A framework to guide cybersecurity governance efforts in non-profit organisations
- Authors: le Roux, Wickus
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer security , Information technology Nonprofit organizations -- security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44918 , vital:38188
- Description: The average non-profit organisation is faced with the same cybersecurity challenges as an international multi-corporation that generates income. However, it may lack the competencies or resources to fully utilise, implement, monitor, or evaluate cybersecurity governance to a satisfactory or acceptable level. A literature review revealed limited publicly accessible documents to guide NPOs in particular in the task of cybersecurity governance. Therefore, the problem addressed by this research is the lack of a framework to guide cybersecurity governance efforts in non-profit organisations. This real-world problem was approached using the design science paradigm. It was important to identify, firstly, factors unique to the general context of non-profit organisations, including the constraints and limitations faced by non-profit organisations. Secondly, the key cyber risks for non-profit organisations and how they can materialise through the use of emails, social media, and BYODs in the NPO context, were identified. As a third step, available cybersecurity governance guidelines were analysed to determine best practices. This investigation also revealed the people, process, and technology elements as the pillars of information security. This resulted in the development of a framework (the PotLer framework) to guide cybersecurity governance efforts in non-profit organisations based on the input of the three points mentioned above. The framework was constructed around four conceptual elements, namely information security governance; people, process, and technology; governance elements; and key risks. The PotLer framework expands the high-level generic constructs beyond the conceptual space and provides implementation guidance in the form of a questionnaire to be completed by NPOs. The questionnaire was developed as an interactive spreadsheet that requires “Yes” or “No” responses from participants and generates a recommendation based on these answers. To evaluate the PotLer framework, the aforementioned questionnaire was completed by four NPOs. An additional questionnaire obtained their input on the utility and comprehensiveness of the framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: le Roux, Wickus
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer security , Information technology Nonprofit organizations -- security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44918 , vital:38188
- Description: The average non-profit organisation is faced with the same cybersecurity challenges as an international multi-corporation that generates income. However, it may lack the competencies or resources to fully utilise, implement, monitor, or evaluate cybersecurity governance to a satisfactory or acceptable level. A literature review revealed limited publicly accessible documents to guide NPOs in particular in the task of cybersecurity governance. Therefore, the problem addressed by this research is the lack of a framework to guide cybersecurity governance efforts in non-profit organisations. This real-world problem was approached using the design science paradigm. It was important to identify, firstly, factors unique to the general context of non-profit organisations, including the constraints and limitations faced by non-profit organisations. Secondly, the key cyber risks for non-profit organisations and how they can materialise through the use of emails, social media, and BYODs in the NPO context, were identified. As a third step, available cybersecurity governance guidelines were analysed to determine best practices. This investigation also revealed the people, process, and technology elements as the pillars of information security. This resulted in the development of a framework (the PotLer framework) to guide cybersecurity governance efforts in non-profit organisations based on the input of the three points mentioned above. The framework was constructed around four conceptual elements, namely information security governance; people, process, and technology; governance elements; and key risks. The PotLer framework expands the high-level generic constructs beyond the conceptual space and provides implementation guidance in the form of a questionnaire to be completed by NPOs. The questionnaire was developed as an interactive spreadsheet that requires “Yes” or “No” responses from participants and generates a recommendation based on these answers. To evaluate the PotLer framework, the aforementioned questionnaire was completed by four NPOs. An additional questionnaire obtained their input on the utility and comprehensiveness of the framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A framework to implement information security awareness, education and training within the Limpopo economic development agency group
- Authors: Mokobane, Ntsewa Benjamin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer security , Computer networks -- Security measures Data protection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42063 , vital:36622
- Description: Cybersecurity awareness, education and training of employees is key in reducing and preventing cyber-attack opportunities. The ignorance and/or lack of understanding of employees about the information security risks around them might expose the LEDA Group to cyber-attacks. This led to the problem that the level of awareness of employees regarding information security was not known. The implication of this not knowing was that an argument for the nature of an intervention to ensure awareness, as well as to educate and train employees regarding information security was not possible. The aim of this treatise was to develop a framework as an effective guideline for the implementation of cybersecurity awareness, education and training of employees. In the study, the LEDA Group employees were surveyed to determine their cybersecurity knowledge gap. An online questionnaire was randomly sent to 314 LEDA Group employees. The survey was voluntary and confidential. One hundred and thirty seven (137) employees completed the survey. The results of the survey were analysed to determine the gap between the current cybersecurity knowledge of the LEDA Group employees and state-of-the-art cybersecurity knowledge. The gap was used in the development of the framework for the implementation of the cybersecurity awareness, education and training (F-CSAET). Central to F-CSAET is the governance principles guided by best practices such as King IV, COBIT5, ISO27001, ISO27005, ISO27008 and ISO27032 and the compliance requirements to POPIA, the Copyright Act and the Cybercrimes and Cybersecurity Bill. The F-CSAET has six steps, namely Assess, Analyse, Create, Plan, Implement and Reinforce. The framework was evaluated for applicability by the team called the cyber security interest team, which was established specifically for the purpose of the F-CSAET.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mokobane, Ntsewa Benjamin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer security , Computer networks -- Security measures Data protection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42063 , vital:36622
- Description: Cybersecurity awareness, education and training of employees is key in reducing and preventing cyber-attack opportunities. The ignorance and/or lack of understanding of employees about the information security risks around them might expose the LEDA Group to cyber-attacks. This led to the problem that the level of awareness of employees regarding information security was not known. The implication of this not knowing was that an argument for the nature of an intervention to ensure awareness, as well as to educate and train employees regarding information security was not possible. The aim of this treatise was to develop a framework as an effective guideline for the implementation of cybersecurity awareness, education and training of employees. In the study, the LEDA Group employees were surveyed to determine their cybersecurity knowledge gap. An online questionnaire was randomly sent to 314 LEDA Group employees. The survey was voluntary and confidential. One hundred and thirty seven (137) employees completed the survey. The results of the survey were analysed to determine the gap between the current cybersecurity knowledge of the LEDA Group employees and state-of-the-art cybersecurity knowledge. The gap was used in the development of the framework for the implementation of the cybersecurity awareness, education and training (F-CSAET). Central to F-CSAET is the governance principles guided by best practices such as King IV, COBIT5, ISO27001, ISO27005, ISO27008 and ISO27032 and the compliance requirements to POPIA, the Copyright Act and the Cybercrimes and Cybersecurity Bill. The F-CSAET has six steps, namely Assess, Analyse, Create, Plan, Implement and Reinforce. The framework was evaluated for applicability by the team called the cyber security interest team, which was established specifically for the purpose of the F-CSAET.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A regulatory framework for investment promotion by WESGRO in the Western Cape province, 2014 – 2017
- Authors: Nodada, Lubabalo Yandisa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Infrastructure (Economics)-- South Africa -- Western Cape Economic development -- South Africa -- Western Cape Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42847 , vital:36699
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) was impeded by an underperforming economy in the Western Cape Province between 2014 and 2017. In order to stimulate economic growth during the period under review, Wesgro, the organization invested with the mandate of attracting FDI to the Western Cape Province, was required to market and attract high volumes of FDI. As the Western Cape economy was not growing at the required rate, Wesgro set its FDI target ranges to within achievable levels. In order to create a foundation for understanding laws and economic policies relevant to marketing to attract FDI, this study reviewed regulatory frameworks for FDI in South Africa and the Western Cape Province. In addition, the National Development Plan (economic growth policy of South Africa) and the Western Cape Provincial Strategic Plan 2014-2019 (economic growth policy of the Province) were discussed. The research methodology of this study followed a descriptive research approach, analysing existing secondary data extracted from books, academic journals, research reports, Acts of Parliament, economic growth policies and annual reports from the 2013/14 to 2016/17 financial years. Relevant data emanating from reviewed regulatory frameworks, economic growth policies, official FDI and its various forms, academic debates on FDI and the strategic roles and approaches employed by IPAs when marketing to attract FDI to home destinations was withdrawn, analysed and the findings presented. The findings revealed that a weak growing Western Cape economy impeded the potential of Wesgro to attract FDI beyond its targeted ranges between 2014 and 2017. The findings also indicated that the Western Cape economy experienced lack of investment, low economic activity, low economic growth and high unemployment because Wesgro did not attract sufficient FDI to stimulate economic growth. High volumes of FDI are needed to stimulate the Western Cape Province’s economic growth. Based on the findings of this study, various recommendations were made on ways in which the Western Cape economy could grow.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nodada, Lubabalo Yandisa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Infrastructure (Economics)-- South Africa -- Western Cape Economic development -- South Africa -- Western Cape Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42847 , vital:36699
