Faculty of Management Sciences

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Analysis of consumption patterns and their effects on social cohesion from a Zulu cosmology perspective
(2017) Lombo, Sipho; Msweli, Pumela
Using historic and ethnographic data collected from KwaZulu-Natal, this study examines food consumption from the Zulu Cosmology epistemic point of view. The study highlights as a prosocial behaviour that reduces the importance of self in favour of pro social norms of sharing and selflessness. In other words, personhood is understood as a process and the product of interconnectedness experienced in social spaces. Pro-social behaviour is therefore seen as a determinant of harmonious and social cohesive communities. The study concluded that social cohesive communities develop a set of cultural protocols and boundaries that reward prosocial norms and punish antisocial behaviour. Social cohesion as a concept was also found to be inseparable from the notion of shared values, identities and norms. The study delved deeper and found that the land, the livestock and the cultural rituals to honour the living and the dead defined a unique interconnectedness of the Zulu person to his culture. Eating and eaten products were part of a uniting culture that linked a Zulu man, woman, girls, old men and women to other people, their animals and their land. Zulu people lived for, and with, other people in peace. No man or family would go hungry. Immediately that becomes known, another man would give the destitute man a few cattle to start his own flock and feed his family. This and other eating rituals contributed to a strong, peaceful and social cohesive nation of King Shaka ka Senzangakhona. On the basis of the understanding of the cultural rituals, their link with the land and animal the study concluded that land restitution and agrarian policies can be enhanced by taking into consideration their need for land to cultivate vegetables and fruits that have cultural meaning, policies that enable to have livestock as well as space to practise their culture. The study is envisaged to inspire social welfare and community development policies that instil the prosocial values of Ubuntu and interconnectedness.
An analysis of the quality of life of people living in urban, formal, low-cost housing settlements : a case of Mount Moriah
(2020-01) Govender, Lydia Trisha; Msweli, Pumela
Apartheid left a legacy of extreme poverty, high levels of unemployment, and have marred the housing context in the country. This makes South Africa a unique landscape for quality of life research. The aim of quality of life research is to advance human and social development to improve quality of life and standards of living. The aim of this study is to analyse the quality of life of people living in urban, formal, lowcost housing settlements, through a case study of Mount Moriah in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal. The study analysed how the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) housing project improved the quality of life of RDP beneficiaries. The study utilised a quantitative methodology approach. The quantitative design took the form of a questionnaire with close-ended questions and served as an instrument of data collection. The questionnaire was administered to the housing beneficiaries in the Mount Moriah housing project. A total of 110 participants responded to the questionnaire. The data was analysed using the SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics such as tables, frequency, percentage, bar and pie charts were utilised, and inferential statistics such as chi-square test was employed. The findings showed that there were more female-headed households than males; and that the majority of the beneficiaries were Blacks. The findings also showed that unemployment rates and level of crime was high and the majority of the respondents earned below the upper bound poverty line. On the basis of the findings of this study, it is recommended that government implements and promotes socio-economic opportunities and programmes to promote quality of life of people living in urban, formal, low-cost housing settlements.
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.
An assessment of the impact of supply chain risk management in food-aid distribution in Zimbabwe
(2020-09) Ngarize, Peter; Ngcamu, Bethuel Sibongiseni
The present study sought to investigate and interrogate supply chain risks prevalent in the humanitarian sector with reference to food-aid distribution and to also assess the impact of supply chain risk management as a strategy for cost- effective food-aid distribution operations in Zimbabwe. The global increase of disasters and their devastating effects has left communities vulnerable and in need of help from Donors, humanitarian agencies and the host governments. The damage by disasters notably droughts, floods and cyclones have caused various forms of vulnerability on populations living in disaster struck countries, including Zimbabwe. The natural disasters and catastrophes have inadvertently solicited for committed investment by both local and international governments to assist those unfortunate to have been struck by disasters and their impacts. Information on disaster impacts specifically related to food-aid distribution is gathered through an analysis of risks prevalent along the food and humanitarian aid supply chain network. This information will be used by government and various humanitarian stakeholders in the formulation of strategies to mitigate disaster and supply chain risks in humanitarian aid distribution. A mixed-method approach was employed to assess the impact of supply chain risk management in food-aid distribution in Zimbabwe. A sample size of 80 Humanitarian Aid stakeholders from the District Drought Relief Committee completed structured questionnaires. The Cronbach Alpha Test showed high reliability for the scales used in the study. Furthermore, the study used information from key informants, at least fifteen (15) members from the secretariat, namely, the District Administrators, the Social Welfare officers, as well as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) personnel who were readily available at their stations for one-on-one interviews. Five strategies, that include flexibility, collaborative, prepositioning, hedging, and governance were explored and their impact on distribution of food-aid analysed. Quantitative data was analysed using STATA (version 16). Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression was used to investigate the nature and magnitude of the relationship between food-aid distribution efficiency and supply chain risk factors, while also controlling for the effect of demographic variables 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. This study tested the robustness of the five strategies used in food-aid distribution and noted that the most commonly used strategy is insurance, followed by governance, then collaboration, flexibility, prepositioning, and financing. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY It is expected that the study will assist the Government of Zimbabwe, other governments in Southern Africa, and humanitarian aid stakeholders in the formulation of policies for the humanitarian food and non-food-aid distribution. This will lead to improved efficiency in foodaid distribution. Policy recommendations highlight the need for synergistic relationships between WFP, the Meteorological Department, Department of Social Welfare, and the Civil Protection Department. The Government of Zimbabwe should therefore create an enabling environment for stakeholder partnerships in the Humanitarian Food -Aid supply chain that should cascade to the village and community levels. Disaster interventions should not only come from National Central Government but, where necessary and feasible, should be from local community to National, building a bottom up approach in disaster mitigation strategies.
