Knowledge of drowning risks amongst adolescents in the Nelson Mandela Metropole, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Isaacs, Imeraan
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Primary health care
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPH
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18422 , vital:42264
- Description: The purpose of this research study was to explore and describe the knowledge and the level of awareness of drowning risks amongst adolescents in the Nelson Mandela Metropole, Eastern Cape Province, and South Africa. Drowning is defined as the “process of experiencing respiratory impairment from either submersion or immersion into a water medium” (van Beeck et al 2005:853). Global statistics place drowning as being the third foremost cause of unintentional death worldwide (WHO 2013). The World Health Organization reports that more than 90% of the estimated 370 000 drowning fatalities recorded in 2012 occurred in low and middle income countries (WHO 2014). A qualitative descriptive explorative contextual design was employed in this research study. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used. Adolescents aged 10- 13 years old who attend a public primary school and model C primary school in Nelson Mandela Metropole area in the Eastern Cape Province were the target population who had the specific characteristics of interest and significance to the research phenomenon (Asiamah et al 2017). Four focus group interviews were conducted. The groups consisted of five to ten participants grouped together to discuss the matter. Field notes were also taken by the researcher on what was heard, observed, thought and experienced during the interview process (Streubert & Carpenter 2007). Ethical principles were maintained as well as the concepts of trustworthiness were applied throughout this study.Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. A total of six themes and seven sub-themes arose during the analysis of the data and were completely discussed. The findings suggest that most of the participants are quite aware and knowledgeable of the potential risks that predispose an individual to drowning. The consequences of what happens when a victim is exposed to drowning, however, requires more insight. The risk of being unsupervised as well as not being able to swim was echoed in most of the group interviews. vii A noteworthy finding was the fact that the participants who were involved with some form of water safety programme/s at school were very articulate in their responses to the questions. It was recommended that educational programmes ought to be aligned with current evidence which is reflective of the region’s demographics and dynamics. Even though all researchers do not share the sentiments that swim proficiencies heighten the safety of the individual in and around water, the need for ongoing research initiatives is a significant stimulus that will generate new evidence and inform current preventive strategies. Identification and awareness of drowning risks require a foundation of comprehension in order to better understand and interpret the consequences of these risks. Learn to swim or swim orientation initiatives could potentially assist at primary school level with the safety levels of learners.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Isaacs, Imeraan
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Primary health care
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPH
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18422 , vital:42264
- Description: The purpose of this research study was to explore and describe the knowledge and the level of awareness of drowning risks amongst adolescents in the Nelson Mandela Metropole, Eastern Cape Province, and South Africa. Drowning is defined as the “process of experiencing respiratory impairment from either submersion or immersion into a water medium” (van Beeck et al 2005:853). Global statistics place drowning as being the third foremost cause of unintentional death worldwide (WHO 2013). The World Health Organization reports that more than 90% of the estimated 370 000 drowning fatalities recorded in 2012 occurred in low and middle income countries (WHO 2014). A qualitative descriptive explorative contextual design was employed in this research study. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used. Adolescents aged 10- 13 years old who attend a public primary school and model C primary school in Nelson Mandela Metropole area in the Eastern Cape Province were the target population who had the specific characteristics of interest and significance to the research phenomenon (Asiamah et al 2017). Four focus group interviews were conducted. The groups consisted of five to ten participants grouped together to discuss the matter. Field notes were also taken by the researcher on what was heard, observed, thought and experienced during the interview process (Streubert & Carpenter 2007). Ethical principles were maintained as well as the concepts of trustworthiness were applied throughout this study.Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. A total of six themes and seven sub-themes arose during the analysis of the data and were completely discussed. The findings suggest that most of the participants are quite aware and knowledgeable of the potential risks that predispose an individual to drowning. The consequences of what happens when a victim is exposed to drowning, however, requires more insight. The risk of being unsupervised as well as not being able to swim was echoed in most of the group interviews. vii A noteworthy finding was the fact that the participants who were involved with some form of water safety programme/s at school were very articulate in their responses to the questions. It was recommended that educational programmes ought to be aligned with current evidence which is reflective of the region’s demographics and dynamics. Even though all researchers do not share the sentiments that swim proficiencies heighten the safety of the individual in and around water, the need for ongoing research initiatives is a significant stimulus that will generate new evidence and inform current preventive strategies. Identification and awareness of drowning risks require a foundation of comprehension in order to better understand and interpret the consequences of these risks. Learn to swim or swim orientation initiatives could potentially assist at primary school level with the safety levels of learners.
