; Quarter 3 (Jan-Mar) hot humid, wet weather with the flood regime at peak; and Quarter 4 (Apr-Jun) humid and cool weather with receding flood regime. The annual hydrograph of the floodplain was represented by four categories of flood regime as: low (Jul-Sept), low-but-rising (Oct-Dec), peak (Jan- Mar), and falling (Apr-Jun). The floodplain experienced a water deficit of 95.1 mm.year⁻¹, and it was hypothesised that ground water recharge maintained water in the floodplain the rest of the year. Three major habitats were identified in the floodplain. The river-floodplain, characterised by deep fast-flowing water, sandy substrate and little emergent vegetation; the permanently connected lagoons, were shallow (≤ 2 m) with sandymud bottom and slow flowing water; and the seasonally connected lagoons had slowflowing stagnant water, with comparatively more emergent and floating vegetation. Physicochemical characteristics of the habitats varied significantly with hydroclimatic seasons (one-way ANOVA, p ≤ 0.05), indicating the influence of flood regime, which joined the habitats in a non-equilibrial spatial distribution. Consequently, during receding and low flood regimes river-floodplain and permanently connected lagoons exhibited similar characteristics while all three habitats had similar characteristics during the rising and peak flood regimes. It was, therefore, concluded that in floodplains, habitats shift horizontally and vertically according to the water level. Gill nets, cast nets, long line, and fish traps accounted for 99% of the total count of gears, and hence considered the major fishing sectors. Two principal species in the floodplain were the catfish Clarias gariepinus and the cichlid Oreochromis mossambicus. Length-at-maximum-selectivity (ø) and length-at-50%-sexual-maturity (Lm₅₀) for each of the two species showed that although they were selected into the four fishing sectors at lengths above maturity, maximum selectivity into the long line occurred at a length before maturity for O. mossambicus. In addition, the width of the gamma selectivity function (σ) indicated that a considerable proportion of juveniles of the two species were also selected. Therefore, it was decided that management for the floodplain be centred on controlling over-fishing and preserving the spawner stock, by banning seine and mosquito nets, and closing river-floodplain and permanently connected lagoons to fishing during the low flood regime. There were significant seasonal variations in CPUE, lowest in the low flood, and highest during the peak flood regime. Sectioned otoliths were used to determine the age and growth of the two principal species in the floodplain. Marginal zone analysis revealed that annulus formation in all the species occurred during the period of low air and water temperatures, high evaporation and receding water levels, hence a high rate of desiccation and negative water budget. For O. mossambicus, maximum age reached was 6 years while in C. gariepinus it was 9 years. The 3-parameter von Bertalanffy growth model adequately described growth as lt = 177.6(1-e⁻·⁴⁴⁽t ⁺ ¹·⁴³⁾) mm TL for O. mossambicus and lt = 502.9(1-e⁻°·³¹⁽t ⁺ ¹·⁹²⁾) mm TL for C. gariepinus. Female O. mossambicus reached 50%-sexual-maturity at 109 mm SL, while males matured at 105 mm, and both male and female C. gariepinus reached Lm₅₀ at 249 mm SL. The breeding seasons of both O. mossambicus and Clarias gariepinus were between September and March, with modal peaks in January and November, respectively. The annual total mortality rates (Z) were 0.62 ± 0.18 yr⁻¹ for O. mossambicus and 0.93 ± 0.47 yr⁻¹ for C. gariepinus. The mean empirical estimates of natural mortality (M) were 0.46 yr⁻¹ for O. mossambicus and 0.50 year⁻¹ for C. gariepinus, and fishing mortality (F) was calculated as 0.16 yr⁻¹ for O. mossambicus and 0.43 yr⁻¹ for C. gariepinus. The overall exploitation level (Z/K) was 1.41 for O. mossambicus and 3.01 for C. gariepinus. Given that the Z/K ratio was >1, it was asserted that both O. mossambicus and C. gariepinus were mortality-dominated and fairly heavily exploited. However, potential for sustainable exploitation existed since both species showed signs of resilience due short longevity and high rate of natural mortality. Given the limitation of simple exponential models of fish mortality and growth under the situation of seasonal fluctuation of water levels, a simple predictive hydroclimatic- fisheries model was developed. The model predicted the life-history and production parameters fairly accurately (0.53 ≤ r² ≥ 0.98, p ≤ 0.05), and showed that environmental and biological events in the floodplain significantly (0.43 ≤ r² ≥ 0.91, p ≤ 0.05) followed the periodic function of time (day-of-the-year), hence, strongly seasonal. In addition, the flood-pulse preceded all the major biological events, with predicted phase lags established at 55.6º for peak flood, 157.2º, 260.1º, 334.6º and 341.4º for condition factor for O. mossambicus, recruitment, spawning period for O. mossambicus and C. gariepinus, respectively. Therefore, it was recommended that water obstruction on the Shire River must ensure sufficient water flow during the peak flood and spawning period to allow flooding and inundation of the floodplain in order to create habitat favourable for spawning and feeding as well as improve recruitment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Chimatiro, Sloans Kalumba
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Shire River Valley (Malawi and Mozambique) Fisheries -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5243 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005086
- Description: Fishes of African floodplains typically comprise populations having short life cycles, relatively few age groups, more generalised feeding behaviour, and which experience spawning success that is strongly influenced by abiotic factors such as hydrological regime of the river, climatic seasonality and habitat characteristics. In addition, African river-floodplain ecosystems do not have appropriate predictive models for estimating yield in these ecosystems. While most predictive models developed to date for floodplain fisheries have taken into account morpho-edaphic factors, they have generally excluded climatic factors as a mega-determinant of the variability of floodplain fisheries. The principle aim of this thesis has been to develop a predictive management model that incorporates data on essential biological aspects of the target species, characteristics of the habitat as well as overall climatic factors, and thus allow for adaptive management of the fisheries in a continuously fluctuating floodplain environment. Lower Shire Floodplain (34 ⁰ 45’ – 35 ⁰ E and 16 ⁰ 00’-17 ⁰ 15’ S) in Malawi, one of the major rivers-floodplains in the Zambezi Basin, was used to test this type of model. The major hypothesis tested in this study was that “the dynamics of the fishery of Lower Shire Floodplain are driven by and adapted to the seasonal, but predictable, hydro-climatic regime of the floodplain”. The specific objectives were: to describe the floodplain’s climate and hydrological pattern; to develop a quantitative characterisation of the major habitats of the Lower Shire Floodplain; to assess the fishery in terms of size, gear utilisation, gear selectivity and yield; to assess the biological parameters of the target species, necessary for the management of the fishery; to analyse how water fluctuation in the floodplain affects the recruitment and life history of the two target species; and to develop of a predictive hydro-climatic model to benefit the management of the fisheries. The climate of the floodplain was characterised by low (765 ± 198 mm) and fairly variable (Cv = 27%) rainfall, which