Theses and dissertations (Management Sciences)

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An analysis of attitudes, behaviour and perceptions of water use within urban households in the city of Durban
(2023) Banoo, Ismail; Dorasamy, Nirmala
South Africa is facing increasing water demands to meet the needs of a rapidly growing and urbanising population, including an urgent need for sustained economic growth. At the same time, climate change is driving the country towards a warmer and drier climatic future, with predicted longer droughts and intense floods. Climate change will result in reduced water availability to meet South Africa’s water demands of the future. This study addresses the urban water demand management challenge by focussing on the attitudes, behaviour and perceptions of urban households towards their water consumption, in a search for ways in which domestic demand for water may be substantially reduced. The analysis reflects the attitudes and perceptions of City of Durban urban dwellers in a period when water use restrictions are common across the country. Several national, provincial and local government calls have been made for immediate researched solutions for reducing urban water demand in South Africa (SA). The research study has brought to fore the complexity of competing forces shaping water demand and water use in the context of the socio-demographic composition of households living within different kinds of dwellings, as well as cultural, behavioural and attitudinal aspects of water consumption in City of Durban. In so doing, it aimed to inform public management policy and planning on effective ways to reduce water consumption and identify alternative and complimentary solutions towards effective water demand management. The essential questions the research addressed was to what extent do two key dimensions of urban structure - built form and the socio-behavioural characteristics of household behaviour, influence the pattern of water consumption across the Durban metropolitan area. Additionally, the study also investigated the extent to which people understood water-saving as an environmental concept and the need to conserve the natural resource, including what urban water users believed were the most effective water-saving habits, technology interventions and communication methods with water services authorities.
Assessing the effectiveness of housing reconstruction and rehabilitation measures for disaster affected communities in KZN (uThukela District Municipality)
(2021) Phungula, Kwethemba Innocent; Reddy, Maliga
South Africa is experiencing the realities of climate change with the increasing intensity of disasters causing devastating impact to infrastructure, houses, roads and schools. Post disaster housing rehabilitation and reconstruction is one of the most challenging tasks confronting decision makers and disaster management practitioners in disaster affected areas and remains an under studied area. This triggered the interest of the researcher to understand the impact of the phenomenon and how communities recover from disasters. The purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of housing reconstruction and rehabilitation measures for disaster affected communities in KZN. The location of the study was Tholeni area in Alfred Duma Local Municipality, within uThukela District Municipality, because this area is highly vulnerable to natural hazards. This study used the philosophical worldview of pragmatism; a mixed research approach to solicit views, experiences and perspectives of affected communities, Disaster Management Practitioners and officials from Department of Human Settlements was used. Data was obtained through questionnaires and interviews. In order to achieve this, purposive sampling method was used as it helped to purposely select disaster management practitioners and officials from the Department of Human Settlements who could provide sufficient data for the purposes of completing the study. Descriptive statistical and content analysis was conducted from the analysis of emergent data. The qualitative results were triangulated to further test validity of empirical results. Data collected was computed by means of excel spread sheets and results were presented in the form of bar graphs, tables with descriptive analysis. The findings of the study showed that the affected communities were not satisfied with housing assistance post-disaster incidents. The findings sited that assistance takes longer and in some instance does not reach all affected communities. The other finding from affected communities was that government does not provide feedback to give an update of post disaster interventions. Findings from disaster management practitioners highlighted capacity constraints, poor planning, inadequate budget, and lack of close monitoring, which have a direct effect on delivery of houses post-disaster incidents. Findings from officials from the Department of Human Settlements sited long processes of verification of damages by National Disaster Management Centre and delays with approvals of disaster funding allocation by National Treasury which affects effective delivery of post-disaster housing. The other finding was the issue of inadequate internal budget and low level of preparedness by the Department of Human Settlements. The shortcomings were evident, including the existence of plans and policies exclusive of post-disaster housing information and linked to poor monitoring and coordination of projects by the Department of Human Settlements. The study proposed a guiding framework for post-disaster housing rehabilitation and reconstruction and also offered a number of recommendations that can assist the Department of Human Settlements and Municipalities to enhance disaster response and recovery. This includes recommendations to develop or review post-disaster housing policy in order to address some of the challenges which emerged from the study. The Department of Human Settlements, working with municipalities, should prioritise the land tenure security for affected communities in order to fast track post-disaster housing interventions.