- Full Text:
Exploring barriers to the legal adoption of orphaned and vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in Queenstown
- Authors: Xabe, Koleka Beauty
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adoption , Orphans , Children -- Legal status, laws, etc.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17597 , vital:41102
- Description: This study aimed at gaining insights into the barriers that prevent the legal adoption of vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in East London and Queenstown. To this end, it examined the knowledge and understanding of amaXhosa people regarding adoption as a permanent placement option for children. The method of investigation was qualitative in nature, as this approach provides a deep description of the phenomenon under study; in this case, the barriers to the legal adoption of vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in Queenstown area. Individual interviews were conducted with twelve participants – ten females and two males. Interviewees were foster parents and temporary safe care home employees employed by the Department of Social Development in Queenstown. The study adopted the ‘Circle of Courage’ and the ecological theoretical frameworks. Individual interviews were tape recoded and the transcripts were subject to interpretive analysis according to the guidelines provided by Terre Blanche, Durrheim and Painter (2006). Interviews tended to focus largely on the matter of black children being raised by white parents, people in the same sex domestic relationship, investigated interviewee’s beliefs about adoption within different cultures and its impact on the adoptee. The study also investigated the availability and accessibility of adoption awareness campaigns in their community. The responses of the participants were based on their own experiences, attitudes and external social worker’s report which attained along the process of caring for the (orphan and vulnerable children) OVC’s. The qualitative analysis of the research displays there are various reasons that leads to the decision for not to consider adoption as a placement option for orphan and vulnerable children among the AmaXhosa families. The findings showed that; reasons were both financial constraints, lack of time, race and culture. Despite their decisions and lack of resources, some of the parents appeared to be interested in the option only if they can be provided with support by government. It is evident that the permanent placement (adoption) is the only placement option that can X provide a child with legal rights to a family and award a parent with legal responsibility to a child.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Xabe, Koleka Beauty
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adoption , Orphans , Children -- Legal status, laws, etc.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17597 , vital:41102
- Description: This study aimed at gaining insights into the barriers that prevent the legal adoption of vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in East London and Queenstown. To this end, it examined the knowledge and understanding of amaXhosa people regarding adoption as a permanent placement option for children. The method of investigation was qualitative in nature, as this approach provides a deep description of the phenomenon under study; in this case, the barriers to the legal adoption of vulnerable children amongst the amaXhosa in Queenstown area. Individual interviews were conducted with twelve participants – ten females and two males. Interviewees were foster parents and temporary safe care home employees employed by the Department of Social Development in Queenstown. The study adopted the ‘Circle of Courage’ and the ecological theoretical frameworks. Individual interviews were tape recoded and the transcripts were subject to interpretive analysis according to the guidelines provided by Terre Blanche, Durrheim and Painter (2006). Interviews tended to focus largely on the matter of black children being raised by white parents, people in the same sex domestic relationship, investigated interviewee’s beliefs about adoption within different cultures and its impact on the adoptee. The study also investigated the availability and accessibility of adoption awareness campaigns in their community. The responses of the participants were based on their own experiences, attitudes and external social worker’s report which attained along the process of caring for the (orphan and vulnerable children) OVC’s. The qualitative analysis of the research displays there are various reasons that leads to the decision for not to consider adoption as a placement option for orphan and vulnerable children among the AmaXhosa families. The findings showed that; reasons were both financial constraints, lack of time, race and culture. Despite their decisions and lack of resources, some of the parents appeared to be interested in the option only if they can be provided with support by government. It is evident that the permanent placement (adoption) is the only placement option that can X provide a child with legal rights to a family and award a parent with legal responsibility to a child.
