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Theses and dissertations (Management Sciences)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/14

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Start date: 2020Subject: search.filters.subject.Municipal services--South Africa

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Now showing 1 - 9 of 9
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    Rural-urban migration patterns to enhance service delivery in KwaZulu-Natal : eThekwini municipality
    (2024-05) Nkabinde, Buyani; Lekhanya, Lawrence Mpele; Dorasamy, Nirmala
    Townships in South Africa were designed and established when apartheid was at its peak. The challenge facing the democratic government in the developmental local sphere of government, is inefficient service provision, due to the continuous increase of local inhabitants, caused by an increased rate of rural-urban migration patterns. Urban planning focuses on city and town design and how the municipality delivers services to communities dwelling within these designed urban spaces. Rural-urban migration is the movement of people from rural to urban areas, with the main reason the pursuit of better opportunities to improve their socio-economic conditions. Therefore, the pull and push factors of rural to urban migration are clearly defined and explained in order to assist the municipal administration and academia to improve urban service delivery. The study adopts a quantitative approach with the sample comprising 350 respondents, purposively selected through nonprobability sampling and required to complete a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. The researcher assisted in terms of questionnaire administration. The completed questionnaire provided the quantitative data for statistical analysis, using SPSS version 28.0. Study findings indicate that, among other factors, a strong significance exists regarding increased crime levels in urban areas as a result of rural-urban migration patterns, with suggestions that include more money needs to be prioritised from government for policing and crime in cities such as eThekwini Municipality. Since there are more informal settlements because of rural-urban migration, it is also shown as necessary to create networked infrastructure in rural areas to improve communication for those working from home. To identify and explain migration to enhance service delivery at eThekwini Municipality, the study investigated the pull and push factors in migration patterns and their influence on service delivery, as well as examining the extent to which rural-urban migration can be used to deal with the current state of service delivery. In addition, the study determined the role of rural-urban migration in the overpopulation of urban areas at eThekwini Municipality, to suggest and recommend a conceptual framework that should be employed to improve the current state of service delivery in the municipality.
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    Developing and testing new interventions to prevent violent service delivery protest in South Africa
    (2020-11) Zimuto, Prince Charles; Kaye, Sylvia Blanche; Harris, Geoffrey Thomas
    Previous studies on violent service delivery protests in South Africa are mainly concerned with the causes of violent service delivery protests. Investigating the causes of violence alone in order to map out violence prevention strategies is a narrow approach to the problem of violence.
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    An empirical analysis of local government document management systems using constructs of the Technology Acceptance model (TAM) and Total Quality Management (TQM) across selected clusters in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal. South Africa
    (2020-03) Chetty, Vartharaj; Mgutshini, T.
    Background: Document management processes represent a key consideration in business success and quality management. There is ongoing pressure for the public sector to embrace these tools to increase efficiencies, reduce cost, waste and more significantly upholding their mandate of improved services to its citizenry. The development of innovative document management systems may offer a potential strategic advantage for businesses whose running costs and business activities centrally depend on the management of documents Aim/ Purpose: - The fundamental aim of the study was to conduct an appraisal of local government document management systems using the constructs of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) in order to evaluate their impact on Total Quality Management (TQM) in selected clusters across eThekwini Municipality in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. Setting: South Africa comprises of nine provinces, one of which is KwaZulu-Natal, located on the east coast of South Africa. The eThekwini Municipality consists of a diverse society confronted with various social, economic, environmental and governance challenges. Methodology - An exploratory sequential mixed method comparative case study design described the study’s methodology. The study was based on the combination of a desktop review; semi-structured exploratory individual interviews (n=45) with executive and strategic employees within the municipality; focus group discussions (n=2) and a quantitative online survey(n=186). Data collection and data analysis methods: All the data collected from the qualitative processes for example, the focus group discussions and the individual interviews were analysed using a hybrid of approaches. Emergent themes and variables on interest were explored further via an online survey that was based on a quantitative design Findings: The current study utilised a combination of TQM and TAM analyses of different document management systems and engagement with key personnel to develop a model to support the uptake of new document management systems. Primarily, political, technological and socio-cultural factors were found to have contributed in influencing whether or not, employees take up a newly introduced DMS. Conclusion and Implications for practice: - The South African context creates a unique dynamic and, for that reason, traditional westernised models related to technology acceptance were found inadequate.