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) was impeded by an underperforming economy in the Western Cape Province between 2014 and 2017. In order to stimulate economic growth during the period under review, Wesgro, the organization invested with the mandate of attracting FDI to the Western Cape Province, was required to market and attract high volumes of FDI. As the Western Cape economy was not growing at the required rate, Wesgro set its FDI target ranges to within achievable levels. In order to create a foundation for understanding laws and economic policies relevant to marketing to attract FDI, this study reviewed regulatory frameworks for FDI in South Africa and the Western Cape Province. In addition, the National Development Plan (economic growth policy of South Africa) and the Western Cape Provincial Strategic Plan 2014-2019 (economic growth policy of the Province) were discussed. The research methodology of this study followed a descriptive research approach, analysing existing secondary data extracted from books, academic journals, research reports, Acts of Parliament, economic growth policies and annual reports from the 2013/14 to 2016/17 financial years. Relevant data emanating from reviewed regulatory frameworks, economic growth policies, official FDI and its various forms, academic debates on FDI and the strategic roles and approaches employed by IPAs when marketing to attract FDI to home destinations was withdrawn, analysed and the findings presented. The findings revealed that a weak growing Western Cape economy impeded the potential of Wesgro to attract FDI beyond its targeted ranges between 2014 and 2017. The findings also indicated that the Western Cape economy experienced lack of investment, low economic activity, low economic growth and high unemployment because Wesgro did not attract sufficient FDI to stimulate economic growth. High volumes of FDI are needed to stimulate the Western Cape Province’s economic growth. Based on the findings of this study, various recommendations were made on ways in which the Western Cape economy could grow.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy for adopting cloud computing services in small, medium and micro enterprises (SME) in the Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Authors: Sarpong, George
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cloud computing , Technological innovations -- Management Information technology -- Management Management information systems New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Small business -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43567 , vital:36920
- Description: Small, medium and micro enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa continue to form the foundation for growing the economy. Thus, these enterprises have a significant role in to play in helping the country to eliminate poverty and unemployment. In order for these businesses to continue to grow and stay abreast with the changing business landscape, these businesses need to adopt some or other form of technology. One such technology is cloud computing, which is at times referred to as external hosting. Cloud computing is a type of technology that allows any business to operate as if it had a team of dedicated professional information technology (IT) personnel continually checking and monitoring its IT systems. As a result, cloud computing often allows a business to save on costs, improve communication with clients and speed up the transfer of information across the business. Thus, as SMEs often have small or non-existent IT departments, cloud computing offers these business an opportunity to compete with larger corporations without having to compromise on the quality of their service. However, in spite of these benefits, cloud computing still remains something of a novelty to many small businesses that operate in Nelson Mandela Metropole, as these businesses tend to either adopt a small portion of the technology or not to adopt the technology at all. The reasons for not significantly investing in the technology are usually far ranging but are often linked to these businesses not understanding how the service can be best used to help their business to grow. This study includes a description of a strategy that SMEs can follow when adopting cloud computing services as part of their business models. In addition to this, this study includes a discussion on the various benefits and disadvantages that await SMEs that make the decision to invest in the service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sarpong, George
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cloud computing , Technological innovations -- Management Information technology -- Management Management information systems New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Small business -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43567 , vital:36920
- Description: Small, medium and micro enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa continue to form the foundation for growing the economy. Thus, these enterprises have a significant role in to play in helping the country to eliminate poverty and unemployment. In order for these businesses to continue to grow and stay abreast with the changing business landscape, these businesses need to adopt some or other form of technology. One such technology is cloud computing, which is at times referred to as external hosting. Cloud computing is a type of technology that allows any business to operate as if it had a team of dedicated professional information technology (IT) personnel continually checking and monitoring its IT systems. As a result, cloud computing often allows a business to save on costs, improve communication with clients and speed up the transfer of information across the business. Thus, as SMEs often have small or non-existent IT departments, cloud computing offers these business an opportunity to compete with larger corporations without having to compromise on the quality of their service. However, in spite of these benefits, cloud computing still remains something of a novelty to many small businesses that operate in Nelson Mandela Metropole, as these businesses tend to either adopt a small portion of the technology or not to adopt the technology at all. The reasons for not significantly investing in the technology are usually far ranging but are often linked to these businesses not understanding how the service can be best used to help their business to grow. This study includes a description of a strategy that SMEs can follow when adopting cloud computing services as part of their business models. In addition to this, this study includes a discussion on the various benefits and disadvantages that await SMEs that make the decision to invest in the service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy for improving the maturity levels of IT service management in higher education institutions in South Africa
- Authors: Hilmer, Thomas
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information technology -- Management , Information technology Education, Higher -- South Africa Education -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40161 , vital:35824
- Description: IT Service Management (ITSM) refers to a set of activities that an organisation can perform to develop, supply, operate, manage and improve information technology related services in order to meet the needs of the business. The interest in ITSM is based on the expectation that applying best practice ITSM processes will result in lower expenses, fewer incidents and improved customer satisfaction. Various standards, frameworks, methodologies and processes have evolved to support this move to a value-driven, service-orientated approach to managing an organisation’s information systems. Between 2007 and 2009, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in South Africa benefited from a national project to improve the quality of their IT services through training in ITIL, a best practice ITSM framework. An assessment at the time, however, found that the maturity levels of the ITIL processes implemented after the intervention remained low, and this observation is common in other industries as well. The implementation of industry best practice ITSM frameworks does not always proceed smoothly; they can be costly, have long implementation times, and can be seen as excessively complicated and suited mainly for large organisations. Therefore, it is often challenging for organisations such as HEIs to improve their ITSM process maturity levels. The aim of this study is to develop a strategy that may assist South African HEIs in taking steps to improve their IT Service Management maturity levels. This primary research objective is addressed through a number of secondary research objectives, namely, to understand the challenges that HEIs often encounter when implementing ITSM; to determine the ITSM implementation status at a number of South African HEIs; to determine the various elements and components required to formulate the ITSM strategy; to determine whether alternatives to ITIL are feasible options for HEIs in South Africa; and to validate the proposed strategy by verifying its quality, utility and efficacy. A comprehensive literature review provides information on various ITSM standards, frameworks and methodologies. It also investigates ITSM adoption and implementation by organisations in general, and HEIs in particular, and how modern practices such as DevOps, Agile and Lean relate to ITSM. Thereafter, an online survey is used to determine the status of ITSM maturity levels at South African HEIs, and whether alternatives to ITIL are being used. Expert interviews are used to obtain additional information on what is required to formulate the proposed strategy. The findings from the literature review, survey and expert interviews are used to develop a four-step strategy, which was evaluated for its quality, utility and efficacy through an online assessment by the same experts. This strategy can be considered a useful tool for Higher Education Institutions in South Africa if they wish to increase their levels of IT Service Management maturity. The findings of this study make a substantial contribution to the field of ITSM research at South African Higher Education Institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Hilmer, Thomas
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information technology -- Management , Information technology Education, Higher -- South Africa Education -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40161 , vital:35824