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The nexus between capital inflows and credit growth in South Africa
- Authors: Davani, Siviwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Capital movements Credit
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16885 , vital:40782
- Description: This study examines the effect of capital inflows on credit growth on the South African economy. Capital inflows ease the constraint of the low domestic savings in the domestic economy. The study employed the Structural Vector Auto Regression model to analyse the relationship between the variables of interest. The findings of the study indicate that the two types of capital inflows employed in the study, Foreign Direct Investment and Foreign Portfolio investment have a significant effect on credit growth in the long-run. The results also indicate that there are other important factors such as macroeconomic stability and political stability which have a significant effect of capital inflows into South Africa. Overall, the results revealed that a greater variation of credit growth is explained by GDP. This indicates that there is a link between GDP and FDI and FPI given their link with credit growth. These results also suggest that the foreign capital channel can be another channel which may affect growth in the domestic economy in the event that there are negative innovations which affects capital flows to South Africa. The study thus suggests that policies which ensures macroeconomic stability and political stability should be pursued given their influence on capital inflows into South Africa. Also it’s recommended that the country mobilise domestic resources to ensure sustainable development
- Full Text:
- Authors: Davani, Siviwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Capital movements Credit
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16885 , vital:40782
- Description: This study examines the effect of capital inflows on credit growth on the South African economy. Capital inflows ease the constraint of the low domestic savings in the domestic economy. The study employed the Structural Vector Auto Regression model to analyse the relationship between the variables of interest. The findings of the study indicate that the two types of capital inflows employed in the study, Foreign Direct Investment and Foreign Portfolio investment have a significant effect on credit growth in the long-run. The results also indicate that there are other important factors such as macroeconomic stability and political stability which have a significant effect of capital inflows into South Africa. Overall, the results revealed that a greater variation of credit growth is explained by GDP. This indicates that there is a link between GDP and FDI and FPI given their link with credit growth. These results also suggest that the foreign capital channel can be another channel which may affect growth in the domestic economy in the event that there are negative innovations which affects capital flows to South Africa. The study thus suggests that policies which ensures macroeconomic stability and political stability should be pursued given their influence on capital inflows into South Africa. Also it’s recommended that the country mobilise domestic resources to ensure sustainable development
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A sociological investigation of the challenges facing married students : case study of the University of Fort Hare, Alice Campus
- Authors: Qwabi, Thabisile Daphney
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Married students Academic achievement Married students -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Sociology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10262 , vital:35386
- Description: The aim of this study was to explain and understand problems facing married students at the University of Fort Hare, Alice Campus. The study population was drawn from the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus. The study used simple random sampling and purposive sampling to draw a representative sample of 50 married students (21 males and 29females) from the population of this study. This study used a mixed research approach. Questionnaires were distributed, for quantitative purposes, and interviews were conducted, for qualitative purposes, among the chosen representative sample. Data that was collected with questionnaires was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and qualitative data was analysed using thematic analyses and was used to substantiate quantitative findings. The findings in this study expanded on how factors such as, lack of time to study, the impact of multiple roles on the well-being of married students, pressure from having multiple roles and lack of support from family contributed to the poor academic performance of married students. This study revealed high levels of stress and poor academic performance as a result of having multiple roles among married students at the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Qwabi, Thabisile Daphney
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Married students Academic achievement Married students -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Sociology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10262 , vital:35386
- Description: The aim of this study was to explain and understand problems facing married students at the University of Fort Hare, Alice Campus. The study population was drawn from the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus. The study used simple random sampling and purposive sampling to draw a representative sample of 50 married students (21 males and 29females) from the population of this study. This study used a mixed research approach. Questionnaires were distributed, for quantitative purposes, and interviews were conducted, for qualitative purposes, among the chosen representative sample. Data that was collected with questionnaires was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and qualitative data was analysed using thematic analyses and was used to substantiate quantitative findings. The findings in this study expanded on how factors such as, lack of time to study, the impact of multiple roles on the well-being of married students, pressure from having multiple roles and lack of support from family contributed to the poor academic performance of married students. This study revealed high levels of stress and poor academic performance as a result of having multiple roles among married students at the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus.