largely occurred between December and January. The area was generally humid (mean RH 68%), with mild to hot (25- 33ºC) and variable monthly mean diurnal (12ºC) temperature. Four quarterly hydro-climatic seasons were identified and comprised: Quarter 1 (Jul-Sep) characterised by hot, dry weather with a low flood regime; Quarter 2 (Oct-Dec) hot, windy, wet weather with low-but-rising flood regime; Quarter 3 (Jan-Mar) hot humid, wet weather with the flood regime at peak; and Quarter 4 (Apr-Jun) humid and cool weather with receding flood regime. The annual hydrograph of the floodplain was represented by four categories of flood regime as: low (Jul-Sept), low-but-rising (Oct-Dec), peak (Jan- Mar), and falling (Apr-Jun). The floodplain experienced a water deficit of 95.1 mm.year⁻¹, and it was hypothesised that ground water recharge maintained water in the floodplain the rest of the year. Three major habitats were identified in the floodplain. The river-floodplain, characterised by deep fast-flowing water, sandy substrate and little emergent vegetation; the permanently connected lagoons, were shallow (≤ 2 m) with sandymud bottom and slow flowing water; and the seasonally connected lagoons had slowflowing stagnant water, with comparatively more emergent and floating vegetation. Physicochemical characteristics of the habitats varied significantly with hydroclimatic seasons (one-way ANOVA, p ≤ 0.05), indicating the influence of flood regime, which joined the habitats in a non-equilibrial spatial distribution. Consequently, during receding and low flood regimes river-floodplain and permanently connected lagoons exhibited similar characteristics while all three habitats had similar characteristics during the rising and peak flood regimes. It was, therefore, concluded that in floodplains, habitats shift horizontally and vertically according to the water level. Gill nets, cast nets, long line, and fish traps accounted for 99% of the total count of gears, and hence considered the major fishing sectors. Two principal species in the floodplain were the catfish Clarias gariepinus and the cichlid Oreochromis mossambicus. Length-at-maximum-selectivity (ø) and length-at-50%-sexual-maturity (Lm₅₀) for each of the two species showed that although they were selected into the four fishing sectors at lengths above maturity, maximum selectivity into the long line occurred at a length before maturity for O. mossambicus. In addition, the width of the gamma selectivity function (σ) indicated that a considerable proportion of juveniles of the two species were also selected. Therefore, it was decided that management for the floodplain be centred on controlling over-fishing and preserving the spawner stock, by banning seine and mosquito nets, and closing river-floodplain and permanently connected lagoons to fishing during the low flood regime. There were significant seasonal variations in CPUE, lowest in the low flood, and highest during the peak flood regime. Sectioned otoliths were used to determine the age and growth of the two principal species in the floodplain. Marginal zone analysis revealed that annulus formation in all the species occurred during the period of low air and water temperatures, high evaporation and receding water levels, hence a high rate of desiccation and negative water budget. For O. mossambicus, maximum age reached was 6 years while in C. gariepinus it was 9 years. The 3-parameter von Bertalanffy growth model adequately described growth as lt = 177.6(1-e⁻·⁴⁴⁽t ⁺ ¹·⁴³⁾) mm TL for O. mossambicus and lt = 502.9(1-e⁻°·³¹⁽t ⁺ ¹·⁹²⁾) mm TL for C. gariepinus. Female O. mossambicus reached 50%-sexual-maturity at 109 mm SL, while males matured at 105 mm, and both male and female C. gariepinus reached Lm₅₀ at 249 mm SL. The breeding seasons of both O. mossambicus and Clarias gariepinus were between September and March, with modal peaks in January and November, respectively. The annual total mortality rates (Z) were 0.62 ± 0.18 yr⁻¹ for O. mossambicus and 0.93 ± 0.47 yr⁻¹ for C. gariepinus. The mean empirical estimates of natural mortality (M) were 0.46 yr⁻¹ for O. mossambicus and 0.50 year⁻¹ for C. gariepinus, and fishing mortality (F) was calculated as 0.16 yr⁻¹ for O. mossambicus and 0.43 yr⁻¹ for C. gariepinus. The overall exploitation level (Z/K) was 1.41 for O. mossambicus and 3.01 for C. gariepinus. Given that the Z/K ratio was >1, it was asserted that both O. mossambicus and C. gariepinus were mortality-dominated and fairly heavily exploited. However, potential for sustainable exploitation existed since both species showed signs of resilience due short longevity and high rate of natural mortality. Given the limitation of simple exponential models of fish mortality and growth under the situation of seasonal fluctuation of water levels, a simple predictive hydroclimatic- fisheries model was developed. The model predicted the life-history and production parameters fairly accurately (0.53 ≤ r² ≥ 0.98, p ≤ 0.05), and showed that environmental and biological events in the floodplain significantly (0.43 ≤ r² ≥ 0.91, p ≤ 0.05) followed the periodic function of time (day-of-the-year), hence, strongly seasonal. In addition, the flood-pulse preceded all the major biological events, with predicted phase lags established at 55.6º for peak flood, 157.2º, 260.1º, 334.6º and 341.4º for condition factor for O. mossambicus, recruitment, spawning period for O. mossambicus and C. gariepinus, respectively. Therefore, it was recommended that water obstruction on the Shire River must ensure sufficient water flow during the peak flood and spawning period to allow flooding and inundation of the floodplain in order to create habitat favourable for spawning and feeding as well as improve recruitment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The current role of modern portfolio theory in asset management practice in South Africa
- Authors: Garaba, Masimba
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Portfolio management -- South Africa , Investments -- South Africa , Bank investments -- Mathematical models , Capital assets pricing model , Asset -- Liability management , Money market -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:965 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002699 , Portfolio management -- South Africa , Investments -- South Africa , Bank investments -- Mathematical models , Capital assets pricing model , Asset -- Liability management , Money market -- South Africa
- Description: This research examines the role that modern portfolio theory (MPT) plays in current South Africa asset management practice in comparison to other portfolio management techniques and security evaluation methods. The purpose of asset management is to pool complementary financial market expertise, in order to generate returns in excess of the market return on the investments of the owners of financial resources that are entrusted to the firm, since the owners of financial resources might not be able to make superior investment decisions on their own. The research presents and discusses the literature pertaining to modern portfolio theory, traditional portfolio theory (fundamental and technical analyses), and behavioural finance theory. The implication of the efficient market hypothesis in relation to all the portfolio management theories is also presented and discussed. In line with a positivist paradigm, the survey research methodology, which combines both qualitative and quantitative aspects, was adopted. The instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire, which was found to be reliable and valid for this research. The questionnaire encompassed the Lickert scale to measure the data. The results of the analysis were interpreted using descriptive statistics. The results of this research suggest that modern portfolio theory does not play a significant role in the management of portfolios and security evaluation in South Africa. South African asset managers regard fundamental analysis as the most significant method of security evaluation in the management of portfolios. Technical analysis and econometric models are regarded as playing a moderate role and complement fundamental analysis whilst behavioural finance models play the least role. This research recommends an integrated portfolio management strategy that incorporates MPT, traditional portfolio theory and behavioural finance models to enhance investor value and protection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Garaba, Masimba
