Faculty of Management Sciences

Permanent URI for this communityhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/13

Browse

Now showing 1 - 16 of 16

Assessing the effectiveness of incentives towards employees' performance in Abaqulusi Local Municipality
(2019) Ngwenya, Nokulunga C.; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The research study focused on assessing the effectiveness of incentives towards employees’ performance in Abaqulusi Local Municipality, KwaZulu Natal Province of South Africa. This aim was fulfilled and supported with the research objectives, to determine the relationship between biographical factors of education qualifications, to ascertain relationship between non-financial incentives and performance level and to ascertain the relationship between financial incentives and performance level. The purpose of incentive schemes is to influence employees to achieve higher performance in the workplace. To confirm this purpose in ALM, this study assess the extent to which incentive encourage employees to higher performance. The incentive factor and the quality of working life needs to get the attention of the management to be able for improve the employees performance. It is essential that employees in municipalities enjoy some kind of incentive system to motivate and raise their level of performance, like other public sector employees, municipal workers in South Africa have different needs to satisfy; these needs include the need for recognition, respect and superior approval, flexible working hours, work autonomy, as well as the ability to self-development. Considering these needs, it is important to state that non-financial incentives are likely to motivate employees in public organisations, including ALM employees. The research design used in this study was the quantitative approach, a high response rate of 100% was obtained using the personal method of data collection, and questionnaire was structured in a seven point Likert scale format. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 24.0 for Windows was used for statistical analysis of the main responses. A stratified random sampling technique was applied in selecting the 150 permanent employees from the various departments into several and mutual strata in ALM.
Assessing the effects of inadequate human capital affecting brand image of the hospitality and tourism industry
(2018-11) Pitso, Adelaide Rethabile Motshabi; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The demand for educated, trained, professional and skilled employees in the hospitality and tourism industry (HOSTI) has grown drastically. HOSTI is one of the biggest industries in the world; World Tourism Organisation estimated that one in ten jobs depends on the HOSTI. (CTH 2016:3). Yet, literature still reveals inadequate human capital (HC) in the HOSTI. Inadequate HC may be influenced by how people perceive the industry. How people perceive the industry affects the brand image. The aim of this research was to assess the effects of lack of HC on HOSTI brand image. Identifying the effects will assist the entire HOSTI to avoid negative impact of lack of HC for lasting improvements in the industries. Qualitative design was employed to carry out this research through non-probability particularly purposive sampling. Thus, semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted. To gather relevant information hospitality and tourism DUT students and lecturers were interviewed. 61 individuals were interviewed and 4 FGDs were conducted. This research gathered an empirical data that went through a thematic process of data analysis. This research used thematic framework as a guide of semi- structured interviews and FGDs. Empirical outcomes of this research revealed that both DUT hospitality and tourism students and lecturers agreed that lack of qualified personnel in the industry exists. They further stated that HOSTI is a very attractive industry even though family and friends do not regard it as a professional career. The research recommended few strategies that employer’s may use to enhance the HOSTI brand image. Recommendations included that frequent auditing of employees qualifications and skills level should be an ongoing process. In addition, employers should change all negative attributes towards the industry. The research also recommended further research should employ a larger sample and other institutions.
An assessment of the efficiency and effectiveness of Supply Chain Management in the public sector : a case study of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development in KwaZulu-Natal region
(2018-09) Nkwanyana, Nontuthuko S'lindile; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The Supply Chain Management (SCM) concept emanated from the old purchasing models i.e. provisioning and procurement. This model, SCM, received a great deal of attention in both private and public sector organizations. The model was believed to conform to international best practice and thus it was believed to hold the promise of a better purchasing system in the public sector. In this context this research seeks to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of SCM in the public sector, with particular reference to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ and CD) in the KwaZulu Natal (KZN) Region. Research data was obtained by means of quantitative paradigm aided by a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. The questionnaire addressed specific themes pertaining to SCM as well as the objectives of the research project. A total of 129 members of the target population participated in the research. They were selected from various offices in KZN. A purposive sampling technique was applied to select the participants. The researcher was personally involved in the collection of the questionnaires from them. Prior to its administration, the questionnaire was pre-tested for accuracy and clarity. The data collected were analysed by means of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 for Windows, and the research report was evaluated for plagiarism with the use of the computer programme TURNITIN. The research revealed that SCM in the organization under study has contributed significantly to enhancing conformance to the principles of good governance and to service standards. However, challenges associated with capacity deficiencies such as a lack of manpower, information and skills were noted. Finally, in line with the research objectives, the researcher concludes by recommending structural re-engineering, the training and development of employees, supplier education, supply chain planning, and teamwork and partnerships among all stakeholders who contribute to the delivery of goods and services to end customers.