- Description: IT Service Management (ITSM) refers to a set of activities that an organisation can perform to develop, supply, operate, manage and improve information technology related services in order to meet the needs of the business. The interest in ITSM is based on the expectation that applying best practice ITSM processes will result in lower expenses, fewer incidents and improved customer satisfaction. Various standards, frameworks, methodologies and processes have evolved to support this move to a value-driven, service-orientated approach to managing an organisation’s information systems. Between 2007 and 2009, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in South Africa benefited from a national project to improve the quality of their IT services through training in ITIL, a best practice ITSM framework. An assessment at the time, however, found that the maturity levels of the ITIL processes implemented after the intervention remained low, and this observation is common in other industries as well. The implementation of industry best practice ITSM frameworks does not always proceed smoothly; they can be costly, have long implementation times, and can be seen as excessively complicated and suited mainly for large organisations. Therefore, it is often challenging for organisations such as HEIs to improve their ITSM process maturity levels. The aim of this study is to develop a strategy that may assist South African HEIs in taking steps to improve their IT Service Management maturity levels. This primary research objective is addressed through a number of secondary research objectives, namely, to understand the challenges that HEIs often encounter when implementing ITSM; to determine the ITSM implementation status at a number of South African HEIs; to determine the various elements and components required to formulate the ITSM strategy; to determine whether alternatives to ITIL are feasible options for HEIs in South Africa; and to validate the proposed strategy by verifying its quality, utility and efficacy. A comprehensive literature review provides information on various ITSM standards, frameworks and methodologies. It also investigates ITSM adoption and implementation by organisations in general, and HEIs in particular, and how modern practices such as DevOps, Agile and Lean relate to ITSM. Thereafter, an online survey is used to determine the status of ITSM maturity levels at South African HEIs, and whether alternatives to ITIL are being used. Expert interviews are used to obtain additional information on what is required to formulate the proposed strategy. The findings from the literature review, survey and expert interviews are used to develop a four-step strategy, which was evaluated for its quality, utility and efficacy through an online assessment by the same experts. This strategy can be considered a useful tool for Higher Education Institutions in South Africa if they wish to increase their levels of IT Service Management maturity. The findings of this study make a substantial contribution to the field of ITSM research at South African Higher Education Institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy to effectively manage the disaster recovery plan (DRP) at the city of Johannesburg: roads sector
- Authors: Maphutha, Selina Masai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems , Data recovery (Computer science) Computer security Emergency management Local government -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40944 , vital:36274
- Description: Electronic information is critical to Municipalities, the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) rely on computerised systems to perform their operations and deliver services to its inhabitants. Disaster recovery planning for the City of Johannesburg is crucial and urgent, as it will ensure that the organisation is able to recover the core business functionality of its software, data, and systems after the occurrence of a natural or man-made disaster. Municipalities should have adequate recovery strategies in place in case of disasters. Planning for recovery from a disaster is quickly becoming recognized as a necessity, however organisational leaders are not putting recovery strategies as a priority and thus result in challenges when implementing the recovery processes i.e. Lack of resources, overlooking risk management, lack of leadership commitment to continuity processes and lack of understanding the concept of DRP and BCP. Disruption can happen when not anticipated, It is impossible to foresee what may hit an organisation. It is thus necessary and compulsory for organisation to plan for disasters most especially with ever-increasing dependence of business processes on technology services. The purpose of this research was to assess the adequacy of the Disaster recovery plan at the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) and to develop a strategy to effectively manage the DRP. The research revealed that the DRP at the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) is not comprehensive and that there are other processes that are not effectively implemented. There is a lack of resources for implementing the DRP. The dedicated staff is not adequately technically skilled to implement the disaster recovery processes. This study has revealed that the challenges noted were common to other institutions. An adequate DRP is crucial; capacity management and seamless procurement processes are also crucial for the success of the disaster recovery processes. Theoretically, this research adds to the literature on disaster recovery management and highlights the challenges and complexities involved. Practically, the research provides several lessons and guiding principles that the organisation may consider around disaster recovery management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Maphutha, Selina Masai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems , Data recovery (Computer science) Computer security Emergency management Local government -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40944 , vital:36274
- Description: Electronic information is critical to Municipalities, the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) rely on computerised systems to perform their operations and deliver services to its inhabitants. Disaster recovery planning for the City of Johannesburg is crucial and urgent, as it will ensure that the organisation is able to recover the core business functionality of its software, data, and systems after the occurrence of a natural or man-made disaster. Municipalities should have adequate recovery strategies in place in case of disasters. Planning for recovery from a disaster is quickly becoming recognized as a necessity, however organisational leaders are not putting recovery strategies as a priority and thus result in challenges when implementing the recovery processes i.e. Lack of resources, overlooking risk management, lack of leadership commitment to continuity processes and lack of understanding the concept of DRP and BCP. Disruption can happen when not anticipated, It is impossible to foresee what may hit an organisation. It is thus necessary and compulsory for organisation to plan for disasters most especially with ever-increasing dependence of business processes on technology services. The purpose of this research was to assess the adequacy of the Disaster recovery plan at the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) and to develop a strategy to effectively manage the DRP. The research revealed that the DRP at the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) is not comprehensive and that there are other processes that are not effectively implemented. There is a lack of resources for implementing the DRP. The dedicated staff is not adequately technically skilled to implement the disaster recovery processes. This study has revealed that the challenges noted were common to other institutions. An adequate DRP is crucial; capacity management and seamless procurement processes are also crucial for the success of the disaster recovery processes. Theoretically, this research adds to the literature on disaster recovery management and highlights the challenges and complexities involved. Practically, the research provides several lessons and guiding principles that the organisation may consider around disaster recovery management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy to promote awareness and adherence to information security policy at Capricorn District Municipality
- Authors: Mamabolo, Mokgadi Hellen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer security -- Management , Data protection -- Management Computer security Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40867 , vital:36245
- Description: The purpose of this research was to investigate the reasons for non-adherence to the ISP and to measure the current level of adherence to the ISP. The research revealed that non adherence to the ISP is caused by lack of training or awareness, and through non-communication of the ISP to employees. The study was conducted at Capricorn District Municipality, Polokwane Local Municipality, Molemole Local Municipality and Blouberg Local Municipality. A web-based questionnaire (QuestionPro) was developed and it was directed to every official who uses or interacts with municipal information, to quantify the level of adherence to ISP by employees. An email with the questionnaire link administered by www.questionpro.com was then sent to the population of 152 employees. Presently ISP adherence is one of the key concerns that are faced by organisations. Employees are perceived as one of the reasons that there are security breaches within organisations; hence, it is of paramount importance that these security breaches are noticed, as well as technical matters. Most researchers have reasoned that non-adherence to ISP is one of the major challenges faced by organisations. The non-adherence to ISP will lead to potential information security threats and unauthorised access to information that might compromise municipal business operations. The Information Security Officer together with the help of management must educate employees regarding the value of IS and why it is crucial to adhere to these policies. The proposed strategy summarises the various concepts required in the promotion of awareness and adherence to an effective ISP. Ultimately, this research study concludes that if management continually trains employees, raising awareness about ISP and monitoring their adherence to ISP, this should increase the adherence level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mamabolo, Mokgadi Hellen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer security -- Management , Data protection -- Management Computer security Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40867 , vital:36245
- Description: The purpose of this research was to investigate the reasons for non-adherence to the ISP and to measure the current level of adherence to the ISP. The research revealed that non adherence to the ISP is caused by lack of training or awareness, and through non-communication of the ISP to employees. The study was conducted at Capricorn District Municipality, Polokwane Local Municipality, Molemole Local Municipality and Blouberg Local Municipality. A web-based questionnaire (QuestionPro) was developed and it was directed to every official who uses or interacts with municipal information, to quantify the level of adherence to ISP by employees. An email with the questionnaire link administered by www.questionpro.com was then sent to the population of 152 employees. Presently ISP adherence is one of the key concerns that are faced by organisations. Employees are perceived as one of the reasons that there are security breaches within organisations; hence, it is of paramount importance that these security breaches are noticed, as well as technical matters. Most researchers have reasoned that non-adherence to ISP is one of the major challenges faced by organisations. The non-adherence to ISP will lead to potential information security threats and unauthorised access to information that might compromise municipal business operations. The Information Security Officer together with the help of management must educate employees regarding the value of IS and why it is crucial to adhere to these policies. The proposed strategy summarises the various concepts required in the promotion of awareness and adherence to an effective ISP. Ultimately, this research study concludes that if management continually trains employees, raising awareness about ISP and monitoring their adherence to ISP, this should increase the adherence level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Advancing finance revenue through sustainable electricity distribution – eMalahleni Municipality