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Portfolio management -- South Africa , Investments -- South Africa , Bank investments -- Mathematical models , Capital assets pricing model , Asset -- Liability management , Money market -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:965 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002699 , Portfolio management -- South Africa , Investments -- South Africa , Bank investments -- Mathematical models , Capital assets pricing model , Asset -- Liability management , Money market -- South Africa
- Description: This research examines the role that modern portfolio theory (MPT) plays in current South Africa asset management practice in comparison to other portfolio management techniques and security evaluation methods. The purpose of asset management is to pool complementary financial market expertise, in order to generate returns in excess of the market return on the investments of the owners of financial resources that are entrusted to the firm, since the owners of financial resources might not be able to make superior investment decisions on their own. The research presents and discusses the literature pertaining to modern portfolio theory, traditional portfolio theory (fundamental and technical analyses), and behavioural finance theory. The implication of the efficient market hypothesis in relation to all the portfolio management theories is also presented and discussed. In line with a positivist paradigm, the survey research methodology, which combines both qualitative and quantitative aspects, was adopted. The instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire, which was found to be reliable and valid for this research. The questionnaire encompassed the Lickert scale to measure the data. The results of the analysis were interpreted using descriptive statistics. The results of this research suggest that modern portfolio theory does not play a significant role in the management of portfolios and security evaluation in South Africa. South African asset managers regard fundamental analysis as the most significant method of security evaluation in the management of portfolios. Technical analysis and econometric models are regarded as playing a moderate role and complement fundamental analysis whilst behavioural finance models play the least role. This research recommends an integrated portfolio management strategy that incorporates MPT, traditional portfolio theory and behavioural finance models to enhance investor value and protection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The degradation of lignocellulose in a biologically-generated sulphidic environment
- Authors: Roman, Henry James
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Lignocellulose Sulfides Lignin Lignocellulose -- Biodegradation Mines and mineral resources -- Waste disposal Acid mine drainage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3997 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004057
- Description: South Africa is renowned for its mining industry. The period over which the polluted waters from the existing and abandoned mines will require treatment has driven research into the development of passive treatment systems. These waters are characterised by a low pH, high concentrations of heavy metals, high levels of sulphate salts and low concentrations of organic material. The biological treatment of these waters has been a subject of increasing focus as an alternative to physicochemical treatment. The utilisation of lignocellulose as a carbon source has been restricted by the amount of reducing equivalents available within the lignocellulose matrix. After a few months of near 100% sulphate reduction, it was found that although there was a large fraction of lignin and cellulose remaining, sulphate reduction was reduced to less than 20%. The present study demonstrated that lignocellulose can be utilised as a carbon source for sulphate reduction. It was established that lignocellulose degradation was enhanced under biosulphidogenic conditions and that lignin could be degraded by a sulphate reducing microbial consortium. It was established using lignin model compounds synthesized in our laboratory, that the bonds within the lignin polymer can be cleaved within the sulphidic environment. The presence of cellulolytic enzymes, using CMCase as a marker enzyme, was detected within the sulphate reducing microbial consortium. Based on the results obtained a descriptive model was formulated for the degradation of lignocellulose under biosulphidogenic conditions. It was determined that the initial reduction in sulphate observed using lignocellulose as a carbon source was due to the easily extractable components. The degradation of which resulted in the production of sulphide, which aided in the degradation of lignin, allowing greater access to cellulose. Once the easily extractable material is exhausted, the cycle is halted, unless the sulphide production can be maintained. This is the focus of an ongoing project, testing the hypothesis that an easy to assimilate carbon source added after exhaustion of the easily extractable material, can maintain the sulphide production.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Roman, Henry James
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Lignocellulose Sulfides Lignin Lignocellulose -- Biodegradation Mines and mineral resources -- Waste disposal Acid mine drainage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3997 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004057
- Description: South Africa is renowned for its mining industry. The period over which the polluted waters from the existing and abandoned mines will require treatment has driven research into the development of passive treatment systems. These waters are characterised by a low pH, high concentrations of heavy metals, high levels of sulphate salts and low concentrations of organic material. The biological treatment of these waters has been a subject of increasing focus as an alternative to physicochemical treatment. The utilisation of lignocellulose as a carbon source has been restricted by the amount of reducing equivalents available within the lignocellulose matrix. After a few months of near 100% sulphate reduction, it was found that although there was a large fraction of lignin and cellulose remaining, sulphate reduction was reduced to less than 20%. The present study demonstrated that lignocellulose can be utilised as a carbon source for sulphate reduction. It was established that lignocellulose degradation was enhanced under biosulphidogenic conditions and that lignin could be degraded by a sulphate reducing microbial consortium. It was established using lignin model compounds synthesized in our laboratory, that the bonds within the lignin polymer can be cleaved within the sulphidic environment. The presence of cellulolytic enzymes, using CMCase as a marker enzyme, was detected within the sulphate reducing microbial consortium. Based on the results obtained a descriptive model was formulated for the degradation of lignocellulose under biosulphidogenic conditions. It was determined that the initial reduction in sulphate observed using lignocellulose as a carbon source was due to the easily extractable components. The degradation of which resulted in the production of sulphide, which aided in the degradation of lignin, allowing greater access to cellulose. Once the easily extractable material is exhausted, the cycle is halted, unless the sulphide production can be maintained. This is the focus of an ongoing project, testing the hypothesis that an easy to assimilate carbon source added after exhaustion of the easily extractable material, can maintain the sulphide production.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The design and evaluation of a short-term group psychotherapy model for survivors of a first myocardial infarction