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Risk factors of cardio-metabolic diseases among student nurses at Lilitha College of Nursing, East London, South Africa
- Authors: Mkanzi, Noluthando
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Risk assessment Cardiovascular system -- Diseases Human physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12924 , vital:39404
- Description: Background: Non-communicable diseases are a growing public health concern and its prevalence is escalating exponentially, with a high frequency of morbidity, premature mortality, disability and loss of productivity. Since health education has become an important part of medical care, student nurses are potentially well suited to assist with the combat of these diseases. Early identification and treatment of modifiable risk factors among young adults would reduce the risk of developing cardio-metabolic diseases, thus, promoting health, prolonging life as well as saving costs related to healthcare. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of cardio-metabolic risk factors among student nurses. Method: This was a descriptive cross sectional study, involving a convenience sample of 228 students during the educational year of 2017-2018 at Lilitha Collegeof Nursing in East London, South Africa. The WHO STEPwise standardized questionnaire was used to collect information on socio-demographic data (age, gender, year of study) and behavioural characteristics (smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and dietary intake) of the participants. Anthropometric screening included measurement of height, weight and waist circumference. The biochemical screening included measurement of blood pressure and determination of fasting blood glucose concentration. Only students with complete data set were included in the data analysis. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23.0 was employed for descriptive and inferential analysis. Results: About half (41.7 percent) of the study participants were between the ages of 21 to 25 years and majority were females (67.5 percent).The prevalence of overweight and obesity were found to be 33 percent and 44 percent respectively. The prevalence of overweight was higher in males (44.6 percent), while females (53.9 percent) had higher prevalence of obesity. Female gender and increasing age are the only independent predictors of obesity. Results on blood pressure measurement showed that 25 percent of the participants had elevated blood pressure, and 22 percent were on stage 1 of hypertension while 2 percent were on stage 2. According to Joint National Committee on hypertension (JNC)’s criteria for defining hypertension, 44 percent of the participants had pre hypertension and 11percent had hypertension, diabetes and vegetables consumption were statistically associated with hypertension. The prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes was 6 percent and 7 percent respectively. Only abdominal obesity measured by waistto- hip ratio had a significant relationship with diabetes. Just 4.8 percent of the participants smoked daily and 33.3 percent consumed alcohol. Regarding physical activity, males were more active (60.8 percent) compared to females (54.8 percent). Conclusion: A high burden of overweight, obesity, and physical inactivity was observed among student nurses in East London. Screening for cardio-metabolic risk factors (CMRFs) among nursing students and implementation of intervention programs are recommended. Programs to raise awareness about CMRFs, encourage young adult students to adopt a healthy dietary behaviour and promote physical exercise should be initiated.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mkanzi, Noluthando
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Risk assessment Cardiovascular system -- Diseases Human physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12924 , vital:39404
- Description: Background: Non-communicable diseases are a growing public health concern and its prevalence is escalating exponentially, with a high frequency of morbidity, premature mortality, disability and loss of productivity. Since health education has become an important part of medical care, student nurses are potentially well suited to assist with the combat of these diseases. Early identification and treatment of modifiable risk factors among young adults would reduce the risk of developing cardio-metabolic diseases, thus, promoting health, prolonging life as well as saving costs related to healthcare. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of cardio-metabolic risk factors among student nurses. Method: This was a descriptive cross sectional study, involving a convenience sample of 228 students during the educational year of 2017-2018 at Lilitha Collegeof Nursing in East London, South Africa. The WHO STEPwise standardized questionnaire was used to collect information on socio-demographic data (age, gender, year of study) and behavioural characteristics (smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and dietary intake) of the participants. Anthropometric screening included measurement of height, weight and waist circumference. The biochemical screening included measurement of blood pressure and determination of fasting blood glucose concentration. Only students with complete data set were included in the data analysis. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23.0 was employed for descriptive and inferential analysis. Results: About half (41.7 percent) of the study participants were between the ages of 21 to 25 years and majority were females (67.5 percent).The prevalence of overweight and obesity were found to be 33 percent and 44 percent respectively. The prevalence of overweight was higher in males (44.6 percent), while females (53.9 percent) had higher prevalence of obesity. Female gender and increasing age are the only independent predictors of obesity. Results on blood pressure measurement showed that 25 percent of the participants had elevated blood pressure, and 22 percent were on stage 1 of hypertension while 2 percent were on stage 2. According to Joint National Committee on hypertension (JNC)’s criteria for defining hypertension, 44 percent of the participants had pre hypertension and 11percent had hypertension, diabetes and vegetables consumption were statistically associated with hypertension. The prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes was 6 percent and 7 percent respectively. Only abdominal obesity measured by waistto- hip ratio had a significant relationship with diabetes. Just 4.8 percent of the participants smoked daily and 33.3 percent consumed alcohol. Regarding physical activity, males were more active (60.8 percent) compared to females (54.8 percent). Conclusion: A high burden of overweight, obesity, and physical inactivity was observed among student nurses in East London. Screening for cardio-metabolic risk factors (CMRFs) among nursing students and implementation of intervention programs are recommended. Programs to raise awareness about CMRFs, encourage young adult students to adopt a healthy dietary behaviour and promote physical exercise should be initiated.
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The impact of rangeland degradation on vegetation cover and soil quality in semi-arid communal rangelands of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Maziko, Yonela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Land degradation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Vegetation management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15056 , vital:40159
- Description: This study was conducted to investigate the influence of degradation on vegetation and soil quality in two semi-arid rangelands in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was undertaken in Kwezana and Esigingqini communal areas that showed signs id degradation. The assessment incorporated the soil and grass layer in different degradation levels, namely nondegraded, slightly degraded, moderately and severely degraded. The non-degraded has a sufficient amount of vegetation cover and species composition. The slightly degraded site consists of a few visible bare patches. The moderately degraded areas showed signs of active sheet erosion such as pedestals and a higher percentage of bare areas and the severely degraded area is characterized by dongas and gullies, with vast areas that have no ground cover or top fertile soil layer. Using a step point method, herbaceous species composition was determined within three transects from three plots 100 m x 40 m in each degradation level. The aboveground phytomass production was determined by harvesting herbaceous species within four randomly placed 0.25 m2 quadrats in each transect. Bare ground was determined by counting and recording the distance between tufts within each quadrat. Litter cover was determined by visual observation and rated on a scale of 1 to 5. A number of physical and chemical soil properties were used to quantify the effects of degradation on soil quality. To determine soil chemical properties, three soil samples were collected at a depth of 20 cm, in each plot and analyzed for pH, soil macro (N, C, K, P, Ca, Mg) and micro (Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu) nutrients. Soil compaction was determined using a soil pocket penetrometer. Readings were taken at 5 mm from 30 points placed at 1 m intervals and distributed in a randomly established straight line in each plot. Soil loss was determined using a rainfall simulator. Splash cups were filled with soil and placed under the rainfall simulator for 8 minutes per rainstorm at 360 mm-1 intensity. Results showed that at Esigingqini a total of 20 herbaceous species were identified, 17 of which were grasses. About 60percent of the identified grasses were Increaser II species, 15percent were Increaser II and 25percent Decreasers. In terms of palatability, 50percent of the grass species had poor palatability and the remaining had either average or high palatability. At Kwezana, 18 herbaceous species were identified of which 28percent were Decreasers and 61percent were Increaser II species. Half of the species had low palatability and only 28percent had high palatability. In both communal areas, litter cover was highest (P < 0.05) in the non-degraded areas followed by the slightly degraded sites and this was to be expected. Similarly, in both communal areas, there was a shift in species composition of decreasers and perennial grasses being replaced by annual species of poor quality and low palatability as the degradation levels increased. Results on soil chemical properties showed that the non-degraded areas had higher (P < 0.05) pH levels (8.5) than the severely degraded soils (5). A similar trend following a degradation gradient was observed for some soil nutrients such as N, P or Mg. Both the macro and micro nutrient concentrations were relatively higher (P < 0.05) in summer than in winter in both communal areas. Results on physical properties showed that soil loss and compaction were relatively lower (P <0.05) in the slightly