Research Publications (Management Sciences)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/217

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Assessing the performance of green roofs for stormwater runoff mitigation in the South African urban environment
(Journal of Urban and Environmental Engineering, 2021-12-31) Sucheran, Reshma; Sucheran, Arisha
Rapid urbanization has altered the hydrologic cycle, causing increased runoff rates and peak flows in the drainage system. Cities are now facing serious problems relating to stormwater management such as water scarcity, degraded waterways, and increased flooding. Under such circumstances, green roofs present numerous benefits including the retention of rainwater for a longer time and a delay in the peak discharge. Using data from various storm events, this study examined the performance of retrofitted green roofs for stormwater management in the eThekwini region of South Africa. The study also used the Personal Computer Storm Water Management Model (PCSWMM) to investigate the effect that the best performing green roof would have on stormwater flow rates and volumes for the region. The results concluded that the green roof systems proved to significantly reduce stormwater runoff flow rates and volumes, and retention largely depended on the intensity and duration of the rain events. The PCSWMM model further confirmed that when compared to the base model, peak flow rates from the green roof model decreased by over 40% for all storm intensities. It can therefore be concluded that the implementation of green roofs within the eThekwini Central Business District (CBD) will be highly effective in reducing peak stormwater flow rates.
Awareness of the space industry as a career opportunity in South Africa
(IGI Global, 2019) Zuma, Khanya Philani; Mason, Roger Bruce; Maharaj, Mandusha
The South African space industry is not seen by young learners as a potential career. The objectives of this study were to identify: high school students’ awareness of the industry, their perceptions of employment opportunities, and their knowledge of the industry’s educational requirements. A quantitative, descriptive survey with structured questionnaires was administered to 171 respondents. Purposive and quota sampling selected grade 10-11 students in rural, urban and suburban schools. Most respondents had some awareness of the industry, but had limited knowledge about career opportunities, especially in rural schools. Respondents were unclear about how and where to apply for space-related education. The space industry inadequately markets itself to students, so more outreach programs, sponsoring of science and technological projects, more scholarships, and encouragement of the Department of Higher Education to provide information about, and improve career guidance officers’ knowledge of, the space industry are recommended.
Can commercialisation address consumer debt in local government : a case of South African metropolitan municipalities
(Taylor and Francis Group, 2023-05-30) Murwirapachena, Genius; Kabange, Martin M.
Consumer debt continues to challenge local government financial sustainability. There is a debate in the literature on whether developing countries should consider commercialising local service delivery. Using data from South African metropolitan municipalities, this study examines the impact of commercialising service delivery on consumer debt. Fixed effects modelling is adopted, and results show that commercialising sanitation increased consumer debt by 22.5 per cent, commercialising solid waste collection reduced consumer debt by 11.9 per cent, while commercialising electricity had no significant impact on consumer debt. These results imply that policymakers should consider the type and nature of public service when deciding its commercialisation.
Challenges during installation and maintenance of water delivery infrastructure : a citizen perspective
(Beykent University, 2023-10-30) Mokgobu, Matlou Lesley; Mason, Roger; Dobbelstein, Thomas
The installation and maintenance of water infrastructure in South African cities poses a challenge to communities, municipalities, and installation contractors, who face problems such as inadequate access to homes, traffic jams, inadequately barricaded trenches, leaking water pipes, water supply cut offs, vandalism, and theft of water. The research problem, therefore, involves an inadequate understanding of what drives these problems and how to mitigate them through better management. The aim of this study was to investigate the challenges of managing water infrastructure as perceived by the citizens of a South African municipality. The study was a descriptive and cross-sectional survey, with data collected, via a literature derived, emailed questionnaire, from a self-selected non probability sample of 402 City of Tshwane residents. Analysis, via SPSS Version 27, used descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that both the municipality and the contractors contributed to the challenges experienced by citizens, with maintenance challenges being more serious than installation challenges. Municipal and political challenges were the main drivers, with political ownership of construction companies and political interference being the biggest problems. The findings contributed to a better understanding of the challenges inhibiting effective installation and maintenance of water infrastructure, and are important to the municipality, and the community at large, because they contribute to a better understanding of service delivery from the citizens’ perspectives.