- Authors: Frewen, Sharon H
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Health -- Psychological aspects , Medicine and psychology , Coronary heart disease -- Psychological aspects , Type A behavior , Stress (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3247 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015041
- Description: There is extensive evidence that the rehabilitation of individuals with coronary heart disease needs to include psychological components to complement the exercise and dietary recommendations that are normally provided. However, psychological aspects have not been integrated into medical care in South Africa to any significant degree. Psychological interventions overseas have included the modification of the Type A behaviour pattern, stress management, cognitive restructuring, relaxation techniques, improved communication skills, the identification and expression of emotions, and emotional support. The aim of the present study was to design a short-term group intervention which incorporated these aspects and which included an exploration of the mind-body experience post infarct. In addition, the intervention aimed to increase participants' awareness of the compensatory dynamics of the Type A behaviour pattern. The intervention was tailored to South African conditions and was evaluated by means of a multiple case study design. The intervention was delivered to a group of nine coronary heart disease patients which included six survivors of myocardial infarction, the remaining participants having undergone a by-pass operation. Data included weekly feedback sheets evaluating each session, repeated measures on the Profile of Mood States, the Jenkins Activity Survey, a Spouse Rating Scale and extensive qualitative data on each participant including tape recordings of each session and data collected from a series of interviews before, during and after the programme. The feedback sheets and recordings of the sessions were used as a basis for recommendations for revising the content and structure of the programme for future use. Case narratives were written for three of the participants and provided an in-depth look at how and why individual changes did or did not occur in response to the intervention. In addition, the case narratives revealed the role played by the compensatory dynamics of the Type A behaviour pattern in complicating rehabilitation for survivors of myocardial infarction. Two participants were offered a series of individual sessions at 18-month follow-up and the material from these sessions was also used to aid in the interpretation of the data. The content of the 18-month follow-up sessions provided evidence for the importance of conducting a developmental analysis of the origins of low self-esteem and insecurity that maintain and drive the Type A behaviour pattern. In these sessions, this analysis provided the basis for a brief focused psychodynamic psychotherapy that facilitated marked changes that had not been achieved in the 12-week structured group intervention. It is recommended that future research investigate the use of brief psychodynamic psychotherapy on an individual basis as a complement to a group intervention focusing on psycho-education, building social support and management of problematic emotions in everyday situations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Frewen, Sharon H
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Health -- Psychological aspects , Medicine and psychology , Coronary heart disease -- Psychological aspects , Type A behavior , Stress (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3247 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015041
- Description: There is extensive evidence that the rehabilitation of individuals with coronary heart disease needs to include psychological components to complement the exercise and dietary recommendations that are normally provided. However, psychological aspects have not been integrated into medical care in South Africa to any significant degree. Psychological interventions overseas have included the modification of the Type A behaviour pattern, stress management, cognitive restructuring, relaxation techniques, improved communication skills, the identification and expression of emotions, and emotional support. The aim of the present study was to design a short-term group intervention which incorporated these aspects and which included an exploration of the mind-body experience post infarct. In addition, the intervention aimed to increase participants' awareness of the compensatory dynamics of the Type A behaviour pattern. The intervention was tailored to South African conditions and was evaluated by means of a multiple case study design. The intervention was delivered to a group of nine coronary heart disease patients which included six survivors of myocardial infarction, the remaining participants having undergone a by-pass operation. Data included weekly feedback sheets evaluating each session, repeated measures on the Profile of Mood States, the Jenkins Activity Survey, a Spouse Rating Scale and extensive qualitative data on each participant including tape recordings of each session and data collected from a series of interviews before, during and after the programme. The feedback sheets and recordings of the sessions were used as a basis for recommendations for revising the content and structure of the programme for future use. Case narratives were written for three of the participants and provided an in-depth look at how and why individual changes did or did not occur in response to the intervention. In addition, the case narratives revealed the role played by the compensatory dynamics of the Type A behaviour pattern in complicating rehabilitation for survivors of myocardial infarction. Two participants were offered a series of individual sessions at 18-month follow-up and the material from these sessions was also used to aid in the interpretation of the data. The content of the 18-month follow-up sessions provided evidence for the importance of conducting a developmental analysis of the origins of low self-esteem and insecurity that maintain and drive the Type A behaviour pattern. In these sessions, this analysis provided the basis for a brief focused psychodynamic psychotherapy that facilitated marked changes that had not been achieved in the 12-week structured group intervention. It is recommended that future research investigate the use of brief psychodynamic psychotherapy on an individual basis as a complement to a group intervention focusing on psycho-education, building social support and management of problematic emotions in everyday situations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The development and implementation of a performance management system: a case study
- Whittington-Jones, Alexandra
