Research Publications (Arts and Design)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/214

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Microfinance as a pathway for smallholder farming in Zimbabwe
(Business Perspectives, 2016) Mago, Stephen; Hofisi, Costa
Microfinance has been viewed as a pathway for smallholder farming. This paper aims to investigate the impact of microfinance on smallholder farming. It examines the role of microfinance in the development of smallholder farming. This paper employs the integrated view of microfinance study, as opposed to the ‘credit only’(minimalist) view. Using qualitative research methodology, the paper relies on literature review and primary data. Household level data (primary) were collected from a rural district (Masvingo Rural District) of Masvingo province in Zimbabwe. Data were collected from 250 microfinance participants (household heads) using questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. The findings show that microfinance had positive effects on accumulation of agricultural assets, income from agriculture, agricultural education, agricultural productivity, agri-business, consumption and health. However, the impact is limited due to lack of finance. Basic financial services are essential for the management of their smallholder farming activities. The practical implications are that the study results could be used by the government and development agencies for policy making. The paper recommends that microfinance should be harnessed as a useful intervention that can be employed to economically empower the smallholder rural agricultural sector.
Social dynamics of suicide in South Africa : a theoretical perspective
(AJPHERD, 2012-09) Netshiombo, Kenneth; Mashamba, Tshilidzi
Suicide rates in South Africa are on the increase, particularly amongst the youth. What are the complexities of modern life which are driving the increase? The suicidal act of self-destruction signals society’s failure to provide good support systems and meaningful psycho-social well-being for its members. With its impressive Reconstruction and Developmental Programme (RDP), South Africa has not yet succeeded in extending the equivalent reconstruction of people’s minds and thought processes. In some instances the art of negotiating one’s existence on a daily basis is compromised by hostile socio-economic and political realities. The collective consciousness that once glued society has lost its bonding effect. Traditional systems of social support need to be revisited. The aim of this study is therefore to give a theoretical view of social dynamics of suicide in South Africa.