Cluster methodology : the strategy for sustainable local development in the rural communities of South Africa
(2023-05-16) Zondo, Robert Walter Dumisani
Rural communities are making efforts to implement sustainable development initiatives in their regions. However, there is a lack of capacity, specific development strategies, expertise, infrastructure and finance to achieve their developmental goals. These deficiencies disadvantage self-reliant initiatives in rural areas as the development interventions and investments are directed to better-off urban communities. Hence, this paper proposes the cluster approach as a sustainable local development in rural areas of South Africa. Clusters are referred to as the agglomeration of inter-related firms and related institutions. They are employed to show a geographical and a sectoral focus of firms that produce and sell a range of related or complementary goods and services. These firms normally experience the same challenges and opportunities. The clusters are assisted by a spectrum of supportive institutions situated within spatial proximity, including business-related associations, technical or training service providers. Cluster development initiatives that improve access for local firms to local and global markets can have positive poverty impacts that enhance income, employment and the well-being of workers and entrepreneurs within a cluster. This study assesses the influence of the cluster approach on sustainable local development in rural areas of South Africa. It establishes the suitability of clusters as strategic methods for local economic growth for South Africa.
Community-based tourism development : a Hiking Trails perspective
(AJHTL, 2017) Mnguni, Mzobanzi Erasmus; Giampiccoli, Andrea
Community-based tourism (CBT) is an alternative form of tourism development that aims to contribute to holistic development of disadvantaged community members. The relevance of CBT is growing and while CBT development may have many opportunities, it also boast various and relevant challenges. Thus, specific CBT development models are required to enhance CBT chances of success. Hiking trails are seen as a possible option to local development specifically, but not exclusively, to rural areas. In addition heritage tourism is also seen as a relevant tourism sector. In this context, this paper proposes a specific model for CBT link to hiking trails development as trails mostly based on the local cultural and natural assets. The paper that is based on desk research intends to contribute to the tourism literature in relation to community development by specifically proposing a model of CBT hiking trails development. After an introductory section, the paper will explore matters related to CBT and trails development leading to a proposed CBT hiking trail development model. Thereafter, an initial suggestion about a possible CBT hiking trails system in the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa is briefly outlined. A conclusion will terminate the paper.
Customer’s perception towards product quality of automotive SMEs operating in Metropolitan areas, and consideration of environmental impact
(Business Perspectives, 2017-04-08) Lekhanya, Lawrence Mpele; Dlamini, Henry Lucky
This paper examines customer’s perception towards product quality of automotive SMEs operating in the Durban metropolitan areas and identifies how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa (SA) contribute significantly to job creation, wealth, social stability, economic growth and reduction of poverty. Product quality of automotive SMEs requires serious attention, as it can have ecological environmental impact leading to the negative economic growth contributed by the industry. The study is aimed to understand the factors affecting automotive SMEs in order to help entrepreneurs to improve product quality and examining the customer’s perception towards product quality. The sample size of the study was 120 SMEs selected using convenience sampling with respondents completing the questionnaire. A combined method of both quantitative and qualitative techniques was employed, while the analysis of data was done using the Statistics Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 23.0. The findings of the study revealed that lack of managerial skills and development negatively compromises product quality of the automotive sector. Also the results indicate that the absence of financial support from financial institutions delays the improvement of stock in the business, as this is an obstacle resulting in the unsustainability of the SMEs. Further research with larger samples and the consideration of other cities is recommended.
