Faculty of Management Sciences

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An analysis of attitudes, behaviour and perceptions of water use within urban households in the city of Durban
(2023) Banoo, Ismail; Dorasamy, Nirmala
South Africa is facing increasing water demands to meet the needs of a rapidly growing and urbanising population, including an urgent need for sustained economic growth. At the same time, climate change is driving the country towards a warmer and drier climatic future, with predicted longer droughts and intense floods. Climate change will result in reduced water availability to meet South Africa’s water demands of the future. This study addresses the urban water demand management challenge by focussing on the attitudes, behaviour and perceptions of urban households towards their water consumption, in a search for ways in which domestic demand for water may be substantially reduced. The analysis reflects the attitudes and perceptions of City of Durban urban dwellers in a period when water use restrictions are common across the country. Several national, provincial and local government calls have been made for immediate researched solutions for reducing urban water demand in South Africa (SA). The research study has brought to fore the complexity of competing forces shaping water demand and water use in the context of the socio-demographic composition of households living within different kinds of dwellings, as well as cultural, behavioural and attitudinal aspects of water consumption in City of Durban. In so doing, it aimed to inform public management policy and planning on effective ways to reduce water consumption and identify alternative and complimentary solutions towards effective water demand management. The essential questions the research addressed was to what extent do two key dimensions of urban structure - built form and the socio-behavioural characteristics of household behaviour, influence the pattern of water consumption across the Durban metropolitan area. Additionally, the study also investigated the extent to which people understood water-saving as an environmental concept and the need to conserve the natural resource, including what urban water users believed were the most effective water-saving habits, technology interventions and communication methods with water services authorities.
An analysis of policy impact and stream water quality practices on knowledge, attitudes and behaviour toward stream restoration practices in Umlazi Township, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
(2022-05) Xaba, Ntokozo Amanda; Mgutshini, Tennyson
Background: Environmental knowledge and environmental policies influence behaviour change towards environmental-policies adherence. Rivers in Umlazi are one of the most polluted rivers in South Africa which results in reports of death resulting from illegal dumping. There is limited understanding of how policy and stream water quality influence people’s environmental knowledge, attitude and behavioural practice. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine policy impact on knowledge, attitudes and behaviour toward stream restoration practices in Umlazi Township, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa Methodology: A sequential mixed method design was used in this study. Interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data from the municipality and community organisations under exploratory design. A survey on community members of Umlazi validates the interview and focus group findings. Results: Altering physical and natural environment as part of Social Ecological Model (SEM) and improving living conditions of the citizens can be conducted by the government to yield better public health outcomes. Beta coefficients (0.168) for policies findings suggest policy impact has biggest influence in predicting behavioural change towards stream restoration and in decision making than attitude and knowledge. Even though there was lack of proper knowledge on stream water quality testing, poor attitude towards stream restoration practice was highlighted throughout the study. Citizens’ behaviour and attitude instead highlighted social disapproval towards clean stream management and 76.3% highlighted concerns of children being more vulnerable to health and safety risks. Key Contributions Made by the Study: The study proposes a model that suggests that sustainable management of river ecosystems requires a stronger inter-disciplinary approach and reclaiming the ‘water sector’ from the margins to the centre of policymaking.