degraded and non-degraded sites and increased with severity of degradation. In both communal areas, the severely degraded areas lost soil up to 1.1 t ha-1 due to degradation and the non-degraded areas had a soil loss of less than 0.8 t ha-1. The rate of soil loss between the severely and non-degraded areas is significantly different. The differences may be attributed to the differences in the vegetation cover which influences the rate of erosion on the various degradation gradients. These results suggest that both the grass layer and soil quality is negatively affected by degradation. Therefore, there is a need for land use practices that promote the sustainable use of rangeland resources. Such practices may include rotational grazing, reseeding, veld resting and fire. Measures to control the consequences of degradation and rehabilitate these deteriorated rangelands must be a priority.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maziko, Yonela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Land degradation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Vegetation management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15056 , vital:40159
- Description: This study was conducted to investigate the influence of degradation on vegetation and soil quality in two semi-arid rangelands in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was undertaken in Kwezana and Esigingqini communal areas that showed signs id degradation. The assessment incorporated the soil and grass layer in different degradation levels, namely nondegraded, slightly degraded, moderately and severely degraded. The non-degraded has a sufficient amount of vegetation cover and species composition. The slightly degraded site consists of a few visible bare patches. The moderately degraded areas showed signs of active sheet erosion such as pedestals and a higher percentage of bare areas and the severely degraded area is characterized by dongas and gullies, with vast areas that have no ground cover or top fertile soil layer. Using a step point method, herbaceous species composition was determined within three transects from three plots 100 m x 40 m in each degradation level. The aboveground phytomass production was determined by harvesting herbaceous species within four randomly placed 0.25 m2 quadrats in each transect. Bare ground was determined by counting and recording the distance between tufts within each quadrat. Litter cover was determined by visual observation and rated on a scale of 1 to 5. A number of physical and chemical soil properties were used to quantify the effects of degradation on soil quality. To determine soil chemical properties, three soil samples were collected at a depth of 20 cm, in each plot and analyzed for pH, soil macro (N, C, K, P, Ca, Mg) and micro (Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu) nutrients. Soil compaction was determined using a soil pocket penetrometer. Readings were taken at 5 mm from 30 points placed at 1 m intervals and distributed in a randomly established straight line in each plot. Soil loss was determined using a rainfall simulator. Splash cups were filled with soil and placed under the rainfall simulator for 8 minutes per rainstorm at 360 mm-1 intensity. Results showed that at Esigingqini a total of 20 herbaceous species were identified, 17 of which were grasses. About 60percent of the identified grasses were Increaser II species, 15percent were Increaser II and 25percent Decreasers. In terms of palatability, 50percent of the grass species had poor palatability and the remaining had either average or high palatability. At Kwezana, 18 herbaceous species were identified of which 28percent were Decreasers and 61percent were Increaser II species. Half of the species had low palatability and only 28percent had high palatability. In both communal areas, litter cover was highest (P < 0.05) in the non-degraded areas followed by the slightly degraded sites and this was to be expected. Similarly, in both communal areas, there was a shift in species composition of decreasers and perennial grasses being replaced by annual species of poor quality and low palatability as the degradation levels increased. Results on soil chemical properties showed that the non-degraded areas had higher (P < 0.05) pH levels (8.5) than the severely degraded soils (5). A similar trend following a degradation gradient was observed for some soil nutrients such as N, P or Mg. Both the macro and micro nutrient concentrations were relatively higher (P < 0.05) in summer than in winter in both communal areas. Results on physical properties showed that soil loss and compaction were relatively lower (P <0.05) in the slightly degraded and non-degraded sites and increased with severity of degradation. In both communal areas, the severely degraded areas lost soil up to 1.1 t ha-1 due to degradation and the non-degraded areas had a soil loss of less than 0.8 t ha-1. The rate of soil loss between the severely and non-degraded areas is significantly different. The differences may be attributed to the differences in the vegetation cover which influences the rate of erosion on the various degradation gradients. These results suggest that both the grass layer and soil quality is negatively affected by degradation. Therefore, there is a need for land use practices that promote the sustainable use of rangeland resources. Such practices may include rotational grazing, reseeding, veld resting and fire. Measures to control the consequences of degradation and rehabilitate these deteriorated rangelands must be a priority.