The assessment of disaster risk reduction strategies in dairy supply chains in Zimbabwe
(2017) Chari, Felix; Ngcamu, Bethuel Sibongiseni
Disasters are on the increase globally with devastating effects. The devastation caused by these disasters in various countries highlights the need for increased commitment and investment, by government and various stakeholders, in disaster risk reduction. This study investigated disaster risk reduction strategies in Zimbabwe’s dairy supply chains. The study was initiated on the premise that Zimbabwe is at high risk and vulnerable to natural and man-made hazards. The study is set in the backdrop of declining output across all agricultural sectors evident particularly in the dairy farming sector that has seen inadequate supply of raw milk and dairy products by local producers in Zimbabwe. This study therefore sought to assess the collaborative strategies by government, dairy organisations and dairy supply chain stakeholders to reduce disaster risks in the dairy industry. The study employed a mixed-method approach (qualitative and quantitative) to investigate collaborative disaster risk reduction strategies used by dairy supply chain stakeholders to avoid supply chain disruptions. The study used a sample size of 92 dairy farmers, from major milk producing regions of Zimbabwe, for the questionnaire. The Cronbach alpha test for reliability showed a reliable questionnaire. Furthermore, the study used information from key informants, 30 retailers and 20 dairy officers for one-on-one interviews. Quantitative data was analysed using STATA (version 13). OLS regression analysis was done and results were compared with those of the Tobit models as a test for robustness of the results. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis derived from observations and interviews and descriptive statistics presented in tables and bar charts. Notable in the literature reviewed is lack of coordination amongst stakeholders in strategies to reduce disaster risks in dairy supply chains in Zimbabwe. This study adopted a collaborative proactive framework and tested it as a strategy to reduce disaster risks in dairy supply chains. The study gives four major findings. Firstly, dairy supply chains in Zimbabwe were exposed to a number of risks which are: international competition, competition from local giants, financial risks, political risks, technological risks, environmental risks and production risks. Secondly, findings from regression analysis indicated that an overall index of disaster risks significantly influenced job losses, food security, milk productivity and growth of ventures in dairy businesses. Thirdly, there were isolated cases of planned coordination by stakeholders in the industry to reduce the negative effects of disasters across the supply chain. There was collaboration among dairy farmers, processors, NGOs, and government departments of agriculture and environment. Fourthly, an index of collaborative strategies regressed against dependent variables of variables of supply chain cost, lead time milk sales, and variety and quality of milk demonstrated that collaborative strategies in dairy supply chain significantly influenced supply chain costs and variety and quality of milk and milk products. It is expected that the study will assist government in the formulation of public policies for the dairy sector leading to improved access to high quality raw milk and milk products for consumers thus resulting in improved nutrition and food security for the people of Zimbabwe. Policy recommendations highlight that instead of the current maximum of the 5 year lease given to white commercial farmers, the government should consider issuing out long term leases in order to protect long-term investment in dairy projects. Government should, therefore, create an enabling environment for stakeholder partnerships in the dairy sector.
Barriers to and determinants of funding sustainable development projects in developing countries : a case study of the eThekwini Municipality
(2017) Sangham, Anilrai I.; Msweli, Pumela
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the barriers to and the determinants of funding sustainable development through the implementation of the Clean Development Mechanism at the Bisasar Road and Mariannhill landfill sites. The Clean Development Mechanism is an economic construct, arising out of the Kyoto Protocol (UNFCCC 2004:10), and formulated to promote social and economic welfare by transferring technology in such a manner, that it promotes sustainable development and ecological renewal. The stated goal of CDM (UNFCCC: 10) is to reduce harmful emissions and thereafter, to produce sustainable development and ecological renewal. This research utilised the case study methodology as advocated by Eisenhardt (1989:538). The study employed multiple data collection methodologies which included face-face interviews, within case analysis, triangulation, field notes and photographs. An important component of the data collection methodology was to access financial records of revenue flows for the CDM implementation process from January 2009 to December 2015. The research found that there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that the Clean Development Mechanism, as implemented at Bisasar Road and Mariannhill, reduced carbon emissions. Further, the study found that the production of clean energy produced financial losses rather than revenues for funding sustainable development. The relevance and value of this research lies in the presentation and formatting of the Systematic Sequential Analysis Model. The purpose of the Systematic Sequential Analysis Model is to introduce a series of financial, macro-economic, micro-economic, and technical sustainability filters for the implementation of the Clean Development Mechanism in developing countries.
Developing a framework to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in South Africa
(2022) Mohubedu, Simon Mabushi; Assensoh-Kodua, Akwesi
Increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are considered as the major challenge for climate change, global warming and air quality in cities and South Africa has pledged a reduction of its GHG emissions to peak at 398 to 614 Mt CO2-eq for the period 2025 to 2030 as part of the Paris Agreement on climate change. The government has also noted that as a means to reduce GHG emissions, the domestic electric vehicle (EV) market needs to grow significantly as the road transport sector is responsible for over two-thirds of transport-related carbon dioxide emissions. While many developed nations globally are beginning to adopt EVs as a strategy to moderate GHG emissions, South Africa is falling short in this regard and still lacks a policy on the electrification of vehicles. A qualitative research design was used to investigate and identify factors that have potential to stimulate the adoption of EVs in South Africa. A conceptual framework of public policies for innovation diffusion was also used to provide structure to the study. Additionally, the conceptual framework was further expanded with a view to developing and proposing a framework to policymakers for the promotion of the adoption and uptake of EVs in South Africa. Some of the major findings from the study were that the high purchase price of EVs, the availability of charging infrastructure and the lack of customer education and awareness were the biggest impediments to the uptake of the domestic EV market. Inversely, these were equally the main factors that have potential to stimulate the uptake of the EV market in South Africa. Amongst the recommendations from the proposed framework were that policymakers should be cognisant of these and other demand-side barriers together with existing advantages such as the presence of a successful automotive policy framework in South Africa and should devise policies aimed at removing the barriers to the adoption of EVs in the local market. Furthermore, the proposed framework also highlights the significant role that government needs to play by being involved in driving the demand for EVs in South Africa through relevant interventions, notably, through the provision of policy incentives.
