Covid-19 pandemic and livelihoods of SMME owners in the retail food and beverage industry in Gqeberha
- Authors: Olajuyin, Olayide Fisayo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) -- Economic aspects -- Business , Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Beverage industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73541 , vital:79457
- Description: This study aimed to investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in the retail food and beverage industry in Gqeberha, South Africa. The study’s objectives were to determine the effects of COVID-19 on SMMEs, examine the challenges faced, investigate the pandemic's effects on performance, identify resilient strategies adopted, and develop livelihood coping strategies for SMME owners. The study explored existing literature, developed a conceptual framework, infused theoretical grounding, and described the operationalisation process and data collection methods. The study follows an interpretivist research philosophy and uses sustainable livelihood and capability approaches to ground the study theoretically. The research adopts a hybrid methodology, incorporating a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) and qualitative semi-structured interviews with purposively selected participants in Humewood, Walmer, Gqeberha Central Business District (CBD), and the Summerstrand suburbs of Gqeberha. The methodology, including data collection and ethical considerations, is thoroughly explained and prioritised throughout the study. The study also conducted a bibliometric analysis and selected 192 peer-reviewed articles for the global SLR, 6 grey literature (newspaper articles), and 2 articles for the Gqeberha SLR. The study population comprises SMME owners/managers with 5 to 200 staff in the retail food and beverage industry in Gqeberha. The findings revealed that many SMMEs in the retail food and beverage industry had to close during the mandatory lockdown period, while others struggled to keep their businesses afloat due to the significant impact of the pandemic. Challenges such as logistics, customer compliance with health and safety regulations, sales, and staffing issues were prevalent. Some SMMEs experienced improved turnover despite initial concerns, while others faced decreased sales and customer numbers. SMMEs adopted various resilient strategies, including implementing health and safety standards, utilising social media for marketing, offering specials, and promoting takeaways to adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic. To survive the COVID-19 challenges, SMMEs in the retail food and beverage industry must prioritise operational resilience and strategic innovation. This study provides valuable insights into the specific difficulties SMMEs face in Gqeberha and offers recommendations to assist current and future SMME owners in navigating the effects of the pandemic. The findings of the research and the proposed strategies aim to assist SMME owners in the retail food and beverage industry in mitigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and building resilience in the face of future disruptions by similar pandemics. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Olajuyin, Olayide Fisayo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) -- Economic aspects -- Business , Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Beverage industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73541 , vital:79457
- Description: This study aimed to investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in the retail food and beverage industry in Gqeberha, South Africa. The study’s objectives were to determine the effects of COVID-19 on SMMEs, examine the challenges faced, investigate the pandemic's effects on performance, identify resilient strategies adopted, and develop livelihood coping strategies for SMME owners. The study explored existing literature, developed a conceptual framework, infused theoretical grounding, and described the operationalisation process and data collection methods. The study follows an interpretivist research philosophy and uses sustainable livelihood and capability approaches to ground the study theoretically. The research adopts a hybrid methodology, incorporating a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) and qualitative semi-structured interviews with purposively selected participants in Humewood, Walmer, Gqeberha Central Business District (CBD), and the Summerstrand suburbs of Gqeberha. The methodology, including data collection and ethical considerations, is thoroughly explained and prioritised throughout the study. The study also conducted a bibliometric analysis and selected 192 peer-reviewed articles for the global SLR, 6 grey literature (newspaper articles), and 2 articles for the Gqeberha SLR. The study population comprises SMME owners/managers with 5 to 200 staff in the retail food and beverage industry in Gqeberha. The findings revealed that many SMMEs in the retail food and beverage industry had to close during the mandatory lockdown period, while others struggled to keep their businesses afloat due to the significant impact of the pandemic. Challenges such as logistics, customer compliance with health and safety regulations, sales, and staffing issues were prevalent. Some SMMEs experienced improved turnover despite initial concerns, while others faced decreased sales and customer numbers. SMMEs adopted various resilient strategies, including implementing health and safety standards, utilising social media for marketing, offering specials, and promoting takeaways to adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic. To survive the COVID-19 challenges, SMMEs in the retail food and beverage industry must prioritise operational resilience and strategic innovation. This study provides valuable insights into the specific difficulties SMMEs face in Gqeberha and offers recommendations to assist current and future SMME owners in navigating the effects of the pandemic. The findings of the research and the proposed strategies aim to assist SMME owners in the retail food and beverage industry in mitigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and building resilience in the face of future disruptions by similar pandemics. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Customary fishing rights in South African fisheries law
- du Plessis, Anthea Christoffels
- Authors: du Plessis, Anthea Christoffels
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Indigenous people -- Fishing -- Law and legislation , Small-scale fisheries , Customary law -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: D theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72044 , vital:79180
- Description: Indigenous communities in South Africa have harvested marine resources and relied on the ocean for generations to sustain their traditional livelihoods and culture. In light thereof, it is imperative for the law to specially recognise the rights of indigenous communities. The current legal framework governing fishing rights in South Africa purports to include customary fishing rights as part of small-scale fishing rights. This must be achieved in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Constitution), which confers distinct recognition on customary law, and therefore customary rights of indigenous communities. Access to marine resources under the prevailing legal frameworks has been regulated to ensure commercial exploitation of (and recreational access to) marine living resources. In terms of the previous statutory provisions, the relevant minister was empowered to issue fishing rights by granting quotas. Further provision was made for licensing of fishing vessels such as boats and fish factories. The advancement of conservation imperatives further restricted access to marine resources, ensuring that access to marine resources remained strictly regulated by the State for commercial exploitation. Fishing rights became a business commodity taking precedence over other access rights. To achieve these objectives, the Commissions of Inquiry (Du Plessis, Diemont, Treurnicht) were tasked with proposing sustainable-use strategies for the declining marine resources and to resolve challenges in the commercial fisheries industry. While the governments of years past were busy organising and strategising how best to exploit marine resources and to maximise the industry, the legislation itself did not proscribe or expressly prohibit fishing activities or marine-resource use by indigenous coastal communities. However, the communities’ access to marine and coastal resources was nevertheless restricted owing to the cumulative discriminatory impact of apartheid-order legislation. The fishing industry was no exception to the democratic overhauling of many institutions and industries in South Africa, and was earmarked for transformation. In light of its pre-constitutional isolated and sanctioned status, South Africa was eager to restore its place as a sovereign state and as a member of the international community, by embracing the human-rights-focused norms and standards observed by the international community at large. In 2017, the erstwhile Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reported that there were more than 300 fishing communities in South Africa. Although harvesting marine resources remains a longstanding custom and expression of culture, it is trite that indigenous communities along the coast have suffered marginalisation and exclusion from legal recognition of their customary right to access marine resources. Therefore, this thesis first explores the legal obligations to recognise customary fishing rights of indigenous communities in light of international and African regional law. Secondly, it considers the recognition and protection of customary fishing rights in three foreign domestic legal systems from which South Africa can extract valuable insight. The thesis then examines the development of customary law in South Africa generally, as well as the recognition and protection of customary fishing rights under the current legal framework. Finally, the thesis proposes that a definition of customary fishing rights be included in the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998 to properly recognise and protect customary fishing rights as a distinct and sui generis category of fishing rights for customary fishing communities. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Law, School of Public Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: du Plessis, Anthea Christoffels
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Indigenous people -- Fishing -- Law and legislation , Small-scale fisheries , Customary law -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: D theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72044 , vital:79180
- Description: Indigenous communities in South Africa have harvested marine resources and relied on the ocean for generations to sustain their traditional livelihoods and culture. In light thereof, it is imperative for the law to specially recognise the rights of indigenous communities. The current legal framework governing fishing rights in South Africa purports to include customary fishing rights as part of small-scale fishing rights. This must be achieved in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Constitution), which confers distinct recognition on customary law, and therefore customary rights of indigenous communities. Access to marine resources under the prevailing legal frameworks has been regulated to ensure commercial exploitation of (and recreational access to) marine living resources. In terms of the previous statutory provisions, the relevant minister was empowered to issue fishing rights by granting quotas. Further provision was made for licensing of fishing vessels such as boats and fish factories. The advancement of conservation imperatives further restricted access to marine resources, ensuring that access to marine resources remained strictly regulated by the State for commercial exploitation. Fishing rights became a business commodity taking precedence over other access rights. To achieve these objectives, the Commissions of Inquiry (Du Plessis, Diemont, Treurnicht) were tasked with proposing sustainable-use strategies for the declining marine resources and to resolve challenges in the commercial fisheries industry. While the governments of years past were busy organising and strategising how best to exploit marine resources and to maximise the industry, the legislation itself did not proscribe or expressly prohibit fishing activities or marine-resource use by indigenous coastal communities. However, the communities’ access to marine and coastal resources was nevertheless restricted owing to the cumulative discriminatory impact of apartheid-order legislation. The fishing industry was no exception to the democratic overhauling of many institutions and industries in South Africa, and was earmarked for transformation. In light of its pre-constitutional isolated and sanctioned status, South Africa was eager to restore its place as a sovereign state and as a member of the international community, by embracing the human-rights-focused norms and standards observed by the international community at large. In 2017, the erstwhile Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reported that there were more than 300 fishing communities in South Africa. Although harvesting marine resources remains a longstanding custom and expression of culture, it is trite that indigenous communities along the coast have suffered marginalisation and exclusion from legal recognition of their customary right to access marine resources. Therefore, this thesis first explores the legal obligations to recognise customary fishing rights of indigenous communities in light of international and African regional law. Secondly, it considers the recognition and protection of customary fishing rights in three foreign domestic legal systems from which South Africa can extract valuable insight. The thesis then examines the development of customary law in South Africa generally, as well as the recognition and protection of customary fishing rights under the current legal framework. Finally, the thesis proposes that a definition of customary fishing rights be included in the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998 to properly recognise and protect customary fishing rights as a distinct and sui generis category of fishing rights for customary fishing communities. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Law, School of Public Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Determinants of disparities in early closure of businesses during covid-19 pandemic in South Africa: evidence from enterprise survey data
- Authors: Nxazonke, Nomfundo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) -- Economic aspects , Economics -- South Africa , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73481 , vital:79447
- Description: The study investigates the disparity in business closures in South Africa during the pandemic using data from the 2020/2021 Enterprise Survey by the World Bank. It examines the determinants of this disparity and investigates the closure of different sized businesses using descriptive statistics, Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition and logistic regression. The study found that small businesses are more likely to close than medium and large businesses in 2020, with a closure disparity of 8% in the 2nd quarter, 88% in the 3rd quarter, and 5% in the 4th quarter. The results reveal that experienced managers have a significant negative impact on business closure only in the 2nd and 3rd quarter. Critical thinking has a significant negative impact in the 3rd quarter and skilled workforce has a significant negative impact. Temporary workers have a significant positive impact on business closure in the 2nd quarter and a significant negative impact in the 4th quarter. The results also indicate that skilled workers, female workers, the food industry, the textile and garment industry, and the motor vehicle industry have a significant negative impact on business closure. The same sale as the previous year has a significant negative impact on business closure for small-sized firms. For large-sized businesses, skilled workers, female workers, and food have a significant positive impact on business closure. The textile and garment, motor vehicle, and fabric and metal product industries have a significant positive impact on business closure. However, when it comes to business closure in medium-sized businesses, the textile and garment, motor vehicle, and fabric and metal product industries have a significant positive impact. The findings of this study suggest that targeted support and resources may be needed for small businesses to improve their chances of survival during future crises. Policy interventions to promote gender equality and increase the number of skilled workers in the workforce can help to address some of the factors that contribute to business closures. Additionally, businesses may need to adopt digital technologies and adapt to changing market conditions to improve their resilience. Implementing measures to promote inclusivity and reduce inequality, such as job creation programs, improved access to education, and support for marginalized groups, can also help to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic on businesses. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Nxazonke, Nomfundo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) -- Economic aspects , Economics -- South Africa , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73481 , vital:79447
- Description: The study investigates the disparity in business closures in South Africa during the pandemic using data from the 2020/2021 Enterprise Survey by the World Bank. It examines the determinants of this disparity and investigates the closure of different sized businesses using descriptive statistics, Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition and logistic regression. The study found that small businesses are more likely to close than medium and large businesses in 2020, with a closure disparity of 8% in the 2nd quarter, 88% in the 3rd quarter, and 5% in the 4th quarter. The results reveal that experienced managers have a significant negative impact on business closure only in the 2nd and 3rd quarter. Critical thinking has a significant negative impact in the 3rd quarter and skilled workforce has a significant negative impact. Temporary workers have a significant positive impact on business closure in the 2nd quarter and a significant negative impact in the 4th quarter. The results also indicate that skilled workers, female workers, the food industry, the textile and garment industry, and the motor vehicle industry have a significant negative impact on business closure. The same sale as the previous year has a significant negative impact on business closure for small-sized firms. For large-sized businesses, skilled workers, female workers, and food have a significant positive impact on business closure. The textile and garment, motor vehicle, and fabric and metal product industries have a significant positive impact on business closure. However, when it comes to business closure in medium-sized businesses, the textile and garment, motor vehicle, and fabric and metal product industries have a significant positive impact. The findings of this study suggest that targeted support and resources may be needed for small businesses to improve their chances of survival during future crises. Policy interventions to promote gender equality and increase the number of skilled workers in the workforce can help to address some of the factors that contribute to business closures. Additionally, businesses may need to adopt digital technologies and adapt to changing market conditions to improve their resilience. Implementing measures to promote inclusivity and reduce inequality, such as job creation programs, improved access to education, and support for marginalized groups, can also help to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic on businesses. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Determinants of market-related parameters considered by small-scale farmers before marketing their produce: a case of cassava farmers in South Africa