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    Enhancing service delivery : the role and capacity of Municipal Ward committees, in KwaDukuza
    (2021-05) Mnqayi, Sibongayena Khethokuhle Xolani; Lekhanya, Lawrence Mpele
    Ward committees were introduced as a representative structure of communities within a municipal structure, in terms of the Municipal Structures Act, 117 of 1998, section 72– 78. The ward committee serves and forms a bridge between the municipal council and its residents, by coordinating and facilitating effective communication. The ward committee operates as a watchdog of the community and forms a link by effectively strengthening communication between the municipal council and the citizens it represents. The study has, therefore, assess the role of ward committees in ensuring services are delivered and whether they have capacity to support their mandate, within selected wards of the KwaDukuza municipality, in the province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Ward Committees have been the emphasis of significant attention by government, as well as civil society. While the challenges facing ward committees impact their effectiveness in preventing any effective operation, they also lack sufficient capacity to deal with community concerns that emerge. The study used one research method and applied an interview schedule to collect data from which to obtain the best desirable results. A qualitative method is trusted to gather in-depth information from people, allowing them their own opinion and ideas about being ward committee members, since inductive, holistic results can be interpreted, as a result. The sample size was drawn from six selected ward committees of the municipalities, with each committee consisting of ten members, therefore the study used two members from each ward; in total, 12 participants were considered for interviews. A random probability sample was used to target ward committee members. The findings of the study reveal few mechanisms in place to elevate ward committees, or act as a conduit for support, leaving them to operate unsupervised or monitored, with low stipends that do not cover monthly schedules, sometimes contributing to the boycotting of meetings. The study will benefit the policy makers and the relevant stakeholders.This study did not cover large sample therefore generalisation of findings should be used with care. This study recommends further research on the expansion of research area.
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    Exploring corporate governance practices on state entities : a case study of Umgungundlovu District Municipality
    (2022-04) Nyalungu, Jey Difference; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey; Dlamini, Bongani Innocent
    Municipalities across the country continue to face growing criticisms due to lack of performance and providing services to communities. In South Africa, the district and local municipalities are no exception to the lack of performance. The perception to establish a working climate within the structures of the South African municipalities call for the municipal authorities to do more to increase the level of performance across the existing structures. Given this backdrop, this empirical study explored corporate governance practices of state entities with specific reference to three selected local municipalities in the uMgungundlovu district municipality. This empirical study aims to understand corporate governance practices towards performance in selected municipalities. Empirical datasets were sourced during semi-structured interviews aided by FGDs. The researcher applied semi-structured interviews to gather primary data from 106 participants and three FGDs to triangulate the research findings. Interview schedule and questionnaire were employed to collect quantitative and qualitative datasets. Quantitative data was analysed through the Social Package for the Social Science (SPSS) with several techniques including t-test, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Chi-square as well as regression. These tools were used to test the null and alternate hypotheses. In terms of qualitative data, thematic analysis was employed to conduct the analysis for interpretations. Empirical data was supported by outcomes based on secondary datasets. The findings revealed lack of corporate governance knowledge that makes it impossible for municipalities to perform to their optimum. One of the key findings that emerged was that “fairness” contributes to the overall municipalities’ performances. Based on all the seven principles of corporate “fairness” was the only concept that needs serious applications in the municipalities to stimulate performance, this empirical study recommends the need to provide adequate education and training to all employees of the municipalities with information on corporate knowledge. More knowledge regarding the practical applications of the corporate governance principles to increase performance in municipalities. Furthermore, education is required to explain the governance practices with the municipalities. Municipal authorities such as the ward councillors and Municipal managers must be advised to pay regular visits to communities to ascertain the needs of community members. The researcher suggests ongoing educational and training programs to provide employees with knowledge in corporate governance.
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    The influence of human resource development on employee performance and service delivery at a local municipality in the Eastern Cape
    (2022-04) Nama, Khuselwa; Lourens, Melanie Elizabeth; Daweti, Baphiwe
    The study examined the influence of human resource development on employee performance and service delivery. Employees who receive valuable training and development have the potential to improve performance and provide quality service delivery. Community demands for essential services from public sector employees seem to have increased over time. To address community demands, municipalities depend on skilled employees to deliver desired performance. Public sector employees require ongoing and relevant development by means of which to supply quality essential services to the public. In South Africa, the development of public sector employees appears neglected which may lead to the inadequate provision of essential services exemplified by clean water. Located in a positivist philosophical lens, the study adopted a quantitative crosssectional research paradigm, using a survey design. The research site for conducting the survey was Mbhashe Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Based on a target population of 265 (N=265), a stratified random sample of 155 (n=155) respondents was drawn. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data and 115 questionnaires were returned. Data was analysed using statistical procedures and measurements such as correlation tests and multiple regression analysis. The findings of the study revealed that human resource development had a positive influence on employee performance and service delivery. The study recommends the provision of training and development interventions to capacitate public sector employees. Future studies can probe the awareness of human resource development within the public sector.