Barriers preventing marginal income groups from accessing housing finance
(2006) Shelembe, Sipho Dennis
The marginal and low-income groups face a number of obstacles in their quest to secure housing finance to improve their living conditions. South Africa has a sophisticated and effective finance system. However, it appears that the only beneficiaries from it are the middle and upper income groups of the housing market. The whole system of accessing housing finance has proven to be problematic for the marginal and lower income groups for various reasons, among others: it is not user friendly and is not easily understood by an illiterate or poorly educated person. The key challenge for the South African housing finance system is to find ways of bridging the gap between those who have a regular income and those who do not. The credit gap exists because of the relationship between risk and cost which is a standard lending issue across the globe. The study has unpacked the obstacles by looking at the literature and role players in the housing finance.
Branding in small and medium enterprises in KwaZulu-Natal as a means of ensuring business survival
(2016) Ncube, Abbigail Mhini; Meintjes, Corné
Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) are known to be important for the development of economies in developing countries. This is so because SMEs create jobs therefore reducing unemployment and alleviating poverty. The South African government has done a lot to help SMEs grow and become established businesses. They offer, among other things, financial assistance and expert advice in the field of marketing, technology and venturing into foreign markets (SEDA, 2014). However, it seems that it is difficult for SMEs to establish themselves in the different sectors such as the Manufacturing, Retail, Service, Financial and Agricultural sectors. They complain among other things, of financial constraints and the global economic crisis (NCR report 2011). Olawale and Garwe (2010) go on to say that, SMEs in South Africa have a high failure rate compared to other countries and only about 7% of new SMEs become fully established firms. The reason for this might be the inability of those firms to utilise marketing and in particular branding to market their firms. Branding is the process of stamping a product, which the marketer offers with some identifying name, mark or a combination of both (Sawant 2012). Thus branding creates individuality in the product or service offered facilitating it to be distinguished and recognised in the market from competitors. For this reason different aspects of branding especially brand dimensions will be explored to identify shortcoming of SMEs branding practices to assist them survive the dynamic business environment. The study involved SMEs in KwaZulu Natal in the manufacturing, retail, agriculture and financial services sectors. To address the research problem a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches were used. Participants, more specifically those from the very small SME category, were selected and questionnaires were distributed to them. Those participants who responded to the questionnaire, in depth interviews were held with them. In both approaches a convenient samplings technique were used to select participants. The data will be analysed by using normal descriptive statistics and content analysis. The problem under investigation in this study is that SMEs in KZN may lack the ability to harness branding in support of their business survival. SMEs are limited financially when it comes to creating a brand. Randall (2000) says that companies face a number of challenges when it comes to creating a brand such as mature markets, brand proliferation, consumer revolt, management failure, fragmentation of media and retailer power. The contribution of the study is to help SMEs in KZN to understand branding and especially brand dimensions to assist them survive the dynamic business environment. The study found that SME owners have an understanding of brand creation and management. However, they agreed that more needs to be done when it comes to creating strong brands. SMEs express the brand dimension of sincerity and competence when branding their products. They face financial constraints, lack of creativity and competition as some of the challenges when it comes to creating brands.