- Tshishonga, Zwivhuya Osvaldo
- Authors: Tshishonga, Zwivhuya Osvaldo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Cassava , Farmers -- South Africa , Farms, Small -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75329 , vital:79914
- Description: Cassava (Manihot esculenta) plays a vital role in enhancing food security due to its resilience to climate change and multipurpose use, such as food to communities, animal feeds, and raw materials for industries. However, small-scale cassava farmers in South Africa encounter a variety of barriers that impede their ability to effectively market their cassava produce. These barriers are influenced by an interplay of market-related, socioeconomic, and institutional factors, as well as challenges related to both production and marketing processes. This study sought to contribute towards the existing knowledge on small-scale farmers' market participation by analysing the socioeconomic and institutional factors influencing market-related parameters considered before selling cassava in the Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Specifically, the study aims to identify and analyse market-related parameters that small-scale cassava farmers consider before selling their produce. Secondly, the study seeks to examine the socio-economic and institutional factors that influence these market-related parameters. Finally, the study analysed production and marketing challenges encountered by small-scale farmers before selling cassava. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, data were gathered from 240 randomly selected small-scale farmers in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu Natal. Descriptive statistics were used to identify market-related parameters and the challenges encountered by small-scale farmers. On the other hand, a probit regression model was used to analyse the factors influencing the identified market-related parameters. The statistical packages used to summarize and analyse the data were Excel and R version 4.4.1. Study findings reveal that small-scale farmers considered market price and demand as the primary parameters influencing selling decisions, with emergency harvest and peer/cooperative influence playing secondary yet statistically significant roles. Furthermore, the socioeconomic and institutional factors significantly shape decision-making. Female farmers were more likely to prioritize market price, reflecting their dominant role in cassava marketing. Larger farm sizes increased the probability of demand consideration, underscoring economies of scale. Educated farmers demonstrated a higher likelihood of resorting to emergency harvesting, indicating adaptive risk management. Cooperative membership reduced reliance on external influence, highlighting the role of collective bargaining.The identified production-related challenges that hinder farmers' participation in markets, including pests and diseases, weeds, lack of agrochemicals, soil erosion, and limited access to high-quality planting materials. Marketing-related challenge that hinder market participation was limited access to market information lack of government support, measurement issues at the point of sales, bad road networks, and difficulty encountered while harvesting. This study recommends that the government also implement a system that provides farmers with market information to enable them to make informed decisions regarding when and where to sell their products. Farmers should join cooperative farmer groups or clusters to take advantage of collective market opportunities and gain better access to inputs and other resources. Policymakers and government should prioritize investments in rural infrastructure, such as rural roads, especially in production areas and the transport system in general. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management Cluster, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Tshishonga, Zwivhuya Osvaldo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Cassava , Farmers -- South Africa , Farms, Small -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75329 , vital:79914
- Description: Cassava (Manihot esculenta) plays a vital role in enhancing food security due to its resilience to climate change and multipurpose use, such as food to communities, animal feeds, and raw materials for industries. However, small-scale cassava farmers in South Africa encounter a variety of barriers that impede their ability to effectively market their cassava produce. These barriers are influenced by an interplay of market-related, socioeconomic, and institutional factors, as well as challenges related to both production and marketing processes. This study sought to contribute towards the existing knowledge on small-scale farmers' market participation by analysing the socioeconomic and institutional factors influencing market-related parameters considered before selling cassava in the Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Specifically, the study aims to identify and analyse market-related parameters that small-scale cassava farmers consider before selling their produce. Secondly, the study seeks to examine the socio-economic and institutional factors that influence these market-related parameters. Finally, the study analysed production and marketing challenges encountered by small-scale farmers before selling cassava. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, data were gathered from 240 randomly selected small-scale farmers in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu Natal. Descriptive statistics were used to identify market-related parameters and the challenges encountered by small-scale farmers. On the other hand, a probit regression model was used to analyse the factors influencing the identified market-related parameters. The statistical packages used to summarize and analyse the data were Excel and R version 4.4.1. Study findings reveal that small-scale farmers considered market price and demand as the primary parameters influencing selling decisions, with emergency harvest and peer/cooperative influence playing secondary yet statistically significant roles. Furthermore, the socioeconomic and institutional factors significantly shape decision-making. Female farmers were more likely to prioritize market price, reflecting their dominant role in cassava marketing. Larger farm sizes increased the probability of demand consideration, underscoring economies of scale. Educated farmers demonstrated a higher likelihood of resorting to emergency harvesting, indicating adaptive risk management. Cooperative membership reduced reliance on external influence, highlighting the role of collective bargaining.The identified production-related challenges that hinder farmers' participation in markets, including pests and diseases, weeds, lack of agrochemicals, soil erosion, and limited access to high-quality planting materials. Marketing-related challenge that hinder market participation was limited access to market information lack of government support, measurement issues at the point of sales, bad road networks, and difficulty encountered while harvesting. This study recommends that the government also implement a system that provides farmers with market information to enable them to make informed decisions regarding when and where to sell their products. Farmers should join cooperative farmer groups or clusters to take advantage of collective market opportunities and gain better access to inputs and other resources. Policymakers and government should prioritize investments in rural infrastructure, such as rural roads, especially in production areas and the transport system in general. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management Cluster, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Determinants of market-related parameters considered by small-scale farmers before marketing their produce: a case of cassava farmers in South Africa
- Authors: Tshishonga Zwivhuya Osvaldo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Cassava , Farms, Small -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76192 , vital:80175
- Description: Cassava (Manihot esculenta) plays a vital role in enhancing food security due to its resilience to climate change and multipurpose use, such as food to communities, animal feeds, and raw materials for industries. However, small-scale cassava farmers in South Africa encounter a variety of barriers that impede their ability to effectively market their cassava produce. These barriers are influenced by an interplay of market-related, socioeconomic, and institutional factors, as well as challenges related to both production and marketing processes. This study sought to contribute towards the existing knowledge on small-scale farmers' market participation by analysing the socioeconomic and institutional factors influencing market-related parameters considered before selling cassava in the Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Specifically, the study aims to identify and analyse market-related parameters that small-scale cassava farmers consider before selling their produce. Secondly, the study seeks to examine the socio-economic and institutional factors that influence these market-related parameters. Finally, the study analysed production and marketing challenges encountered by small-scale farmers before selling cassava. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, data were gathered from 240 randomly selected small-scale farmers in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu Natal. Descriptive statistics were used to identify market-related parameters and the challenges encountered by small-scale farmers. On the other hand, a probit regression model was used to analyse the factors influencing the identified market-related parameters. The statistical packages used to summarize and analyse the data were Excel and R version 4.4.1. Study findings reveal that small-scale farmers considered market price and demand as the primary parameters influencing selling decisions, with emergency harvest and peer/cooperative influence playing secondary yet statistically significant roles. Furthermore, the socioeconomic and institutional factors significantly shape decision-making. Female farmers were more likely to prioritize market price, reflecting their dominant role in cassava marketing. Larger farm sizes increased the probability of demand consideration, underscoring economies of scale. Educated farmers demonstrated a higher likelihood of resorting to emergency harvesting, indicating adaptive risk management. Cooperative membership reduced reliance on external influence, highlighting the role of collective bargaining. The identified production-related challenges that hinder farmers' participation in markets, including pests and diseases, weeds, lack of agrochemicals, soil erosion, and limited access to high-quality planting materials. Marketing-related challenge that hinder market participation was limited access to market information lack of government support, measurement issues at the point of sales, bad road networks, and difficulty encountered while harvesting. This study recommends that the government also implement a system that provides farmers with market information to enable them to make informed decisions regarding when and where to sell their products. Farmers should join cooperative farmer groups or clusters to take advantage of collective market opportunities and gain better access to inputs and other resources. Policymakers and government should prioritize investments in rural infrastructure, such as rural roads, especially in production areas and the transport system in general. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science & Management, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Tshishonga Zwivhuya Osvaldo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Cassava , Farms, Small -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76192 , vital:80175
- Description: Cassava (Manihot esculenta) plays a vital role in enhancing food security due to its resilience to climate change and multipurpose use, such as food to communities, animal feeds, and raw materials for industries. However, small-scale cassava farmers in South Africa encounter a variety of barriers that impede their ability to effectively market their cassava produce. These barriers are influenced by an interplay of market-related, socioeconomic, and institutional factors, as well as challenges related to both production and marketing processes. This study sought to contribute towards the existing knowledge on small-scale farmers' market participation by analysing the socioeconomic and institutional factors influencing market-related parameters considered before selling cassava in the Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Specifically, the study aims to identify and analyse market-related parameters that small-scale cassava farmers consider before selling their produce. Secondly, the study seeks to examine the socio-economic and institutional factors that influence these market-related parameters. Finally, the study analysed production and marketing challenges encountered by small-scale farmers before selling cassava. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, data were gathered from 240 randomly selected small-scale farmers in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu Natal. Descriptive statistics were used to identify market-related parameters and the challenges encountered by small-scale farmers. On the other hand, a probit regression model was used to analyse the factors influencing the identified market-related parameters. The statistical packages used to summarize and analyse the data were Excel and R version 4.4.1. Study findings reveal that small-scale farmers considered market price and demand as the primary parameters influencing selling decisions, with emergency harvest and peer/cooperative influence playing secondary yet statistically significant roles. Furthermore, the socioeconomic and institutional factors significantly shape decision-making. Female farmers were more likely to prioritize market price, reflecting their dominant role in cassava marketing. Larger farm sizes increased the probability of demand consideration, underscoring economies of scale. Educated farmers demonstrated a higher likelihood of resorting to emergency harvesting, indicating adaptive risk management. Cooperative membership reduced reliance on external influence, highlighting the role of collective bargaining. The identified production-related challenges that hinder farmers' participation in markets, including pests and diseases, weeds, lack of agrochemicals, soil erosion, and limited access to high-quality planting materials. Marketing-related challenge that hinder market participation was limited access to market information lack of government support, measurement issues at the point of sales, bad road networks, and difficulty encountered while harvesting. This study recommends that the government also implement a system that provides farmers with market information to enable them to make informed decisions regarding when and where to sell their products. Farmers should join cooperative farmer groups or clusters to take advantage of collective market opportunities and gain better access to inputs and other resources. Policymakers and government should prioritize investments in rural infrastructure, such as rural roads, especially in production areas and the transport system in general. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science & Management, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Diet composition of black-backed jackal (Lupulella mesomelas) across contrasted land use through DNA metabarcoding
- Authors: Roberts, Magan
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Black-backed jackal , Carnivorous animals -- Conservation , Animal welfare
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76166 , vital:80171
- Description: Mesocarnivores like black-backed jackals (Lupelella mesomelas) play significant ecological roles, yet their diets and interactions are often not well understood. In southern Africa, jackals exhibit dietary flexibility that is influenced by environmental factors and land use. This thesis explores the diets of black-backed jackals across different habitats and seasons using DNA metabarcoding to identify prey species found in their scats. The first study compared two methods for identifying prey species from jackal faecal samples at the Welgevonden Private Game Reserve in Limpopo, South Africa: microscopic cuticular hair analysis and DNA metabarcoding. Both methods detected 17 common species, primarily large and medium-sized ungulates. However, more than 60% of discrepancies in prey detection occurred with very small prey species (<5 kg). DNA metabarcoding successfully classified most mice, rats, shrews, and hares at the species level—providing a level of resolution that is not always achievable with microscopic cuticular hair analysis. The latter method requires substantial expertise to confidently distinguish small mammal species and relies heavily on reference guides, which can introduce challenges in prey identification. While both methods produced similar proportions of prey size categories, microscopic cuticular hair analysis appeared to overrepresent common duiker among smaller ungulates. This discrepancy may be attributed to the inherent challenges of hair identification, such as limited reference keys and potential observer bias. At Welgevonden, jackals primarily consumed large ungulates (>100 kg), followed by rodents, with medium-sized ungulates (26–100 kg) being less common and small ungulates (<26 kg) comprising a minor part of the diet. Seasonally, jackals slightly shifted their diet, increasing consumption of species linked to ungulate birthing seasons, such as fawns and afterbirths. In the dry season, they ate a higher proportion of larger ungulates, likely relying more on scavenging when other prey, like newborn fawns, fish, and mice, are less available. The high detection of brown hyena in the jackals' scats suggests that both species may scavenge the same carcasses. The second study examined how jackal diets varied across three distinct land-use types near Graaff-Reinet, in the Eastern Cape: a nature reserve, a game farm, and livestock farms. On livestock farms, jackals primarily consumed sheep, while on game farms, they favoured greater kudu. In contrast, jackals in the nature reserve had a more diverse and evenly iv distributed diet. Rodents were a consistent dietary component across all landscapes, while large ungulates (>100 kg) also formed a stable part of the diet in different land-use types. Seasonal shifts indicated that rodents were crucial during the dry season, while medium-sized ungulates were more important during the wet season. These findings highlight jackals' adaptability to varying prey availability and land management practices, offering insights into their ecological role and potential for human-wildlife conflict, especially in livestock farming areas. The combination of molecular and traditional microscopic methods demonstrates the utility of DNA metabarcoding in enhancing our understanding of mesocarnivore diets. The research provides valuable insights into species interactions, trophic dynamics, and broader implications for biodiversity conservation and human-wildlife coexistence. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Roberts, Magan