- Authors: Nkopo, Tabisa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Finance Environmental policy -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42858 , vital:36700
- Description: In the past Emalahleni municipality operated its electricity distribution efficiently and effectively. However, along the years, the municipality’s operations changed and the situation changed from bad to a financially distressed municipality. The municipality has been experiencing challenges in sustaining its distribution power in the area of its jurisdiction in the past decade. As a result, more than half of the population in the area is affected by the ineffectiveness of the distribution of electricity which lowers their standard of living. As the city’s population is growing, it was envisaged that the power sector will experience a steady growth. The anticipation has been that due to the rate of growth and development in the city, most of Emalahleni municipality should have been electrified by now. However, challenges in the distribution of electricity have persisted and this has negatively affected the economy and living standard of the city. From a management perspective, this research looks at advancing finance revenue through sustainable electricity distribution. Specifically, it analyses the management challenges that affect the distribution of electricity in the city. It is well documented that Emalahleni municipality is currently facing an electricity crisis despite all the government efforts to provide adequate power to the citizens. The research will look at the sustainability of the municipality through the distribution of electricity in Emalahleni. The research will further look at how management manages and ensures better controls in the municipality to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of power delivery within the municipal boundaries. For the municipality to be sustainable through electricity distribution, it should reinvest more money in the electricity infrastructure, improve its governance to ensure high performance and continuous performance improvement amongst leadership and management. Furthermore the municipality requires qualified and skilled labour to enhance growth and efficient running of the municipality. In this research, qualitative research techniques were employed. The data was collected from questionnaires, reports, published books, journals, newspaper articles, and relevant government policies were well studied in order to produce a well-informed report.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nkopo, Tabisa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Finance Environmental policy -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42858 , vital:36700
- Description: In the past Emalahleni municipality operated its electricity distribution efficiently and effectively. However, along the years, the municipality’s operations changed and the situation changed from bad to a financially distressed municipality. The municipality has been experiencing challenges in sustaining its distribution power in the area of its jurisdiction in the past decade. As a result, more than half of the population in the area is affected by the ineffectiveness of the distribution of electricity which lowers their standard of living. As the city’s population is growing, it was envisaged that the power sector will experience a steady growth. The anticipation has been that due to the rate of growth and development in the city, most of Emalahleni municipality should have been electrified by now. However, challenges in the distribution of electricity have persisted and this has negatively affected the economy and living standard of the city. From a management perspective, this research looks at advancing finance revenue through sustainable electricity distribution. Specifically, it analyses the management challenges that affect the distribution of electricity in the city. It is well documented that Emalahleni municipality is currently facing an electricity crisis despite all the government efforts to provide adequate power to the citizens. The research will look at the sustainability of the municipality through the distribution of electricity in Emalahleni. The research will further look at how management manages and ensures better controls in the municipality to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of power delivery within the municipal boundaries. For the municipality to be sustainable through electricity distribution, it should reinvest more money in the electricity infrastructure, improve its governance to ensure high performance and continuous performance improvement amongst leadership and management. Furthermore the municipality requires qualified and skilled labour to enhance growth and efficient running of the municipality. In this research, qualitative research techniques were employed. The data was collected from questionnaires, reports, published books, journals, newspaper articles, and relevant government policies were well studied in order to produce a well-informed report.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Agriculture land abandonment and rural development in South Africa
- Authors: Mgushelo, Aphiwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Abandoned farms , Rural development -- South Africa Finance, Public -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41128 , vital:36362
- Description: Vast amounts of agriculture lands have been abandoned over the last decades, worldwide – phenomenally in rural areas (Filho et al., 2016). In South Africa, Agriculture Land Abandonment (ALA) is apparent even to the human eye, but little or nothing is known about it, especially regarding its causes and implications for rural socio-economic development. Agriculture Land Abandonment is critical and highly topical given the ongoing debate on the land issue in South Africa (Friedman, 2018; Maromo, 2018). Moreover, the National Development Plan (NDP) identifies agriculture as the main economic activity in rural areas, with the potential to create nearly 1 million new jobs and as a primary means to achieve rural development by 2030 (National Planning Commission (NPC), 2011). To this end, the land must be cultivated to provide work and to banish poverty. This research focuses on Julukuqu, a rural village in the former Transkei homeland, within the O.R. Tambo District in the Eastern Cape province. This research intends to indent and propose a solution for rural development by understanding the causes and consequences of Agriculture Land Abandonment and identifying measures to address this issue. By analysing satellite imagery of the study area over a 15-year period, we are able to establish the extent of Agriculture Land Abandonment. Individual interviews and a focus group discussion were conducted and analysed to provide an understanding of the official positions and grassroots lived experiences. Altogether, the data that was collected yielded 17 usable interviews, which were subjected to thematic analyses. The findings of this research are that: the croplands of Julukuqu were once totally cultivated, but they are now almost (all) totally abandoned with only one person still cultivating their now reduced cropland. The causes of ALA in Julukuqu are socio-economic, environmental and political in nature. Due to schooling, children are no longer herding the livestock and it is free-ranging and grazing within the people’s croplands – in season and out of season. Coupled with an irrigation system, because of drought, fencing has thus become a principal determinant of cultivation of the croplands. The abandonment of the croplands has left the households insecure and depending mainly on social grants for income and food, including the very maize they once produced and sold a surplus. Hunger has become a rural denominator – striking both the people and their livestock, and crime has risen with unemployment. Moreover, child schooling and youth reluctance, threaten the succession and sustainability of agriculture as a rural livelihood and business. Despite the abandonment of the croplands, agriculture is still seen as a key to poverty alleviation and socio-economic development in Julukuqu. Given the experienced consequences of ALA, there exists a strong desire and will among the people of Julukuqu to cultivate their abandoned croplands once again. Fundamentally, for the people to meet their common socio-economic needs and challenges, they need to address ALA in Julukuqu through the development of an agricultural co-operative, which needs financial and non-financial support to develop and succeed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mgushelo, Aphiwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Abandoned farms , Rural development -- South Africa Finance, Public -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41128 , vital:36362
- Description: Vast amounts of agriculture lands have been abandoned over the last decades, worldwide – phenomenally in rural areas (Filho et al., 2016). In South Africa, Agriculture Land Abandonment (ALA) is apparent even to the human eye, but little or nothing is known about it, especially regarding its causes and implications for rural socio-economic development. Agriculture Land Abandonment is critical and highly topical given the ongoing debate on the land issue in South Africa (Friedman, 2018; Maromo, 2018). Moreover, the National Development Plan (NDP) identifies agriculture as the main economic activity in rural areas, with the potential to create nearly 1 million new jobs and as a primary means to achieve rural development by 2030 (National Planning Commission (NPC), 2011). To this end, the land must be cultivated to provide work and to banish poverty. This research focuses on Julukuqu, a rural village in the former Transkei homeland, within the O.R. Tambo District in the Eastern Cape province. This research intends to indent and propose a solution for rural development by understanding the causes and consequences of Agriculture Land Abandonment and identifying measures to address this issue. By analysing satellite imagery of the study area over a 15-year period, we are able to establish the extent of Agriculture Land Abandonment. Individual interviews and a focus group discussion were conducted and analysed to provide an understanding of the official positions and grassroots lived experiences. Altogether, the data that was collected yielded 17 usable interviews, which were subjected to thematic analyses. The findings of this research are that: the croplands of Julukuqu were once totally cultivated, but they are now almost (all) totally abandoned with only one person still cultivating their now reduced cropland. The causes of ALA in Julukuqu are socio-economic, environmental and political in nature. Due to schooling, children are no longer herding the livestock and it is free-ranging and grazing within the people’s croplands – in season and out of season. Coupled with an irrigation system, because of drought, fencing has thus become a principal determinant of cultivation of the croplands. The abandonment of the croplands has left the households insecure and depending mainly on social grants for income and food, including the very maize they once produced and sold a surplus. Hunger has become a rural denominator – striking both the people and their livestock, and crime has risen with unemployment. Moreover, child schooling and youth reluctance, threaten the succession and sustainability of agriculture as a rural livelihood and business. Despite the abandonment of the croplands, agriculture is still seen as a key to poverty alleviation and socio-economic development in Julukuqu. Given the experienced consequences of ALA, there exists a strong desire and will among the people of Julukuqu to cultivate their abandoned croplands once again. Fundamentally, for the people to meet their common socio-economic needs and challenges, they need to address ALA in Julukuqu through the development of an agricultural co-operative, which needs financial and non-financial support to develop and succeed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Agriculture land abandonment and rural development in South Africa