Bridging work experience with academic qualifications to improve employability of business studies graduates in Gauteng
(2023-02) Nkomo, Vuyokazi; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
Unemployment is one of South Africa's biggest challenges. The unemployment rate for graduates and others with university degrees currently exceeds 30 percent. Lack of work experience is cited as one of the main reasons for unemployment. Despite the relevance of work experience, there is insufficient evidence in the literature that it is used as the main criterion for recruitment. Previous research has shown that recruiters make recruiting recommendations based on applicants' work experience, overlooking other factors. This thesis examines the association between employment experience and graduate employability. A quantitative approach was utilised, aided by a questionnaire to collect data from a sample of 265 business graduates from the Gauteng province. The questionnaire yielded 124 responses. The data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling. The main results showed that work experience had a positive, but statistically insignificant, impact on graduates' employability. These results suggest that work experience alone is not sufficient to make graduates employable. There are other aspects and skill sets such as behavioural skills, technical skills, strategic skills, and functional skills, which have a significant impact on graduate employability. Key stakeholders in higher education and labour markets should form meaningful partnerships in which they identify and prioritise the employability skills needed to seamlessly transition graduates into the industry. It is recommended that all students should be required to complete a workbased learning course or a structured internship as part of their studies, with students being required to work in the industry for a while before employment. In this way, they would be prepared to integrate into the industry after graduation, having already gained experience during work-based learning. A further recommendation is that employer involvement in course design and delivery could have a positive impact on graduate employability.
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.
Exploring public-private partnerships for enhancing border security through space technology in South Africa
(2021-11-12) Nkhoma, Moses Thabo Katjisa; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The failure of the South African border security authorities to provide effective border security continues to be a grave national security problem. Their inability to provide effective border security is due to certain factors. These factors include a fragmented approach to border security management, as well as other socio-technical factors of border security, such as the absence of physical barriers in many parts of the country’s land borders; the shortage of physical and human resources; and ineffective methods of controlling and monitoring South Africa’s land borders. Given this, the aim of this research was to examine the practicability of employing space technology to address the identified border security challenges. It further sought to explore the opportunities of forming effective partnerships between the public sector and the private space technology sector to address the identified challenges through the application of space technology. Space technology is being embraced by many developed and developing countries as an alternative to the conventional methods of controlling and monitoring land borders. Furthermore, public-private partnerships are becoming an important feature in addressing national security and public safety challenges, as well as in the delivery of various space technology projects, in some countries. The study was qualitative in nature and the primary data was collected using documentary sources and semi-structured interviews. The findings of this research revealed that South Africa was experiencing significant challenges in controlling and monitoring its land borders. Consequently, cross-border criminal activities, consisting of amongst others, border jumping, human smuggling, stock theft, wildlife poaching and smuggling, as well as the smuggling of goods and stolen vehicles, continue unabated. To address the identified problem, this research proposes the integration of various space technologies with other socio-technical solutions to control and monitor South Africa’s international land borders. It further proposes the formation of effective partnerships among border security authorities, other government departments, the private space technology sector, and other private partners for the development and collaborative operation of space technologies for border security and for other societal applications.
Exploring the factors influencing employee satisfaction in Msinga Local Municipality
(2018-05) Mvelase, Nhlakanipho Goodman; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey; Zogli, Luther
This research was designed to investigate the enhancement factors of employee satisfaction at MLM in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. Globally employee satisfaction is vital to every organisation since it is acknowledged that employee satisfaction increases productivity. Thus, the primary objective of this research was to determine different enhancement factors within the organisation. To ensure that the objectives are met this research employs a quantitative technique aided by a Likert Scale questionnaire for circulation among the employees of the organisation (MLM). Data for this research was collected from the sample size of 120 employees from different departments of MLM. The participants were derived from a target population of 120 using a random sampling tool. At the time of this research, the researcher was employed at MLM; and the questionnaires were circulated to all the employees who took part in the data collection process. Data collection process was completed within the period of three weeks yielding a high response rate of 100%. Data was analysed by means of the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 24.0 for windows. Soon after the analysis was completed, it was sent for proof reading and scrutinised to ensure that no plagiarism is found. At the end, this research discovered that various factors are likely to enhance the employee job satisfaction within the organisation. Furthermore, the research concluded pointing to future research on other factors that are likely to increase employee job satisfaction.