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Black-backed jackal , Carnivorous animals -- Conservation , Animal welfare
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76166 , vital:80171
- Description: Mesocarnivores like black-backed jackals (Lupelella mesomelas) play significant ecological roles, yet their diets and interactions are often not well understood. In southern Africa, jackals exhibit dietary flexibility that is influenced by environmental factors and land use. This thesis explores the diets of black-backed jackals across different habitats and seasons using DNA metabarcoding to identify prey species found in their scats. The first study compared two methods for identifying prey species from jackal faecal samples at the Welgevonden Private Game Reserve in Limpopo, South Africa: microscopic cuticular hair analysis and DNA metabarcoding. Both methods detected 17 common species, primarily large and medium-sized ungulates. However, more than 60% of discrepancies in prey detection occurred with very small prey species (<5 kg). DNA metabarcoding successfully classified most mice, rats, shrews, and hares at the species level—providing a level of resolution that is not always achievable with microscopic cuticular hair analysis. The latter method requires substantial expertise to confidently distinguish small mammal species and relies heavily on reference guides, which can introduce challenges in prey identification. While both methods produced similar proportions of prey size categories, microscopic cuticular hair analysis appeared to overrepresent common duiker among smaller ungulates. This discrepancy may be attributed to the inherent challenges of hair identification, such as limited reference keys and potential observer bias. At Welgevonden, jackals primarily consumed large ungulates (>100 kg), followed by rodents, with medium-sized ungulates (26–100 kg) being less common and small ungulates (<26 kg) comprising a minor part of the diet. Seasonally, jackals slightly shifted their diet, increasing consumption of species linked to ungulate birthing seasons, such as fawns and afterbirths. In the dry season, they ate a higher proportion of larger ungulates, likely relying more on scavenging when other prey, like newborn fawns, fish, and mice, are less available. The high detection of brown hyena in the jackals' scats suggests that both species may scavenge the same carcasses. The second study examined how jackal diets varied across three distinct land-use types near Graaff-Reinet, in the Eastern Cape: a nature reserve, a game farm, and livestock farms. On livestock farms, jackals primarily consumed sheep, while on game farms, they favoured greater kudu. In contrast, jackals in the nature reserve had a more diverse and evenly iv distributed diet. Rodents were a consistent dietary component across all landscapes, while large ungulates (>100 kg) also formed a stable part of the diet in different land-use types. Seasonal shifts indicated that rodents were crucial during the dry season, while medium-sized ungulates were more important during the wet season. These findings highlight jackals' adaptability to varying prey availability and land management practices, offering insights into their ecological role and potential for human-wildlife conflict, especially in livestock farming areas. The combination of molecular and traditional microscopic methods demonstrates the utility of DNA metabarcoding in enhancing our understanding of mesocarnivore diets. The research provides valuable insights into species interactions, trophic dynamics, and broader implications for biodiversity conservation and human-wildlife coexistence. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Digital transformation in the South African quantity surveying profession: a strategic approach
- Authors: van der Merwe, Kristel
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Quantity surveying , Business-Technological innovations , Construction industry -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74265 , vital:79674
- Description: This research aimed to explore the factors influencing digital transformation among South African quantity surveying firms. It investigated the role of technological, organisational and environmental factors (TOE framework) in shaping the digital strategies of these firms. The study further identified the key stages of digital adoption they reached along their pathway to digital maturity. The study is motivated by the need to enhance the digital responsiveness of quantity surveying practices to emerging technologies and market demands. The research employed an explanatory sequential mixed-method design, integrating quantitative data from questionnaires with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. The TOE framework guided the exploration of factors affecting digital transformation. The study engaged private sector quantity surveying professionals across South Africa, providing a broad geographic perspective within the industry. Findings indicated that only 31% of the responding firms had a digital transformation strategy, of which only 14% were considered well-defined. Within the technology construct, relative advantages (increased work productivity) drove digital adoption, while perceived challenges (security risks and financial constraints) hindered progress. Organisationally, there was a recognised need to balance traditional quantity surveying and emerging digital services. Environmentally, firms aimed to add value for clients and remain competitive despite lacking benchmarking against competitors. Uncertainties regarding government support (erratic power supply) further complicate their future-ready efforts.With a lack of well-defined strategies, participants were still in the early stages of their digital transformation journey towards digital maturity. The study is geographically limited to South Africa and may not reflect conditions in other regions. Future research could expand to compare with global practices or explore alternative factors as quantity surveying firms reach increased digital responsiveness. Insights from this research could lead to better strategic alignment, the adoption of digital tools and potentially influence policy and practice in the industry. Firms can leverage findings to benchmark their digital maturity and follow the conceptual guideline, which simplifies the complex process of developing pathways for increased innovation and efficiency. This study contributes new insights into the digital transformation processes of quantity surveying firms in a less studied context, providing a valuable addition to both academic literature and industry practices. It highlights the importance of a structured digital strategy as a component of industry competitiveness and sustainability. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: van der Merwe, Kristel
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Quantity surveying , Business-Technological innovations , Construction industry -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74265 , vital:79674
- Description: This research aimed to explore the factors influencing digital transformation among South African quantity surveying firms. It investigated the role of technological, organisational and environmental factors (TOE framework) in shaping the digital strategies of these firms. The study further identified the key stages of digital adoption they reached along their pathway to digital maturity. The study is motivated by the need to enhance the digital responsiveness of quantity surveying practices to emerging technologies and market demands. The research employed an explanatory sequential mixed-method design, integrating quantitative data from questionnaires with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. The TOE framework guided the exploration of factors affecting digital transformation. The study engaged private sector quantity surveying professionals across South Africa, providing a broad geographic perspective within the industry. Findings indicated that only 31% of the responding firms had a digital transformation strategy, of which only 14% were considered well-defined. Within the technology construct, relative advantages (increased work productivity) drove digital adoption, while perceived challenges (security risks and financial constraints) hindered progress. Organisationally, there was a recognised need to balance traditional quantity surveying and emerging digital services. Environmentally, firms aimed to add value for clients and remain competitive despite lacking benchmarking against competitors. Uncertainties regarding government support (erratic power supply) further complicate their future-ready efforts.With a lack of well-defined strategies, participants were still in the early stages of their digital transformation journey towards digital maturity. The study is geographically limited to South Africa and may not reflect conditions in other regions. Future research could expand to compare with global practices or explore alternative factors as quantity surveying firms reach increased digital responsiveness. Insights from this research could lead to better strategic alignment, the adoption of digital tools and potentially influence policy and practice in the industry. Firms can leverage findings to benchmark their digital maturity and follow the conceptual guideline, which simplifies the complex process of developing pathways for increased innovation and efficiency. This study contributes new insights into the digital transformation processes of quantity surveying firms in a less studied context, providing a valuable addition to both academic literature and industry practices. It highlights the importance of a structured digital strategy as a component of industry competitiveness and sustainability. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Disciplinary action of employees for the private consumption of cannabis
- Authors: Lokotsch, Lise-Mari Anne
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Labor discipline , Problem employees , Cannabis -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72101 , vital:79188
- Description: This paper examines the workplace implications of the legalisation of private cannabis use in South Africa following the landmark Constitutional Court judgment in Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development v Prince.1 The judgment has necessitated a re-evaluation of workplace policies regarding cannabis consumption, which brings to the fore the tension between workplace safety and individual rights. Through a detailed analysis of relevant case law, this treatise distils emerging principles for disciplinary action and emphasises the necessity for equitable workplace policies that uphold employees’ rights to privacy and dignity. It also addresses the regulatory gaps that persist and proposes a set of best practices in policy development which are aligned with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.2 , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Lokotsch, Lise-Mari Anne
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Labor discipline , Problem employees , Cannabis -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72101 , vital:79188
- Description: This paper examines the workplace implications of the legalisation of private cannabis use in South Africa following the landmark Constitutional Court judgment in Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development v Prince.1 The judgment has necessitated a re-evaluation of workplace policies regarding cannabis consumption, which brings to the fore the tension between workplace safety and individual rights. Through a detailed analysis of relevant case law, this treatise distils emerging principles for disciplinary action and emphasises the necessity for equitable workplace policies that uphold employees’ rights to privacy and dignity. It also addresses the regulatory gaps that persist and proposes a set of best practices in policy development which are aligned with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.2 , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Distributional analysis of gender gaps in wages: evidence from post-apartheid labour market series data
- Motanyane, Pulane Innocentiah
- Authors: Motanyane, Pulane Innocentiah
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Sex discrimination in employment -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Pay equity -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Wages -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73070 , vital:79329
- Description: This study’s main aim was to investigate the gender wage gap and its causes in post-apartheid South Africa, this study analysed the gender wage gap along sector and occupation by analysing how segmentation by occupation affects comparative earnings in different occupations and sectors of the workforce. The majority of studies conducted in South Africa do not analyse the female wage difference along occupation and sector. Most previous studies mainly focus only on mean aggregated level data which does not fully depict the gender salary difference. Using the Post-Apartheid Labour Market Series (PALMS), this study examined the gender wage gap during the years 1993 to 2019 and used Oaxaca Blinder decomposition and Unconditional Quantile Regressions (UQRs) to examine the gender wage gap and the potential causes.The results indicated that there is gender wage gap between males and females, thereby resulting in a raw log wage difference of 0.527. The decomposition method revealed that the endowments, or the differences in characteristics between females and males, accounted for 0.0605 of the wage gap and the remaining part of the wage disparity was caused by variations in observable traits like occupation, experience, and education. Unconditional Quantile Regression was employed to investigate the gender wage gap across various wage distribution points, and at each quantile of the distribution there was a wage gap between the males and females. The index of dissimilarity was used to measure the degree of occupational segregation between genders, and the results showed that occupational segregation remains a persistent challenge contributing to the gender wage disparities, as evidenced by the wage penalties observed across various occupational categories for women. In terms of domestic laws, the right to fair treatment should be incorporated in labour law where for any equivalent or comparable job, a lower salary cannot be determined based on a person's gender. Eliminating the gender pay gap should be one of South Africa's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with the intention of advancing decent work for all. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Motanyane, Pulane Innocentiah
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Sex discrimination in employment -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Pay equity -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Wages -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73070 , vital:79329
- Description: This study’s main aim was to investigate the gender wage gap and its causes in post-apartheid South Africa, this study analysed the gender wage gap along sector and occupation by analysing how segmentation by occupation affects comparative earnings in different occupations and sectors of the workforce. The majority of studies conducted in South Africa do not analyse the female wage difference along occupation and sector. Most previous studies mainly focus only on mean aggregated level data which does not fully depict the gender salary difference. Using the Post-Apartheid Labour Market Series (PALMS), this study examined the gender wage gap during the years 1993 to 2019 and used Oaxaca Blinder decomposition and Unconditional Quantile Regressions (UQRs) to examine the gender wage gap and the potential causes.The results indicated that there is gender wage gap between males and females, thereby resulting in a raw log wage difference of 0.527. The decomposition method revealed that the endowments, or the differences in characteristics between females and males, accounted for 0.0605 of the wage gap and the remaining part of the wage disparity was caused by variations in observable traits like occupation, experience, and education. Unconditional Quantile Regression was employed to investigate the gender wage gap across various wage distribution points, and at each quantile of the distribution there was a wage gap between the males and females. The index of dissimilarity was used to measure the degree of occupational segregation between genders, and the results showed that occupational segregation remains a persistent challenge contributing to the gender wage disparities, as evidenced by the wage penalties observed across various occupational categories for women. In terms of domestic laws, the right to fair treatment should be incorporated in labour law where for any equivalent or comparable job, a lower salary cannot be determined based on a person's gender. Eliminating the gender pay gap should be one of South Africa's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with the intention of advancing decent work for all. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Does ultraviolet radiation affect the thermoregulation and waking behaviour of the Eastern Dwarf Chameleon, Bradypodion ventrale?