The challenges of enriching small, medium and micro enterprises with financial management knowledge in KwaZulu-Natal metropolitan area
(2021) Mazibuko, Wiseman Sinethemba; Mugari, Alpha
South Africa is experiencing enormous socio-economic challenges such as gender-based violence, poverty and inequality, including ever-increasing high levels of unemployment. Many businesses are either closing or downsizing. People are resorting to alternative ways to alleviate poverty by establishing SMMEs. To get established, SMMEs are encountering a daunting task when it comes to implementing sound financial systems. The study sought to examine the challenges of capacitating SMMEs with financial management acumen and to remedy the difficulties of implementation thereof. Primary research was conducted amongst SMMEs in KwaZulu-Natal, Metropolitan Area. The population of this study consisted of a sample of 250 randomly selected SMMEs participated from a target population of 2200. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques such as SPSS and Cronbach’s Alpha. The study found, that the sector has grown and has become an engine to drive economic stabilisation, poverty alleviation and employment creation. However, perennial challenges grew exponentially. Moreover the covid-19 pandamic has worsen the situation. Government has played a huge role in making sure the SMMEs sector get the necessary financial support, through different entiies like the SEFA, SEDA, and SSSP. The majority of SMMEs concurs that lack of adequate financial management acumen negatively affects their success. Most of them cannot upskill themselves and are not satisfied with stakeholder interventions regarding training and development. The study also found that, funding is not a panacea to all the challenges faced by this sector. Solutions should come from SMMEs instead of stakeholders prescribing how problems should be resolved. Apart from financial management understanding, SMMEs maintains that networking opportunities with business associates are vital to their success.
Child support grant and poverty alleviation in Jika Joe informal settlement
(2023-04) Xaba, Ntombizonke Maureen; Fagbadebo, Omololu M.
Evidence found in the literature suggests that Child Support Grant is among the most important programmes to alleviate poverty in South Africa. Findings from previous studies suggest that the Child Support Grant is an important tool of social protection in South Africa, reaching over 17 million South African children each month. However, the impact and extent of its effectiveness thereof has not been adequately explored and are still debated. Previous studies tended to focus more on the Child Support Grant as a tool to provide for the basic need of the child rather than its impact on both the beneficiary and the child. This research examined the Child Support Grant and poverty alleviation at Jika Joe Informal Settlement. The objectives of this study were to examine the development programmes other than cash transfer designed for the Child Support Grant beneficiaries at Jika Joe informal settlement, to identify the challenges that hinder the realisation of the government’s objectives in poverty alleviation at Jika Joe informal settlement and to examine the effectiveness of the poverty alleviation component of Child Support Grant. Using a qualitative method approach, this study collected data from South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) management at Pietermaritzburg Local Office, also known as “Mbilakhahlela” and Jika Joe Informal settlement residents, in which the said SASSA office provides Social Grants to qualifying residents. This study is conceptualized within the framework of understanding poverty, high unemployment rate, inadequate infrastructure, zero hunger and corruption from the premise that poverty remains largely a challenge unmet! The study conducted an in-depth interview with the research participants to gain a better understanding of Child Support Grant more specifically the obstacles that might hamper the government’s objectives in alleviating poverty. The study also examined whether there are developmental programs provided by the Government to demonstrate positive marks. The focus of the study was to examine the contribution of the Child Support Grant to poverty alleviation at the Jika Joe Informal Settlement. The analysis of data showed that Jika Joe residents perceive the Child Support Grant as an effective tool to provide for the basic needs of the child. This is, however, compromised by the fact that the very same grant is commonly shared by the entire family in the area. Another reported problem was the lack of beneficiary empowerment as manifested in general skills shortage which disadvantaged Jika Joe residents from competitively participating in the job market. The conclusions of the study were based on the findings. Some of the findings revealed the effectiveness of the Child Support Grant, even though this is vitiated by the prevalence of the utilisation of the grant by entire households. The findings also revealed that the government does have development programmes, but the question of whether they are relevant to the community of Jika Joe Informal Settlement remains indeterminate. The study also points to the need for the Government to seriously consider the introduction of the Basic Income Grant; the relocation of the Jika Joe residents to more decent housing like the newly built flats that they had been promised.