Financial sustainability and financial well-being of small and medium enterprise owners in Sekondi-Takoradi, Ghana
(2023) Amankwaa, Robert; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
Financial sustainability is the most vital part of SMEs and the cornerstone of SME owners’ well-being. However, poor financial sustainability of SMEs leads to poor well-being of SME owners. Therefore, the study aimed to assess SME owners’ financial sustainability and well-being. Primarily, the study sought to identify the main factors that influence SMEs’ sustainability, describe the level of SMEs’ financial sustainability and level of SME owners’ financial well-being, amd to assess the relationship between SME financial sustainability and owners’ financial well-being in Sekondi-Takoradi. Through the use of cross-sectional design and a quantitative approach, 250 SME owners were chosen from a population of 10,205 SME owners in SekondiTakoradi, the study. Overall, the study used close-ended instrument to gather data from the participants. In particular, 5-point Likert scale measure was relied upon to solicit information from SME owners on sustainability factors, business sustainability measures and the financial well-being of the SME owners. Using SPSS version 22.0, data obtained were analysed and presented in tables and figures. Simple linear and multiple regression techiques were also used to determine the relationship between the variables. A p-values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval. The study found that SMEs financial sustainability is influence by both internal and external factors. It was also revealed that the businesses were financially stable amd the well-being of SME owners was financially good to a moderate extent. Finally, there was a favourable and significant relationship between financial sustainability and the financial well-being of SME owners. Therefore, the study recommended that since SMEs have no control over the external factors, they should concentrate on and improve upon the internal factors such as skills, experience amd finacial literacy since they positively influences SMEs' financial sustainability. In addition, it is recommended that SMEs work on their return on investment to better their sustainability.
The impact of ethical values of SME owners-managers on performance of enterprises : Durban South, eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa
(2020-11) Mahohoma, Tinaye; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The primary purpose of this study was to investigate impact of ethical values of SME owner-managers on performance of enterprises: Durban South, eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Province thereof. Previous studies pointed out the significant role played by ethical values towards the performance of SMEs. However, very little research has been conducted in South Africa on the impact of ethical values of SME owner-managers on the performance of their enterprises, especially in the Durban South area. In order to achieve the purpose, a conceptual framework was developed to explain the relationships between ethical values, ethical practices, leadership style, organisational policies and performance of SMEs. Substantive hypotheses were formulated in order to determine the validity of the propositions made in the literature review, with the objective of testing the proposed the conceptual model. The researcher employed questionnaires to gather field data from a selected sample of 217 which was drawn from a target population of 500 SMEs in the Durban South area. The field data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 26. Statistical tools that include frequency tables, pie-charts and graphs were utilised in analysing data in chapter five. The Correlation matrix, chi-square test and linear regression analysis were also utilised to further analyse the strength of association between the variables. The findings from the study indicated that there was statistically significant association between business ethics and performance; that there was a significant positive relationship between corporate governance success of the businesses, and that there was no significant relationship between the personal values and ethical practices, and there was no significant association between business ethics and ethical practices. One of the recommendations of the study was that the Pe model should be operationalised to reduce unethical conduct of employees and owner- managers of SMEs. The study further recommended that there should be creation of SBCF at municipal level. Additionally, it was recommended that BE education should be introduced.