- Authors: Ah Sing, Tamlin
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Ultraviolet radiation -- Physiological effect , Chameleons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lizards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75457 , vital:79927
- Description: As ectotherms, reptiles bask in sunlight to regulate their body temperature. However, recent studies show that reptiles may be actively basking for ultraviolet light (UV) rather than temperature regulation. I aimed to assess whether UV influenced the thermoregulation and waking behaviour of the Eastern Dwarf Chameleon, Bradypodion ventrale. Three experiments were conducted in the laboratory: A UV-only gradient, an inversed gradient and a correlated gradient. The UV-only gradient was conducted to assess whether B. ventrale could actively regulate its UV exposure and whether females selected for higher UV exposures than male chameleons. The inversed and correlated gradients were conducted to assess whether B. ventrale was willing to lower and raise its body temperature below and above the species-specific preferred body temperature (Tpref), respectively, to maintain higher UV exposure. The experiments were conducted across all four seasons to account for any seasonal fluctuations in temperature and photoperiod. I found that B. ventrale can actively regulate its UV exposure and prioritised UV regulation over maintaining Tpref. However, chameleons were only willing to lower their body temperature below Tpref to maintain UV regulation and not willing to raise body temperatures above Tpref. Due to equipment limitations, it was unclear as to whether there was a difference in UV exposure preference between male and female chameleons. Once the influence of temperature was added, seasonal differences were found between the selected body temperatures of chameleons, suggesting that the physiology of B. ventrale is influenced by seasonal fluctuations in environmental temperature. Field observations were conducted to assess whether UV exposure, body temperature or predation pressure influenced the first movements of B. ventrale at sleep sites. Observations were made across all seasons to account for shifts in temperature and photoperiod. Chameleons were observed in the early mornings, from approximately 40 minutes before sunrise. When chameleons began shifting position or moving at their sleep site, the time of day, body temperature, ambient temperature and UVI were measured at the perch. I found that neither UV exposure, nor body temperature, nor predation influenced the first movements of B. ventrale. However, observations indicated that light may strongly influence the waking behaviour of B. ventrale, although this is still to be adequately assessed. Bradypodion ventrale were willing to raise body temperatures above Tpref for only short periods, meaning they could benefit from increasing environmental temperatures as they may not have to bask as long for thermoregulation and vitamin D3 synthesis. The influence of UV exposure on thermoregulation in the laboratory is not easily translated into nature as there may be other factors influencing thermoregulatory behaviour. Thus, future studies should consider conducting more field ii studies regarding UV exposure in this species to assess the influence of UV on temperature regulation properly. It is also suggested that future studies consider the influence of light on the waking behaviour of B. ventrale, specifically light from urban areas at night. This study provides the first record of active regulation of UV exposure in a dwarf chameleon from the Bradypodion genus, gives insight into how thermoregulation is affected by the presence of UV, and vice versa, in a laboratory setting and contributes to the growing field of research on the importance of UV exposure in reptiles. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Ah Sing, Tamlin
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Ultraviolet radiation -- Physiological effect , Chameleons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lizards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75457 , vital:79927
- Description: As ectotherms, reptiles bask in sunlight to regulate their body temperature. However, recent studies show that reptiles may be actively basking for ultraviolet light (UV) rather than temperature regulation. I aimed to assess whether UV influenced the thermoregulation and waking behaviour of the Eastern Dwarf Chameleon, Bradypodion ventrale. Three experiments were conducted in the laboratory: A UV-only gradient, an inversed gradient and a correlated gradient. The UV-only gradient was conducted to assess whether B. ventrale could actively regulate its UV exposure and whether females selected for higher UV exposures than male chameleons. The inversed and correlated gradients were conducted to assess whether B. ventrale was willing to lower and raise its body temperature below and above the species-specific preferred body temperature (Tpref), respectively, to maintain higher UV exposure. The experiments were conducted across all four seasons to account for any seasonal fluctuations in temperature and photoperiod. I found that B. ventrale can actively regulate its UV exposure and prioritised UV regulation over maintaining Tpref. However, chameleons were only willing to lower their body temperature below Tpref to maintain UV regulation and not willing to raise body temperatures above Tpref. Due to equipment limitations, it was unclear as to whether there was a difference in UV exposure preference between male and female chameleons. Once the influence of temperature was added, seasonal differences were found between the selected body temperatures of chameleons, suggesting that the physiology of B. ventrale is influenced by seasonal fluctuations in environmental temperature. Field observations were conducted to assess whether UV exposure, body temperature or predation pressure influenced the first movements of B. ventrale at sleep sites. Observations were made across all seasons to account for shifts in temperature and photoperiod. Chameleons were observed in the early mornings, from approximately 40 minutes before sunrise. When chameleons began shifting position or moving at their sleep site, the time of day, body temperature, ambient temperature and UVI were measured at the perch. I found that neither UV exposure, nor body temperature, nor predation influenced the first movements of B. ventrale. However, observations indicated that light may strongly influence the waking behaviour of B. ventrale, although this is still to be adequately assessed. Bradypodion ventrale were willing to raise body temperatures above Tpref for only short periods, meaning they could benefit from increasing environmental temperatures as they may not have to bask as long for thermoregulation and vitamin D3 synthesis. The influence of UV exposure on thermoregulation in the laboratory is not easily translated into nature as there may be other factors influencing thermoregulatory behaviour. Thus, future studies should consider conducting more field ii studies regarding UV exposure in this species to assess the influence of UV on temperature regulation properly. It is also suggested that future studies consider the influence of light on the waking behaviour of B. ventrale, specifically light from urban areas at night. This study provides the first record of active regulation of UV exposure in a dwarf chameleon from the Bradypodion genus, gives insight into how thermoregulation is affected by the presence of UV, and vice versa, in a laboratory setting and contributes to the growing field of research on the importance of UV exposure in reptiles. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Effects of digital elevation model data resolution on hydrological modelling using SWAT: a case study of the Swartkops river catchment
- Authors: Loni, Litha
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Digital elevation models -- South Africa , Hydrology -- South Africa , Water-supply -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75987 , vital:80104
- Description: Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are widely used as input to model hydrological processes. Using the appropriate resolution of DEMs is critical in producing accurate simulations of hydrological processes using hydrological models such as the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. As a result of the availability of DEMs in recent decades and land use/cover (LULC) change impacts on hydrological regimes, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of DEM data resolution on SWAT model performance for analysing the hydrological response to LULC changes in the Swartkops River catchment. This included using the SWAT model to analyse runoff conditions in the catchment. The main objectives of the study were: (1) to generate LULC maps and analyse LULC changes using Multi-Temporal Landsat TM and OLI images from 1990 to 2022 within the Swartkops catchment using IDRISI Terrset and ArcMap 10.7; (2) to assess the influence of different DEM data resolutions on SWAT model performance via the quantification of model results; and (3) to utilise the SWAT model with optimal performance to analyse the impact of LULC change on the hydrological response (i.e., runoff generation) of the Swartkops catchment using ArcSWAT. To do this, 1990 and 2022 Landsat images were acquired, pre-processed, and classified using supervised image classification via the Maximum Likelihood algorithm. Idrisi Terrset software was used process the Landsat images by generating natural colour composite images which were then used to sample training sites. A stratified random sampling approach was employed which produced spectral signature files which were the basis for employing the Maximum Likelihood classifier to classify the images. Classified images were exported to ArcMap 10.7 where they underwent classification accuracy assessments. An error matrix approach was implemented, and the accuracy of the maps was assessed using the producer’s, user’s, overall and Kappa accuracy. Thereafter, LULC changes were quantified using ArcMap 10.7 by determining the area difference of each LULC type between 1990 and 2022. The SWAT models for the different resolution DEMs (i.e., 20m, 30m, and 90m) were set up on ArcSWAT, and the Swartkops catchment was delineated, subdivided into Hydrological Response Units, and run by inserting all the relevant input data such as LULC data (i.e., 1990, and 2022 classified maps), topographic data (i.e., the DEMs), soil data (i.e., FAO map), and weather data. Statistical evaluations for the performance rating of the models were conducted and incorporated the use of statistical parameters such as Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), Percentage of Bias (PBIAS), Coefficient of determination ((R2), and RMSE-Observation standard deviation ratio (RSR) for assessing the performance of each SWAT model. The model producing the most satisfactory performance was used to compute runoff conditions for the Swartkops catchment. Computations were conducted using the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) curve number method. Fieldwork, which incorporated measuring iii runoff for different LULC types using Gerlach troughs at hillslope scale, was conducted to validate the results of the SWAT model. Results indicated that the 1990 and 2022 LULC maps had an overall accuracy of 87.11% and 94.89%, respectively which was highly satisfactory. The Kappa statistics reflected similar results where the 1990 map had a value of 0.84 while the 2022 map had a value of 0.94, indicating high statistical agreement between the classified maps and the reference data. The study also found that bare areas exuberated the greatest area change with a decline of 9.49%, while built-up areas manifested the highest increase of 5.97% from 1990 to 2022. Agricultural land increased by 4.79% in conjunction with a slight increase of 0.44% by green vegetation while water declined by 1.71%. To determine the ideal DEM to analyse hydrological response, the LULC maps in conjunction with other input data were inserted into the SWAT model to assess model performance. It was found that the 30m produced satisfactory model performance (NSE = 0.49 at calibration and 0.67 at validation) and was eligible to assess runoff conditions as a function of LULC change. Other statistics indicated satisfactory model performance at calibration (PBIAS = 48.80, R2 = 0.51, RSR = 1.02) and validation stage (PBIAS = -38.1, R2 = 0.47, RSR = 1.08). The 90m DEM possessed the poorest model performance (NSE = 0.18 at calibration and 0.35 at validation) followed by the 20m DEM (NSE = 0.41 at calibration and 0.32 at validation). Runoff simulations using the 30m SWAT model showed that surface runoff was highest in areas where there were built-up areas. Built-up areas and bare areas yielded 36% of the total surface runoff individually, while vegetation produced only 28% in 1990. Similar readings were obtained for 2022, which included agricultural land that produced 29% of the surface runoff. Runoff volume measured at hillslope scale was highest in bare areas (6.6 L) and built-up areas (9.3 L). Therefore, this study shows that the resolution of DEMs must concur with the relevant scale of the study to produce optimal results. Additionally, this study showed that a change in LULC heavily affects the amount of surface runoff generated, which has several implications in terms of flooding. Therefore, this study is useful as it will inform sustainable catchment management decisions, and water resource management, and enhance our understanding of the relationships between DEM spatial resolution, LULC change, SWAT modelling, and water quantity calculations. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Loni, Litha
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Digital elevation models -- South Africa , Hydrology -- South Africa , Water-supply -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75987 , vital:80104