- Authors: Whittington-Jones, Alexandra
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Public Service Accountability Monitor (South Africa) Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Evaluation Performance -- Management -- Case studies Organizational effectiveness -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:738 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003858
- Description: After a review of the literature relevant to performance management systems both over time and across different types of organizations, this thesis confines its research to a case study of the development and implementation of a performance management system in a non-governmental organization (NGO), the Public Service Accountability Monitor (PSAM). Collation of the relevant data is followed by a discussion of the development and implementation of the performance management system at the PSAM over a 5-year period from 1 June 1999 to 31 May 2004. This is considered in terms of the PSAM’s achievement of commitments to Funders and the concurrent development of the performance management system. Next an analysis of major themes that emerged from the research, in terms of important items for consideration in the development and implementation of a performance management system in an NGO, and areas for possible future improvements to the system is presented. After analyzing the relevant information, it became apparent that the performance management system has no direct bearing on the ability of the PSAM to achieve its stated commitment to Funders. However, these short-term focused expectations of the performance management system are outweighed by the positive contributions that have been made by its introduction, specifically in the area of training and development. This important aspect of capacity building and staff empowerment speaks to the long term sustainability of the organization. Although the PSAM’s performance management system undergoes continual improvement, significant inroads have been made into providing a sensible, clear and dynamic solution to the problem of rewarding efficient and effective performance. The PSAM has indeed benefited from the introduction of the performance management system in a number of ways. It is evident that these benefits could be applicable to other NGOs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Whittington-Jones, Alexandra
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Public Service Accountability Monitor (South Africa) Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Evaluation Performance -- Management -- Case studies Organizational effectiveness -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:738 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003858
- Description: After a review of the literature relevant to performance management systems both over time and across different types of organizations, this thesis confines its research to a case study of the development and implementation of a performance management system in a non-governmental organization (NGO), the Public Service Accountability Monitor (PSAM). Collation of the relevant data is followed by a discussion of the development and implementation of the performance management system at the PSAM over a 5-year period from 1 June 1999 to 31 May 2004. This is considered in terms of the PSAM’s achievement of commitments to Funders and the concurrent development of the performance management system. Next an analysis of major themes that emerged from the research, in terms of important items for consideration in the development and implementation of a performance management system in an NGO, and areas for possible future improvements to the system is presented. After analyzing the relevant information, it became apparent that the performance management system has no direct bearing on the ability of the PSAM to achieve its stated commitment to Funders. However, these short-term focused expectations of the performance management system are outweighed by the positive contributions that have been made by its introduction, specifically in the area of training and development. This important aspect of capacity building and staff empowerment speaks to the long term sustainability of the organization. Although the PSAM’s performance management system undergoes continual improvement, significant inroads have been made into providing a sensible, clear and dynamic solution to the problem of rewarding efficient and effective performance. The PSAM has indeed benefited from the introduction of the performance management system in a number of ways. It is evident that these benefits could be applicable to other NGOs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The development of a cultural family business model of good governance for Greek family businesses in South Africa
- Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Authors: Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa Greeks -- South Africa Greeks -- South Africa -- Social life and customs Corporate governance -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1163 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002779
- Description: Never in the history of the South African nation has the entrepreneurial spirit been more alive. Since the opening of international doors, after the 1994 elections, South Africa has experienced the explosive growth of transnational entrepreneurship. An enduring aspect of the explosion of such economic activity is the need for "good governance" and the need for governance education in South Africa and the rest of the continent has never been greater. The size of the family business component of the South Aftican economy suggests that it is the predominant way of doing business in South Africa. Of importance to this study is the estimate that approximately 95 % of all Greek businesses in South Africa can be classified as family businesses. The sustainability of Greek family businesses requires that they maintain good governance practices that are economically and environmentally acceptable to all stakeholders. It also requires that the next generation of Greek entrepreneurs balance good governance for the businesses as well as for the family. The primary objective of this study was to identify and explore the internal factors that influence and determine good governance to ensure the survival, growth and sustainability of Greek family businesses in South Africa. The secondary research objectives pertained to the underlying dimensions of good governance and required an exploration of the different governance concerns in relation to specific South African Greek behaviour and characteristics. A theoretical model of good governance factors was proposed and tested using Structural Equation Modeling. The study found that perceived good governance in a South African Greek family business context needs to be measured in terms of three factors, namely risk control, the internal regulatory environment and the protection of the stakeholders' interest. The study dealt further with the secondary sources effecting governance for South African businesses and was based on the latest report by the King Commission. An important finding is that the cross cultural aspect of family business governance must now be considered when conducting such research as more and more emphasis is placed on the good governance of all businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa Greeks -- South Africa Greeks -- South Africa -- Social life and customs Corporate governance -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1163 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002779