The application of space technology and the challenges of managing water infrastructure in a selected South African municipality
(2023-04) Mokgobu, Matlou Lesley; Mason, Roger Bruce
The installation of water infrastructure in cities poses a challenge to communities, municipalities, and installation contractors. These challenges range from the inaccessibility of streets, the community’s limited access to homes, traffic jams, deep trenches with few or no barricades, leaking water pipes, water supply cut-offs, electricity supply cut-offs, vandalism, and theft of water pipes and accessories. The research problem, therefore, revolves around a better understanding of these water infrastructural problems, how to mitigate such problems caused by inadequate planning, leading, organising, controlling, and coordination by management, arising from various technical aspects of water infrastructure. The need for this study arises from the inconvenience and dangers experienced by communities with heaps of materials lying around causing disturbances to traffic flow, open hazardous trenches becoming dangerous to children playing in their vicinity, vehicle accidents because of the trenches, and damaged kerbs. The study aimed to investigate the challenges of managing water infrastructure in a selected South African municipality to find possible ways to resolve such challenges with the help of space technology. The study achieved the objectives, namely, to identify the challenges experienced by the municipality during and after the installation of water infrastructure; to rank the importance of the experienced challenges; to explore the root causes of the challenges experienced during the installation of water infrastructure; to identify how space technology can help with the management of water infrastructure; to develop a framework of the challenges and the causes; and, to explore water management strategies with the effort of finding possible ways to resolve the challenges. The study was exploratory and applied mixed methods research methodology. Data was collected via a survey (402 City of Tshwane residents), in-depth interviews (20 City of Tshwane managers of the Water Division), and two focus groups (7 participants per group of City of Tshwane contractor managers and contractor employees) through the convergent parallel design method. The quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 27), and the qualitative data was analysed using NVivo version 27, charts, tables, and themes. The results from the three sets of participants indicated multiple challenges related to skills deficits, management deficits, political interference, and inexperienced staff in the water infrastructure division. The findings indicated knowledge, ability and performance gaps in human resources, management, technical skills, financial management, socio-politics, and legal frameworks. The study contributed new knowledge to systems theory regarding the policies, systems, installation and maintenance of water infrastructure, and communication, and these aspects are supported by the findings. The application of space technology on a large scale can help the City of Tshwane fight criminal acts of vandalism and theft of infrastructure. This study found that space technology is still in its infancy in the city, and that the application of this technology requires an elevated level of education, experience and specialised technical skills to operate. This study recommended extensive investment in space technology. The study further recommended that the City of Tshwane improve human resources, training, culture, finance, operations, and control measures. The study recommended further research on the proper use of funds, the causes of community violence against the contractors doing maintenance, investigation of the delays in the procurement of services, turnaround time for the various water infrastructure activities, relationship management between the city employees and the contractors, the impact of lack of reporting by the managers and employees to the superiors in the water infrastructure division, and clearer definition of roles between municipal employees and politicians. More academic research into water infrastructure, based on the use of and relationship between water infrastructure and space technology, is warranted.
Assessing the performance of green roofs for stormwater runoff mitigation in the South African urban environment
(Journal of Urban and Environmental Engineering, 2021-12-31) Sucheran, Reshma; Sucheran, Arisha
Rapid urbanization has altered the hydrologic cycle, causing increased runoff rates and peak flows in the drainage system. Cities are now facing serious problems relating to stormwater management such as water scarcity, degraded waterways, and increased flooding. Under such circumstances, green roofs present numerous benefits including the retention of rainwater for a longer time and a delay in the peak discharge. Using data from various storm events, this study examined the performance of retrofitted green roofs for stormwater management in the eThekwini region of South Africa. The study also used the Personal Computer Storm Water Management Model (PCSWMM) to investigate the effect that the best performing green roof would have on stormwater flow rates and volumes for the region. The results concluded that the green roof systems proved to significantly reduce stormwater runoff flow rates and volumes, and retention largely depended on the intensity and duration of the rain events. The PCSWMM model further confirmed that when compared to the base model, peak flow rates from the green roof model decreased by over 40% for all storm intensities. It can therefore be concluded that the implementation of green roofs within the eThekwini Central Business District (CBD) will be highly effective in reducing peak stormwater flow rates.
Challenges during installation and maintenance of water delivery infrastructure : a citizen perspective
(Beykent University, 2023-10-30) Mokgobu, Matlou Lesley; Mason, Roger; Dobbelstein, Thomas
The installation and maintenance of water infrastructure in South African cities poses a challenge to communities, municipalities, and installation contractors, who face problems such as inadequate access to homes, traffic jams, inadequately barricaded trenches, leaking water pipes, water supply cut offs, vandalism, and theft of water. The research problem, therefore, involves an inadequate understanding of what drives these problems and how to mitigate them through better management. The aim of this study was to investigate the challenges of managing water infrastructure as perceived by the citizens of a South African municipality. The study was a descriptive and cross-sectional survey, with data collected, via a literature derived, emailed questionnaire, from a self-selected non probability sample of 402 City of Tshwane residents. Analysis, via SPSS Version 27, used descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that both the municipality and the contractors contributed to the challenges experienced by citizens, with maintenance challenges being more serious than installation challenges. Municipal and political challenges were the main drivers, with political ownership of construction companies and political interference being the biggest problems. The findings contributed to a better understanding of the challenges inhibiting effective installation and maintenance of water infrastructure, and are important to the municipality, and the community at large, because they contribute to a better understanding of service delivery from the citizens’ perspectives.