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Solid waste management and its implications on livestock health in selected abattoirs of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Nongcula, Vikhaya Vincent
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Livestock -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12293 , vital:39250
- Description: An investigation was carried out on the implications of solid waste management on livestock health in selected abattoirs of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The main objective of the study was to determine the effects of solid waste management on livestock health as well as to assess the perceptions of solid waste management among livestock owners. In this study, a questionnaire was designed to obtain information regarding farmer’s perceptions on solid waste and how it affects animal health, and active abattoir inspection were conducted to assess how solid waste affects the animal. The results revealed that most farmers practiced poor solid waste management as a result animals were exposed to ingestion of indigestible materials. This was confirmed on the basis that most farmers (99.2 percent) had no municipal dustbins in their areas, no recycling programmes (94.2 percent) and 51.7percent of the farmers disposed their litter in open land as a result most farmers (75.9percent) agreed that solid waste management was a problem in their areas. Due to poor solid waste management, 53.8 percent of the farmers confirmed that they have seen livestock ingesting indigestible materials such as plastics and 69.0 percent of the farmers suspected that ingestion of such materials caused some of the health issue experienced by animals on their farm. The active abattoir inspection revealed that plastics, wires, nails, ropes, stones, bones, cloths, hairs and polybezoars were frequently occurring in slaughter cattle stomachs particularly in the rumen and reticulum and in female and older cattle. As a result most affected cattle were in thin and average condition. The effect of indigestible objects on body condition score (BCS) and organ condemnation was determined using linear regression analysis test; where BCS and condemnation were the dependent variables and indigestible objects were the independent variables. The results revealed that some organs were condemned in affected cattle and the statistical analysis showed that there was no significant difference (p< 0.05) between the prevalence of indigestible materials and organ condemnation. However, there was a significant difference between the prevalence of indigestible materials and body condition score of affected cattle although they were coming from different farming systems. It was concluded that livestock health was affected by solid waste and recommended that practice of good animal husbandry and proper solid waste management be practiced to overcome the implications (poor body condition score) of solid waste in livestock. Furthermore, close cooperation between government extension officers, commercial and communal farmers in knowledge-sharing regarding health issues of livestock is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nongcula, Vikhaya Vincent
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Livestock -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12293 , vital:39250
- Description: An investigation was carried out on the implications of solid waste management on livestock health in selected abattoirs of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The main objective of the study was to determine the effects of solid waste management on livestock health as well as to assess the perceptions of solid waste management among livestock owners. In this study, a questionnaire was designed to obtain information regarding farmer’s perceptions on solid waste and how it affects animal health, and active abattoir inspection were conducted to assess how solid waste affects the animal. The results revealed that most farmers practiced poor solid waste management as a result animals were exposed to ingestion of indigestible materials. This was confirmed on the basis that most farmers (99.2 percent) had no municipal dustbins in their areas, no recycling programmes (94.2 percent) and 51.7percent of the farmers disposed their litter in open land as a result most farmers (75.9percent) agreed that solid waste management was a problem in their areas. Due to poor solid waste management, 53.8 percent of the farmers confirmed that they have seen livestock ingesting indigestible materials such as plastics and 69.0 percent of the farmers suspected that ingestion of such materials caused some of the health issue experienced by animals on their farm. The active abattoir inspection revealed that plastics, wires, nails, ropes, stones, bones, cloths, hairs and polybezoars were frequently occurring in slaughter cattle stomachs particularly in the rumen and reticulum and in female and older cattle. As a result most affected cattle were in thin and average condition. The effect of indigestible objects on body condition score (BCS) and organ condemnation was determined using linear regression analysis test; where BCS and condemnation were the dependent variables and indigestible objects were the independent variables. The results revealed that some organs were condemned in affected cattle and the statistical analysis showed that there was no significant difference (p< 0.05) between the prevalence of indigestible materials and organ condemnation. However, there was a significant difference between the prevalence of indigestible materials and body condition score of affected cattle although they were coming from different farming systems. It was concluded that livestock health was affected by solid waste and recommended that practice of good animal husbandry and proper solid waste management be practiced to overcome the implications (poor body condition score) of solid waste in livestock. Furthermore, close cooperation between government extension officers, commercial and communal farmers in knowledge-sharing regarding health issues of livestock is recommended.