- Authors: Mgushelo, Aphiwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Abandoned farms , Rural development -- South Africa Agriculture and state -- South Africa South Africa -- Rural conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44257 , vital:37143
- Description: Vast amounts of agriculture lands have been abandoned over the last decades, worldwide – phenomenally in rural areas (Filho et al., 2016). In South Africa, Agriculture Land Abandonment (ALA) is apparent even to the human eye, but little or nothing is known about it, especially regarding its causes and implications for rural socio-economic development. Agriculture Land Abandonment is critical and highly topical given the ongoing debate on the land issue in South Africa (Friedman, 2018; Maromo, 2018). Moreover, the National Development Plan (NDP) identifies agriculture as the main economic activity in rural areas, with the potential to create nearly 1 million new jobs and as a primary means to achieve rural development by 2030 (National Planning Commission (NPC), 2011). To this end, the land must be cultivated to provide work and to banish poverty. This research focuses on Julukuqu, a rural village in the former Transkei homeland, within the O.R. Tambo District in the Eastern Cape province. This research intends to indent and propose a solution for rural development by understanding the causes and consequences of Agriculture Land Abandonment and identifying measures to address this issue. By analysing satellite imagery of the study area over a 15-year period, we are able to establish the extent of Agriculture Land Abandonment. Individual interviews and a focus group discussion were conducted and analysed to provide an understanding of the official positions and grassroots lived experiences. Altogether, the data that was collected yielded 17 usable interviews, which were subjected to thematic analyses. The findings of this research are that: the croplands of Julukuqu were once totally cultivated, but they are now almost (all) totally abandoned with only one person still cultivating their now reduced cropland. The causes of ALA in Julukuqu are socio-economic, environmental and political in nature. Due to schooling, children are no longer herding the livestock and it is free-ranging and grazing within the people’s croplands – in season and out of season. Coupled with an irrigation system, because of drought, fencing has thus become a principal determinant of cultivation of the croplands. The abandonment of the croplands has left the households insecure and depending mainly on social grants for income and food, including the very maize they once produced and sold a surplus. Hunger has become a rural denominator – striking both the people and their livestock, and crime has risen with unemployment. Moreover, child schooling and youth reluctance, threaten the succession and sustainability of agriculture as a rural livelihood and business. Despite the abandonment of the croplands, agriculture is still seen as a key to poverty alleviation and socio-economic development in Julukuqu. Given the experienced consequences of ALA, there exists a strong desire and will among the people of Julukuqu to cultivate their abandoned croplands once again. Fundamentally, for the people to meet their common socio-economic needs and challenges, they need to address ALA in Julukuqu through the development of an agricultural co-operative, which needs financial and non-financial support to develop and succeed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mgushelo, Aphiwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Abandoned farms , Rural development -- South Africa Agriculture and state -- South Africa South Africa -- Rural conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44257 , vital:37143
- Description: Vast amounts of agriculture lands have been abandoned over the last decades, worldwide – phenomenally in rural areas (Filho et al., 2016). In South Africa, Agriculture Land Abandonment (ALA) is apparent even to the human eye, but little or nothing is known about it, especially regarding its causes and implications for rural socio-economic development. Agriculture Land Abandonment is critical and highly topical given the ongoing debate on the land issue in South Africa (Friedman, 2018; Maromo, 2018). Moreover, the National Development Plan (NDP) identifies agriculture as the main economic activity in rural areas, with the potential to create nearly 1 million new jobs and as a primary means to achieve rural development by 2030 (National Planning Commission (NPC), 2011). To this end, the land must be cultivated to provide work and to banish poverty. This research focuses on Julukuqu, a rural village in the former Transkei homeland, within the O.R. Tambo District in the Eastern Cape province. This research intends to indent and propose a solution for rural development by understanding the causes and consequences of Agriculture Land Abandonment and identifying measures to address this issue. By analysing satellite imagery of the study area over a 15-year period, we are able to establish the extent of Agriculture Land Abandonment. Individual interviews and a focus group discussion were conducted and analysed to provide an understanding of the official positions and grassroots lived experiences. Altogether, the data that was collected yielded 17 usable interviews, which were subjected to thematic analyses. The findings of this research are that: the croplands of Julukuqu were once totally cultivated, but they are now almost (all) totally abandoned with only one person still cultivating their now reduced cropland. The causes of ALA in Julukuqu are socio-economic, environmental and political in nature. Due to schooling, children are no longer herding the livestock and it is free-ranging and grazing within the people’s croplands – in season and out of season. Coupled with an irrigation system, because of drought, fencing has thus become a principal determinant of cultivation of the croplands. The abandonment of the croplands has left the households insecure and depending mainly on social grants for income and food, including the very maize they once produced and sold a surplus. Hunger has become a rural denominator – striking both the people and their livestock, and crime has risen with unemployment. Moreover, child schooling and youth reluctance, threaten the succession and sustainability of agriculture as a rural livelihood and business. Despite the abandonment of the croplands, agriculture is still seen as a key to poverty alleviation and socio-economic development in Julukuqu. Given the experienced consequences of ALA, there exists a strong desire and will among the people of Julukuqu to cultivate their abandoned croplands once again. Fundamentally, for the people to meet their common socio-economic needs and challenges, they need to address ALA in Julukuqu through the development of an agricultural co-operative, which needs financial and non-financial support to develop and succeed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An evaluation of business support services for women-owned businesses
- Authors: Mabongo, Nozuko Priscilla
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Management , Businesswomen -- South Africa Support services (Management) Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40679 , vital:36213
- Description: The emergence of women into the entrepreneurial sector has been a phenomenal wonder to view. This trend is considered one of the most transformative economic and social developments. Thus, the measures to enhance their penetration into the market need to be explored in order to see what is still lacking. Historically, women ventured into business as a means of alleviating social issues, as the years went by the necessity-driven element evolved into an integral need for women to participate in the growth of value-adding sectors. Women around the world have faced many barriers to their participation in the development of the economy. The purpose of this study was to fill the gap by providing relevant information about the formal business environment, as well as the various support structures available to South African women in business. Over the past two decades, the view of development has always been criticised. Women entrepreneurs dominate the informal sector and have remained at the edge of the economy irrespective of their potential in development. There is a lack of participation in value-adding sectors by women entrepreneurs. Women in business are plagued with the absence of effective management skills, network linkages and mentorship. This in turn results in limited access to local and global markets, therefore, growth prospects are severely at risk. Furthermore, this limitation concludes issues leading these businesses into survivalist mode. The study assessed the business support services offered to women-owned businesses and further demonstrate whether any growth prospects could be achieved. Insight was given on the current situation of women-owned businesses with specific reference to evaluating the type of business support services provided to women-owned businesses. Lastly, the study described how the support services could result in improved business practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mabongo, Nozuko Priscilla
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Management , Businesswomen -- South Africa Support services (Management) Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40679 , vital:36213
- Description: The emergence of women into the entrepreneurial sector has been a phenomenal wonder to view. This trend is considered one of the most transformative economic and social developments. Thus, the measures to enhance their penetration into the market need to be explored in order to see what is still lacking. Historically, women ventured into business as a means of alleviating social issues, as the years went by the necessity-driven element evolved into an integral need for women to participate in the growth of value-adding sectors. Women around the world have faced many barriers to their participation in the development of the economy. The purpose of this study was to fill the gap by providing relevant information about the formal business environment, as well as the various support structures available to South African women in business. Over the past two decades, the view of development has always been criticised. Women entrepreneurs dominate the informal sector and have remained at the edge of the economy irrespective of their potential in development. There is a lack of participation in value-adding sectors by women entrepreneurs. Women in business are plagued with the absence of effective management skills, network linkages and mentorship. This in turn results in limited access to local and global markets, therefore, growth prospects are severely at risk. Furthermore, this limitation concludes issues leading these businesses into survivalist mode. The study assessed the business support services offered to women-owned businesses and further demonstrate whether any growth prospects could be achieved. Insight was given on the current situation of women-owned businesses with specific reference to evaluating the type of business support services provided to women-owned businesses. Lastly, the study described how the support services could result in improved business practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation into the prevalence of power harassment in the public service: a case study of a provincial department