Challenges of the repairs and maintenance of water infrastructure in Aganang Municipality in the province of Limpopo
(2017-11) Mokgobu, Matlou Lesley; Amisi, Baruti B.
Access to clean water is a human right and a basic need. Yet, many South African communities, the villages of the Aganang Municipality included, are still living in areas where access to clean water remains a challenge. They face, among other problems, a longer waiting time in long queues; walking long distances despite the topography of the villages; waiting for water at night when numerous consumer‘s taps are closed is then that water can reach other areas; or simply buying water from other community members who trade it with donkey carts as a commodity. The researcher used a mixed method to understand the challenges of water infrastructure in the municipality. The research‘s main findings reveal that these challenges result from a number of factors including but not limited to vandalism, shortage of personnel; lack of resources human, financial and spare parts; leaking and breaking of pipes, and under qualified/poorly trained personnel. These issues lead to dissatisfaction of the beneficiaries and mixed feelings around water quality. Indeed, whilst majority of respondents believe the quality of water is good, others disagree whilst others claim that they do not receive water at all. The solutions to these problems are also multifaceted. They include yard connections, reporting theft and vandalism to the police, imposing fine to the offender, employing water inspectors and security guards, discouraging illegal connections, educate the communities. The reporting mechanisms could include social media, free transportation of both the personnel and individuals who have identified the issues, and recruiting local people and transferring skills to the community members. The respondents have different views on different aspects of water infrastructure and access to clean water.
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.
An evaluation of customer satisfaction with water service quality in the uMgungundlovu District Municipality
(2021) Muthwa, Emmanuel Xolani; Matsiliza, Noluthando S.
Water services are critical to the provision of safe drinking water. Access to clean water is recognised as a human right in many countries. In South Africa, the Constitution, the Water Service Act, and the National Water Act are the water legal framework. Recognizing the significance of having access to a safe and sufficient water supply has become a core business for many cities. However, as in many developing countries, South Africa is facing noteworthy challenges with water provision. These challenges are frequently characterized by intermittent water provision, low pressure, and poor water service quality. The uMgungundlovu district municipality has seen an increase in public outrage over water service quality, inevitably resulting in community reactions that are frequently the source of violent protests. Some of the issues that the communities are facing include inappropriate water access, a slow response time from the municipality, and inefficient water infrastructure. Thus, the study aimed to explore how satisfied the community in the uMgungundlovu district municipality is with the water service provision. Furthermore, this study intended to design a framework that can enhance water quality services in the uMgungundlovu district municipality. In this study, the water service quality was measured using the five dimensions (Tangibles, Reliability, Responsiveness, Assurance, and empathy) of the ServQual model coined by Parasuraman, Zeithaml, and Berry. To address the research problem and objectives, this study opted for a mixed-methods approach. This study collected qualitative data through the interview from twenty-four respondents, and quantitative data through questionnaire from 286 respondents in the uMgungundlovu district municipality. The findings of this study reveal that there is a gap in the water service quality provided by the uMgungundlovu district municipality to its customers in terms of what customers perceive and what they experience in all five dimensions of ServQual namely Tangibles, Reliability, Responsiveness, Assurance, and empathy. The study proposes a framework to enhance the water service quality in the context of the rural community. The proposed model is based on the ServQual model. Furthermore, the study recommends that uMgungundlovu district municipality should consider restructuring its customer care service, should consider updating and upgrading water equipment, and should consider modernising the water meter reading system and water statement system.
An examination of community perceptions on service delivery : a case study of Ntabankulu Local Municipality
(2022) Dabula, Mphumzi; Fagbadebo, Omololu M.