- Full Text:
Professional behaviour among nursing students at a college in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Magopeni, Sibongile Nomvuyo
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11929 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021322
- Description: The focus of the study was to explore and describe reasons for poor professional behaviour among nursing students at a public nursing college in the Eastern Cape. The objectives of the study were to explore and describe the reasons for poor professional behaviour among nursing students and to describe strategies to improve poor professional behaviour. The study has significance for the college management, staff, nursing students, registered nurses and everyone involved in professional development of nursing students. The population for this study consisted of third-year nursing students following the four-year comprehensive basic course for registration leading to the Diploma in Nursing (General, Community & Psychiatry) and Midwifery at a public nursing college. The research questions were: What do you understand by professional behaviour? What are the reasons for poor professional behaviour among nursing students? What could be done to improve professionalism among college nursing students? A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design was used as a framework for the study. Permission to conduct the study was obtained from the University of Fort Hare ethics committee and other relevant authorities as indicated in the study. Ethical principles were maintained and informed consent obtained. Data collection was done using focus groups and an audiotape with a purposefully sampling of 30 third-year nursing students at the public college of nursing. Data were analysed using Tesch’s method of analysis for qualitative research. Three major themes emerged: students’ understanding of professional behaviour, reasons for poor professional behaviour and methods to improve poor professional behaviour. It was concluded that poor professional behaviour has an effect on professionalism and it should be addressed and corrected for protecting the professional image. Recommendations: Policies regarding inappropriate professional behaviour at the college should be in place and easily accessible to every staff member and nursing student. Department of Health should conduct reflective courses and seminars on professionalism and these should begin at the same time as the academic programme.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Magopeni, Sibongile Nomvuyo
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11929 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021322
- Description: The focus of the study was to explore and describe reasons for poor professional behaviour among nursing students at a public nursing college in the Eastern Cape. The objectives of the study were to explore and describe the reasons for poor professional behaviour among nursing students and to describe strategies to improve poor professional behaviour. The study has significance for the college management, staff, nursing students, registered nurses and everyone involved in professional development of nursing students. The population for this study consisted of third-year nursing students following the four-year comprehensive basic course for registration leading to the Diploma in Nursing (General, Community & Psychiatry) and Midwifery at a public nursing college. The research questions were: What do you understand by professional behaviour? What are the reasons for poor professional behaviour among nursing students? What could be done to improve professionalism among college nursing students? A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design was used as a framework for the study. Permission to conduct the study was obtained from the University of Fort Hare ethics committee and other relevant authorities as indicated in the study. Ethical principles were maintained and informed consent obtained. Data collection was done using focus groups and an audiotape with a purposefully sampling of 30 third-year nursing students at the public college of nursing. Data were analysed using Tesch’s method of analysis for qualitative research. Three major themes emerged: students’ understanding of professional behaviour, reasons for poor professional behaviour and methods to improve poor professional behaviour. It was concluded that poor professional behaviour has an effect on professionalism and it should be addressed and corrected for protecting the professional image. Recommendations: Policies regarding inappropriate professional behaviour at the college should be in place and easily accessible to every staff member and nursing student. Department of Health should conduct reflective courses and seminars on professionalism and these should begin at the same time as the academic programme.
- Full Text:
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