The influence of ethical leadership and organisational culture on employee commitment in the City of Johannesburg
(2023-03) Ndou, Joseph Mbulaheni; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The key driver of this study was to explore the influence of ethical leadership and organisational culture on employee commitment in the City of Johannesburg. The study employed a quantitative research approach, and simple random sampling was used to select research participants. This study entailed a cross-sectional study. Four hundred online questionnaires were distributed to research participants, of whom 234 were returned, giving an initial response rate of 58.5%. Of the 234 online returned questionnaires, 14 were found to be invalid and were omitted from the study analysis. This resulted in a valid response rate of 55%. The study’s findings have revealed that ethical leadership is key in positively influencing employee commitment. Therefore, the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality employees should be trained to increase their knowledge of ethical leadership, apply it and be empowered to enhance employee commitment. Moreover, the study has also revealed that organisational culture contributes substantially to employees’ commitment to the City of Johannesburg. Therefore, the City of Johannesburg's leadership should create a strong culture that will result in a positive environment. This would assist in retaining employees and thus reduce employee turnover. Moreover, the study has also revealed that organisational culture contributes substantially to employees’ commitment to the City of Johannesburg. Therefore, the City of Johannesburg's leadership should create a strong culture resulting in a positive environment. This would assist in retaining employees and thus reduce employee turnover. Therefore, the study recommends that the City of Johannesburg recruit ethical employees and create a conducive organisational culture to foster employee commitment.
Influence of social media on consumer behaviour : a focus on Savanna Dry cider customers in the Durban Central Business District in KwaZulu-Natal
(2023) Shozi, Thobile; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The popularity of online tools and the advent of social media are critical to modern day business as they assist with the advertising and marketing of products and services. Through social media, consumer behaviour and attitudes towards certain products, companies and organisations are changed based on what other consumers say about those products, services or organisations; hence, social media remains a powerful advertising mechanism (Scholz and Smith, 2019). Organisations that market what they offer through contemporary means and methods like social media increase their competitive advantage over those that use traditional advertising and marketing methods such as billboards, newspapers and magazines. This quantitative research investigated the influence of social media on consumer behaviour focusing on Savanna Dry Cider customers in the Durban Central Business District CBD KwaZulu-Natal. The study used the simple random sampling method to select 120 participants (60 each) from two different liquor shops, Liberty Liquors and Tops North Beach in the Durban CBD. The study gathered its primary data through self-administered questionnaires. The data was processed and coded using Microsoft Excel spread sheets. Thereafter, it was entered into SPSS 27 software and analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The findings of the study include that Facebook was the most popular online platform used by consumers of SDC, especially ones within the age range of 18 to 25 years. The SDC consumers’ purchasing behaviour was influenced by reviews and information that other consumers presented online pertaining to product, thus this is an important marketing tool. The SDC’s social online platform presence influences the buying decisions of most of its consumers. Evidently, SDC is successfully taking advantage of its social media platform to influence, mostly consumers between 18 to 40 years, to purchase the product. The study concludes that social media influences the behaviour of Savanna Dry Cider consumers in the Durban CBD, KwaZulu-Natal Province. The study further concluded that most people, especially young people between the ages of 18 and 25 years, are swayed to buy or consume Savanna Dry Ciders based on the reviews and comments of other consumers about the product. The findings also concluded that negative reviews of the product deter people from buying it while positive reviews make them want to purchase it more often. The study recommended that Savanna Dry Cider should launch an aggressive social media campaign to market its brand, as this will ensure that many people know about it and change their perceptions.
An investigation of the integration challenges of informal contractors in the formal economy : a South African perspective
(2018-09) Motlhale, Kelehile Joseph; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
This study investigated the integration challenges of informal contractors in Boshof, Dealesville and Hertzogville in the Tokologo Local Municipality (TLM) of the Free State Province of South Africa. The aim of the study was to understand the integration challenges through a literature study, to identify and explore these challenges, and to propose strategies to assist informal contractors for easy integration into the formal economy. In order to attain the objectives, a qualitative approach was adopted, aided by semi-structured interviews, and Focus Discussion Groups (FDGs) were conducted among informal contractors in the study areas. By means of purposive sampling, the researcher selected 134 informal contractors from the study areas. They participated in the research and were interviewed in two different groups. Integrating informal contractors in the formal economy is key to the survival of rural contractors and for rural economic growth. Successful integration enable informal contractors to access infrastructure in the formal economy, acquire skills, and market their services on a larger scale. As such, they can create job opportunities, reduce rural unemployment, and sustain the informal economy. Integrating the formal and informal economic sectors is beneficial to the South African economy as it allows for the sharing of available resources, namely infrastructure, information, knowledge, and the expertise of individuals. Chapter one provided the overall orientation of this study. Chapter two gave an account of the literature on informal contractors, and an overview of the South African construction industry, as well as the integration challenges. The chapter also explained the formal and informal economy and its significance. Chapter three examined how the study was conducted, taking into account the research design and methods. In Chapter four, a detailed account was provided on the analysis and interpretation of the research outcomes. Chapter five provided recommendations, taking into consideration the research outcomes stated in Chapter four. It came to light that integrating informal contractors in the formal economy faced serious challenges, namely a growing fragile infrastructure, the lack of information and knowledge, difficulties in receiving skilful and specialised training and education, the inability to access marketing information, and a lack of funding and government support. Given these challenges, informal contractors were unable to recruit skilled employees and to sustain the informal construction industry in general. In was recommended that education and training be provided to contractors in the informal economy to enable them to easily access industry information. Considering these challenges, the strategy of traditional apprenticeship programmes was suggested. One of the key features of this strategy is its flexibility and the combination of work and learning in a specialised field. This strategy is self-financing as it allows individuals to train and work to pay for all their expenses. The programme is linked to future employment opportunities.