Disaster management in India : need for an integrated approach
(Disaster Advances, 2022-07-22) Sriram, Divi; Dorasamy, Nirmala; Vipul, Nakum
It is now widely known that the hazards can be natural, but most disasters are ‘human-made’. The failure to properly implement developmental policies and practices with due consideration to disaster risk management is the leading cause of turning a hazard into a disaster.25 This, in return, negatively affects sustainable development which ultimately affects the weakest and the poorest sections of society. Disaster impacts have been felt on a wide range of sectors and sections of the population. They are curbing progress made toward achieving the Sendai Framework targets, and SDGs. Climate and human-induced disaster events have exposed several underlying facets of risks' systemic and cascading nature. There is an urgent need to identify, analyse and better understand the multihazard, systemic and cascading nature of the disaster and climate risks, their inter-linkages, and interplay. A holistic understanding of risk is crucial for furthering the priorities of action laid under the Sendai Framework and the envisioned SDGs and ensuring a better, greener, resilient and sustainable society. We have tried to study the disaster management frameworks, plans and policies of 10 countries including India to understand the institutional mechanisms and integration of critical aspects of dual/multi disaster scenarios. When the traditional disasters hit the community following the COVID-19 pandemic, the need arises to have an integrated model that can assisting in the preparation and response to the dual situation simultaneously. Efforts are made to put the experiences into a framework for an integrated approach preparing for dual/multi-disaster scenarios.
Economic conditions that leads to illegal electricity connections at Quarry Road Informal Settlement in South Africa
(International Journal of Special Education, 2022) Geyevu, Mawuena; Mbandlwa, Zamokuhle
Crime statistics in South Africa seems to increase every year. Illegal electricity connection is considered a crime and a punishable offence. Crime can be caused by different aspects, e.g. poverty, drug abuse and alcohol abuse. Unemployment seems to be the leading cause of crime which may indirectly lead to poverty. Unemployment rate has gone up and people are looking for alternative solutions to support themselves and their families. Unemployment is one of the reason stated by people who illegally connect electricity. The illegal connection of electricity can be categorized into two groups. The first group is the group of people that utilize illegally connected electricity because they claim not to afford to pay for the electricity. The second group is the group of people who illegally connect electricity as a form of employment and illegally connect electricity for community members for a specific amount of money as remuneration. The study investigated illegal electricity connections in Quarry Informal Settlements. The main objective of this study was to explore the reason of illegal electricity connections in informal settlements focusing on Quarry Informal Settlement. Illegal electricity connections are lethal and the residents of Quarry Informal Settlements are aware of these consequences yet they seem to have no other alternatives to connecting electricity and no intervention from the municipality. Findings of this study also revealed that connecting electricity in Quarry Road Informal Settlement has since become a norm. It has since become an acceptable act to connect electricity illegally. A minority bought their houses with an already installed illegal connection while most have become accustomed to this act.
Economic costs of patients attending the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV/AIDS (PMTCT) services in Ethiopia : urban-rural setting
(Danubius University, 2016) Zegeye, Elias Asfaw; Mbonigaba, Josue; Kaye, Sylvia Blanche
Economic analyses of patients’ costs are pertinent to improve effective healthcare services including the prevention of mother-to-child HIV/AIDS transmission (PMTCT). This study assessed the direct and non-direct medical costs borne by pregnant women attending PMTCT services in urban (high-HIV prevalence) and rural (low-HIV prevalence) settings, in Ethiopia. Patient-level direct medical costs and direct non-medical data were collected from HIV-positive pregnant women in six regions. The cost estimation was classified as direct medical (service fee, drugs and laboratory) and direct non-medical (food, transportation and accommodation). The mean direct medical expense per patient per year was Ethiopian birr (ETB) 746 (US$ 38) in the urban settings, as compared to ETB 368 (US$ 19) in the rural settings. On average, a pregnant woman from urban and rural catchments incurred direct non-medical costs of ETB 6,435 (US$ 327) and ETB 2,154 (US$ 110) per year, respectively. On average, non-medical costs of friend/relative/guardian were ETB 2,595 (US$ 132) and ETB 2,919 (US$ 148.39) in the urban and rural settings, respectively. Although the PMTCT service is provided free of charge, HIV-positive pregnant women and infant pairs still face a substantial amount of out-of-pocket spending due to direct medical and non-medical costs.