Consumer protection awareness in South Africa
(2007-01) Mason, Roger Bruce
This paper addresses the lack of knowledge about awareness of consumer protection in South Africa, especially amongst disadvantaged consumers. Literature shows that there is a high correlation between the level of economic development and the awareness of consumer rights. The more developed a country is, the more aware its people will be in terms of their consumer rights. The less developed a country is, the lower the level of consumer rights awareness consumers will have. Consumers, like any other citizens of a country, have a right to be protected by the law. Private and non-governmental organisations and the consumer councils need to ensure that the interests and rights of consumers are well protected. The study involved a literature review and an exploratory empirical study into the effect of income and education on awareness of consumer protection by a sample of Durban consumers. A strong positive relationship between consumer protection awareness and income and education was found. Recommendations for actions to improve consumer protection awareness amongst low income, poorly educated consumers are made, and further research to develop a deeper understanding of the problem is suggested
Consumers rights and challenges of the socio-economically disadvantaged and the implications of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008
(2023-04) Tentu, Lindeka; Reddy, Karunanidhi
South Africa is a country that is classified as having high levels of poverty and illiteracy. This is evident particularly in the consumer market, which consists of both the ordinary consumers, who are generally literate, and vulnerable consumers, who mostly have low levels of literacy or are illiterate and come from disadvantaged communities. Such vulnerable consumers face challenges when transacting with suppliers. The need to develop common law principles or any other consumer protection legislation, to protect, not only average consumers, but also vulnerable consumers, was of particular concern. Hence, the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) 68 of 2008 was promulgated, with the aims of promoting a fair, accessible and sustainable marketplace for consumer products and services and to establish national norms and standards relating to consumer protection. However, experience has shown that, since its implementation some of the promises in the Act have not become a reality for many consumers, especially those who face socio-economic disadvantages. Such consumers include those with low income, low levels of education, and those who are illiterate. This study aims to investigate the consumer challenges and rights of the socioeconomically disadvantaged persons as vulnerable consumers, as well as the role of the CPA in protecting them and addressing such consumer challenges. A quantitative research design was adopted together with probability sampling. A questionnaire was the primary tool used to gather data from consumers that reside at Bhekulwandle, a township in the Illovo area, in KwaZulu Natal province. The findings from the study revealed that, even though consumers are afforded legislative protection in the consumer market, the effectiveness of such legislation has some gaps when viewed from the vulnerable consumer perspective. Consumers facing socio-economic disadvantage are still faced with challenges when it comes to understanding commercial contracts, primarily due to the language used in standard form contracts and their ignorance as to the processes to follow when their rights have been infringed, and their rights as consumers. The government, suppliers and consumer bodies have an onerous responsibility in ensuring that all consumers, especially those from a disadvantaged background, are equally protected in the consumer market. This can be achieved by ensuring that existing legislation is enforced and business should be compelled to comply and give particular recognition to the vulnerable consumers.
Creating economic viability in rural South Africa through water resource management in subsistence farming
(Business Perspectives, 2016) Bakre, Olayemi Rahman; Dorasamy, Nirmala
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role water resources management can play in improving subsistence farming in rural South Africa, as well as reducing poverty. The study followed a mixed research approach where attributes of qualitative and quantitative methods were used. This paper indicates that due to water scarcity experienced amongst subsistence farmers in case study area, several farmers have opted out of farming. This has a negative consequence on food security and poverty among many subsistence farmers. The paper suggests the pathways for sustainable subsistence farming aimed at creating an economically viable rural community while addressing poverty through the implementation of an efficient water resources management practice. As highlighted in this paper, development is a gradual process, and water resources management can possibly be the first step in creating an economically viable community while alleviating poverty among subsistence farmers in water scarce rural areas of South Africa. Revamping the subsistence farming, as well as improving the standard of living amongst rural subsistence farmers requires a purposeful co-ordination and exchange of ideas between experienced agricultural extension workers, researchers in the field of context, policy makers, as well as other stakeholders. Such purposeful co-ordination should have an agenda of transforming the subsistence farming to a commercialized form of farming in the long term. The resultant effect will possibly result in an economically viable community; increase in household income, as well as food security, thereby reducing poverty.
Critical analysis of entrepreneurial spirit, attitudes and perceptions of young South Africans in KwaZulu-Natal province
(Business Perspectives, 2016) Lekhanya, Lawrence Mpele
Positive entrepreneurial spirit, attitudes and perceptions among the communities, with specific reference to young South Africans in KwaZulu-Natal province, can improve the lives of many young people and alleviate poverty and unemployment challenges in the province. This paper intends to analyze the entrepreneurial spirit, attitudes and perceptions of young South Africans, in addition to which it will also analyze the most critical factors affecting young South Africans when embarking into business. Primary data were collected by means of both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data were collected in eThekweni Municipal areas. The sample consisted of 350 young South Africans between the ages of 18-35, both those who are working, as well as those who are unemployed, with or without tertiary qualifications. Respondents completed a five–point, Likert scale questionnaire, with the assistance of an interviewer. The results disclose that the large number of respondents indicate bank requirements to obtain a loan and financial support as major barriers to starting a business. The findings further indicate start-up capital as another constraint that demoralizes, quelling the entrepreneurial spirit among the young. The results found to be statistical significant at (p = .000*). Further research should aim to examine youth entrepreneurial training programs and entrepreneurial support skills.