This study examined community perceptions on public service delivery in Ntabankulu Local Municipality. Members of the communities in Ntabankulu Municipality often protest their dissatisfaction with public services being delivered by the government. The study investigated the root causes of poor service delivery in the Municipality. Using interviews and questionnaires as methods of data collection, the study engaged 93 participants, selected randomly to participate in the interview and administration of questionnaires. These participants were drawn from community members, councillors, and ward committee members. The study found that the lack of capacity jeopardises effective service delivery to the communities in Ntabankulu Local Municipality. Other factors that hinder effective service delivery in the municipality include a shortage of financial resources and grant dependency. The findings revealed further that the high backlog of service delivery in Ntabankulu and the non-service delivery is negatively affecting the standard of living of members of the community. The study also found that Ntabankulu Local Municipality limited technical resources in the handling of certain services that required expert knowledge. The use of consultants in place of this absence has not been able to provide the necessary services to the satisfaction of citizens. Other findings suggested that service delivery protests in Ntabankulu are about water and road infrastructure. The recommendations highlighted that Ntabankulu Local Municipality should procure its plant machinery to maintain the access roads and not outsource such services. It was recommended that the municipality should deliver water in water Tanker Trucks at least twice a week while it is trying to provide them with water taps to ensure that community members have access to clean water
The influence of human resource development on employee performance and service delivery at a local municipality in the Eastern Cape
(2022-04) Nama, Khuselwa; Lourens, Melanie Elizabeth; Daweti, Baphiwe
The study examined the influence of human resource development on employee performance and service delivery. Employees who receive valuable training and development have the potential to improve performance and provide quality service delivery. Community demands for essential services from public sector employees seem to have increased over time. To address community demands, municipalities depend on skilled employees to deliver desired performance. Public sector employees require ongoing and relevant development by means of which to supply quality essential services to the public. In South Africa, the development of public sector employees appears neglected which may lead to the inadequate provision of essential services exemplified by clean water. Located in a positivist philosophical lens, the study adopted a quantitative crosssectional research paradigm, using a survey design. The research site for conducting the survey was Mbhashe Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Based on a target population of 265 (N=265), a stratified random sample of 155 (n=155) respondents was drawn. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data and 115 questionnaires were returned. Data was analysed using statistical procedures and measurements such as correlation tests and multiple regression analysis. The findings of the study revealed that human resource development had a positive influence on employee performance and service delivery. The study recommends the provision of training and development interventions to capacitate public sector employees. Future studies can probe the awareness of human resource development within the public sector.
An investigation into a viable service delivery system in relation to water and sanitation in Ugu District Municipality
(2021-10) Dlamini-Tshazi, Khethiwe P.; Hardman, Stanley George
Water needs permeate all aspects of human existence and activities, and water is fundamental and irreplaceable to humans. However, developing effective water and sanitation governance arrangements is of increasing concern. Although a general conceptualisation of governance exists, there is little guidance on a governance system’s operational and evaluative components. Therefore, fundamental challenges to improving water governance are identified and investigated in the study. The research focus is on holistic governance issues concerning water and sanitation provision to households and businesses, with special reference to the Ugu District Municipality (UDM) in the KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. Governance is analysed based on interconnectedness of structures and system components to achieve organisational results. A qualitative method, combined with systems thinking methodologies, namely a Viable Systems Model (VSM) is used, as well as Soft systems methodology (SSM). Semi-structured interviews to targeted municipal officials and focus groups of ward councillors were used to gather information, share perceptions, experiences, concerns, and perspectives in water and sanitation service delivery. Interview results are an indicator of the generation and applicability of VSM to service delivery issues at UDM and provided empirical evidence when VSM gaps were identified. VSM data consisted of an initial comprehensive system map, comparing various manifestations of the organisation within their environment. The analysis demonstrated municipal challenges as a combination of soft and hard issues, including leadership oversight, fragmentation of structures, lack of information coordination and shortages of resources. VSM also fosters an indepth understanding of the UDM as a system, supporting its suitability, although the ability to implement suggested improvements was not confirmed. The study emphasises the necessity for a holistic approach and heeding of soft issues when providing water and sanitation. The study contribution includes VSM application to strengthen governance in water service authorities, highlighting VSM strengths and shortfalls in the applied context, and presents derived methodological lessons, which broaden the knowledge of employing VSM and support its application in practice.