Exploring the motives for operating in Ghana's informal slum sector
(2019) Zogli, Luther-King Junior; Lawa, Emmanuel; Dlamini, Bongani Innocent; Kabange, Martin Mulunda
Abstract: In the developing world, slums house a sizeable amount of the urban population and most slum inhabitants are engaged in informal activities. In Sub Sahara African countries this sector has historically contributed above 50% to non-agricultural Gross Value Added. Informal sector activities in Ghanaian slums employ a substantial amount of people, who on average earn about $8 a day, a figure which is above the poverty threshold of $2 a day. Most of these slum activity operators reside in slums whereas a sizable amount reside in formal housing, a phenomenon which has led to the growth of Ghanaian urban slums. To assist these slum operators to grow and someday integrate into the formal sector, it is important to find out the factors that motivated them to engage in these activities in the first place. The study employed Exploratory Factor Analysis, on a sample of 344 drawn from the two biggest slums (Sodom & Gomorrah and Akwatia Line) in Ghana’s two major cities, Accra and Kumasi respectively. The results show a set of six clusters, explaining 61% of the variation in motives for slum activities. The avoidance of government regulation was found as the main motive for one’s involvement in slum activities. Other driving forces include the ‘luxury’ of working at one’s own time, making use of one’s talents and family relations, as well as the quest for earning a higher income
The impact of substance abuse in South Africa : a case of informal settlement communities
(2020-07-20) Mbandlwa, Zamokuhle; Dorasamy, Nirmala
Substance abuse is a major challenge for many young people globally. South Africa has been reported as a country that is experiencing high levels of alcohol abuse. The focus of this paper is to articulate the contributing factors to substance abuse in South Africa. This paper is presenting the results of the study that was conducted in the informal settlement areas. Conclusions made in this paper about substance abuse in South Africaare based on the findings of substance abuse in the informal community. This study found that the high consumption and abuse of alcohol in South Africaare found amongst young people. The factors such as unemployment, lack of effective mentorship, lack of family values, poor parenting guidance, and loss of hope contributed. This study applied a desktop research methodology, the secondary data was analyzed and unpacked to address the objectives of the study. The main objective of this study was to investigate the causes and the reasons why young people are abusing alcohol. The investigation focused on the excessive and abnormal use of alcohol by young people.
The implications of the dichotomous management of rural land in the light of land use/cover change
(University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2023-07) Zondi, Nkululeko
This study examines the implications of dichotomous management of rural land, focusing on the resulting land use/cover change and loss of prime agricultural land in Vulindlela. Purposive sampling was used to select participants with valuable insights into land use planning and management. Data collection utilized a mixed-method approach, including secondary quantitative data (2022 records of Traditional Councils' size, wards, villages, headmen, and qualifications) and primary qualitative data gathered through semi-structured interviews. Quantitative descriptive analysis revealed varying numbers and sizes of wards in Vulindlela TCs, with Inadi TC being the largest (seven wards, 19 villages) and Ximba TC the smallest (two wards, three villages). Some villages had more than two wards, while others had fewer. Qualitative inductive thematic analysis of interview responses highlighted divergent views among traditional leaders (TL) regarding land ownership, with some claiming ownership while others believed it belonged to the traditional community. TL reported the existence of land use plans, with some TCs having informal plans. Conversely, the Msunduzi Municipality (MM) indicated comprehensive land use plans covering Vulindlela do exist, and these plans are discussed during Imbizo (gatherings) to engage the community in understanding and using these plans. Keywords: Rural areas, Traditional leadership, Land use planning, Land use management.
Interconnectedness of road infrastructure and tourism development : perspectives from residents and enterprises
(Turkish Online Journal of Qualitative Inquiry (TOJQI), 2021-07-01) Luthuli, Mthokozisi Sydney; Ndlovu, Thulile Promise; Qwatekana, Zikho; Zondi, Nkululeko Ephraim
This article notes significant views articulated by several social scientists regarding the importance of road infrastructure to tourism growth and development. Tourism is undoubtably one of the key economic sectors in Msunduzi Municipality. However, the potential for this sector to thrive and yield benefits for local tourism businesses is hindered by poor road infrastructure. Thus, resulting in limited access to tourism attractions and the city’s aesthetic appeal. The study aimed to examine the extent to which poor road infrastructure affects accessibility, and aesthetics of Msunduzi Municipality as a tourism destination. A qualitative research approach was adopted in conjunction with the development theory which was guided by two models, namely the Critics of the modernisation and structural adjustment. Data was collected using primary and secondary sources, including newspaper articles, social media platforms and imaged-based analysis. The findings revealed that residents and businesses are inconvenienced by roads that are riddled with potholes and the slow pace of maintenance. Similarly, the service delivery is mounted with client dissatisfaction that emanate from the municipality’s lack of response and action in repairing roads. The study concludes with recommendations on how the service delivery value chain can be implemented within the municipality to accelerate service delivery and maximize its economic potential.