Disaster risk management in local government : a case study of Foreman and Kennedy Road informal settlements, eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal
(2011) Ngcamu, Bethuel Sibongiseni; Wallis, Malcolm Alan Henworth; Dorasamy, Nirmala
Disasters have inflicted a heavy cost on human, materials and physical resources, and degradation to the environment. Furthermore, disasters have negative physical impacts (which include casualities and property damage) and social impacts (which include psych-osocial, socio-demographic, socioeconomic, and socio-political). A comprehensive review of the literature has revealed that the development of disaster management strategies must be undertaken before the event strikes. Moreover, disaster management requires effective community-based strategies which will include programmes and measures to prevent, prepare, mitigate and recover from the impacts of disasters. The purpose of the study is to contribute to the formulation of a robust disaster management framework and plan including the creation of a fully equipped disaster management centre within the eThekwini Municipality. Moreover, to enable the disaster management department within the eThekwini Municipality to function effectively and efficiently by applying new systematic strategies in disaster risk reduction. Futhermore, to add value to the body of knowledge in South Africa as there are limited number of research on disaster management, and to add value to policy, protmote investment and protect vulnerable communities by implementing disaster prevention, preparedness and mitigation. The research was undertaken at Foreman and Kennedy Road informal settlements located in Clare Estate within Ward 25. A disaster management survey was self-administered to the population size of 220 respondents from which 140 respondents completed the questionnaires thereby generating a response rate of 63.6%. Interveiws were also conducted amongst eThekwini Municipality officials dealing mainly with disaster reduction. The dimensions of the study are disaster preparedness, prevention, response, recovery and rehabilitation, financial implications and future expectations. The data was analysed using Statistical Packages for Social Scientists (SPSS). Associations between variables were determined using Pearson chi-square. This study presents the research findings on disaster management by using frequency iv tables, graphs and cross-tabulations tables which have been compiled for each question. Analysis of the data revealed significant differences between the biographical variables (age, gender, marital status, education, occupation, income, number of children, number of dependants, race and tenure) and the five dimensions (disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, recovery and rehabilitation, financial implications and future expectations) respectively. Interpretation of results indicated that there exists significant relationships amongst the key variables of the study relating to disaster management. This study contributes to various academic disciplines, local government and society at large as it suggests strategies and recommendations that may be implemented to overcome disaster management challenges and attain disaster risk reduction. The study recommends that eThekwini Municipality should comply with the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002 which requires the establishment of a disaster management centre, disaster management framework and the plan. Furthermore, the study recommended that the council should develop a system to classify hazard mitigation strategies in terms of five categories which are hazard source control, community protection works, land-use practices, building construction practices and building contents protection. The study recommends that the eThekwini Municipality should recognise recovery period mitigation and incorporate this objective into recovery planning. On the financial implications aspect, the study recommends that eThekwini Municipality should provide financial assistance on the disaster management prevention and preparedness strategies.
Disbursing of social security grants : a case of uMgungundlovu District, South Africa
(2020-04) Luthuli, Mthokozisi Sydney; Hlengwa, Dumsile Cynthia
The strategic features of this study were to create new understanding of existing issues and identify new and emerging issues worthy of investigation and explanation. The distribution of disability grants is a long-standing practice that has been a way of life to people living with disability since the dawn of democracy, which started as of the year 1994. The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of disbursing social security grants at Pietermaritzburg office KwaZulu–Natal. Although the ability for South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is to execute the distribution of social grants, the practice over the years is mounted with allegations of issues of fraud, maladministration and dissatisfaction of beneficiaries. The SASSA is required to provide the services aligned to administrative approaches and systems of transmitting disability grants within SASSA institutions in South Africa and provide social relief of distress to beneficiaries. The study adopted a qualitative research methodology to collect and analyse data. The intention of using a qualitative paradigm is to respond to specific questions that directs to the applications in real world situation, and be able to address the specific societal problems. This study factors associated with ineffectiveness of the distribution processing of grants and implications for grant beneficiaries. A majority of selected respondents perceived the disability grant policy as unjust and saw very little hope of improvement. This study recommends the value of chain in the distribution of disability grants by training the employees, improving the infrastructures and the capacity of SASSA in providing the disability grants at Pietermaritzburg office.
Evaluating the impacts of Covid-19 pandemic on the socioeconomic status of South African women
(IKENGA International Journal of Institute of African Studies, 2023-03-30) Rena, Ravinder; Mbukanma, Ifeanyi
This research was conducted to evaluate the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the socioeconomic status of South African women. There is an urgent need for a better understanding of the unique circumstances and provisional assistance of effective support for women throughout the Covid-19 crisis and its aftermath considering the level of impact the virus had on women. To achieve the researchobjective, a literature- based analysis was employed, which provides an in-depth analysis and evaluation of previous literature on the unprecedented nature and trend of the Covid-19 pandemic and its impacts on the socioeconomic status of women in South Africa. Thus, despite the limited scientific data on the most recent development of the pandemic, the findings revealed that the pandemic has escalated most variables of socioeconomic status of women in South Africa, which include high poverty rates, increased rates of unplanned pregnancy, school drop-out of schoolgirls and child labour among teenage girls, lack of income, decreased financial empowerment, reduced access to conducive healthcare, excessive maternal mortality, and growing food shortages and malnutrition. Thus, as the world continues to search for a reliable vaccine and other preventive measures for the virus, this paper recommended that policymakers and stakeholders around the globe, and most especially in South Africa, should develop coherent and strategic policies that will incorporate and attend to the socioeconomic needs of women.