- Description: Never in the history of the South African nation has the entrepreneurial spirit been more alive. Since the opening of international doors, after the 1994 elections, South Africa has experienced the explosive growth of transnational entrepreneurship. An enduring aspect of the explosion of such economic activity is the need for "good governance" and the need for governance education in South Africa and the rest of the continent has never been greater. The size of the family business component of the South Aftican economy suggests that it is the predominant way of doing business in South Africa. Of importance to this study is the estimate that approximately 95 % of all Greek businesses in South Africa can be classified as family businesses. The sustainability of Greek family businesses requires that they maintain good governance practices that are economically and environmentally acceptable to all stakeholders. It also requires that the next generation of Greek entrepreneurs balance good governance for the businesses as well as for the family. The primary objective of this study was to identify and explore the internal factors that influence and determine good governance to ensure the survival, growth and sustainability of Greek family businesses in South Africa. The secondary research objectives pertained to the underlying dimensions of good governance and required an exploration of the different governance concerns in relation to specific South African Greek behaviour and characteristics. A theoretical model of good governance factors was proposed and tested using Structural Equation Modeling. The study found that perceived good governance in a South African Greek family business context needs to be measured in terms of three factors, namely risk control, the internal regulatory environment and the protection of the stakeholders' interest. The study dealt further with the secondary sources effecting governance for South African businesses and was based on the latest report by the King Commission. An important finding is that the cross cultural aspect of family business governance must now be considered when conducting such research as more and more emphasis is placed on the good governance of all businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The development of independent contractors within the Working for Water Programme over a twenty-four month period : a programme evaluation : Western region, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Knipe, Andrew
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Working for Water Programme Contractors -- South Africa Construction contracts -- South Africa Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa Employee empowerment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:799 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004916
- Description: This research is concerned with the development of independent contractors within the Working for Water Programme over a twenty-four month period. The meaningful participation of previously disadvantaged South Africans fall within the ambit of black economic empowerment. The Government Gazette (1997: No. 1820) defines black economic empowerment as a deliberate programme to achieve the meaningful participation of disadvantaged South Africans in the mainstream economy as managers, owners of capital and employees. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the contractors within the Western Region of the Eastern Cape, in order to assess how they have developed as independent contractors within the developmental framework provided by the Working for Water Programme. This developmental framework takes place over a 462-day period or roughly 24 months. The evaluation aimed to determine whether the two-year development period sufficiently prepared contractors for competition in the open market and if contractors had acquired the necessary skills to run a successful business. A formative programme evaluation was used as a tool of analysis to identify areas of weakness and establish priorities for improvement. A qualitative research approach was followed, guided by an adapted version of the Context, Input, Process and Product approach to evaluation (Parlett and Hamilton cited in Calder, 1995, p.25). Using structured interviews comprising of closed and open ended questions, data was gathered from thirty contractors, five managers and one Senior Executive Officer within the Western Region of the Eastern Cape. An interview was also conducted with the Regional Programme leader of the Eastern Cape. Further data collection techniques included documentary research. Data was analysed using qualitative data analysis techniques described by Thorne (1997, p.118), as relying on inductive reasoning to interpret and structure the meanings that can be derived from the data. Passages of interest were marked so that the data could be reduced to a manageable size as described by Seidman (1991, p.91-1 01) and various categories were developed that had commonalties and thematic connections. The Working for Water Programme aims to exit contractors successfully after a twenty-four month developmental period. The Working for Water Programme has formalised its development framework through a training matrix in which the required training at contractor level is outlined. The finding of the research is that the current contractor development programme do not adequately prepare contractors for independence and entrepreneurship in a competitive market. There is no co-ordinated development of predetermined skills. Contractors are not able to articulate what their plans are after exit from the WFW Programme. No concrete evidence of actively pursuing alternative contract opportunities was evident from contractors who were about to exit the Programme and there is no person to champion the cause of meaningful post exit opportunities. The main recommendations from this research are that contractors be selected via an application system rather that appointment through steering committees. Selected contractors must be medically fit and at least have a matriculation certificate. Contractors should be assessed on a 6-monthly basis and contractors not achieving a minimum competency level must be removed from the programme. Managers should also have basic competency levels in order to facilitate skill transfer through a mentorship process. The charge out rate of equipment should be revised every six months. The charge out rates should also be increased significantly to cater for the harsh conditions under which contractors are operational. A "champion" needs to be appointed which will actively seek exit opportunities for trained contractors. This person will also seek to develop functional partnerships with various private and government institutions to create opportunities for exited contractors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Knipe, Andrew
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Working for Water Programme Contractors -- South Africa Construction contracts -- South Africa Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa Employee empowerment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:799 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004916