Media framing of natural disasters in KwaZulu-Natal province: impact of contingency plans
(Virtus Interpress, 2015) Ngcamu, Bethuel Sibongiseni; Binza, Shakespeare Mzikayise
This study explores how the media frame disaster contingency plans which include preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery of the KwaZulu-Natal province before, during and in the aftermath of natural disasters. The province has been stricken by natural disasters. Although newspapers report the disasters they fail to give details of disaster contingency plans that should be available to those who are susceptible to, and the victims of disasters. Based on a content analysis of 114 online newspaper articles between 2000 and 2013 to examine how the media framed the KZN government’s disaster contingency plans. This study concludes that the highest occurrence of disasters (71%) was from 2011 onwards as compared to previous years, and most of these were associated with areas that are susceptible to floods (34%). The findings of the study highlight that the media placed an emphasis on disaster response (41%) over preparedness (24%) and mitigation (7%). The outcomes suggest that newspaper organisations need to appoint a designated reporter responsible for disaster management issues. This is relevant because this study conveys findings that have the potential to persuade government and newspaper organisations to collaborate and to ensure that their officials are multi-skilled and able to cover all phases of disaster management in their articles, in order for these to be understood at all levels of society. This study further adds to the growing body of knowledge regarding quality journalism that meets its objectives.
Modernisation of rural communities : solid waste management implication
(Durban University of Technology, 2023) Zondi, Nkululeko; Qwatekana, Zikho; Dube, Simphiwe
Solid waste management is a global challenge, particularly in economically developing countries due to their growing population, urbanisation, and increasing waste generation. Municipalities in South Africa are responsible for general waste management in both residential areas and industrial sites. However, waste management is not implemented in all rural areas of South Africa, even against the background of socioeconomic improvement and increased consumption patterns in these communities. This study aims to examine the relationship between rural socioeconomic conditions and solid waste generation and management. The target population of this study is five rural communities of the Vulindlela area, which is situated west of Msunduzi Municipality in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. A total of 50 households were randomly selected as sample sites as the result of a detailed field survey in 2022 and 50 respondents participated in the study for interview through cluster sampling technique. The study uses a mixture of qualitative and quantitative methods. Primary data about the socio-demographic characteristics of respondents were gathered through close-ended questions. Open-ended questions in the semi-structured interviews were utilised to gather data on Vulindlela residents’ perceptions of waste pollution effects and strategies implemented in their area. Microsoft Excel version 2305 was used to perform basic descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) to examine the socio-economic characteristics of respondents. While a thematic content analysis was undertaken to analyse the open-ended question data which was on respondents’ perceptions of waste pollution in their area. The study findings suggest that Vulindlela is a socioeconomically diverse rural community, with households earning between 500 and 31,000 Rand per month. In addition, grocery expenditures range from 800 to 3100 Rand per month. Communities characterised by lower income generation dispose of their waste inside their households, apart from certain waste such as nappies that are disposed of in freshwater ecosystems and open spaces, while those who earn more money have diverse waste types and dispose of their waste at illegal dump sites.
Placemaking and visitors’ reviews of the Golden Mile of Durban
(AOSIS, 2021-09-09) Hlengwa, Dumsile Cynthia
Orientation: Placemaking is a proclivity of cities to change space into place through zoning, naming and development into attractive, people-friendly landscapes where diverse, harmonious and sometimes contradicting amenities are coalesced to attract people.Research purpose: To establish the perceptions of the visitors on appeal, experience and safety of the Golden Mile of Durban.Motivation for the study: The study was motivated by availability of online reviews that remained unanalysed and did not aid decision-making.Research design, approach and method: Data were collected from 287 reviews sampled from the Golden Mile website. Qualitative analysis was performed on the data and categorised according to appeal, experience and safety associated with the Golden Mile.Main findings: The study found that placemaking is always work in progress as destinations strive for competitiveness and to avoid obsoletion. An overwhelming majority of visitors rated the Golden Mile as good to excellent on appeal, experience and safety. Some criticised the place as unsafe with a number of dilapidated buildings spoiling its appeal. Practical/managerial implications: Planners and tourism developers should factor the grass root approach to placemaking by increasing security and urging property owners to revamp their buildings, thus keeping with the image of the place. Contribution/value-add: The article emphasises the significance and value added by online visitors’ reviews in placemaking.