The effects of training on the financial performance of South African companies : a conceptual training framework
(2019-04) Brady, Lana-Ann; Zondo, Robert Walter Dumisani
In a South African first, training to retrench has become not only a reflection of the economic climate, with the government offering a strategy for retention through its Training Layoff Scheme, introduced in 2009, but also a method by which government can offer employers incentives to engage in skills training initiatives. The concepts of layoff and retrenchment become merged and training is identified as the focus to survive and move on from the economic downturn of 2008/9. This puts training squarely ‘on the boardroom table’, necessarily interweaving it with a company’s business plan, while bringing the ability to measure training and its effects into the equation. In the very competitive international arena of business and trade in which South Africa operates, the only means to growth and productivity, both acceptable and sustainable, lies in development and training of the country’s workforce. Moreover, a review of literature supports this study’s focus, namely the effect of training on the financial performance of SA companies. An examination of existing literature, comprised of books, magazines, newspapers, journal articles, published and unpublished theses, amongst other material, is also the method employed to obtain a clearer picture of the reality that is training today, while clarifying the view on financial performance and whether it is impacted by training or not. To this end, a Conceptual Training Framework has been adapted for this study and proposed as basis for a holistic training framework, which ought to be developed to align business with actual practice. This was done because, at present, the framework is biased, reflecting only the traditional view of training and development, and ignoring the training for retrenchment balance, in a South African context, with other measures in place elsewhere in the world that are, likewise, not considered. The appraisal of literature shows the majority of authors and researchers in agreement that a positive relationship does indeed exist between training and both financial and non-financial firm performance. However, since the 2008/9 economic downturn and subsequent introduction of the TLS, managed by the CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration), the effect of training has not been researched, insofar as the financial performance of SA companies is concerned. It is recommended that case studies be undertaken at identified, pre-selected companies to study this ‘new’ role assigned to training in practice, to establish the change and its effects on firm performance, potentially redefining business strategies that could benefit the economy.
Environmental impacts of ecolabels on the tourism sector of South Africa
(2017) Arulappan, Lucinda Brown; Sucheran, Reshma
Over the years the rapid growth of the tourism industry has revealed itself to be a major source of income and social improvement for many. However, with this growth comes the undoubtable carbon footprint it carries. As a result, the growth and expansion of many tourism ecolabels have surfaced in the hopes of alleviating the negative environmental impacts the tourism industry imposes. This study aimed to ascertain the impacts of tourism ecolabels on businesses. It assessed the level of success of the ecolabel within the organisation as well as ascertained the benefits and challenges associated with ecolabel certification. A quantitative research approach was used and the data was collected by means of online questionnaires that were targeted at managers of tourism businesses in South Africa. The study reveals that tourism businesses in South Africa do experience the benefits of being certified with an ecolabel in terms of the natural, socio-cultural and economic environments. However, the high costs associated with being certified, the lack of general public awareness regarding ecolabels and the absence of government support are still prevalent. Consequently, cost reduction, promotion of public awareness as well as government support are the main areas of improvement required by tourism establishments with regard to ecolabels.