Local rice entrepreneurship and residents’ patronage behaviour in the western region of Ghana
(2023) Ofosu-Appiah, Samuel; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
Rice produced in Ghana ought to have been patronized by Ghanaians so that local rice entrepreneurs’ businesses will grow and subsequently contribute to agricultural Gross Domestic Product. Despite the massive campaign on buy made in Ghana products, evidence shows that patronage of local rice is low and local rice farmers are unable to sell their rice produce, thereby creating surpluses. The study therefore assessed local rice entrepreneurship and patronage behaviours among residents in the Western Region of Ghana. The study adopted both quantitative and qualitative approaches. This empirical study adopted quantitative and qualitative (mixed) methods. A structured questionnaire aided the quantitative research approach to source data, while qualitative data was used to access data through focus group discussions utilizing an interview schedule. Participants in the focus group were selected through a purposive sampling technique. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to source 100 adult residents across the research settings as participants in gathering the quantitative data. Data analysis involved the SPSS version of 27 in making meaning of quantitative through two primary analytical tools such as descriptive and inferential, while qualitative data was analysed through the thematic tool in the form of themes and sub-themes. The findings revealed high patronage of local rice among Western Region households. Again, households in the Western Region of Ghana had a better attitude toward local rice. However, there is a neutrality of consumer ethnocentrism in the patronage of local rice. There are factors associated with local rice patronage in the Western Region of Ghana, including gender, marital status, occupation and the average percentage of income spent on food were significant factors associated with the local rice patronage in West Africa Ghana. In addition, local rice entrepreneurs face material or equipment issues, human factors and political issues. It was recommended that local rice should be structured, well packaged and advertised to raise awareness or patronage of households in the Western Region of Ghana. Moreover, Ghanaians should always consider local rice first in the market before other foreign rice. Besides, it was suggested that the government’s plan to establish one district factory should also target local rice produce
Measuring customer satisfaction in restaurants in East London, South Africa
(2020-12) Mtshokotshe, Zwelethu; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
A mixed-methods research design was followed throughout this study. The primary focus of this study was to determine customer satisfaction through mixed (qualitative and quantitative) methods. Questionnaires for gathering quantitative primary data as well as collecting qualitative data by means of FGDs and semi-structured interviews. Primary data analysis throughout this study involved the descriptive as well as the inferential during the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and independent t-test. These tools aided the quantitative analysis that were applied to analyse the null hypotheses. Other statistical tools namely the means, standard deviation, Cronbach’s alpha, ANOVA were performed to identify differences between various demographics characteristics for in-depth interpretations. The views of restaurateurs’ customers and managers were explored through 235 customers of twelve (12) restaurants Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality where participants successfully completed questionnaires and participated in FGDs and interviews. The study revealed high prevalence of female in restaurants industries. Majority of participants obtained tertiary degree as educational qualifications. Statistical tools of ANOVA and t-test were employed to test three null hypotheses. Inferential results revealed that participants in restaurants I were less satisfied as compared to others in restaurants E. Based on the statistical findings the initial hypothesis was rejected while the second indicated that monthly income has no effect on customer satisfaction. The independent t-test was employed to test the third hypothesis which indicated no significant relationship between the female and male participants.