- Description: Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are widely used as input to model hydrological processes. Using the appropriate resolution of DEMs is critical in producing accurate simulations of hydrological processes using hydrological models such as the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. As a result of the availability of DEMs in recent decades and land use/cover (LULC) change impacts on hydrological regimes, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of DEM data resolution on SWAT model performance for analysing the hydrological response to LULC changes in the Swartkops River catchment. This included using the SWAT model to analyse runoff conditions in the catchment. The main objectives of the study were: (1) to generate LULC maps and analyse LULC changes using Multi-Temporal Landsat TM and OLI images from 1990 to 2022 within the Swartkops catchment using IDRISI Terrset and ArcMap 10.7; (2) to assess the influence of different DEM data resolutions on SWAT model performance via the quantification of model results; and (3) to utilise the SWAT model with optimal performance to analyse the impact of LULC change on the hydrological response (i.e., runoff generation) of the Swartkops catchment using ArcSWAT. To do this, 1990 and 2022 Landsat images were acquired, pre-processed, and classified using supervised image classification via the Maximum Likelihood algorithm. Idrisi Terrset software was used process the Landsat images by generating natural colour composite images which were then used to sample training sites. A stratified random sampling approach was employed which produced spectral signature files which were the basis for employing the Maximum Likelihood classifier to classify the images. Classified images were exported to ArcMap 10.7 where they underwent classification accuracy assessments. An error matrix approach was implemented, and the accuracy of the maps was assessed using the producer’s, user’s, overall and Kappa accuracy. Thereafter, LULC changes were quantified using ArcMap 10.7 by determining the area difference of each LULC type between 1990 and 2022. The SWAT models for the different resolution DEMs (i.e., 20m, 30m, and 90m) were set up on ArcSWAT, and the Swartkops catchment was delineated, subdivided into Hydrological Response Units, and run by inserting all the relevant input data such as LULC data (i.e., 1990, and 2022 classified maps), topographic data (i.e., the DEMs), soil data (i.e., FAO map), and weather data. Statistical evaluations for the performance rating of the models were conducted and incorporated the use of statistical parameters such as Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), Percentage of Bias (PBIAS), Coefficient of determination ((R2), and RMSE-Observation standard deviation ratio (RSR) for assessing the performance of each SWAT model. The model producing the most satisfactory performance was used to compute runoff conditions for the Swartkops catchment. Computations were conducted using the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) curve number method. Fieldwork, which incorporated measuring iii runoff for different LULC types using Gerlach troughs at hillslope scale, was conducted to validate the results of the SWAT model. Results indicated that the 1990 and 2022 LULC maps had an overall accuracy of 87.11% and 94.89%, respectively which was highly satisfactory. The Kappa statistics reflected similar results where the 1990 map had a value of 0.84 while the 2022 map had a value of 0.94, indicating high statistical agreement between the classified maps and the reference data. The study also found that bare areas exuberated the greatest area change with a decline of 9.49%, while built-up areas manifested the highest increase of 5.97% from 1990 to 2022. Agricultural land increased by 4.79% in conjunction with a slight increase of 0.44% by green vegetation while water declined by 1.71%. To determine the ideal DEM to analyse hydrological response, the LULC maps in conjunction with other input data were inserted into the SWAT model to assess model performance. It was found that the 30m produced satisfactory model performance (NSE = 0.49 at calibration and 0.67 at validation) and was eligible to assess runoff conditions as a function of LULC change. Other statistics indicated satisfactory model performance at calibration (PBIAS = 48.80, R2 = 0.51, RSR = 1.02) and validation stage (PBIAS = -38.1, R2 = 0.47, RSR = 1.08). The 90m DEM possessed the poorest model performance (NSE = 0.18 at calibration and 0.35 at validation) followed by the 20m DEM (NSE = 0.41 at calibration and 0.32 at validation). Runoff simulations using the 30m SWAT model showed that surface runoff was highest in areas where there were built-up areas. Built-up areas and bare areas yielded 36% of the total surface runoff individually, while vegetation produced only 28% in 1990. Similar readings were obtained for 2022, which included agricultural land that produced 29% of the surface runoff. Runoff volume measured at hillslope scale was highest in bare areas (6.6 L) and built-up areas (9.3 L). Therefore, this study shows that the resolution of DEMs must concur with the relevant scale of the study to produce optimal results. Additionally, this study showed that a change in LULC heavily affects the amount of surface runoff generated, which has several implications in terms of flooding. Therefore, this study is useful as it will inform sustainable catchment management decisions, and water resource management, and enhance our understanding of the relationships between DEM spatial resolution, LULC change, SWAT modelling, and water quantity calculations. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Effects of oxytocin treatment and calcium inhibition on hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative changes in c8-b4 microglial cells
- Authors: Khau, Kananelo Adele
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Calcium -- Physiological effect , Microglia , Human Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75903 , vital:80062
- Description: Oxidative stress is implicated in the aetiology of several diseases as it leads to the destruction of cellular structures. In the central nervous system (CNS), oxidative stress results in neurodegeneration and the development of diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Microglia play a crucial role in maintaining brain homeostasis. Of importance is the intracellular calcium regulatory activities that reinforce both microglia phenotype and functions, which are implicated in several neurodevelopmental disorders. Despite extensive literature about the neuroprotective role of oxytocin, its impact on microglial activity has not been studied and it remains unclear whether the underpinned molecular mechanism of action is calcium-dependent or not. Thus, this study aimed to study the effects of inhibited calcium channel and oxytocin treatment on microglial response to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)- oxidative stress. Initially, the C8-B4 microglial cells were evaluated as valid constructs for the calcium inhibition and oxidative stress models. For the calcium inhibition model, the calcium channels were inhibited by treating the cells with 12.5 μM and 25 μM nickel chloride (NiCl2) for 24 and 48 hours. The intracellular calcium levels were measured using a calcium detection assay and the viability of the cells was determined using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. For the oxidative stress model, the cells were treated with H2O2 for 1-4 hours to induce oxidative stress. The viability of the cells was measured, and markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), interleukin (IL) -6) were quantified. Once the treatments were validated, the cells were treated with 12.5 μM NiCl2 and 1000 nM oxytocin for 24 hours, followed by 0.5 mM H2O2 for 1 hour. The cell viability was measured, and markers of oxidative stress were quantified (IL-6, MDA, superoxide dismutase (SOD)). The study found that NiCl2 inhibited calcium channels in C8-B4 cells, thereby disrupting calcium homeostasis. There was a decrease in the levels of intracellular calcium levels and cell viability following treatment with NICl2. H2O2 induced oxidative stress and inflammation in the cells. This was demonstrated by increase in SOD and MDA activity, as well as a decrease in the levels of GSH. Inflammation was confirmed xii by an increase in the levels of IL-6. Disrupted calcium signalling exacerbates oxidative stress and diminishes the therapeutic efficacy of oxytocin against such stress. Conversely, when calcium signalling remains intact, oxytocin demonstrates a notable therapeutic effect against oxidative stress. In conclusion, the study adds to the existing literature and leads to an improved understanding of the importance of calcium homeostasis and the functions of microglial cells in the brain. The research findings also shed light on the potential use of oxytocin in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders as well as other neurological disorders linked to oxidative stress. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Khau, Kananelo Adele
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Calcium -- Physiological effect , Microglia , Human Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75903 , vital:80062
- Description: Oxidative stress is implicated in the aetiology of several diseases as it leads to the destruction of cellular structures. In the central nervous system (CNS), oxidative stress results in neurodegeneration and the development of diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Microglia play a crucial role in maintaining brain homeostasis. Of importance is the intracellular calcium regulatory activities that reinforce both microglia phenotype and functions, which are implicated in several neurodevelopmental disorders. Despite extensive literature about the neuroprotective role of oxytocin, its impact on microglial activity has not been studied and it remains unclear whether the underpinned molecular mechanism of action is calcium-dependent or not. Thus, this study aimed to study the effects of inhibited calcium channel and oxytocin treatment on microglial response to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)- oxidative stress. Initially, the C8-B4 microglial cells were evaluated as valid constructs for the calcium inhibition and oxidative stress models. For the calcium inhibition model, the calcium channels were inhibited by treating the cells with 12.5 μM and 25 μM nickel chloride (NiCl2) for 24 and 48 hours. The intracellular calcium levels were measured using a calcium detection assay and the viability of the cells was determined using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. For the oxidative stress model, the cells were treated with H2O2 for 1-4 hours to induce oxidative stress. The viability of the cells was measured, and markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), interleukin (IL) -6) were quantified. Once the treatments were validated, the cells were treated with 12.5 μM NiCl2 and 1000 nM oxytocin for 24 hours, followed by 0.5 mM H2O2 for 1 hour. The cell viability was measured, and markers of oxidative stress were quantified (IL-6, MDA, superoxide dismutase (SOD)). The study found that NiCl2 inhibited calcium channels in C8-B4 cells, thereby disrupting calcium homeostasis. There was a decrease in the levels of intracellular calcium levels and cell viability following treatment with NICl2. H2O2 induced oxidative stress and inflammation in the cells. This was demonstrated by increase in SOD and MDA activity, as well as a decrease in the levels of GSH. Inflammation was confirmed xii by an increase in the levels of IL-6. Disrupted calcium signalling exacerbates oxidative stress and diminishes the therapeutic efficacy of oxytocin against such stress. Conversely, when calcium signalling remains intact, oxytocin demonstrates a notable therapeutic effect against oxidative stress. In conclusion, the study adds to the existing literature and leads to an improved understanding of the importance of calcium homeostasis and the functions of microglial cells in the brain. The research findings also shed light on the potential use of oxytocin in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders as well as other neurological disorders linked to oxidative stress. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Evaluating peptide conjugated gold nanoparticles as an anti-cancer treatment using HT29 cells
- Authors: Basson, Deané
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Colon (Anatomy) -- Cancer , Rectum -- Cancer , Nanotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75479 , vital:79929
- Description: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a global health concern with rising incidence and mortality rates, with current treatments for advanced stages often limited by adverse effects and low specificity. The advancement of targeted nanotechnology offers a promising alternative. To investigate the efficacy of peptide-conjugated gold nanoparticles for the targeted treatment of CRC, c-AuNPs were synthesised using the Turkevich-Frens method and capped with various ligands to create BSA-AuNPs, PEG-AuNPs and p.14-PEG-AuNPs. The nanoparticles were characterised using UV–Vis spectroscopy (UV-Vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The cytotoxic potential of the nanoparticles was evaluated using MTT, fluorescent microscopy and electron microscopy with a primary focus on p.14-PEG-AuNPs. PEG-AuNPs and BSA-AuNPs were included for comparative purposes, and 5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu) was used as the positive control. The results indicate successful synthesis and characterisation of BSA-AuNPs, PEG-AuNPs, and p.14-PEG-AuNPs with hydrodynamic sizes between 20 and 30 nm, and a core size of 14.455 ± 1.001 nm. Of the nanoparticles tested, p.14-PEG-AuNPs demonstrated the highest cytotoxicity. At 50 μg/mL, p.14-PEG-AuNPs reduced the cell viability to 59.83% ± 12.97%. Whereas a similar viability for PEG-AuNPs and BSA-AuNPs (56.64% ± 7.266% and 58.66% ± 0.517%) was only reached at much higher concentrations of 200 μg/mL and 150 μg/mL, respectively. Fluorescent microscopy analysis inferred that p.14-PEG-AuNPs and PEG-AuNPs treatments caused increased mitochondrial activity and chromatin condensation, which are common signs of apoptosis. Additionally, microscopy analysis of PEG-AuNPs treatment revealed morphological characteristics consistent with apoptosis. These findings demonstrate the therapeutic potential of p.14-PEG-AUNPs as an anticancer agent for the treatment of CRC. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Life, Earth, Environmental & Agricultural Sciences Cluster, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Basson, Deané
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Colon (Anatomy) -- Cancer , Rectum -- Cancer , Nanotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75479 , vital:79929
- Description: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a global health concern with rising incidence and mortality rates, with current treatments for advanced stages often limited by adverse effects and low specificity. The advancement of targeted nanotechnology offers a promising alternative. To investigate the efficacy of peptide-conjugated gold nanoparticles for the targeted treatment of CRC, c-AuNPs were synthesised using the Turkevich-Frens method and capped with various ligands to create BSA-AuNPs, PEG-AuNPs and p.14-PEG-AuNPs. The nanoparticles were characterised using UV–Vis spectroscopy (UV-Vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The cytotoxic potential of the nanoparticles was evaluated using MTT, fluorescent microscopy and electron microscopy with a primary focus on p.14-PEG-AuNPs. PEG-AuNPs and BSA-AuNPs were included for comparative purposes, and 5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu) was used as the positive control. The results indicate successful synthesis and characterisation of BSA-AuNPs, PEG-AuNPs, and p.14-PEG-AuNPs with hydrodynamic sizes between 20 and 30 nm, and a core size of 14.455 ± 1.001 nm. Of the nanoparticles tested, p.14-PEG-AuNPs demonstrated the highest cytotoxicity. At 50 μg/mL, p.14-PEG-AuNPs reduced the cell viability to 59.83% ± 12.97%. Whereas a similar viability for PEG-AuNPs and BSA-AuNPs (56.64% ± 7.266% and 58.66% ± 0.517%) was only reached at much higher concentrations of 200 μg/mL and 150 μg/mL, respectively. Fluorescent microscopy analysis inferred that p.14-PEG-AuNPs and PEG-AuNPs treatments caused increased mitochondrial activity and chromatin condensation, which are common signs of apoptosis. Additionally, microscopy analysis of PEG-AuNPs treatment revealed morphological characteristics consistent with apoptosis. These findings demonstrate the therapeutic potential of p.14-PEG-AUNPs as an anticancer agent for the treatment of CRC. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Life, Earth, Environmental & Agricultural Sciences Cluster, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Evaluating the impact of water scarcity and factors influencing the adoption of climate-smart irrigation technologies on small-scale vegetable farmers in the Amathole District Municipality, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Majola, Nelly Khanyisile
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Farmers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Vegetable gardening -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76014 , vital:80106