Environmental vulnerability and the economic implications of climate change for tourism development in the Central Drakensberg Region [CDR] of KwaZulu-Natal
(2021-09) Ngxongo, Nduduzo Andrias; Chili, Nsizwazikhona Simon; Green, Paul
BACKGROUND AND AIM: In spite of the substantial amount of research that has been conducted in the last decade, misconceptions about the impacts particularly at a local level still abound. This study aimed to determine the extent to which climate change affected the environmental and economic facets of the Central Drakensberg Region [CDR] and the potential impacts these changes have had on the tourism industry. The tourism industry and the activities associated with it are highly weather-dependent and by extension, climate-dependent. Hence in recent times, there has been a growing concern over the impacts of climate change on the development of tourism. In South Africa, climate change is becoming more evident, causing flooding and extreme temperature and weather patterns. Likewise, Africa is widely considered to be highly vulnerable to climate change mainly because of its strong economic dependency on climate-related activities, destitute climate literacy and low adaptive capacity. The CDR, which is an increasingly popular tourist destination, is particularly vulnerable to the long-term impacts of climate change. METHODOLOGY: The spatial setting of this research was the CDR, located in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The study fused two sampling techniques under the auspices of the non-probability sample method, namely: purposive and convenience sampling. The study's target population was N=450, thus a sample size of n=350 was determined appropriate. The respondents were categorized into two groups: namely experts [local municipality and tourism authorities] and stakeholders [tourists and/or visitors]. A quantitative research approach was employed with an exploratory paradigm design. The data collected was analysed using the latest Statistical Package for the Social Science (Version 25.0) at the time. RESULTS: The primary findings revealed that the tourism industry in the CDR is at tremendous risk, particularly sensitive, significantly exposed, with minimal mitigation and adaptation mechanisms. Likewise, climate change in the area has a substantial impact on investment opportunities, long-term sustainability of protected species, habitats, and the tourism industry. In the absence of adaptation and mitigation, climate change is already having a detrimental economic impact on the region’s growth and development prospects. CONCLUSION: An integrated model was developed based on the aforementioned findings and is expected to be beneficial to tourism organizations and/or authorities in dealing with the devastating effects of climate change. Therefore, it is imperative that necessary provisions for impact adaptations and mitigations are implemented promptly, and that endeavors to develop a robust and multi-purpose adaptation strategy are prioritised. RECOMMENDATIONS: Future research is recommended on the implementation of a Climate Services (CS) Framework, which is a technique that can be applied to strengthen decision-making processes to better prepare and acclimatize to the risks and impacts of changing climatic conditions. Likewise, the study recommends swift remedial actions and/or corrective measures in the form of climate change adaptation and mitigation models, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), and climate change education and awareness.
Exploring challenges that affect female informal entrepreneurs in the central business district of Richards Bay and Empangeni
(2021-05) Ntibane, Nompumelelo Ignatia; Schauffer, Dennis
Female entrepreneurs play an important part in the economies of countries across the globe, yet they are still being discriminated against because of their gender. They face a lack of education and skills, a challenging economic climate, lack of funding, lack of motivation, and insufficient resources. In terms of addressing gender stigmatisation and exclusion in the informal sector, policymakers must address historically inherited social and religious norms as well as societal expectations about women that constrain their economic lives as consumers, workers and producers. This study aimed to explore the challenges affecting female informal entrepreneurs in the central districts of Richards Bay and Empangeni, Kwa-Zulu Natal. The business world has been known as a male-dominated world, and many people think there is no room for females in the business sector. South African research reported that in 2007 the ratio of the average female to male wages for those in the sample stood at 82.2 per cent. Janet BurnsSenior Contributor at Forbes also wrote an article regarding this issue. In this article she makes the comment that: "We need awareness in women and men about what is unconscious in gender bias, and which can often be sensationalised and politicised, if you factor in the race, different ability levels, sexual orientation, you add additional layers, but gender bias is always there. Research shows that both women and men have such biases, and these are attitudes we do not control." This study looks at the challenges that the female faces in this competitive arena of entrepreneurship. It also aims to encourage and support women to make a difference in the region's economic growth. The study revealed that a large percentage of the respondents were between the ages of 31 to 50 years old who have only completed high with a senior certificate (grade 12) and thus need proper further training from the government. It was also clear that the highest challenges affecting the growth of women-owned businesses is funding and crime. Some women fail because they do not have financial backing from the government, and they are obliged to use their own funds/get loans/donations to support their operations, mainly in the food industry. The study also discovered that the challenges faced by the female entrepreneurs in Richards’s bay are different from those faced by the female entrepreneurs in Empangeni. In light of the above results, it was recommended that the working environments for these women entrepreneurs be secured. What one group of women is doing better in Richards’s bay or Empangeni should be emulated by the other. The local government must organise awareness and training on the available support and opportunities in the sector for women, and this should partner with the Local Municipalities to nurture the women in the informal sector. This will give formal recognition to the informal settlements and businesses as contributors to Local Economic Development. A mixed-methods research approach was used, and 150 respondents from the selected Municipal areas participated in this study. An interview with closed-ended and open-ended questions was used to collect data from the female informal entrepreneurs. The latest version of SPSS was used to analyse data. Pie charts and graphs were used to present descriptive data.
