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Research Publications (Management Sciences)

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

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Author: search.filters.author.Zondi, Nkululeko Ephraim

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    Rural community perceptions on land use change and its effects on their agricultural practices in Vulindlela Traditional Area, KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa
    (2023-12-01) Zondi, Nkululeko Ephraim
    This study assessed the level of awareness among the Vulindlela rural community regarding land use and land cover changes occurring in their community. Additionally, this study sought to examine the effects of these land use and land cover changes on the agricultural practices of the Vulindlela rural community. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Secondary data from Statistics South Africa and the Msunduzi Local Municipality were used to determine the relationship between population growth and housing unit expansion. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews to capture the community’s perceptions of land use change and its impacts on agricultural activities. The study results indicated a strong relationship (r = 0.81, t = 2.39, df = 3, p = 0.10) between population growth and an increase in housing units. Respondents also noted that land use and cover change has occurred in Vulindlela. The driver of this change is an increase in residential housing units built on land designated for agriculture (crop and pastoral fields). Residential development on agricultural fields is a result of the de agrarianisation by the local community. De-agrarianisation drivers in Vulindlela include a lack of agricultural equipment, high costs (time and money) associated with agriculture, inadequate government support, increased dependence on government grants and lack of interest in the younger generation in agriculture.
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    Vandalism of monuments and neglect : a concern for heritage tourism
    (SERSC, 2021-12-14) Qwatekana, Zikho; Ndlovu, Thulile Promise; Zondi, Nkululeko Ephraim; Luthuli, Mthokozisi Sydney
    The occurrence of vandalism in structures of historical and cultural value has been largely observed in urban environments. The destruction to these structures ultimately imposes challenges to historical and cultural tourism in particular. Local municipalities in urban cities are tasked with a responsibility of maintaining local infrastructure and essential services to support tourism activity. However, amongst the biggest constraints for local governments to meet these objectives is limited budgets, therefore leaving the cities with unpleasant aesthetics. This study determines the extent and forms of vandalism that exists in the city of Pietermaritzburg, South Africa and its implications to heritage tourism. The city is governed within the jurisdiction of Msunduzi Municipality housing many of South Africa’s heritage monuments that are integral to the city’s history, culture and multiplicity of tourism offerings. A review of online sources as well as visual and photographic methods were applied for data collection. The analysis revealed various forms of vandalism mainly concentrated in the central business district (CBD). These results suggest that residents are oblivious to the intrinsic and monetary value of historic monuments. The disjuncture between residents and monuments may be attributed to South Africa’s harrowing history of oppression as well as the lack of connection and sentimental value. On this basis, it is recommended that Msunduzi Municipality in collaboration with heritage agencies creates postcolonial monuments that are inclusive and transformational. In addition, it is suggested that aggressive educational initiatives are introduced on existing monuments.
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    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.