- Description: Small-scale vegetable farmers play a crucial role in terms of poverty alleviation, food security, employment and improvement of the standard of living in the rural areas. However, the climate change (CC) effects have caused unfavourable weather, such as higher temperatures and drought in many parts of the world. This effect has exacerbated the issue of water scarcity, especially in the semi-arid and arid areas like the Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province. Thus, the study sought to evaluate the impact of water scarcity on small-scale vegetable farmer’s productivity, and the factors influencing the adoption of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies (CSITs) on small-scale vegetable farmers in the Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study employed the quantitative research approach including semi-open-ended informant interview questionnaires. The study’s target population were small-scale vegetable farmers serviced by the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) in the Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province (EC). Purposive and snowballing sampling techniques were employed to obtain a total of N=120 population of small-scale farmers actively practising vegetable production. The descriptive statistics were utilised to investigate demographic traits and the current water scarcity adaptation and coping strategies applied by the small-scale vegetable farmers. The findings revealed that 42% of small-scale vegetable farmers had no formal education, 35% had primary education, 20% of the small-scale farmers had secondary education and only 3% had attained college certificates. A Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) was employed to assess the impact of water scarcity on the small-scale vegetable farmer’s productivity. The results revealed that the independent variable (Water Scarcity) was significant on the dependent variables with soil degradation showing (P> of 0.0046), poor crop quality (P>of 0.0003). However, other independent variables, such as pests and diseases and farming expansion were not significant. This may be the result as some small-scale farmers use drought-tolerantcultivars, crop rotation and others practice mulching to maintain soil moisture. The Multiple Linear Regression Model which was also utilised to examine the factors influencing the adoption of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies using multiple models, (model:1) revealed that high cost of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies with probability>f 0.0000 had an influence on small-scale farmers in adopting the (CSITs), (model:2) Low Income Consideration also showed a significant influence of Probability>f 0.000 and (model:3)Government Incentives with Probability>f 0.0022 limited access to government support incentives had an influence on the adoption of CSITs of small-scale vegetable farmers. To observe farmer’s perceptions on agricultural support service training intervention on irrigation water management, an Ordinary Least Square (OLS) was employed. The results indicated that lack of training on irrigation water management was significant P> 0.015 underscoring that lack of training support by the government has an influence regarding water conservation on the small-scale vegetable farmers. Thus, the need for the adoption of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies (CSITs) and training on irrigation water management is generally important to mitigate against the impact of water scarcity and improve water usage. Addressing the issue of water scarcity and promoting the adoption of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies, requires a comprehensive understanding of the specific impact on small-scale vegetable farmers and the underlying factors that hinder or facilitate their adoption. In addition, lack of training and awareness, government support incentives, funding, and access to credit have been identified to be some of the major factors influencing the adoption of technologies. Hence, it is crucial for government to provide training and awareness, especially on Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies for small-scale vegetable farmers. Relevant training and information dissemination plays an important role in enhancing knowledge and improving small-scale farmers’ decision-making when it comes to technology adoption and water management. Therefore, the study recommended regular training and frequent engagement between the small-scale vegetable farmers and extension officers. There is a need for the implementation of agricultural programmes that will enhance the farmers’ skills and knowledge of good agricultural practices and innovative technology. Lastly, the initiation of financial support programmes and the provision of information on agricultural credit institutions must be easily available to all small-scale vegetable farmers. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science & Management, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Majola, Nelly Khanyisile
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Farmers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Vegetable gardening -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76014 , vital:80106
- Description: Small-scale vegetable farmers play a crucial role in terms of poverty alleviation, food security, employment and improvement of the standard of living in the rural areas. However, the climate change (CC) effects have caused unfavourable weather, such as higher temperatures and drought in many parts of the world. This effect has exacerbated the issue of water scarcity, especially in the semi-arid and arid areas like the Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province. Thus, the study sought to evaluate the impact of water scarcity on small-scale vegetable farmer’s productivity, and the factors influencing the adoption of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies (CSITs) on small-scale vegetable farmers in the Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study employed the quantitative research approach including semi-open-ended informant interview questionnaires. The study’s target population were small-scale vegetable farmers serviced by the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) in the Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province (EC). Purposive and snowballing sampling techniques were employed to obtain a total of N=120 population of small-scale farmers actively practising vegetable production. The descriptive statistics were utilised to investigate demographic traits and the current water scarcity adaptation and coping strategies applied by the small-scale vegetable farmers. The findings revealed that 42% of small-scale vegetable farmers had no formal education, 35% had primary education, 20% of the small-scale farmers had secondary education and only 3% had attained college certificates. A Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) was employed to assess the impact of water scarcity on the small-scale vegetable farmer’s productivity. The results revealed that the independent variable (Water Scarcity) was significant on the dependent variables with soil degradation showing (P> of 0.0046), poor crop quality (P>of 0.0003). However, other independent variables, such as pests and diseases and farming expansion were not significant. This may be the result as some small-scale farmers use drought-tolerantcultivars, crop rotation and others practice mulching to maintain soil moisture. The Multiple Linear Regression Model which was also utilised to examine the factors influencing the adoption of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies using multiple models, (model:1) revealed that high cost of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies with probability>f 0.0000 had an influence on small-scale farmers in adopting the (CSITs), (model:2) Low Income Consideration also showed a significant influence of Probability>f 0.000 and (model:3)Government Incentives with Probability>f 0.0022 limited access to government support incentives had an influence on the adoption of CSITs of small-scale vegetable farmers. To observe farmer’s perceptions on agricultural support service training intervention on irrigation water management, an Ordinary Least Square (OLS) was employed. The results indicated that lack of training on irrigation water management was significant P> 0.015 underscoring that lack of training support by the government has an influence regarding water conservation on the small-scale vegetable farmers. Thus, the need for the adoption of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies (CSITs) and training on irrigation water management is generally important to mitigate against the impact of water scarcity and improve water usage. Addressing the issue of water scarcity and promoting the adoption of Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies, requires a comprehensive understanding of the specific impact on small-scale vegetable farmers and the underlying factors that hinder or facilitate their adoption. In addition, lack of training and awareness, government support incentives, funding, and access to credit have been identified to be some of the major factors influencing the adoption of technologies. Hence, it is crucial for government to provide training and awareness, especially on Climate-Smart Irrigation Technologies for small-scale vegetable farmers. Relevant training and information dissemination plays an important role in enhancing knowledge and improving small-scale farmers’ decision-making when it comes to technology adoption and water management. Therefore, the study recommended regular training and frequent engagement between the small-scale vegetable farmers and extension officers. There is a need for the implementation of agricultural programmes that will enhance the farmers’ skills and knowledge of good agricultural practices and innovative technology. Lastly, the initiation of financial support programmes and the provision of information on agricultural credit institutions must be easily available to all small-scale vegetable farmers. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science & Management, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Evaluating the Kenya health policy 2014-2030: towards equity and financial protection
- Authors: Ngala, Consolata
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Medical policy -- Economic Aspects -- Kenya , Medical policy -- Social aspects -- Kenya , Health insurance -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73331 , vital:79412
- Description: The government of Kenya in 2014 developed and implemented the Kenya Health Policy 2014-2030 to improve the welfare of its citizens. This was done through Universal Health Coverage (UHC) that was piloted from December, 2018 to December 2019 in Nyeri, Kisumu, Isiolo and Machakos Counties in Kenya. These were the counties with a high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), communicable diseases (CDs), poverty rates and accidents and injuries respectively. In February 2022 the government rolled out UHC targeting the elderly, as well as infants which was only 3.9 % and 12.8 % of the total population respectively. This was done without first evaluating the impact of the pilot. Literature shows that the achievement of UHC is quite elusive in Kenya. The study evaluated the design, implementation and impact of the Policy on equity and financial protection in piloted (Machakos and Kisumu) and non-piloted counties (Nakuru and Busia). The study also a baseline comparative analysis of the equity and financial protection in the sampled counties, establish the impact of the policy on the equity and financial protection in 2018-2019 (post analysis) and finally determined the cost effectiveness of equity and financial protection by comparing the cost of the health outcomes in the study counties. Exploratory and cross-sectional designs using both qualitative and quantitative data guided by the theory of change and logic model were used. The study used both secondary data from the Kenya Health Expenditure and Utilisation Survey (KHHEUS) (2018) and from primary survey data of 591 households in both piloted and non-piloted counties. Purposive, cluster and simple random sampling techniques were used to select the study Counties. The qualitative data collected was analysed thematically through content analysis. The quantitative data was analysed descriptively and through the use of inferential statistics (logistic regression and zero truncated model). Health outcomes measured by number of visits (Access) and catastrophic health expenditures were subjected to propensity score matching and incremental cost effectiveness ratio computed. The findings indicated that the life expectancy increased from 60 to 63 years in 2021-2022. There was a reduction in the prevalence of CDs such as Malaria from 4.3% in 2021 to 3.7% in 2023, and HIV from 11.4% in 2021 to 5.8% in 2023. Injuries reduced by 1.9%, maternal mortality as well as infant and under five mortality rates reduced with an increased uptake of antenatal care services. However, prevalence of NCDs increased from 39% in 2020 to 44% in 2023. Baseline analysis revealed that households in the piloted Counties had relatively more hospital visits and a reported lower percentage of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE). Propensity score matching revealed that the treated Counties had a statistically significant greater number of hospital visits as compared to the control Counties. There was statistically significant difference in the number of households in the control Counties that suffered CHE as compared to the treatment Counties. Lastly, the incremental cost effectiveness ratio revealed that to improve on the number of visits by 1%, the government should invest an additional of Ksh 1,225.87 million in Kisumu. Equally, to reduce the number of households likely to suffer CHE by 1%, the government should invest additional Ksh 80.775 and 165.82 million in Kisumu and Machakos respectively. The study revealed that UHC played a vital role in influencing hospital utilisation and cushioned households against CHE. The study recommends that 100% inclusivity in any government social heath insurance is necessary in order to reduce CHE among households. In addition, to enhance equity, the government should invest more in healthcare human resource and infrastructure across the Counties. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Ngala, Consolata
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Medical policy -- Economic Aspects -- Kenya , Medical policy -- Social aspects -- Kenya , Health insurance -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73331 , vital:79412