Evaluating the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) as a performance management system for a selected KwaZulu-Natal municipality
(2011) Hlongwane, Nkululeko Terrence; Dlamini, Bongani Innocent
Notwithstanding the unsurpassed planning efforts, municipalities nationally seem to be losing their battle in pursuit of sustainable development. South African municipalities find themselves confronted with a harsh reality and that is that after 12 years of legislated Integrated Development Planning (IDP), poverty remains widespread and persists alongside affluence, while inequalities are increasing. The mechanism of service delivery in municipalities is hampered by bureaucratic settings within Local Government and the ambiguity attached to some of the projects. The service and infrastructural developments targeted for the poor, and the involvement of communities in the affairs of the Local Government might be seen as a partial panacea for poverty alleviation in South Africa, however the capacity of Local Governments to effectively carry out this developmental challenge assigned to them might be a new twist in the developmental challenge facing Local Governments in South Africa. The commonly-employed approach to local development to the challenges of co-ordinating and integrating efforts has revealed clear evidence of the usefulness of sustainable local development which helps to promote effective planning methods based on a multi-sectorial approach to poverty reduction and community development for an integrated local development planning process. The literature review contained in this research indicates that in South Africa the implementation of the IDP at Local Government level impacts upon by the Performance Management System (PMS). This research which has been grounded within the positivist paradigm, evaluates the IDP as a performance management system at Ugu District Municipality. Interviews were conducted amongst employees of the Ugu District Municipality and the community served by the municipality to evaluate the extent to which the IDP is used as a tool to deliver sustainable development.
An evaluation of community participation in the integrated development planning (IDP) process : a case study of Umzumbe Municipality in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa
(2016) Khawula, Bhekuyise Mhawukelwa Sixtus; Govender, Ivan Gunass
In order to eradicate the legacy of the apartheid past, the South African democratic government adopted a development approach to local government. This necessitated a commitment on the part of local government, through the Integrated Development Plan (IDP), to facilitating community participation by finding ways to meet economic, social and material needs, as well as improving quality of life. The IDP can only be well received and implemented if there is an effective public participation process to ensure that the needs and aspirations of the people are met. This research focused primarily on evaluating community participation in the IDP process through the use of the case study of Umzumbe Municipality in the KwaZulu-Natal province. Furthermore, the research answers the following questions: to what extent do communities participate in the IDP process?; what were the challenges facing communities with regard to participation in the IDP process?; and what was the role of ward councillors and ward committees in promoting community participation in the IDP process? In order to answer these questions, an empirical study was conducted using quantitative research methodology. The case study approach was used in this study in order to obtain detailed views of respondents and issues relating to the objectives of the study. Using the quantitative research methodology, the study employed a questionnaire to collect information linked to community participation. Three hundred and ninety respondents from ten wards in the local municipality were randomly sampled. In addition, ten ward councillors were requested to participate in the study in order to explore the factors influencing community participation in the study area. The questionnaires were developed and approved by the Durban University of Technology’s ethics committee before the commencement of the study. Data was then collected. The results of the study, conclusions and recommendations are provided in a way that will enable the reader to draw his or her own conclusions on the value of this study. The study was worth undertaking since the challenges of community participation for local economic development and the IDP enhance service delivery. The results of the study should expand the knowledge base of rural community participation in the IDP process in Umzumbe Municipality. The findings of this study should benefit the municipality by highlighting the challenges of community involvement in the IDP process. The envisaged outcome of this study is the development of a theoretical framework for rural community participation in the IDP process in local government. Findings from the study point to the profusion of poor or non-participation of the community in the IDP process. The study shows sour relationship between ward councillors, ward committee members and community members. Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations have been made: upgrade levels of education/capacity development for ward councillors, ward committee members and community members; poverty alleviation and economic development to create employment; encourage youth and adults to engage in public forums; encourage the involvement of all stakeholders in the identification of development initiatives; co-ordination and information sharing sessions; and systems of monitoring and evaluation should be put in place to monitor community participation in the IDP process, with guidelines for the implementation of community participation initiatives.