Exploring the underlying causes of the volatility of sugarcane productivity on land reform farms in King Cetshwayo District – KwaZulu-Natal
(2021-03) Ndebele, Mbongiseni Cleopas; Mpehle, Zwelibanzi
Land reform or agrarian reform has been a bone of contention in many countries in a quest to deal with skewed ownership of land through a market-led approach or a stateled approach, while in most instances, it had only been able to address the restoration of land to the dispossessed groups, but failed to improve agricultural productivity. It is important to restore agricultural productivity and be able to meet the world’s energy requirements and to feed the population estimated will be over 9 billion people by 2050. Historically, native (black) South Africans were forcefully removed from productive agricultural land under the Natives Land Act of 1913. Post 1994, the South African government launched three pillars of the land reform programme, (land tenure reform, land restitution and land redistribution) and injected funds to equitably restore land back to the rightful owners, and to sustain agricultural productivity, which have become a paradox, as most of the redistributed agricultural land became unproductive and abandoned immediately after being restored to the previously disadvantaged groups. The target population for this mixed-methods research study were the 51 active land reform sugarcane farmers in King Cetshwayo District. A purposive sample of six farmers was selected for semi-structured face-to-face interviews and 41 participated in a survey, while the remainder was excluded from the main study as they took part in a pilot study. Qualitative and quantitative data was collected concurrently with both research instruments given equal attention. Despite the salient effects of climate change on agricultural productivity, the study found that there are some institutional, social and technical aspects that lead to the diminishing sugarcane productivity. Equally so, non-conformance with pieces of legislation such as the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) No.75 of 1997 and Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) No.85 of 1993 was found to have contributed immensely to the volatility of sugarcane productivity. The study concluded that compliance with OHSA and the acquiescence with sustainable farming practices outlined in the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) No. 107 of 1998, which was lacking in most of the farms that took part in the study, could improve sugarcane productivity on land reform farms in King Cetshwayo District.
Factors influencing the consumer decision-making process regarding green fast-moving consumer goods in the greater Durban area
(2023) Dorasamy, Bianca; Govender, JP
There is an urgency regarding climate change. Consequently, environmental consciousness among consumers is more prominent now than in the past. However, although the motives for buying green products have generated scholarly interest due to environmental concerns, there is a gap in the literature in understanding consumer green purchase intention and actual purchase behaviour from developing countries. This study, therefore, aims to develop and test the applicability of green consumption of FMCG products grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and thus address the “attitudes–behaviour” gap documented in the literature from the perspective of South African consumers. A quantitative research approach following a descriptive research design was used to examine the factors influencing consumer purchase intention and the actual behaviour of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods in the Greater Durban Area, South Africa. The study uses non-probability convenient sampling collected from 381 South Africans residing in the greater Durban area of KwaZulu-Natal province. Structural equation modelling was applied in analysing the data. The finding of the study shows that pro-environmental attitude and perceived value (quality) of green FMCG products positively influenced green FMCG purchase intention, which in turn, positively impacted the actual purchase behaviour of green FMCG products. The findings further show that perceived value may be a barrier to green FMCG purchase intention, although the relationship was insignificant. This study provides practical implications for FMCG marketers in their bid to shift from conventional products to green products.
The influence of labour legislation on job creation and job sustainability in South Africa
(2018) Womack, Anna Johanna Catharina; Reddy, Karunanidhi; Chetty, Soobramoney
The South African economy is faced with a number of challenges, especially high levels of poverty and unemployment. Job creation and job sustainability is of paramount importance, especially during the current economic climate in South Africa. Hence, the primary objective needs to be growth, job creation and job sustainability. There is a need not only to create more jobs, but also to sustain existing jobs. At issue is the influence of labour legislation on job creation and job sustainability. This study is multi-disciplinary and is located in the fields of management and law. It attempts to explore how the current labour legislation in South Africa influences job creation and job sustainability and whether the call for the de-regulation of and a more flexible South African labour market will improve business and investor confidence, as well as create and sustain jobs. This study was motivated by the attention given to the on-going debate amongst the business community, unions, economists and the media about unemployment, job losses, economic growth, prospects of job growth and job creation in the current local and global economic climate. This doctoral exploration focused on how labour legislation, inter alia, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act No. 75 of 1997; the Labour Relations Act No. 66 of 1995; the Employment Equity Act No. 55 of 1998; the Skills Development Act No. 97 of 1998, and the Broad-Based Economic Empowerment Act No. 53 of 2003 influences job creation and job sustainability in South Africa. The unique contribution to knowledge creation was unearthing the hidden sentiments of the business and trade union participants and respondents on how the current labour legislation influences job creation and job sustainability in South Africa. Recently there has been an increased interest in the role of labour legislation in regulating the employment relationship, as well as increased criticism of labour legislation over-regulating the labour market. The legislature responded by making amendments to the current labour legislation, which in turn fuelled the on-going debate about the influence of labour legislation on economic growth, on businesses in general, job creation, job sustainability and on labour market flexibility. The concern was that the legislative amendments would result in further regulation of an already over-regulated inflexible labour market, greater job losses and greater unemployment. However, labour disagreed as they felt that further in the current economic climate, greater labour protection was required. Consequently, the business community, labour and society in general strongly objected to some of the amendments to the labour legislation. Consequently, the on-going criticism of the current labour market in South Africa being over-regulated and stifling economic growth, job creation and job sustainability required further exploration and investigation. The South African business community proposed the de-regulation of current labour legislation in South Africa as a solution to assisting with job creation, job sustainability and to avoid further job losses. The South African legislature responded with amending certain aspects of