- Description: The government of Kenya in 2014 developed and implemented the Kenya Health Policy 2014-2030 to improve the welfare of its citizens. This was done through Universal Health Coverage (UHC) that was piloted from December, 2018 to December 2019 in Nyeri, Kisumu, Isiolo and Machakos Counties in Kenya. These were the counties with a high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), communicable diseases (CDs), poverty rates and accidents and injuries respectively. In February 2022 the government rolled out UHC targeting the elderly, as well as infants which was only 3.9 % and 12.8 % of the total population respectively. This was done without first evaluating the impact of the pilot. Literature shows that the achievement of UHC is quite elusive in Kenya. The study evaluated the design, implementation and impact of the Policy on equity and financial protection in piloted (Machakos and Kisumu) and non-piloted counties (Nakuru and Busia). The study also a baseline comparative analysis of the equity and financial protection in the sampled counties, establish the impact of the policy on the equity and financial protection in 2018-2019 (post analysis) and finally determined the cost effectiveness of equity and financial protection by comparing the cost of the health outcomes in the study counties. Exploratory and cross-sectional designs using both qualitative and quantitative data guided by the theory of change and logic model were used. The study used both secondary data from the Kenya Health Expenditure and Utilisation Survey (KHHEUS) (2018) and from primary survey data of 591 households in both piloted and non-piloted counties. Purposive, cluster and simple random sampling techniques were used to select the study Counties. The qualitative data collected was analysed thematically through content analysis. The quantitative data was analysed descriptively and through the use of inferential statistics (logistic regression and zero truncated model). Health outcomes measured by number of visits (Access) and catastrophic health expenditures were subjected to propensity score matching and incremental cost effectiveness ratio computed. The findings indicated that the life expectancy increased from 60 to 63 years in 2021-2022. There was a reduction in the prevalence of CDs such as Malaria from 4.3% in 2021 to 3.7% in 2023, and HIV from 11.4% in 2021 to 5.8% in 2023. Injuries reduced by 1.9%, maternal mortality as well as infant and under five mortality rates reduced with an increased uptake of antenatal care services. However, prevalence of NCDs increased from 39% in 2020 to 44% in 2023. Baseline analysis revealed that households in the piloted Counties had relatively more hospital visits and a reported lower percentage of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE). Propensity score matching revealed that the treated Counties had a statistically significant greater number of hospital visits as compared to the control Counties. There was statistically significant difference in the number of households in the control Counties that suffered CHE as compared to the treatment Counties. Lastly, the incremental cost effectiveness ratio revealed that to improve on the number of visits by 1%, the government should invest an additional of Ksh 1,225.87 million in Kisumu. Equally, to reduce the number of households likely to suffer CHE by 1%, the government should invest additional Ksh 80.775 and 165.82 million in Kisumu and Machakos respectively. The study revealed that UHC played a vital role in influencing hospital utilisation and cushioned households against CHE. The study recommends that 100% inclusivity in any government social heath insurance is necessary in order to reduce CHE among households. In addition, to enhance equity, the government should invest more in healthcare human resource and infrastructure across the Counties. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Evaluating the role of special economic zones and SMMEs’ sustainability: a case study of Coega
- Authors: Kassim, Nadia
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Economic zoning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Coega Development Corporation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72846 , vital:79271
- Description: This research assesses the influence of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) on the sustainability of Small, Medium, and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs) in the Eastern Cape. The main goal is to improve the comprehension of the role of SEZs and to identify the obstacles that hinder the growth and sustainability of SMMEs. The literature suggests that funding, skills, and management are identified as the major constraints hindering sustainability. Additionally, the study analysed the financial and administrative support provided by Coega SEZ that could enhance SMME sustainability, as well as the policies and programs that can support SMME businesses. Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) face a range of challenges that hinder their growth and sustainability, despite government efforts to support them. Among these challenges, limited financial resources stand out as one of the most significant obstacles. Without adequate capital, SMMEs struggle to scale their operations, invest in necessary technology, or hire skilled employees. This case study of the Coega SEZ in South Africa examines its impact on Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), highlighting how SMME development can drive various socio-economic benefits. The qualitative research demonstrates that by simultaneously providing access to opportunities, finance, and technical and managerial expertise, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) can serve as a valuable policy tool for SMMEs, helping them overcome key challenges. The case study offers policy recommendations on how to leverage SEZs to support SMME growth and development. The study utilized a qualitative research methodology and employed a non-probability, purposive sampling technique to select a sample of fifteen participants. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. The main findings indicated that small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) often lack industry knowledge and face challenges related to skills and finance. The study recommended greater support from the government and multinational companies for SMMEs, along with incentives for financial institutions that assist them. Additionally, government intervention during periods of high interest rates was suggested. The study also emphasized the importance of SMMEs enhancing their skills and diversifying their businesses. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Kassim, Nadia
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Economic zoning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Coega Development Corporation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72846 , vital:79271
- Description: This research assesses the influence of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) on the sustainability of Small, Medium, and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs) in the Eastern Cape. The main goal is to improve the comprehension of the role of SEZs and to identify the obstacles that hinder the growth and sustainability of SMMEs. The literature suggests that funding, skills, and management are identified as the major constraints hindering sustainability. Additionally, the study analysed the financial and administrative support provided by Coega SEZ that could enhance SMME sustainability, as well as the policies and programs that can support SMME businesses. Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) face a range of challenges that hinder their growth and sustainability, despite government efforts to support them. Among these challenges, limited financial resources stand out as one of the most significant obstacles. Without adequate capital, SMMEs struggle to scale their operations, invest in necessary technology, or hire skilled employees. This case study of the Coega SEZ in South Africa examines its impact on Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), highlighting how SMME development can drive various socio-economic benefits. The qualitative research demonstrates that by simultaneously providing access to opportunities, finance, and technical and managerial expertise, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) can serve as a valuable policy tool for SMMEs, helping them overcome key challenges. The case study offers policy recommendations on how to leverage SEZs to support SMME growth and development. The study utilized a qualitative research methodology and employed a non-probability, purposive sampling technique to select a sample of fifteen participants. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. The main findings indicated that small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) often lack industry knowledge and face challenges related to skills and finance. The study recommended greater support from the government and multinational companies for SMMEs, along with incentives for financial institutions that assist them. Additionally, government intervention during periods of high interest rates was suggested. The study also emphasized the importance of SMMEs enhancing their skills and diversifying their businesses. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Experiences and perceptions of educators working in low-quintile primary schools of the challenges faced by children with learning barriers
- Authors: Marais, Ulleta Catherine
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Learning -- South Africa , Cognitive learning , Teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74710 , vital:79798
- Description: Children experiencing learning barriers often do not make appropriate progress in school, particularly in primary skill areas. Their issues may be limited to a single school subject or may be evident across the entire academic curriculum. Learning barriers are a phenomenon that affects many children in South Africa, and children with learning barriers often experience several challenges, including victimisation, social rejection, and inadequate resources to address their needs. Despite developments in legislation and public awareness around learning barriers, minimal research in South Africa emphasises that these children and individuals still experience various challenges. This research sought to gain understanding of the challenges of children with learning barriers in Kariega, Eastern Cape. To ensure a robust and comprehensive understanding, this study utilised Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory as a conceptual framework. This theory focuses on various complex but interactive systems contributing to a child's development, providing a holistic view of the issue. A qualitative research approach was used in the study to explore and understand the meanings participants attached to the problems they were experiencing. This flexible approach allowed participants to provide detailed explanations, leading to the collection of comprehensive data due to its inductive nature. An explorative-descriptive design was used to explore a new topic or a subject with limited or no existing information. The descriptive aspect was important as it helps to describe the phenomenon, which is commonly applied in social science studies. aimed to understand the experiences and perceptions of educators working in low-quintile primary schools regarding the challenges faced by children with learning barriers. The population of this research study consisted of educators in primary schools focusing on quintiles one, two, and three in Kariega, Eastern Cape, specifically concentrating on the intermediate phase, grades 4 to 6. The non-probability sampling technique used was purposive sampling, which was the most appropriate for the study. Individual, indepth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen educators and one learner support agent from low-quintile primary schools until data saturation was reached. The data collected was analysed using thematic data analysis. The research process was underpinned by a commitment to ethical considerations, including voluntary participation, informed consent, no violation of privacy, anonymity, confidentiality, Appreciation, and avoidance of harm, to ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of the study. The study explored the multifaceted challenges faced by children with learning barriers in low-quintile primary schools and it highlighted how interconnected systems influenced educational outcomes: family dynamics and peer relationships directly impacted learning, while the interaction between home and school underscored the need for stronger collaboration. Systemic issues such as inadequate resources and support services and societal attitudes and cultural norms further shaped responses to learning barriers. A holistic and collaborative approach involving social development professionals, educators, caregivers, healthcare providers, and community organizations was deemed a necessity to address these challenges effectively and help learners reach their full potential. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Marais, Ulleta Catherine
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Learning -- South Africa , Cognitive learning , Teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74710 , vital:79798
- Description: Children experiencing learning barriers often do not make appropriate progress in school, particularly in primary skill areas. Their issues may be limited to a single school subject or may be evident across the entire academic curriculum. Learning barriers are a phenomenon that affects many children in South Africa, and children with learning barriers often experience several challenges, including victimisation, social rejection, and inadequate resources to address their needs. Despite developments in legislation and public awareness around learning barriers, minimal research in South Africa emphasises that these children and individuals still experience various challenges. This research sought to gain understanding of the challenges of children with learning barriers in Kariega, Eastern Cape. To ensure a robust and comprehensive understanding, this study utilised Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory as a conceptual framework. This theory focuses on various complex but interactive systems contributing to a child's development, providing a holistic view of the issue. A qualitative research approach was used in the study to explore and understand the meanings participants attached to the problems they were experiencing. This flexible approach allowed participants to provide detailed explanations, leading to the collection of comprehensive data due to its inductive nature. An explorative-descriptive design was used to explore a new topic or a subject with limited or no existing information. The descriptive aspect was important as it helps to describe the phenomenon, which is commonly applied in social science studies. aimed to understand the experiences and perceptions of educators working in low-quintile primary schools regarding the challenges faced by children with learning barriers. The population of this research study consisted of educators in primary schools focusing on quintiles one, two, and three in Kariega, Eastern Cape, specifically concentrating on the intermediate phase, grades 4 to 6. The non-probability sampling technique used was purposive sampling, which was the most appropriate for the study. Individual, indepth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen educators and one learner support agent from low-quintile primary schools until data saturation was reached. The data collected was analysed using thematic data analysis. The research process was underpinned by a commitment to ethical considerations, including voluntary participation, informed consent, no violation of privacy, anonymity, confidentiality, Appreciation, and avoidance of harm, to ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of the study. The study explored the multifaceted challenges faced by children with learning barriers in low-quintile primary schools and it highlighted how interconnected systems influenced educational outcomes: family dynamics and peer relationships directly impacted learning, while the interaction between home and school underscored the need for stronger collaboration. Systemic issues such as inadequate resources and support services and societal attitudes and cultural norms further shaped responses to learning barriers. A holistic and collaborative approach involving social development professionals, educators, caregivers, healthcare providers, and community organizations was deemed a necessity to address these challenges effectively and help learners reach their full potential. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Experiences of cisgender amaXhosa fathers in Gqeberha after the birth of their first child
- Authors: Kalakgosi, Ontiretse
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Fatherhood -- psychological aspects , Parenting -- psychological aspects , Xhosa (African people) -- Social life and customs
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74578 , vital:79771