- Authors: Pardesi, Sheena
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Harassment -- South Africa , Bullying in the workplace -- South Africa Sexual harassment of women
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43336 , vital:36798
- Description: Workplace harassment is experienced internationally, and much research has been done on this very complex topic. An area that has not received much focus is “power harassment” which specifically refers to the abuse of one’s authority or position in the workplace with the intent to harm an employee, provided the succumb to whatever undue pressure or influence exerted. The context of this study is the public service of South Africa because it is characterised by strict norms and a high level of bureaucracy, an is assumed to be free from such occurrence. A provincial department in South Africa was used as case study and inferential statistics was used to generalise the findings. The main aim of the present study was to establish the prevalence of power harassment in the provincial department. A representative sample was selected from the provincial department and information was collected by means of an online survey. A quantitative analysis was conducted using descriptive statics. Chi-Square tests and cross tabulation tables were analysed to test several hypotheses.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Pardesi, Sheena
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Harassment -- South Africa , Bullying in the workplace -- South Africa Sexual harassment of women
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43336 , vital:36798
- Description: Workplace harassment is experienced internationally, and much research has been done on this very complex topic. An area that has not received much focus is “power harassment” which specifically refers to the abuse of one’s authority or position in the workplace with the intent to harm an employee, provided the succumb to whatever undue pressure or influence exerted. The context of this study is the public service of South Africa because it is characterised by strict norms and a high level of bureaucracy, an is assumed to be free from such occurrence. A provincial department in South Africa was used as case study and inferential statistics was used to generalise the findings. The main aim of the present study was to establish the prevalence of power harassment in the provincial department. A representative sample was selected from the provincial department and information was collected by means of an online survey. A quantitative analysis was conducted using descriptive statics. Chi-Square tests and cross tabulation tables were analysed to test several hypotheses.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring workplace conflict, case study of a day care centre, Nyanga, Western Cape: a conflict management perspective
- Authors: Williams, Annuschka, Angela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Mediation and conciliation, Industrial Interpersonal conflict Organizational behavior Teams in the workplace
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44412 , vital:37166
- Description: This study sought to explore a workplace conflict case study through a conflict management framework in an effort to offer recommendations to the organisation. The study was located in a day care centre, which has been in existence for over 15 years and which provides a number of health and social support services, and capacity-building opportunities for children, women and youth. The study presents a literature review and theoretical framework on conflict, workplace conflict and work conflict management as a backdrop for the empirical investigation. The study employed a qualitative research design and methodology. The study found that the conflict in the organisation has multiple bases, of which communication, structure and values are the major contributors. The conflict is both affective and substantive in nature. The essential divining force is the perceived and felt change in the organisational value and orientation which links to the historic versus the emerging developmental approach driving the organisational programmes.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Williams, Annuschka, Angela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Mediation and conciliation, Industrial Interpersonal conflict Organizational behavior Teams in the workplace
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44412 , vital:37166
- Description: This study sought to explore a workplace conflict case study through a conflict management framework in an effort to offer recommendations to the organisation. The study was located in a day care centre, which has been in existence for over 15 years and which provides a number of health and social support services, and capacity-building opportunities for children, women and youth. The study presents a literature review and theoretical framework on conflict, workplace conflict and work conflict management as a backdrop for the empirical investigation. The study employed a qualitative research design and methodology. The study found that the conflict in the organisation has multiple bases, of which communication, structure and values are the major contributors. The conflict is both affective and substantive in nature. The essential divining force is the perceived and felt change in the organisational value and orientation which links to the historic versus the emerging developmental approach driving the organisational programmes.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
Financial inclusion and economic growth in Ghana
- Authors: Anane, Alexander Kwabena
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Economic development -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40210 , vital:35990
- Description: The relationship between financial inclusion and the growth of the economy is a topic of debate in the existing literature. Yet globally and at individual country level, policy makers have accepted financial inclusion as a developmental agenda. This study, therefore, empirically investigates the relationship between financial inclusion and economic growth in Ghana using quarterly time series data from 2005 to 2016. Employing the commonly used indicators, the ARDL bounds test with cointergration was applied to examine the short and the long run relationship between the variables. Furthermore, the Granger causality approach was also used to establish the direction between financial inclusion and economic growth in Ghana. The result of the findings confirmed mixed results and no clear cut relationship between the direction of causality between the indicators of financial inclusion and economic growth. The study concluded that whether financial inclusion positively or negatively impact economic growth rests on the indicators employed. The study therefore cautions in the choice of financial indicators as policy tools in designing and executing economic growth and development policies in Ghana.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Anane, Alexander Kwabena
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Economic development -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40210 , vital:35990
- Description: The relationship between financial inclusion and the growth of the economy is a topic of debate in the existing literature. Yet globally and at individual country level, policy makers have accepted financial inclusion as a developmental agenda. This study, therefore, empirically investigates the relationship between financial inclusion and economic growth in Ghana using quarterly time series data from 2005 to 2016. Employing the commonly used indicators, the ARDL bounds test with cointergration was applied to examine the short and the long run relationship between the variables. Furthermore, the Granger causality approach was also used to establish the direction between financial inclusion and economic growth in Ghana. The result of the findings confirmed mixed results and no clear cut relationship between the direction of causality between the indicators of financial inclusion and economic growth. The study concluded that whether financial inclusion positively or negatively impact economic growth rests on the indicators employed. The study therefore cautions in the choice of financial indicators as policy tools in designing and executing economic growth and development policies in Ghana.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Funding mechanisms for local authorities in Malawi –Blantyre city council
- Authors: Mvula, Towera Innocentia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- Malawi -- Blantyre , Financial management -- Malawi -- Blantyre Local finance -- Malawi -- Blantyre
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41730 , vital:36576
- Description: Funding for local government is crucial so that the local governments can continue delivering on their mandate. The trend around the world is that local governments are underfunded and highly dependent on central government transfers, which limits their autonomy. This study on funding mechanisms for local councils in Malawi took Blantyre City Council as its case study. The study aims to evaluate the funding mechanisms of local councils in Malawi and find alternative sources, or ways to optimize the current funding mechanisms. Literature on local government funding was reviewed and challenges facing local government funding were identified. A purposive sampling method was used to select study participants that were drawn from the financial sector, NGO’s and from local government. Data collection was done through structured in-depth interviews and document study. Data analysis was done through framework analysis. The study found that the main revenue sources for local councils in Malawi are transfers from central government, that on average make up more than 80% of their total revenues. A large chunk of these central transfers come in as conditional grants, which means that the councils spend most of their efforts implementing central government priorities. Revenue from own sources is very low even in councils that have wider tax resource bases. Some of the urban councils are able to generate a substantial amounts from own sources; however, most of these funds go towards meeting the recurrent expenditure budgets. As a result, all of the councils still rely on central government to finance their capital expenditure budgets. The study found that more can be done to fully exploit revenue abilities of local sources through addressing current bottlenecks. Amongst others, local councils currently face the following challenges that negatively affect their revenues: legal limitations, political interference, outdated revenue management systems, theft, weak legislation, financial mismanagement, outdated and complicated processes, lack of human and technical expertise and weak oversight. To boost current revenues, the study amongst others, recommends strengthening the current legal framework, processes review and improvements, capacitation of personnel, introduction of new levies and exploring external financing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mvula, Towera Innocentia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- Malawi -- Blantyre , Financial management -- Malawi -- Blantyre Local finance -- Malawi -- Blantyre