the various pieces of labour legislation in an attempt to introduce greater flexibility and protection. However, the concern was that the legislative amendments would have the opposite effect, increase regulation and make the labour market even more inflexible. This research attempted to respond to these views by exploring and determining how labour legislation influenced job creation and job sustainability in South Africa. The issue of labour legislation s influence on job creation and job sustainability was addressed by looking at the influence of the 1996 Constitution of South Africa and current legislation, in particular labour legislation, as amended, had on job creation and job sustainability. The purpose of this study was therefore to explore, determine and understand how the current labour legislation in South Africa influenced job creation and job sustainability. The overall aim was to examine whether the South African labour market should be de-regulated and if so, to what extent; whether the amendments to the labour legislation made the labour market environment more flexible; as well as whether it improved business and investor confidence, stimulated job creation and encouraged job sustainability. In pursuit of this broad aim, the researcher took an interpretive, pragmatic, parallel convergent mixed-method approach. The foundation of the research design is a combination of the use of the literature surveyed in Chapters Two and Three herein, together with the responses to the survey questionnaires and the answers to the interview questions from interviews conducted with businesspersons, senior managers, entrepreneurs and trade unionists, including senior trade union officials in South Africa. A dual approach with two types of research instruments, both the survey questionnaire and the interview questionnaire, was used. A mixed-methods research methodology (Creswell, 2014: 69) was deemed to be the most appropriate method for this study, in which qualitative and quantitative techniques, methods, approaches, concepts and language were mixed and combined. The whole of South Africa was purposefully selected as the area in which to conduct the research. The data production process entailed examining local and foreign literature, self-administered survey questionnaires, and conducting phenomenological interviews. The main source of data was obtained from the online research questionnaire developed by the researcher using Google Forms. The invitation and link was emailed to each of the respondents, who completed the survey questionnaire online. Information was also obtained from the semi-structured, mostly telephonic interviews, conducted with some of the respondents, who had agreed and indicated that they were also willing to participate in an interview conducted by the researcher. The interview schedule was also developed by the researcher. Amongst the respondents surveyed and participants interviewed, there were chief executive officers, senior managers, managers, entrepreneurs representing public and private companies, close corporations, sole proprietorships and partnerships from various industries and sectors across South Africa. There were also senior trade union officials and trade unionists representing various trade unions across various sectors and industries across South Africa. Due to distance and time constraints, an overwhelming majority of the interview participants agreed to be interviewed telephonically instead of face-to-face, which saved the researcher a great deal of expense with regard to travelling and accommodation, for which the researcher is deeply grateful to the interview participants. The quantitative data and qualitative data were first analysed separately using both SPSS version 24.0 and NVIVO PRO version 24.0 statistical packages to establish the opinions and perceptions of entrepreneurs, managers and trade unionists. The constant comparative method of qualitative analysis was used. Data reduction was carried out in three stages, each representing a progressively higher level of theoretical abstraction. The results from each strand were subsequently combined, conclusions were drawn and recommendations made to all relevant stakeholders in respect of the findings. The findings of the research are expressed as an integrated theory and as a series of propositions, generalized within the boundaries of the study, relating to the influence of labour legislation on job creation and job sustainability in South Africa. The conclusions are summarized in seven statements. Firstly, labour regulation is necessary; it fulfils a normative role and plays an important role in ensuring fairness and equity in the employment relationship. Secondly, labour legislation, in regulating the employment relationship and the enforcement of compliance, influences job creation and job sustainability. Thirdly, the LRA, the EEA and the B-BBEEA, in regulating equity and fairness overall, have influenced job creation, some to a greater extent than others. Fourthly, businesses which are incentivised by the SDA, the EEA, the B-BBEEA, the ETIA and the UIA to train and develop their workers are expanding, growing, creating and sustaining jobs. Fifthly, labour legislation per se is not the problem, but rather the implementation thereof is. Sixthly, the administrative burden and the cost of compliance with the BCEA, the LRA, and the SDA threaten existing jobs and job creation. Finally, the administrative burden of complying, the enforcement of compliance and the costs of compliance with the B-BBEEA and the EEA are impeding job creation and job sustainability. The skills shortage in South Africa has adverse consequences for all South Africans, including the business community. The political and economic uncertainty have a negative influence on local and foreign investor confidence, which has a negative impact on the South African economy. It is important from both a societal and business point of view that social justice, the right to fair labour practices and the respect for fundamental human rights continues to be affirmed. Trade unions are perceived to be a social justice movement (Wolterstorff, 2013:394) and can participate in job creation by influencing macro- economic and social policies at multipartite structures by facilitating skills development and by directly creating jobs (Mwilima, 2008:7). Deregulation of the work environment would undermine the fundamental rights that South African citizens, as well as local and international business, enjoy. This, in turn, will have an adverse effect on local and foreign investor confidence in the South African government and its economy. It is therefore important that the state, business, labour and society are aware of and support business leaders and government in formulating and implementing a national business strategy to address job growth and job sustainability in the country. Consequently, when considering the issue of regulation versus deregulation of the labour market, the parties should seek to find a balance between human dignity, increased profits and economic development. This problem is not just a business issue, but also a societal and legal issue. It is therefore important that policy makers heed the current legislative regulatory barriers and economic and political threats which could undermine job creation and job sustainability, as well as local and foreign business and investor confidence in South Africa. In light of the aforesaid, the recommendation is that there should be an increase in skills development to address the skills shortage in South Africa. Furthermore government should take steps, where necessary, to remedy the aforementioned and reduce administrative and compliance costs for businesses, which will assist and promote job creation and job sustainability in South Africa.