- Description: The transition to parenthood, particularly fatherhood, presents notable challenges for couples as it necessitates the reorganization of the family unit, often resulting in emotional, functional, and boundary shifts that can disrupt the marital relationship. Within the amaXhosa culture, fatherhood is typically recognized through marriage or the acceptance of responsibility, referred to as intlawulo. Definitions and experiences of fatherhood vary across and within cultures, highlighting the importance of understanding its cultural nuances. This study focuses on the experiences of first-time cisgender amaXhosa fathers in Gqeberha following the birth of their first child, aiming to provide psychological practitioners with culturally informed insights and recommendations for supporting amaXhosa fathers in cohabiting relationships. Qualitative methodology was employed, guided by the ecological systems framework to contextualize and interpret the findings. Eleven first-time fathers were recruited through daycare and nursery school networks and participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcribed data, revealing key themes related to cultural identity, the negotiation of new roles, and the emotional challenges associated with fatherhood. Trustworthiness was ensured by adhering to principles such as credibility, dependability, and confirmability. Ethical considerations, including beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, autonomy, and dignity, were maintained throughout the study. The findings underscore the significance of cultural values in shaping the fatherhood experience, with participants reporting a strong emphasis on responsibility and family cohesion. Psychological practitioners are encouraged to adopt culturally sensitive approaches when working with amaXhosa fathers, recognizing the interplay between cultural expectations and individual experiences during the transition to fatherhood. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Kalakgosi, Ontiretse
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Fatherhood -- psychological aspects , Parenting -- psychological aspects , Xhosa (African people) -- Social life and customs
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74578 , vital:79771
- Description: The transition to parenthood, particularly fatherhood, presents notable challenges for couples as it necessitates the reorganization of the family unit, often resulting in emotional, functional, and boundary shifts that can disrupt the marital relationship. Within the amaXhosa culture, fatherhood is typically recognized through marriage or the acceptance of responsibility, referred to as intlawulo. Definitions and experiences of fatherhood vary across and within cultures, highlighting the importance of understanding its cultural nuances. This study focuses on the experiences of first-time cisgender amaXhosa fathers in Gqeberha following the birth of their first child, aiming to provide psychological practitioners with culturally informed insights and recommendations for supporting amaXhosa fathers in cohabiting relationships. Qualitative methodology was employed, guided by the ecological systems framework to contextualize and interpret the findings. Eleven first-time fathers were recruited through daycare and nursery school networks and participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcribed data, revealing key themes related to cultural identity, the negotiation of new roles, and the emotional challenges associated with fatherhood. Trustworthiness was ensured by adhering to principles such as credibility, dependability, and confirmability. Ethical considerations, including beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, autonomy, and dignity, were maintained throughout the study. The findings underscore the significance of cultural values in shaping the fatherhood experience, with participants reporting a strong emphasis on responsibility and family cohesion. Psychological practitioners are encouraged to adopt culturally sensitive approaches when working with amaXhosa fathers, recognizing the interplay between cultural expectations and individual experiences during the transition to fatherhood. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Exploring data governance to enhance operations management in the Eastern Cape Department of Transport
- Authors: Nkau, Searabo Rebafilwe
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Big data , Information resources management , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73364 , vital:79430
- Description: The study explored data governance to enhance operations management in the Eastern Cape Department of Transport (EC-DoT). The motivation for this research was the EC-DoT's failure to meet its oversight responsibilities in data management, leading to consecutive adverse audit outcomes. The study used a qualitative research method and adopted an inductive approach to understand the nature and the extent of the research problem. Semi-structured interviews were conducted through a purposive sampling strategy that targeted EC-DoT leadership and management. Out of 30 sampled participants, 19 participants were interviewed thus a achieving a 63% participation rate for the study. Data was analysed and reported using reflective thematic analysis aligned with the research objectives. The study found that reliable data is crucial for achieving operational objectives, and poor data quality hinders decision-making and customer service. Inconsistencies in data management, such as the lack of a data governance guideline and fragmented data systems, were identified as major challenges. The study also highlighted the lack of alignment of national policies, guidelines, and standards, which poses significant challenges to achieving data legitimacy and impedes citizens' rights to access information. Institutional arrangements for data governance were found to be inadequate, with a need for enhanced assurance systems and collaborative information sharing. The study found that reliable data is crucial for achieving operational objectives, and poor data quality hinders decision-making and customer service. Inconsistencies in data management, such as the lack of a data governance guideline and fragmented data systems, were identified as major challenges. The study also highlighted the lack of alignment of national policies, guidelines, and standards, which poses significant challenges to achieving data legitimacy and impedes citizens' rights to access information. Institutional arrangements for data governance were found to be inadequate, with a need for enhanced assurance systems and collaborative information sharing. In addition to proposing a guideline for effective data management, this study recognizes the need for leadership support to drive the desired culture within the EC-DoT. Leadership support is essential for fostering a culture that values data governance. The recommendations are coupled with a change management framework to ensure successful implementation and sustainability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Nkau, Searabo Rebafilwe
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Big data , Information resources management , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73364 , vital:79430
- Description: The study explored data governance to enhance operations management in the Eastern Cape Department of Transport (EC-DoT). The motivation for this research was the EC-DoT's failure to meet its oversight responsibilities in data management, leading to consecutive adverse audit outcomes. The study used a qualitative research method and adopted an inductive approach to understand the nature and the extent of the research problem. Semi-structured interviews were conducted through a purposive sampling strategy that targeted EC-DoT leadership and management. Out of 30 sampled participants, 19 participants were interviewed thus a achieving a 63% participation rate for the study. Data was analysed and reported using reflective thematic analysis aligned with the research objectives. The study found that reliable data is crucial for achieving operational objectives, and poor data quality hinders decision-making and customer service. Inconsistencies in data management, such as the lack of a data governance guideline and fragmented data systems, were identified as major challenges. The study also highlighted the lack of alignment of national policies, guidelines, and standards, which poses significant challenges to achieving data legitimacy and impedes citizens' rights to access information. Institutional arrangements for data governance were found to be inadequate, with a need for enhanced assurance systems and collaborative information sharing. The study found that reliable data is crucial for achieving operational objectives, and poor data quality hinders decision-making and customer service. Inconsistencies in data management, such as the lack of a data governance guideline and fragmented data systems, were identified as major challenges. The study also highlighted the lack of alignment of national policies, guidelines, and standards, which poses significant challenges to achieving data legitimacy and impedes citizens' rights to access information. Institutional arrangements for data governance were found to be inadequate, with a need for enhanced assurance systems and collaborative information sharing. In addition to proposing a guideline for effective data management, this study recognizes the need for leadership support to drive the desired culture within the EC-DoT. Leadership support is essential for fostering a culture that values data governance. The recommendations are coupled with a change management framework to ensure successful implementation and sustainability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Exploring factors influencing the business success of black commercial farmers in South Africa: a quantitative study
- Venter, Stephanus Johannes Jacobus (Jacques)
- Authors: Venter, Stephanus Johannes Jacobus (Jacques)
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73937 , vital:79592
- Description: This study investigated the factors influencing the business success of black smallholder farmers in South Africa, which concentrated on key economic opportunities such as access to finance, favourable markets, affordable inputs, mechanisation, training and land. Through quantitative research, the study investigated the relationship between these economic factors and business success, using statistical techniques through means of the JASP analytical software like Chi-square and Pearson’s correlation analysis to test the data collected from six provinces in South Africa. The study also highlighted the constant issue of poor infrastructure, which hinders productivity and the growing demand for land and improved farming inputs. Although the research provides valuable insights, it is limited by financial, time restrictions and the geographic setting, which restricted the findings. Also, the pure quantitative approach limited the depth of understanding regarding the difficulties of smallholder farming. Future studies should benefit from a mixed-methods approach and a broader geographical setting to better address the multifaceted challenges faced by black smallholder farmers. This research was an attempt to contribute to the understanding of the barriers to agricultural success and offers recommendations for improving access to resources, infrastructure and support systems to enhance the viability and sustainability of smallholder farming enterprises in South Africa. The results of the study revealed that access to land, mechanisation and finance are critical factors influencing the business success of black smallholder farmers in South Africa. A significant majority of farmers agreed that access to land influenced their business success, while many also identified the lack of affordable mechanisation services as a major challenge. The study found that majority of the farmers reported the lack of local mechanisation service providers and most acknowledged that the absence of mechanisation services is a key constraint. Additionally, most farmers expressed the need for more technologically advanced mechanisation in the near future. Despite these challenges, the majority of farmers foresee the need for more land in the next five years to support their growing farming operations. The study highlighted the importance of improving infrastructure, with majority of respondents agreeing that the infrastructure available to smallholder farmers is often dilapidated,which negatively impacts farm productivity. These findings highlight the critical role of land access, mechanisation and infrastructure in the success and sustainability of smallholder farming in South Africa. It was recommended that updating agricultural training curricula, promoting knowledge sharing, and improving access to markets and affordable inputs through cooperatives. Financial institutions should create farmer-friendly products, and farmers can work together to purchase mechanisation equipment and share resources. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Venter, Stephanus Johannes Jacobus (Jacques)
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73937 , vital:79592
- Description: This study investigated the factors influencing the business success of black smallholder farmers in South Africa, which concentrated on key economic opportunities such as access to finance, favourable markets, affordable inputs, mechanisation, training and land. Through quantitative research, the study investigated the relationship between these economic factors and business success, using statistical techniques through means of the JASP analytical software like Chi-square and Pearson’s correlation analysis to test the data collected from six provinces in South Africa. The study also highlighted the constant issue of poor infrastructure, which hinders productivity and the growing demand for land and improved farming inputs. Although the research provides valuable insights, it is limited by financial, time restrictions and the geographic setting, which restricted the findings. Also, the pure quantitative approach limited the depth of understanding regarding the difficulties of smallholder farming. Future studies should benefit from a mixed-methods approach and a broader geographical setting to better address the multifaceted challenges faced by black smallholder farmers. This research was an attempt to contribute to the understanding of the barriers to agricultural success and offers recommendations for improving access to resources, infrastructure and support systems to enhance the viability and sustainability of smallholder farming enterprises in South Africa. The results of the study revealed that access to land, mechanisation and finance are critical factors influencing the business success of black smallholder farmers in South Africa. A significant majority of farmers agreed that access to land influenced their business success, while many also identified the lack of affordable mechanisation services as a major challenge. The study found that majority of the farmers reported the lack of local mechanisation service providers and most acknowledged that the absence of mechanisation services is a key constraint. Additionally, most farmers expressed the need for more technologically advanced mechanisation in the near future. Despite these challenges, the majority of farmers foresee the need for more land in the next five years to support their growing farming operations. The study highlighted the importance of improving infrastructure, with majority of respondents agreeing that the infrastructure available to smallholder farmers is often dilapidated,which negatively impacts farm productivity. These findings highlight the critical role of land access, mechanisation and infrastructure in the success and sustainability of smallholder farming in South Africa. It was recommended that updating agricultural training curricula, promoting knowledge sharing, and improving access to markets and affordable inputs through cooperatives. Financial institutions should create farmer-friendly products, and farmers can work together to purchase mechanisation equipment and share resources. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04