An evaluation of community tourism organisations' role in small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME) tourism development in the eThekwini region
(2021-10) Ntlangani, Bantubathi Sonnyboy; Govender, Ivan Gunass
Countries around the world benefitted from the positive spin-offs of growth in tourism. Support for small, medium and micro-enterprises (SMMEs), township tourisms’ operating in this sector could also be enhanced for local economic growth. Tourism SMME development could contribute to the fight against poverty, unemployment and inequality that are endemic in developing countries. The research addressed the three gaps that limits local economic development in local township communities. These includes: the unrealized potential knowledge of poverty alleviation through tourism SMME development by community tourism organizations in the local communities. Community - based tourism has globally been recognized as a strategy to alleviate poverty in local communities and add to countries’ Growth Domestic Products. The obstacles to tourism SMME growth is dearth of knowledge of tourism SMMEs, that includes addressing explicitly historically disadvantaged communities in South Africa. Growth of tourism SMMEs involves issues such as community empowerment, ownership, sustainability, social justice, independence within the tourism industry. South Africa followed an apartheid ideology that divided people through legislation according to race groupings of so - called Whites, Indians, Coloureds and Blacks, with the latter being denied the power to trade. Secondly, legislations enacted during this era prohibited black business from operating in the urban areas, which were exclusively set aside as the white trading corridor. This brought structural poverty to the semi - urban and rural communities, as they were in the periphery of mainstream tourism trade that was conducted in the cities with good infrastructure. Thirdly, tourism SMMEs are currently not performing to their maximum potential and need an enabling environment to grow. Lastly, governance and management issues that provides framework for resilient tourism destinations remain under - researched in the tourism literature. The research design implemented a quantitative methodology approach engaging purposive sampling technique for data collection of Community Tourism Organizations chairpersons and both executive and non-executive CTO members. The piloting of the research procedure was statistically tested to ensure validity and reliability beforehand the start of the study. The study was conducted through a cross-sectional design and a sample size of respondents for probability sampling and participants for non-probability sampling. The study was based on CTO chairpersons, executive and nonexecutive CTO members within eThekwini municipality. Method triangulation of data findings ensured a pragmatic and perceptive comprehension of the phenomena which was examined. The descriptive statistics’ revelation showed more than seventy percent of respondents agreed that tourism SMME capacity development would have a positive impact in alleviating the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality of opportunities they face in the periphery township areas of eThekwini municipality from the tourism, and added cruise ship tourism industry. This can be successful through equal CBT multistakeholder participation and government at local municipal level taking a leading empowering, enabling role. The study discussion focused on the multistakeholder tourism SMME capacity development conceptual engagement model, aligned to the participatory pro-poor dependency framework that presented a link between CTOs tourism development and local community poverty alleviation. The conceptual model was developed as a relevant vehicle to the research. This study aims to contribute to scholarship on CTOs development of tourism SMMEs in South Africa. The study hopes to find strategies to break obstacles to increase the growth of tourism Small Medium and Micro Enterprises.It also envisaged to find out how it can facilitate CTOs tourism SMME development to alleviate poverty, unemployment and inequality of opportunity in the tourism industry. After 1994, there were and still are attempts to redress the injustices of the past by including previously disadvantaged communities to be participants in the tourism industry sector. However, certain factors still impede the growth of tourism SMMEs in these communities. Some of these factors are start-up and operational costs, difficulties in accessing markets, lack of skills and managerial expertise, and a regulatory environment that often favours established businesses. Community Tourism Organizations (CTOs) The democratic South African government adopted legislations and policies to integrate previously disadvantaged population groups through developing tourism SMMEs and introduced community tourism organizations (CTOs). It was against this background that this study also evaluated the role of CTOs in developing tourism. A quantitative approach was employed, and the data was generated by means of selfadministered questionnaires and one session of pilot investigations with chairpersons and other CTO members. An SPSS version 22 analysis was used to analyze the data. The findings highlighted tourism SMMEs’ owned by the previously disadvantaged secutor lack the necessary skills to participate effectively in this sector. As a result, economic growth and poverty alleviation in local township communities is still an ongoing struggle. There was a case for encouraging the growth of more township tourism SMMEs with wide appeal to tourists of township products, that are unique to these communities. A more proactive, structured, interactive, community engagement approach was thus recommended for the economic empowerment of marginalized communities through ownership and control of tourism projects within tourism destinations. This strategy has a potential of generating much needed revenue to alleviate poverty and unemployment. The limiting factor is CTOs inadequate capacity to develop tourism SMMEs. The study advocated for multi - stakeholder engagement comprising of government, established private sector tourism businesses, educational institutions and community - based tourism organizations. These organizations could ideally be involved in planning, monitoring and evaluating tourism initiatives in communities on agreed - on time intervals. That way, any unforeseeable impediments would have identified, reviewed and redressed as they occur. This study proposes a model based on stakeholder participatory theory meant to assist tourism policy makers at local government level. This is a paradigm shift for poverty alleviation through tourism SMME development. This is particularly important at municipal level, which is a strategic point of service delivery to local communities. This is where a need is felt on integrating tourism in the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and local economic development (LED) planning to prioritize and increase tourism SMMEs to alleviate poverty and unemployment. This is a compelling case in the historically disadvantaged townships.