- Description: This research is concerned with the development of independent contractors within the Working for Water Programme over a twenty-four month period. The meaningful participation of previously disadvantaged South Africans fall within the ambit of black economic empowerment. The Government Gazette (1997: No. 1820) defines black economic empowerment as a deliberate programme to achieve the meaningful participation of disadvantaged South Africans in the mainstream economy as managers, owners of capital and employees. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the contractors within the Western Region of the Eastern Cape, in order to assess how they have developed as independent contractors within the developmental framework provided by the Working for Water Programme. This developmental framework takes place over a 462-day period or roughly 24 months. The evaluation aimed to determine whether the two-year development period sufficiently prepared contractors for competition in the open market and if contractors had acquired the necessary skills to run a successful business. A formative programme evaluation was used as a tool of analysis to identify areas of weakness and establish priorities for improvement. A qualitative research approach was followed, guided by an adapted version of the Context, Input, Process and Product approach to evaluation (Parlett and Hamilton cited in Calder, 1995, p.25). Using structured interviews comprising of closed and open ended questions, data was gathered from thirty contractors, five managers and one Senior Executive Officer within the Western Region of the Eastern Cape. An interview was also conducted with the Regional Programme leader of the Eastern Cape. Further data collection techniques included documentary research. Data was analysed using qualitative data analysis techniques described by Thorne (1997, p.118), as relying on inductive reasoning to interpret and structure the meanings that can be derived from the data. Passages of interest were marked so that the data could be reduced to a manageable size as described by Seidman (1991, p.91-1 01) and various categories were developed that had commonalties and thematic connections. The Working for Water Programme aims to exit contractors successfully after a twenty-four month developmental period. The Working for Water Programme has formalised its development framework through a training matrix in which the required training at contractor level is outlined. The finding of the research is that the current contractor development programme do not adequately prepare contractors for independence and entrepreneurship in a competitive market. There is no co-ordinated development of predetermined skills. Contractors are not able to articulate what their plans are after exit from the WFW Programme. No concrete evidence of actively pursuing alternative contract opportunities was evident from contractors who were about to exit the Programme and there is no person to champion the cause of meaningful post exit opportunities. The main recommendations from this research are that contractors be selected via an application system rather that appointment through steering committees. Selected contractors must be medically fit and at least have a matriculation certificate. Contractors should be assessed on a 6-monthly basis and contractors not achieving a minimum competency level must be removed from the programme. Managers should also have basic competency levels in order to facilitate skill transfer through a mentorship process. The charge out rate of equipment should be revised every six months. The charge out rates should also be increased significantly to cater for the harsh conditions under which contractors are operational. A "champion" needs to be appointed which will actively seek exit opportunities for trained contractors. This person will also seek to develop functional partnerships with various private and government institutions to create opportunities for exited contractors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The development of the emerging technologies sustainability assessment (ETSA) and its application in the design of a bioprocess for the treatment of wine distillery effluent
- Authors: Khan, Nuraan
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Technology assessment , Wine and wine making -- Waste disposal , Distilleries -- Waste disposal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3953 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004012 , Technology assessment , Wine and wine making -- Waste disposal , Distilleries -- Waste disposal
- Description: Emerging Technologies Sustainability Assessment (ETSA) is a new technology assessment tool that was developed in order to compare emerging processes or technologies to existing alternatives. It utilizes infoIDlation modules, with the minimum use of resources such as time and money, in order to deteIDline if the process under development is comparatively favourable and should be developed beyond the early conceptual phase. The preliminary ETSA is vital in order to identify the gaps in the existing information and the specific methodologies to be used for data capture and analysis. The use of experimental design tools, such as Design-Expert, can facilitate rapid and efficient collection of necessary data and fits in well with the rationale for the ETSA. Wine distillery effluent (vinasse) is the residue left after alcohol has been distilled from fennented grape juice. It is an acidic, darkly coloured effluent, with a high COD and polyphenol content. The most popular method of disposal of this effluent, land application, is no longer viable due to stricter legislation and pressure on the industry to better manage its wastes. Although the ability of whiterot fungi to degrade a number of pollutants is well-known, fungal treatment of wine distillery effluent is still in the conceptual phase. The perfoIDlance of the fungal remediation system was assessed experimentally in terms of COD removal and laccase production using Design-Expert. Although Pycnoporus sanguine us was found to be most efficient at COD removal (85%) from 30% vinasse, laccase production was low (0.021 U/I). The optimum design for economically viable fungal treatment used Trametespubescens. This fungus was able to remove over 50% of the COD from undiluted vinasse while producing almost 800U/l of the valuable laccase enzyme within three days. Since the effluent from the fungal system did not meet the legal limits for wastewater disposal, a two-stage aerobicanaerobic system is suggested to improve the quality of the effluent prior to disposal. The ETSA was used to assess the fungal technology in relation to the two current methods of vinasse treatment and disposal, namely land application and anaerobic digestion. Based on the ETSA, which considered environmental, social and economic impacts, the fungal system proved to be potentially competitive and further development of the technology is suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Khan, Nuraan
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Technology assessment , Wine and wine making -- Waste disposal , Distilleries -- Waste disposal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3953 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004012 , Technology assessment , Wine and wine making -- Waste disposal , Distilleries -- Waste disposal