An investigation of farmer's perception of water conservation : a case study of Umgababa community municipality
(2022-03) Thabethe, Geli Sharon; Davis, Jason; Reddy, Maliga
The role and benefit of water to human life and the production environment cannot be over-emphasised hence it is one of the most valuable resources. The objective of the study was to identify the water conservation techniques used in the Umgababa community, to determine if the water conservation techniques used are adaptable, to determine the extent of adaptability of the water conservation techniques used in the Umgababa community. In addition, the study sought to recommend guidelines for sustainable water conservation techniques. Farmers in rural areas face even serious due to the inadequate supply of water, as well as a host of other service delivery challenges. This study assessed the farmers’ perceptions of water conservation with a focus on the Umgababa community in KwaZulu-Natal. A mixed-method approach was employed for the study. Sixty-one (61) respondents completed the questionnaires while three (3) interviewees participated in the semi-structured interview. The data was analysed both descriptively and inferentially, while thematic analysis was used in evaluating the transcribed feedback from the interviewees. The study revealed that the farmers have a positive perception of water conservation techniques and that basic water conservation techniques, such as the use of JoJo tanks and boreholes are currently in place. Even though the existing techniques are sustainable, not much focus has been given to other sophisticated water conservation methods that could be implemented in Umgababa. It was further revealed that the existing public awareness and education campaigns should be continued, to change residents’ existing water conservation behaviours and culture.
Mediating effects on poverty reduction in India through Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme
(National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (Co. LTD Ukrinformnauka) (Publications), 2021-11-02) Arulraj, A.; Rena, Ravinder
The employment opportunities in rural areas have signifi cantly decreased for the last few decades in India. Th erefore, Government of India introduced Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme (MGNREGP) to create employment opportunities for ru ral people. Th e Programme is considered as a “silver bullet” for eradicating rural poverty and unemployment in India. Th e purpose of this empirical research study is to develop a new model for poverty reduction in rural India through this Programme. Th e novelty of this article is an attempt to develop an empirical research model that assists the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme when mapping the level of economics service quality and thereby enhance the same. Th is Programme provides an alternative source of livelihood, which will have an impact on reducing migration, restricting child labor, alleviating poverty, and making villages self-sustaining through productive assets creation such as road construction, cleaning up of water tanks, soil and water conservation work, etc. for which it has been considered as the largest anti-poverty programme in the world. Th e paper critically examines the implementation process of this Programme and its impact on tribal livelihoods. Th e following research methodology is used in the article: the data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Th e sampling procedure used for this study is stratifi ed random sampling. Th e stratifi cation is done based on the Taluks are Kumbakonam (Th anjavur District), Keeranur (Pudukottai District) and Nagappatinam (Nagappatinam District) of Tamilnadu state of South-India for the nature of region South, East, Centre, West and North while selecting the MGNREGP Employees from each category, non-probabilistic convenience and judgmental sampling technique is used. Th e fi ndings and conclusions of the study reveal that millions of rural poor with the inclusion of new works under this Programme could able to get some employment which supports their livelihoods. Eff orts are exerted to improve more transparency and accountability in implementing this programme to ensure that the benefi ts reach out to the poor and the needy villagers. Th e regression analysis revealed that the Poverty Eradication on the various dimensions of Economic Development, infl uenced Economic Development followed by Social Development. Th e visual representation of results suggest that the relationships between the dimensions of Economic Development, Social development resulted in a signifi cant impact on the mediated factor ‘Poverty Eradication’. Th e paper suggests the policy framework for the stakeholders in eff ective implementation of the Programme.