Exploration of the benefits derived from free basic electricity programme in mitigating energy poverty and the impediments faced in its implementation in the Eastern Pondoland
(2019-01) Ngeva, Unathi Felix; Burton, Simon; Mohlakoana, Nthabiseng
When the new democracy dawned in South Africa during the year 1994, the nation witnessed a lot of transition whereby the newly elected democratic government embarked on a quest, which sought to redress the apartheid legacy. The newly elected democratic government inherited a triple challenge of inequality, unemployment and poverty, and to correct these apartheid injustices, the government drafted their first socioeconomic policy framework in the form of the White Paper on Reconstruction and Development in 1994. One of the major programmes introduced by the government within Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) framework was the National Electrification Programme (NEP) and its focus was to accelerate access to electricity to the previously disadvantaged communities. During the year 2000, the South African government announced its intention to provide Free Basic Services to all the poor communities and subsequent to that, Free Basic Electricity (FBE) policy was gazetted in 2003 by the South African government. Despite these poverty alleviation interventions by the government, recent statistics from Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) indicate that Limpopo and the Eastern Cape are both sitting at the bottom as the poorest provinces. This study explores whether there are any benefits enjoyed by the indigent households with regards to FBE and the challenges that are being faced in implementing this programme in the Eastern Pondoland. The main aim of this study was to look at the extent to which the FBE programme is used to fight energy poverty and improve the quality of life amongst the poorest communities in the study area. This study used mixed research methods to investigate the research problem. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected using household questionnaires for the respondents and interview schedules for the officials. A sample of ninety respondents from three selected municipalities that form the Eastern Pondoland was used and non-probability sampling was used to select the respondents. Additionally, five officials and three councillors from each of the three municipalities were interviewed with regards to the challenges influencing FBE implementation in the study area. Findings from this study point mainly to the dissatisfaction in the current amount of 50 kWh per month of FBE. This finding precisely confirmed other previous research ii findings on FBE by various scholars as highlighted in the ‘literature review’ of this study. The study further revealed that there were deserving households that are not benefiting on the subsidy due to various issues such as irregular updates of indigent registers, unregistered meters, tampered meters, as well as bottlenecks in the registration process. Implementation hindrances included the lack of education and awareness, funding challenges, shortage of human capital, infrastructural challenges and the lack of technical resources. With regards to the household income, the study found that there was a significant relationship between the household income and the suitability of FBE. Study also found that the household income is one of the main determinants for a household to be classified as indigent and therefore, qualify for Free Basic Services.
Financial monitoring policies of microfinance institutions in Accra : policy formulation and implementation challenges
(2017) Quao, Kwami Hope; Lekhanya, Lawrence Mpele; Dorasamy, Nirmala
Although numerous articles have been published globally on microfinance (MF), essentially highlighting the need to regulate microfinance institutions (MFIs), none of these, to the knowledge of the researcher, specifically explore in profundity the formulation process of financial monitoring policies (FMPs), their implementation, and the challenges MFIs encounter in implementing these policies. The wave of distressed and failing of MFIs in Ghana and the loss of hard-earned thrift deposits of the poor, therefore demand for this investigation. This study consequently viaducts the gap and contributes to the debate by reviewing the specific financial policies pertaining to MFIs, their formulation, implementation of such policies, and the challenges MFIs encounter relating to those policies. Also introduced into the MF research arena, is the concept of implementation theory to move knowledge frontier forward. Further, the outcome will be of particular relevance to all emerging economies who view MFls as praxis for poverty alleviation, employment creation and addressing inequality. The study adopted a mixed research approach, with both qualitative and quantitative data gathered from a sample of 65 MFIs in Accra through a self-administered, Likert-scaled questionnaire. Data were analysed using SPSS version 24.0, with results presented in frequency tables, figures, correlation tables, and cross-tabulations. The findings reveal that FMPs exist for MFIs in Ghana – Accra, particularly. However, regulation formulation is shown to be lopsided, with implementation of FMPs, and monitoring and supervision thereof, also found to be deficient. The results further indicate that using minimum capital as a tool to ensuring efficiency in the sector, is a major obstacle to overcome to create an impetus for regulatory non-compliance. Based on the findings, the research recommends consideration by policymakers and MFI monitoring units to create a semi-autonomous institution, the National Microfinance Promotion Authority, to regulate and supervise the MFIs in Ghana. It is also recommended that research focus be shifted to policy implementation regarding MF operations.