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41730 , vital:36576
- Description: Funding for local government is crucial so that the local governments can continue delivering on their mandate. The trend around the world is that local governments are underfunded and highly dependent on central government transfers, which limits their autonomy. This study on funding mechanisms for local councils in Malawi took Blantyre City Council as its case study. The study aims to evaluate the funding mechanisms of local councils in Malawi and find alternative sources, or ways to optimize the current funding mechanisms. Literature on local government funding was reviewed and challenges facing local government funding were identified. A purposive sampling method was used to select study participants that were drawn from the financial sector, NGO’s and from local government. Data collection was done through structured in-depth interviews and document study. Data analysis was done through framework analysis. The study found that the main revenue sources for local councils in Malawi are transfers from central government, that on average make up more than 80% of their total revenues. A large chunk of these central transfers come in as conditional grants, which means that the councils spend most of their efforts implementing central government priorities. Revenue from own sources is very low even in councils that have wider tax resource bases. Some of the urban councils are able to generate a substantial amounts from own sources; however, most of these funds go towards meeting the recurrent expenditure budgets. As a result, all of the councils still rely on central government to finance their capital expenditure budgets. The study found that more can be done to fully exploit revenue abilities of local sources through addressing current bottlenecks. Amongst others, local councils currently face the following challenges that negatively affect their revenues: legal limitations, political interference, outdated revenue management systems, theft, weak legislation, financial mismanagement, outdated and complicated processes, lack of human and technical expertise and weak oversight. To boost current revenues, the study amongst others, recommends strengthening the current legal framework, processes review and improvements, capacitation of personnel, introduction of new levies and exploring external financing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Perceptions of tourism in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality with special reference to the Red location in New Brighton
- Authors: Mfo, Ntomboxolo Siphokazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Heritage tourism -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , New Brighton (Port Elizabeth, South Africa) Blacks -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Social life and customs Tourism -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41316 , vital:36443
- Description: Township tourism is a relatively growing sector of the tourism market; therefore, many large cities in developed and developing countries, such as Brazil, have adopted tourism-led approaches to township tourism. Township tourism now forms part of the South African local and regional economic development strategies of some of the major cities, such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. In turn, it is perceived as the fastest growing type of tourism in the world and can function as a powerful tool in township development and transformation. Township tourism has the potential to produce economic benefits, improve physical environment, inner-city image and the welfare of community members. The focus of the research was to study the perception of tourism in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality with special reference to the community of the Red Location in New Brighton. Additionally, this study explored to understand how tourism stakeholders (government, provincial government and local municipality), tourism development agencies, as well as the community of the Red Location, could use tourism as a tool for township development, local economic growth and to increase visitors to the Nelson Mandela Bay area. The research adopted a qualitative research method. The research builds on an extensive review of a broad range of secondary sources from different academic and institutional backgrounds to give a more objective and nuanced analysis. The qualitative literature that was used include, but is not limited to, academic articles, books, official reports from the various tourism organisations, publications from tourism authorities, news media, South African legislation and publications from government organisations. Based on this study, it was found that tourism has the capacity to rejuvenate the area and contribute to the local economic development, poverty reduction, as well as create the identity of a place, and serve as a part of the solution for township problems. The potential of tourism to stimulate township development strongly depends on the presence of tourism resources that can be developed into consumable products or visitor attraction as well as on the financial capacity of public and private partners to strengthen and increase visitor facilities, infrastructure and activities. The study employed a descriptive study to capture detailed and meaningful information from the literature search. The literature search gave the researcher an understanding of the research area, tourism policies and the role of the communities in tourism. This understanding improved the quality of the study. Furthermore, the literature provides township tourism precondition guidelines which may be followed to develop tourism in South Africa, especially in communities, such as the Red Location. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the need to draft and adopt a township tourism strategy, one that is unique to the culture and community of the Red Location in New Brighton.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mfo, Ntomboxolo Siphokazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Heritage tourism -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , New Brighton (Port Elizabeth, South Africa) Blacks -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Social life and customs Tourism -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41316 , vital:36443
- Description: Township tourism is a relatively growing sector of the tourism market; therefore, many large cities in developed and developing countries, such as Brazil, have adopted tourism-led approaches to township tourism. Township tourism now forms part of the South African local and regional economic development strategies of some of the major cities, such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. In turn, it is perceived as the fastest growing type of tourism in the world and can function as a powerful tool in township development and transformation. Township tourism has the potential to produce economic benefits, improve physical environment, inner-city image and the welfare of community members. The focus of the research was to study the perception of tourism in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality with special reference to the community of the Red Location in New Brighton. Additionally, this study explored to understand how tourism stakeholders (government, provincial government and local municipality), tourism development agencies, as well as the community of the Red Location, could use tourism as a tool for township development, local economic growth and to increase visitors to the Nelson Mandela Bay area. The research adopted a qualitative research method. The research builds on an extensive review of a broad range of secondary sources from different academic and institutional backgrounds to give a more objective and nuanced analysis. The qualitative literature that was used include, but is not limited to, academic articles, books, official reports from the various tourism organisations, publications from tourism authorities, news media, South African legislation and publications from government organisations. Based on this study, it was found that tourism has the capacity to rejuvenate the area and contribute to the local economic development, poverty reduction, as well as create the identity of a place, and serve as a part of the solution for township problems. The potential of tourism to stimulate township development strongly depends on the presence of tourism resources that can be developed into consumable products or visitor attraction as well as on the financial capacity of public and private partners to strengthen and increase visitor facilities, infrastructure and activities. The study employed a descriptive study to capture detailed and meaningful information from the literature search. The literature search gave the researcher an understanding of the research area, tourism policies and the role of the communities in tourism. This understanding improved the quality of the study. Furthermore, the literature provides township tourism precondition guidelines which may be followed to develop tourism in South Africa, especially in communities, such as the Red Location. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the need to draft and adopt a township tourism strategy, one that is unique to the culture and community of the Red Location in New Brighton.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
SME development policy and financing of women-owned enterprises in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chikwavarara, Bigbouy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women-owned business enterprises -- Zimbabwe , Small business -- women -- Zimbabwe Business enterprises -- Finance -- Zimbabwe Small business -- Finance -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37969 , vital:34275
- Description: This cross-sectional quasi-experimental research applied a combination of an indepth literature review, key informant interviews and a small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) survey to identify key policies which influence access to formal finance for women-owned SMEs in Zimbabwe. The study then applied Sandiford and Rossmiller’s 4Es (effectiveness, efficiency, enforceability and equity) framework for policy analysis to identify gaps in the SME development policy framework, which inhibit female entrepreneurs from access to formal finance. The study also reviewed India’s SME development policy framework to identify lessons that Zimbabwe could learn. The study found that female entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe are rarely engaged during the design and implementation of SME policies; hence they lack knowledge of interventions which affect their businesses. The study also found that Zimbabwe lacks current data and knowledge on how the current SME policy framework affects women-owned SMEs to access finance. As a result, SME policies are not evidence based, are hurriedly implemented and lead to duplication and uncoordinated efforts. In addition, SME policies are not systematically evaluated so as to better inform implementation thereof or follow on policies. The study concluded that Zimbabwe’s SME development policy ranks low on all the 4Es - effectiveness, efficiency, enforceability and equity in promoting access to finance for women-owned SMEs. The study recommends the Government of Zimbabwe (GoZ) to invest in timely policy research and analysis to better understand women-owned SMEs’ access to finance challenges and adopt evidence based policy making and implementation. The study also recommends the GoZ to learn from India how to enhance the SME development policy framework by building the capacity of female entrepreneurs and financial institutions to close the deeply entrenched information and confidence gaps on access to finance issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Chikwavarara, Bigbouy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women-owned business enterprises -- Zimbabwe , Small business -- women -- Zimbabwe Business enterprises -- Finance -- Zimbabwe Small business -- Finance -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37969 , vital:34275