Modernisation of rural communities : solid waste management implication
(Durban University of Technology, 2023) Zondi, Nkululeko; Qwatekana, Zikho; Dube, Simphiwe
Solid waste management is a global challenge, particularly in economically developing countries due to their growing population, urbanisation, and increasing waste generation. Municipalities in South Africa are responsible for general waste management in both residential areas and industrial sites. However, waste management is not implemented in all rural areas of South Africa, even against the background of socioeconomic improvement and increased consumption patterns in these communities. This study aims to examine the relationship between rural socioeconomic conditions and solid waste generation and management. The target population of this study is five rural communities of the Vulindlela area, which is situated west of Msunduzi Municipality in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. A total of 50 households were randomly selected as sample sites as the result of a detailed field survey in 2022 and 50 respondents participated in the study for interview through cluster sampling technique. The study uses a mixture of qualitative and quantitative methods. Primary data about the socio-demographic characteristics of respondents were gathered through close-ended questions. Open-ended questions in the semi-structured interviews were utilised to gather data on Vulindlela residents’ perceptions of waste pollution effects and strategies implemented in their area. Microsoft Excel version 2305 was used to perform basic descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) to examine the socio-economic characteristics of respondents. While a thematic content analysis was undertaken to analyse the open-ended question data which was on respondents’ perceptions of waste pollution in their area. The study findings suggest that Vulindlela is a socioeconomically diverse rural community, with households earning between 500 and 31,000 Rand per month. In addition, grocery expenditures range from 800 to 3100 Rand per month. Communities characterised by lower income generation dispose of their waste inside their households, apart from certain waste such as nappies that are disposed of in freshwater ecosystems and open spaces, while those who earn more money have diverse waste types and dispose of their waste at illegal dump sites.
Monitoring and evaluation on the performance of local government in South Africa: insight from selected district municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal
(2023) Mabizela, Hlengiwe Nomzamo; Zwane, Zwelithini Mangethe
The poor quality of service delivery in South African municipalities has been documented in numerous studies. The lack of appropriate monitoring and evaluation and complete disregard of adherence to processes and procedures in terms the provisions of legislations such as the Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000 are two of the main causes of poor service delivery. Poor performance as a result, has been noted in municipalities across South Africa. UThukela, Amajuba, and uMgungundlovu district municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal were used as case studies in this research to examine the effect of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) on the performance of municipalities in South Africa. Municipal employees within Performance Management Systems unit (PMS) and Corporate Services unit made up the target population of the research study. The sample consisted of 20 participants, with 10 from the uThukela district municipality, 2 from the Amajuba district municipality, and 8 from the uMgungundlovu district municipality. The research adopted a qualitative approach and followed a purposive sampling method to identify key respondents based on their expertise and understanding of the research issue. Data collection involved conducting focus group discussions with the selected participants. The collected data were analysed using the NVivo software programme, wherein data was categorised into themes and coded for the presentation of findings and discussion of the results. Consent was obtained from participants through the gatekeeper letters and the signing of consent forms. The main goal of the research was to contribute to the body of knowledge while identifying alternate M&E methods that the municipalities can adopt in their key functions to improve performance and service delivery. The study analysed the effects of M&E on the performance of local government, and the models and systems utilised by municipalities to conduct M&E. It further interrogated challenges associated with M&E within the identified municipalities and the contributions of M&E towards improving performance and effective service delivery. According to the findings, M&E in local government have been challenging as a result of the absence of comprehensive M&E systems, capacity and resources. This is one of the factors that contribute to lack of service delivery and poor performance. Weak M&E systems and practices add to municipal failure to achieve their constitutional mandate of service delivery and enhanced performance. Thus, the research reveals that M&E is essential to ensure that local government responds to the needs and demands of the people and enhances municipal performance. Admittedly, there is no single approach to resolve these challenges contronting municipalities, however, M&E can provide the conditions for increased and sustained performance. To realise the goal of improving M&E within local government, the research suggests that municipalities should institutionalise M&E through prioritising and embracing M&E as a crucial instrument for facilitating results-based progressive local government. Municipalities should encourage mandatory compliance with the systems and procedures, adopt information technology systems to advance and strengthen the application of M&E, and adopt approaches such as participatory M&E to evaluate the impact of its functions and development initiatives.