The nature and extent of sustainable water management practices in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe
(2021-01) Ushamba, Kudzai Norman; Sucheran, Reshma
International tourism has grown to become one of the largest economic sectors in the world. The growth of tourism is not merely taking place in the so-called developed economies, but also in developing economies. In Africa, the growth of tourism has led to the proliferation of many forms of accommodation and lodging facilities. With a significant number of African nations facing fresh-water problems, water stress has now become a challenge in most destinations. The accommodation sector of the tourism industry has been identified as one of the biggest consumers of water through its various activities and facilities. Tourism, a major fiscus contributor is crucial to the economy of Zimbabwe hence its sustainability is vital especially during this time when world is grappling climate change. The last two or more decades have witnessed the majority of Zimbabwean citizens facing fresh water supply problems, especially in cities and towns which are hotspots for tourism. This study examined the nature and extent of water management practices in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. The study examined the level of water use in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe, and the extent to which water conservation practices are currently being undertaken by this sector. The study further examined challenges facing water conservation in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. A ‘mixed method’ research approach was used in this study. Questionnaires were administered to managers of 203 accommodation facilities in the country. Expert views were sort from key stakeholders whose organisations, regulations and policies affect the tourism industry. The study found that accommodation establishments in Zimbabwe have been reactive to climate change induced water stress and have been applying several water-conservation measures. The study also found that there is non-enforcement of regulations on government policies and lack of proper awareness as to the monetary benefits of practicing water conservation in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. The study concludes that without proper planning, communication, and enforcement of regulations large amounts of fresh water will continue to be wasted to the deprivation of communities.
A proposed integrated model for innovative business leadership for the attainment of sustainable growth in small and medium manufacturing enterprises in KwaZulu-Natal
(2020-04) Ngibe, Musawenkosi; Lekhanya, Lawrence Mpele
Globally, small and medium manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) have been identified as a major source of employment and the foundation for successful entrepreneurship. They can also be a catalyst of economic transformation due to their significant contribution to any country’s gross domestic product (GDP). They have therefore been identified as key assets for any country with aspirations towards transformation, poverty reduction, employment redistribution, business innovation and strong economic growth. In countries such as Japan, the United States, China, the Czech Republic, Poland and Romania, manufacturing growth attributable to SMEs has strengthened, indicating that any predicted global downturn in industrial production may be mitigated by their input. This indicates beyond reasonable doubt that the role of manufacturing SMEs is central to any country and, it can be argued, more especially to developing countries like South Africa. Thus, their diminishing contribution towards GDP in recent years has been a significant concern of the South African Government, and of investors and policy makers, and has led to additional support being provided for the emergence and sustainable growth of manufacturing SMEs in the country. Statistics reflect that in 2018 manufacturing industry contributed only13.53% to GDP compared with 15.2% in 2013, and around 20% a decade earlier. This declining contribution has been associated with critical negative factors that affect the innovative leadership skills required to implement business innovation, manage a turbulent business environment, and achieve sustainable growth in the sector. Many researchers have studied the factors that contribute to manufacturing SMEs being successfully established. These factors include management skills, leadership ability, access to finance, the availability of resources, the economic climate, and the availability of necessary infrastructure and raw materials. The role of government regulations and compliance requirements have also been highlighted as critical factors affecting the sustainability and growth of manufacturing SMEs in the country. However, despite extensive research being carried out in the field, there remains a serious gap in studies which provide an in-depth understanding of those innovative business leadership abilities and business characteristics that critically influence manufacturing SMEs. These abilities are known to instigate, develop and promote business innovation that will subsequently attain sustainable growth. Theoretical models of the factors affecting and influencing innovative business leadership in this field are also lacking. Therefore, it can be argued that this is a critical area of research which has the potential to improve the current position of manufacturing SMEs in South Africa. This study has specific reference to manufacturing SMEs within KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Therefore, the study aimed to identify the critical factors affecting innovative business leadership within manufacturing SMEs in KZN and to propose a prototype model for improving such leadership. Justification for the study stems from the high failure rate currently experienced in the sector which is attributable to several significant challenges faced by manufacturing SMEs in South Africa. The study was conducted within the Province of KZN, employing a quantitative research method. The population of the study consisted of 384 manufacturing SME leaders, owners and managers. A non-probability, convenience, sampling technique was adopted, while a closed-ended questionnaire was used as the primary data collection tool. Inferential and descriptive statistical analysis of the data was undertaken using the SPSS (version 23.0) computer package. The research findings indicate that manufacturing SMEs are severely affected by a variety of challenges and that they face significant hurdles that negatively affect their performance. These impact on the business leaders’ ability to implement the innovations that could promote, support and sustain the growth of their firms. The results of the study identified education and training as major positive contributory factors affecting innovative business leadership. Furthermore, technical abilities, access to financial support, and ICT awareness were also identified as critical catalysts to business success. The study therefore seeks to provide key insights into both the theoretical and practical implications of innovative leadership for manufacturing SMEs. It further provides an extensive range of recommendations and proposes a theoretical framework for those factors that can be understood by business leaders, government officials and policy makers to effect remedies for the current challenges faced by the sector.