- Description: This cross-sectional quasi-experimental research applied a combination of an indepth literature review, key informant interviews and a small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) survey to identify key policies which influence access to formal finance for women-owned SMEs in Zimbabwe. The study then applied Sandiford and Rossmiller’s 4Es (effectiveness, efficiency, enforceability and equity) framework for policy analysis to identify gaps in the SME development policy framework, which inhibit female entrepreneurs from access to formal finance. The study also reviewed India’s SME development policy framework to identify lessons that Zimbabwe could learn. The study found that female entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe are rarely engaged during the design and implementation of SME policies; hence they lack knowledge of interventions which affect their businesses. The study also found that Zimbabwe lacks current data and knowledge on how the current SME policy framework affects women-owned SMEs to access finance. As a result, SME policies are not evidence based, are hurriedly implemented and lead to duplication and uncoordinated efforts. In addition, SME policies are not systematically evaluated so as to better inform implementation thereof or follow on policies. The study concluded that Zimbabwe’s SME development policy ranks low on all the 4Es - effectiveness, efficiency, enforceability and equity in promoting access to finance for women-owned SMEs. The study recommends the Government of Zimbabwe (GoZ) to invest in timely policy research and analysis to better understand women-owned SMEs’ access to finance challenges and adopt evidence based policy making and implementation. The study also recommends the GoZ to learn from India how to enhance the SME development policy framework by building the capacity of female entrepreneurs and financial institutions to close the deeply entrenched information and confidence gaps on access to finance issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Structural violence on economically independent women aged between 30 and 50 years in Nairobi
- Authors: Ndungu, Shelmith
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- Kenya -- Nairobi , Sex role -- Kenya -- Nairobi Social role -- Kenya -- Nairobi Women -- Economic conditions Women and socialism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42891 , vital:36703
- Description: The reasons patriarchal structural violence on economically independent women continues to happen are not fully understood. Most studies have been focused on socio-economic factors that influence women to stay in abusive relationships and the interventions that address these factors. However, the problem goes beyond economic ability. This study aimed to provide insight which can serve as the basis for remedial action and ultimately the development of an international standard prohibiting women’s abuse and domestic violence in families. The study focused on two key objectives; the role of culture and patriarchy in maintaining structural violence. The study aimed to investigate how these variables influence women’s decision to continue staying in abusive relationships. The target population was people working in non-governmental organisations which deal with domestic violence survivors in Nairobi, Kenya. A sample of 12 respondents was utilised in a qualitative study. The study employed qualitative interviews whose data were thematically analysed. Results indicate that gender based violence can start early in the relationship sometimes even during courtship. What changes over time is the severity of the violence. The main type of abuse experienced by the women visiting the sampled centres was physical abuse. The main reason given for staying in an abusive relationship is the fear that their children would be abused if left with the abusive partner. Societal norms also emerged as a barrier for women in abusive relationships. The study recommends creation of awareness in the general population on how to identify gender-based violence for the purpose of intervention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ndungu, Shelmith
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- Kenya -- Nairobi , Sex role -- Kenya -- Nairobi Social role -- Kenya -- Nairobi Women -- Economic conditions Women and socialism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42891 , vital:36703
- Description: The reasons patriarchal structural violence on economically independent women continues to happen are not fully understood. Most studies have been focused on socio-economic factors that influence women to stay in abusive relationships and the interventions that address these factors. However, the problem goes beyond economic ability. This study aimed to provide insight which can serve as the basis for remedial action and ultimately the development of an international standard prohibiting women’s abuse and domestic violence in families. The study focused on two key objectives; the role of culture and patriarchy in maintaining structural violence. The study aimed to investigate how these variables influence women’s decision to continue staying in abusive relationships. The target population was people working in non-governmental organisations which deal with domestic violence survivors in Nairobi, Kenya. A sample of 12 respondents was utilised in a qualitative study. The study employed qualitative interviews whose data were thematically analysed. Results indicate that gender based violence can start early in the relationship sometimes even during courtship. What changes over time is the severity of the violence. The main type of abuse experienced by the women visiting the sampled centres was physical abuse. The main reason given for staying in an abusive relationship is the fear that their children would be abused if left with the abusive partner. Societal norms also emerged as a barrier for women in abusive relationships. The study recommends creation of awareness in the general population on how to identify gender-based violence for the purpose of intervention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The successes of infrastructure development in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Matolengwe, Nombasa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public works -- Finance Economic development Sustainable development -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41010 , vital:36282
- Description: Lack of capacity in the former black areas of South Africa, including lack of proper infrastructure has proven to be one of the problems the country is facing. The apartheid system did not only separate the different racial groups in geographical terms, but also prevented black communities access to infrastructural services. Number of strategies have been undertaken to address the issue of infrastructure gap including Infrastructure Development Act signed by former President Jacob Zuma in 2014, the act was aimed at coordinating and facilitating public infrastructure development. Infrastructure development is significant to the National Development Plan, therefore greater levels of investment in infrastructure will continue into the future. An amount of R379 088 000 000 has been invested in infrastructure development in South African municipalities over the period of three years from 2015. The purpose of this study is to identify critical success factors of infrastructure development projects and to understand what is meant by the term project success in the local government context. The critical success factors in infrastructure development investigated in this study were identified through reviewing the existing literature on critical success factors from 1960’s to 2015, together with relevant municipal frameworks. A questionnaire was developed, focusing on factors for successful delivery of infrastructure development projects, interviews were conducted with Ward Councillors, Integrated Development Plans and Built Environment Performance Plans officials to investigate the meaning of project success in local government context. The study suggests that a project success definition in terms of local government should include community satisfaction, fulfilment of strategic objectives of the municipality and the completed project should serve the purpose it was intended for and must be bringing social change to the area it is being implemented in. The study finds no significant correlation between project success and identified individual critical success factors; however, it has been discovered that risk management, as one of the factors, has a significant positive correlation with other factors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Matolengwe, Nombasa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public works -- Finance Economic development Sustainable development -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41010 , vital:36282
- Description: Lack of capacity in the former black areas of South Africa, including lack of proper infrastructure has proven to be one of the problems the country is facing. The apartheid system did not only separate the different racial groups in geographical terms, but also prevented black communities access to infrastructural services. Number of strategies have been undertaken to address the issue of infrastructure gap including Infrastructure Development Act signed by former President Jacob Zuma in 2014, the act was aimed at coordinating and facilitating public infrastructure development. Infrastructure development is significant to the National Development Plan, therefore greater levels of investment in infrastructure will continue into the future. An amount of R379 088 000 000 has been invested in infrastructure development in South African municipalities over the period of three years from 2015. The purpose of this study is to identify critical success factors of infrastructure development projects and to understand what is meant by the term project success in the local government context. The critical success factors in infrastructure development investigated in this study were identified through reviewing the existing literature on critical success factors from 1960’s to 2015, together with relevant municipal frameworks. A questionnaire was developed, focusing on factors for successful delivery of infrastructure development projects, interviews were conducted with Ward Councillors, Integrated Development Plans and Built Environment Performance Plans officials to investigate the meaning of project success in local government context. The study suggests that a project success definition in terms of local government should include community satisfaction, fulfilment of strategic objectives of the municipality and the completed project should serve the purpose it was intended for and must be bringing social change to the area it is being implemented in. The study finds no significant correlation between project success and identified individual critical success factors; however, it has been discovered that risk management, as one of the factors, has a significant positive correlation with other factors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
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