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    An investigation into a viable service delivery system in relation to water and sanitation in Ugu District Municipality
    (2021-10) Dlamini-Tshazi, Khethiwe P.; Hardman, Stanley George
    Water needs permeate all aspects of human existence and activities, and water is fundamental and irreplaceable to humans. However, developing effective water and sanitation governance arrangements is of increasing concern. Although a general conceptualisation of governance exists, there is little guidance on a governance system’s operational and evaluative components. Therefore, fundamental challenges to improving water governance are identified and investigated in the study. The research focus is on holistic governance issues concerning water and sanitation provision to households and businesses, with special reference to the Ugu District Municipality (UDM) in the KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. Governance is analysed based on interconnectedness of structures and system components to achieve organisational results. A qualitative method, combined with systems thinking methodologies, namely a Viable Systems Model (VSM) is used, as well as Soft systems methodology (SSM). Semi-structured interviews to targeted municipal officials and focus groups of ward councillors were used to gather information, share perceptions, experiences, concerns, and perspectives in water and sanitation service delivery. Interview results are an indicator of the generation and applicability of VSM to service delivery issues at UDM and provided empirical evidence when VSM gaps were identified. VSM data consisted of an initial comprehensive system map, comparing various manifestations of the organisation within their environment. The analysis demonstrated municipal challenges as a combination of soft and hard issues, including leadership oversight, fragmentation of structures, lack of information coordination and shortages of resources. VSM also fosters an indepth understanding of the UDM as a system, supporting its suitability, although the ability to implement suggested improvements was not confirmed. The study emphasises the necessity for a holistic approach and heeding of soft issues when providing water and sanitation. The study contribution includes VSM application to strengthen governance in water service authorities, highlighting VSM strengths and shortfalls in the applied context, and presents derived methodological lessons, which broaden the knowledge of employing VSM and support its application in practice.
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    Public participation in municipal service delivery in the eThekwini Municipality
    (2021-11) Manqele, Fikile; Murwirapachena, Genius
    Most South African municipalities in South Africa struggle to efficiently provide adequate public services. One of the main reasons for slow and inadequate public service delivery across South African municipalities is ineffective public participation. The consequences of poor public service delivery include the prevalence of violent service delivery protests. Addressing these challenges requires active citizen participation in service delivery matters. The aim of this study is to explore the nature and role of public participation in the delivery of municipal services using a case study of the eThekwini Municipality. To achieve this aim, four main objectives were identified. The first objective focuses on identifying the participation platforms available for the public to effectively contribute to improved municipal service delivery in the eThekwini Municipality. The second objective seeks to establish the challenges experienced in promoting effective public participation in the eThekwini Municipality. The third objective seeks to establish the impact of public participation on service delivery in the eThekwini Municipality. Finally, the fourth objective is to recommend possible ways in which the municipality can implement public participation policies for improved public service delivery. The study uses a qualitative methodological approach which is executed in two parts. The first part analyses survey data collected using semi-structured interviews from 10 municipal employees working in the Community Participation and Action Unit of the municipality. Secondly, the study analyses data collected through semi-structured focus group discussions with community leaders from three different wards of the municipality. The data collected was analysed using the thematic approach. Three major findings are reported in the study. Firstly, the study reports on four main public participation platforms used in the municipality. Secondly, the study reports on five common challenges experienced in promoting public participation in the municipality. Lastly, the study reports on five benefits of public participation towards improved service delivery. Overall, the study reveals the existence of a strong link between effective public participation and optimum service delivery. Effective engagement was understood to be the fundamental issue and a gateway to efficient service delivery. The study recommends that public participation platforms be used frequently as a tool to regain community trust, account for budgets on community projects, disseminate information and allow community engagement on public policies and service delivery matters. The municipality should attend to the drivers of poor attendance in public participation meetings and communities should take a centre stage in identifying service based on their priority need analysis.