The nature and extent of sustainable water management practices in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe
(2021-01) Ushamba, Kudzai Norman; Sucheran, Reshma
International tourism has grown to become one of the largest economic sectors in the world. The growth of tourism is not merely taking place in the so-called developed economies, but also in developing economies. In Africa, the growth of tourism has led to the proliferation of many forms of accommodation and lodging facilities. With a significant number of African nations facing fresh-water problems, water stress has now become a challenge in most destinations. The accommodation sector of the tourism industry has been identified as one of the biggest consumers of water through its various activities and facilities. Tourism, a major fiscus contributor is crucial to the economy of Zimbabwe hence its sustainability is vital especially during this time when world is grappling climate change. The last two or more decades have witnessed the majority of Zimbabwean citizens facing fresh water supply problems, especially in cities and towns which are hotspots for tourism. This study examined the nature and extent of water management practices in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. The study examined the level of water use in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe, and the extent to which water conservation practices are currently being undertaken by this sector. The study further examined challenges facing water conservation in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. A ‘mixed method’ research approach was used in this study. Questionnaires were administered to managers of 203 accommodation facilities in the country. Expert views were sort from key stakeholders whose organisations, regulations and policies affect the tourism industry. The study found that accommodation establishments in Zimbabwe have been reactive to climate change induced water stress and have been applying several water-conservation measures. The study also found that there is non-enforcement of regulations on government policies and lack of proper awareness as to the monetary benefits of practicing water conservation in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. The study concludes that without proper planning, communication, and enforcement of regulations large amounts of fresh water will continue to be wasted to the deprivation of communities.
Nonviolent campaigns in Zimbabwe, 1999 to 2013 : strategies, methods and effectiveness
(2016) Hove, Mediel; Harris, Geoffrey Thomas; Kaye, Sylvia
This study investigates the effectiveness of the strategies and methods that were employed by non-state actors as they engaged the state in nonviolent campaigns in order to address the socio-economic and political challenges experienced in Zimbabwe between 1999 and 2013. Using a combination of exploratory, descriptive and evaluative methods, the study argues that the nonviolent campaigns used in Zimbabwe were in the short term successful despite the state’s violent responses, which were at their peak during the run up to elections. The findings reveal that Women of Zimbabwe Arise, the Zimbabwe National Students’ Union and the National Constitutional Assembly among other non-state actors were effective in the short term. As a result Zimbabwe stands out as a plausible example where nonviolence as a strategy failed to end a brutal regime but enabled the non-state actor (the Movement for Democratic Change) to gain popular civilian support through its effective engagement of nonviolent strategies and methods. It was just its failure to estrange some of the pillars of violence (some members of the military, the police and the intelligence system) which curtailed the democratically elected opposition to get in into power. However, the brutal state responses directly and indirectly triggered a severe socio-economic and political down turn. This became apparent in the health, education, and water and sanitation services that were on the verge of collapse; increased corruption, growing displacement and emigration of Zimbabweans, and withdrawal of external support. The study concludes that the failure of nonviolent campaigns was partly a result of limited knowledge among Zimbabweans about what nonviolence involves, state brutality, poor planning and lack of patience by non-state actors and their resort to violence instead of sticking to nonviolence. It is nonetheless imperative to encourage civic society to cultivate a culture of nonviolence through the use of various agents of socialization which include the: home, school and the media.
Public perceptions for the acceptability of recycled wastewater usage in households
(2023) Gul, Samiya; Govender, Ivan Gunass
South Africa is a water-stressed country as there is an imbalance between the demand and the supply of potable water. Wastewater reuse is one of the several vital strategies to find the delicate balance between water supply and demand. Reclaimed wastewater not only protects the release of pollutants into the environment but it adds to the supply of potable and non-potable water. However, reclaimed wastewater faces obstacles in sustainable implementation. Many studies have been conducted so far to identify the underlying factors behind the acceptability of wastewater reuse. Public acceptance is the primary threat to the acceptability of these programs or schemes. A noticeable resistance from the communities of different countries has been identified. Given these issues, the objectives of the present study were to evaluate socio-demographic variables including; gender, age, education, religion, marital status and income level on the willingness to use and participate in a reuse plan, to assess the role of knowledge on public acceptance of the recycled water, to identify and study the problems faced by the public towards the acceptability of recycled wastewater usage and to develop a framework to understand the behaviour of the people towards the reuse of wastewater. The study adapted well-structured questionnaires to collect the data. Proportionate random sampling was used with a sample size of 298 responses. The data were analysed through MS Excel, SPSS v 22.0 and AMOS v 24.0 to yield descriptive and inferential statistics. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to provide estimates and test the hypothesised relationships. The study identifies the critical antecedents of the behaviour of wastewater reuse, namely, trust, past experience, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, attitude and intention and tests the relationships using SEM. It further suggests that a significant relationship exists between the variables and the acceptability of wastewater reuse. The other findings were that flushing toilets are mostly accepted (90%), followed by watering gardens (86%), washing clothes (68%) and washing dishes (60%). The acceptance for favourable applications among participants from all religions is highest for toilet flushing, followed by watering gardens, washing clothes, washing dishes, growing food crops, swimming, and at last drinking. Financial incentives and reduced monthly costs on the recycled water were found to help accept the wastewater reuse. The study presents a broad and integrated framework of behaviour towards the acceptability of wastewater. Therefore, the study is an essential contribution toward the acceptability of wastewater reuse, and water stakeholders may use the study's implications to increase public acceptance and alleviate challenges for water reuse. The study recommends that the public should be provided with the education and information on recycling wastewater reuse benefits and risks to achieve both environmental protection and sustainable development.