Stakeholder management practices at Mondi South Africa : a case of the forestry division
(2023) Msomi, Erasmus S'bongiseni Philani; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
All over the world, there is a growing conviction that business relationships, particularly with communities, lead to financial performance and increased shareholder value creation. In South Africa, large corporations in sectors such as mining, agriculture and forestry quickly found themselves having to define their relationships with stakeholders other than their shareholders. Furthermore, those corporates with large land holdings had to deal with the uncertainty of land claims implemented by the government after 1994 which immediately transformed communities into influential stakeholders. Consequently, critical stakeholder issues, particularly in relation to social stakeholders who are non market in nature both in theory and practice are now at the forefront of corporate relationships. This study investigated and reviewed various stakeholder management practices currently employed by Mondi SA, (Forestry Division) a JSE-listed company operating in South Africa. The study further explored the various aspects of stakeholder relationships for Mondi in order to establish if these practices have any influence on Mondi’s growth and business stability. The study examined Mondi's stakeholder engagement practices and their integration into business strategy by applying both quantitative and qualitative research methods in a mixed-method approach, using non-probability purposive sampling. Using a sample of 42 respondents, representing a population of 265 employees, the study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study further explored how stakeholder management, as a strategy contributes to business stability for the Forestry division. The data was analysed using SPSS for quantitative inquiry and Nvivo for the qualitative element. Stakeholder theories and management have been applied in the interpretation and analysis of this research. Critical theories of systems and organisational thinking have been used to analyse stakeholder management practice and its dynamics of power between Mondi and stakeholders, with reference to communities. The study established that Mondi’s stakeholder management practices are implemented from a risk mitigation point of view. With stakeholder engagements and socio-economic projects delivered to stakeholder communities, the findings also suggest that the practice is intentional, and planned. The results, therefore, confirm that Mondi Forestry’s stakeholder management practice is strategically managed to maintain industrial peace to ensure that operations are not affected. In addition, the stakeholder management practice is necessary to maintain compliance which also influences the smooth running of the operations within legal and industry standards. Arguing from the standpoint of the various studies that have explored the challenges and benefits of stakeholder influence in business, this research empirically investigated whether stakeholder management and engagement influences business performance and stability in South Africa, using Mondi Forestry division as a pilot.
Vulnerability of supply chains to risks : an agenda to capacitate the state in South Africa
(2023-09) Nkwanyana, Nontuthuko S'lindile; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
There are growing concerns due to the complexities of supply chains. Supply chains are increasingly exposed to risks, whereas they ought to serve as vehicles for organizations’ success by placing organizations under a competitive advantage in the marketplace. It is against this background that this study aims to explore the risks within the supply chain system and procurement, to assess its implications on public sector service offerings, and to devise remedial actions to curb and/or overcome the risks. A qualitative and quantitative research approach was employed to address the problems that led to the research and to seek for answers to the research questions. In total, the population comprised 59 persons across the 9 Provinces of South Africa. Thirty were junior staff, 11 were supervisors and 18 held middle management positions in various provinces of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. A simple random sampling technique was applied and subsequently 23 persons were sampled to be part of interview process. Qualitative data was analysed through the application of thematic tools, whereas quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) 32 and measures of central tendency. Thematic analysis revealed the following: (a) fraud and corruption; (b) policy and process dilemmas; (c) supplier’s database and supplier selection disorder; (d) human capita disorder; and (e) budget lack and/or mismanagement, were the five top prevalent risks in the procurement activity of supply chains. However: (a) human resource capita; (b) budget lack and/or mismanagement; (c) collusion; (d) fraud and corruption; and (e) management overrule (in order of high to low), were rated as the top five risks in bringing negative effects on service offerings whenever they happen. In addition, the study sought to provide evidence for the validity of the hypothesis and find solutions to reduce vulnerabilities of supply chains to risks. These questions were thereafter responded to by the development of a framework to assist public sector supply chains to reduce their vulnerability to risks. This framework recommends a three-stage approach to reducing supply chains’ vulnerability to risks. For level one, being the most critical, immediate actions are to be taken, such as workforce optimization, system and process redesign. For level two, resilience mechanisms include central supplier database purification, consequence application and better planning, and financial incentives. Level three resilience mechanisms recommended by the study include professionalization of the supply chain, segregation of duties, and regulation of prices