Reflections on the impact of talent management on employee performance: perspectives from Zimbabwe
(Advanced Scientific Research, 2020-09-01) Mahlahla, Linah; Lourens, Melanie; Oparinde, Kunle
This paper investigates the impact of talent management on employee performance at the Masvingo City Council in Zimbabwe. The main challenge facing the council remains the inability to attract, attain and develop talented employees who perform effectively, which in turn intensifies the service delivery challenges across City Councils in Zimbabwe. Therefore, this study will endeavour to examine the talent management strategies that can be employed by the Masvingo City Council to improve on employee performance. The study adopts a quantitative research approach using questionnaires administered to a total of 67 professionals at the Masvingo City Council. Responses were captured and analysed using SPSS. Statistical tests were used to test six hypotheses which were formulated for the various sections of the study. Findings indicate that talent management has an impact on employee performance at the Council level. It was recommended that the Masvingo City Council provide employees with adequate training and resources, revise and improve personnel policies, and reward employees for outstanding performance.
Risks and factors contributing towards rural entrepreneurial orientation growth of business in an emerging economy
(Virtus Interpress, 2016) Lekhanya, Lawrence Mpele; Visser, Kobus
This paper examines risks and critical factors contributing to the rural entrepreneurial orientation growth of businesses. The concept of entrepreneurial orientation and various factors influencing the rural entrepreneurial orientation growth are still not well known. The study aimed to assess risks and critical factors affecting rural entrepreneurial orientation growth of businesses. Questionnaire was developed and used to collect primary data from 127 rural entrepreneurs. The sample was made with small and medium entrepreneurs operating in rural places. They were selected using quota sampling, with respondents completing a questionnaire with the assistance of an interviewer. The study used quantitative technique for data collection. SPSS (23.0) version was used for data analysis and scientific statistical significance level found to be (.000*) at the Cronbach’s alpha (.791*) reliability. Results of the survey reveal that majority indicates competition as a big challenge for them. Findings further indicate that competitor is due to the small market and lack of products differentiation. This study introduces an additional literature in the field of entrepreneurship with specific reference to rural entrepreneurship. The paper will benefit rural entrepreneurs, entrepreneurial marketing managers, potential young entrepreneurs, business consultants, policymakers, financial institutions, government agencies and all affiliated stakeholders by introducing a new understanding of risks and various critical factors causative into rural entrepreneurial orientation growth of business in an emerging economy. Most work on the entrepreneurship development has concentrated in the urban areas with little emphasis on the rural places. The findings of this study limited by study’s exploratory, small sample and quantitative nature. Therefore, generalisation of results should be done with care and further research is encouraged and should aim at the development of technical skills that will empower and encourage entrepreneurial orientation growth culture among rural and young entrepreneurship in the developing and emerging economies countries.
Rural-urban comparison of manufacturing SMMEs performance in KwaZulu Natal province, South Africa
(Adonis and Abbey Publishers, 2021-03-01) Zhou, Helper; Gumbo, Victor
The paper investigated the role of location on the performance attributes of manufacturing Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa’s second-largest province of KwaZulu Natal (KZN). Panel data from 191 SMMEs covering three years between 2015 and 2017 were analysed using R software. The results utilising the Random Effects Within-Between (REWB) technique show that SMMEs in KZN have related characteristics but the extent to which they influence performance is moderated by location. The findings also indicate that the use of digital media and liability registration negatively affects the performance of urban-based, with no effect on rural-based enterprises. Based on the findings, it was recommended that SMMEs in KZN should focus on productivity, permanent employees, temporary employees and total assets to drive performance despite their locations. Based on this study, the government has an informed basis for the development of effective interventions for SMMEs in the province.