- Description: Emerging Technologies Sustainability Assessment (ETSA) is a new technology assessment tool that was developed in order to compare emerging processes or technologies to existing alternatives. It utilizes infoIDlation modules, with the minimum use of resources such as time and money, in order to deteIDline if the process under development is comparatively favourable and should be developed beyond the early conceptual phase. The preliminary ETSA is vital in order to identify the gaps in the existing information and the specific methodologies to be used for data capture and analysis. The use of experimental design tools, such as Design-Expert, can facilitate rapid and efficient collection of necessary data and fits in well with the rationale for the ETSA. Wine distillery effluent (vinasse) is the residue left after alcohol has been distilled from fennented grape juice. It is an acidic, darkly coloured effluent, with a high COD and polyphenol content. The most popular method of disposal of this effluent, land application, is no longer viable due to stricter legislation and pressure on the industry to better manage its wastes. Although the ability of whiterot fungi to degrade a number of pollutants is well-known, fungal treatment of wine distillery effluent is still in the conceptual phase. The perfoIDlance of the fungal remediation system was assessed experimentally in terms of COD removal and laccase production using Design-Expert. Although Pycnoporus sanguine us was found to be most efficient at COD removal (85%) from 30% vinasse, laccase production was low (0.021 U/I). The optimum design for economically viable fungal treatment used Trametespubescens. This fungus was able to remove over 50% of the COD from undiluted vinasse while producing almost 800U/l of the valuable laccase enzyme within three days. Since the effluent from the fungal system did not meet the legal limits for wastewater disposal, a two-stage aerobicanaerobic system is suggested to improve the quality of the effluent prior to disposal. The ETSA was used to assess the fungal technology in relation to the two current methods of vinasse treatment and disposal, namely land application and anaerobic digestion. Based on the ETSA, which considered environmental, social and economic impacts, the fungal system proved to be potentially competitive and further development of the technology is suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
The direction of trade and its implications for labour in South Africa
- Authors: Cameron, Iona R
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Labor demand -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa , Industrial relations -- South Africa , Foreign trade and employment -- South Africa , International economic relations , Free trade -- South Africa , South Africa -- Commercial policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002682 , Labor demand -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa , Industrial relations -- South Africa , Foreign trade and employment -- South Africa , International economic relations , Free trade -- South Africa , South Africa -- Commercial policy
- Description: This aim of this thesis is to analyse the demand for labour from trade with a selection of South Africa’s trading partners. It is expected that labour demand will be greater in trade with developed blocs. Trade between developing blocs, however, is thought to be more skilled labour intensive and such trade should have greater linkages. This ought to feed through into greater labour demand so that South-South trade may be more ‘labour creating’ than expected. As it is more skill intensive, it may also be more dynamic, which has implications for future growth and development. Factor content methodology is used to assess labour demand. Calculations consider linkages to other sectors (which will increase labour demand) and the use of scarce resources (which has an opportunity cost to labour). The findings support the claim that trade with developing blocs is more professional labour intensive. Evidence that it may be more dynamic and have greater linkages to labour is borne out in exports to SADC. Greater labour demand through linkages, however, is not evident in net trade to SADC. Neither are they of significance in trade with any of the other developing blocs so labour effects due to linkages appear to be negligible. The advantages of South-South trade may rather lie in the dynamic benefits that trade in higher technology goods provides. When scarce resources such as capital and professional labour are taken into account, it is found that labour demand is negative in net trade to all blocs. However, even without the problem of scarce resources, most blocs have a negative demand for labour in net trade. The indication is that with the present trade patterns, South Africa cannot expect trade to increase labour demand. Policy which could improve this situation would be to increase labour force skills, improve the flexibility of the labour market and develop sectors which are both more advanced as well as labour intensive. Despite the negative impact of trade on labour in general, it is found that trade does differ by direction and that for each labour type there are certain blocs where labour demand is positive. This is also the case in net trade for particular sectors. Such information could be used as part of a targeted trade policy to assist in the marketing of particular sectors in trade and also for increasing labour demand for certain labour groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Cameron, Iona R
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Labor demand -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa , Industrial relations -- South Africa , Foreign trade and employment -- South Africa , International economic relations , Free trade -- South Africa , South Africa -- Commercial policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002682 , Labor demand -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa , Industrial relations -- South Africa , Foreign trade and employment -- South Africa , International economic relations , Free trade -- South Africa , South Africa -- Commercial policy
- Description: This aim of this thesis is to analyse the demand for labour from trade with a selection of South Africa’s trading partners. It is expected that labour demand will be greater in trade with developed blocs. Trade between developing blocs, however, is thought to be more skilled labour intensive and such trade should have greater linkages. This ought to feed through into greater labour demand so that South-South trade may be more ‘labour creating’ than expected. As it is more skill intensive, it may also be more dynamic, which has implications for future growth and development. Factor content methodology is used to assess labour demand. Calculations consider linkages to other sectors (which will increase labour demand) and the use of scarce resources (which has an opportunity cost to labour). The findings support the claim that trade with developing blocs is more professional labour intensive. Evidence that it may be more dynamic and have greater linkages to labour is borne out in exports to SADC. Greater labour demand through linkages, however, is not evident in net trade to SADC. Neither are they of significance in trade with any of the other developing blocs so labour effects due to linkages appear to be negligible. The advantages of South-South trade may rather lie in the dynamic benefits that trade in higher technology goods provides. When scarce resources such as capital and professional labour are taken into account, it is found that labour demand is negative in net trade to all blocs. However, even without the problem of scarce resources, most blocs have a negative demand for labour in net trade. The indication is that with the present trade patterns, South Africa cannot expect trade to increase labour demand. Policy which could improve this situation would be to increase labour force skills, improve the flexibility of the labour market and develop sectors which are both more advanced as well as labour intensive. Despite the negative impact of trade on labour in general, it is found that trade does differ by direction and that for each labour type there are certain blocs where labour demand is positive. This is also the case in net trade for particular sectors. Such information could be used as part of a targeted trade policy to assist in the marketing of particular sectors in trade and also for increasing labour demand for certain labour groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005