The relationship between quality of work life factors and organizational commitment within the pulp and paper industry in the Durban Metropolitan Area
(2013-06-05) Ngcobo, Nathi Cedrick; Dlamini, Bongani Innocent
It has become imperative for organisations to create family-friendly work-environments, where employees can effectively balance work and family life, in order to ensure employee satisfaction and increased productivity. A critical review of the quality of work life factors and organizational commitment literature was therefore conducted, in order to ascertain their psychometric applicability to knowledge workers within the Pulp and Paper industry in the greater eThekwini Metropolitan Area. A total of 450 questionnaires were distributed to employees in the pulp and paper industry within the eThekwini metropolitan area. The employees were randomly selected, while the organisations were stratified selected. A questionnaire was used to measure the different dimensions of quality of work life factors as well as the different dimensions of organisational commitment. The gathered data was processed through an SPSS program. A number of statistical tests were then performed on the collected data, where biographical variables were compared with the independent variables. The questionnaire was considered moderately reliable because the overall coefficient alpha was 0.525. The Pearson’s value indicated that there was a positive relationship at 0.01 level of significance between the majority of the quality of work factors (organizational climate, task characteristics, job satisfaction, role behaviour, utilization and future orientation) and the organisational commitment. No relationship was found between remuneration and organizational commitment. There was no significant difference in organizational commitment across the biographical variables of marital status, age, length of service and span of control. There was, however, a significant difference in organizational commitment across different levels of education. The Analysis of variance indicated that there was no significant difference in organizational commitment across marital status group. There was however a significant difference in organizational commitment across length of service. There was a significant difference I organizational commitment across supervisory span of control. The results from the hierarchical multiple regression indicated that with the exception of age, education and experience, all other demographics variables do not have an impact on affective commitment. The results also indicated that age, education and experience had an impact on continuance commitment. Similarly, age and education contribute significantly to normative commitment. The structural equation model comparative technique was performed to all constructed models and indicated that all models had a good fit in relation to the data based on the GFI. The best-fitting model for consequences demonstrated that organisational citizenship behaviour and procedural justice were important variables. Apart from that, affective, continuance and normative commitment were also found to be part of the model.
The water crisis in Durban : an analysis of the role of households in water conservation
(2021-11) Ngcobo, Mbuso; Murwirapachena, Genius; Reddy, Maliga
The continued water crisis in South Africa is causing many municipalities to exhibit performance problems in water service delivery. While South Africa is a water-scarce country, factors like population growth, climate change, urbanisation, and economic development contribute to water shortages. This implies that new and innovative ways of managing freshwater resources should be adopted. This study aims to examine the role of households in water conservation in the city of Durban. The study fulfils four main objectives to achieve this aim. The first objective is to establish the daily water consumption behavioural practices of households. Secondly, the study seeks to establish the households’ willingness to adopt water-saving technologies. Thirdly, it seeks to identify the factors preventing households from practising water-saving behaviours. Furthermore, the study finally seeks to recommend some possible solutions that the eThekwini Municipality could adopt to promote households’ water conservation. The study uses a mixed methods approach where quantitative and qualitative data are separately collected, analysed, and discussed. Quantitative data is collected through a survey conducted on 300 household heads residing across different spatial residential areas. On the other hand, qualitative data is collected from seven (7) employees in the Water and Sanitation Unit of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. The thematic approach is then used to analyse the qualitative data, while descriptive statistics and probit regression models analyse the quantitative data. Four key findings are reported in the study. First, the study found that households in the city of Durban generally practice water-efficient behaviours in their daily water consumption activities. Secondly, the type of access to potable water services was the primary determinant for practising water-efficient behaviours. Third, more residents in the suburbs and townships have water-efficient technologies installed, while none of the respondents from the informal settlements has such technologies installed. Lastly, some biographical characteristics emerged as crucial determinants of water consumption behaviour and the adoption of water-efficient technologies. Key recommendations are given based on these findings.