Reducing water consumption in low-cost housing areas in the eThekwini Municipality
(2021) Thakur, Rookmoney; Harris, Geoffrey Thomas
South Africa is facing a water crisis and local municipalities are finding it difficult to mitigate the gap between supply and demand. Although the government’s policy to allocate a basic supply of 9kl of free water per month to indigent communities is commendable, the rapid exhaustion of the free supply by low-income communities necessitating a tariff applied for additional water consumption, is concerning. Whilst this consumption-based tariff is used to encourage conservation, municipalities nevertheless face a revenue loss due to a non-payment culture. This study argues that behavioural change is more beneficial than punitive economic measures and seeks to develop a strategic intervention to assist the eThekwini municipality to promote water conservation behaviour in one low-income community, called Waterloo. The Theory of reasoned action (TRA) is used to identify the beliefs, attitudes and subjective social norms towards water conservation and the Nudge Theory is used to incentivise water users towards behavioural change. A mixed method exploratory sequential design method is adopted. The qualitative phase of the study consists of semi-structured interviews with eight key informants from government and the public sector; and four focus group discussions with 22 residents of the Waterloo community, to determine the factors that influence their water-use behaviour. Participation in this study was voluntary with confidentiality maintained. The data was recorded and transcribed to ensure credibility. The results were interpreted and analysed against existing literature using thematic content analysis. The quantitative phase of the study investigates the power of the TRA. Results from a survey comprising 304 residents indicate that low-income householders generally have very positive attitudes towards water conservation and saving practices, nonetheless these positive attitudes are not consistently translated into actual behaviour. In synthesising the results, three recurring key issues are identified, namely (1) access to knowledge; (2) community engagement as part of the solution; and (3) allocation of incentives. The key finding of study indicated that awareness of the current water situation itself may not motivate good water use behaviour. While participants had knowledge of water conservation practices, there was, however, a high amount of water consumption and high unaccounted water losses in the area. Therefore, nudging the community may be an ideal approach towards behavioural change. The thesis concludes by proposing a community-based behavioural framework, as a guideline for eThekwini to consider when designing conservation measures for low-income communities
Rural redress through investment in water resource management for subsistence farming
(Environmental Economics, 2015) Bakre, Olayemi Rahman; Dorasamy, Nirmala
Rural development is a topical issue in South Africa. Several studies, policies and strategies as regards rural develop-ment are discussed at various levels and platforms. However, despite the efforts made by government and non-governmental bodies, rural communities such as the Mtubatuba community situated in the north-east region of KwaZu-lu-Natal and many other rural communities still wallow in poverty. In consonance to the high prevalence of poverty and stagnation of subsistence farming, the paper aims to suggest other approaches to addressing the cyclical poverty and defunct subsistence farming in this community. To accomplish this aim, a mixed research approach was used; as elements of qualitative (interviews) and quantitative (questionnaire) research approaches were used to obtain relevant information. The study reveals that water shortage has adversely undermined the development and growth of subsistence farming in this poor community. Furthermore, the difficulties experienced by the marginalized people of Mtubatuba are typical of many rural areas which have not fully benefitted from transformation in a post-apartheid South Africa. To address this concern, the study suggested the reallocation of the municipalities surplus budget to the investment of water resource management with the intent of transforming the subsistence farming into commercial farming; thus improving the standard of living and reducing poverty to a reasonable extent.