Valorization of chicken feather through dekeratinization by keratinolytic Bacillus species to amino acid
- Authors: Matches, Lupho
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Proteolytic enzymes , Poultry -- Processing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20451 , vital:45667
- Description: The poultry meat processing sector generates chicken feathers as by-products, and they are 90percent keratin in composition. Keratin is an insoluble and structural protein that shows recalcitrance to hydrolysis by classical proteolytic enzymes, including trypsin, pepsin, and papain. Keratinases are a group of proteolytic enzymes endowed with keratin degradation into peptides and amino acids. They are recently gaining traction for their multifaceted potential application in the green industrial space. Hence, keratinolytic bacteria previously isolated from dumpsite were identified using 16S rDNA sequencing. The optimal fermentation conditions were determined for enhanced extracellular keratinase production and chicken feather degradation. Also, the amino acid analysis of the chicken feather hydrolysates was carried out. The biochemical properties of the keratinases were also determined. Based on 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, the isolates coded as SSN-02 and HSN-03 showed a high percentage of sequence homology with Bacillus spp.; hence, they were identified as Bacillus sp. NFH5 and Bacillus sp. FHNM, respectively. Bacillus sp. NFH5 showed optimal keratinase production of 1149.99 ± 80.99 U/mL after 96 h of incubation time, in optimized fermentation conditions that included pH (4.0), chicken feather (1.5percent, w/v), inoculum size (3percent, v/v) and temperature (30 oC). Similarly, Bacillus sp. FHNM demonstrated the maximum keratinase production of 480 ± 41.14 U/mL 144 h post cultivation, in optimized fermentation conditions with pH (7.0), chicken feather (2.0percent, w/v), inoculum size (3percent, v/v) and temperature (30 oC). For Bacillus sp. NFH5 chicken feather hydrolysate, the amino acids in relatively higher concentration (>1.0g/100g sample) include arginine (1.8), serine (1.16), aspartic acid (1.95), glutamic acid (2.47), proline (1.16) and glycine (1.45). Bacillus sp. FHNM feather hydrolysates, contained (g/100g of sample): arginine (1.9), serine (1.4), aspartic acid (2.5), glutamic acid (2.51), glycine (1.51), proline (1.13), leucine (1.030, histidine (1.25), and lysine (1.06) (g/100g of sample) in high concentration. The keratinases were optimally active at pH 8.0. Bacillus sp. FHNM showed an optimal temperature of 100 oC; while Bacillus sp. NFH5 keratinase displayed optimal activity at 90 oC. EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline inhibited the keratinases, and the inhibition pattern indicated that they belong to metalloprotease. Keratinase from Bacillus sp. FHNM showed considerable residual activity in the presence of Co²⁺ (93percent), Fe³⁺ (99percent), and K⁺ (94percent). Bacillus sp. NFH5 keratinase retained 92percent, 92percent, 93percent of the original activity against Ba²⁺, Na⁺ and Fe³⁺ treatment. Bacillus sp. FHNM keratinase was remarkably stable after 60 min of detergents treatment with residual activity of 89percent, 96percent, 81percent, 73percent, 96percent, 88percent, 88percent and 98percent for Omo, Surf, Ariel, Sunlight, Prowash, Freshwave, Sky, and Evaklin, respectively. Maq impacted the enzyme stability negatively, with residual activity of 48percent after 60 min of incubation. Additionally, keratinase Bacillus sp. NFH5 retained 68percent, 78percent, 80percent, 84percent, 57percent, 80percent, 98percent, 106percent and 106percent of the original activity against Omo, Surf, Ariel, Sunlight, Maq, Prowash, Freshwave, Sky and Evaklin, respectively. Therefore, these results suggest that Bacillus spp. could be ideal candidates for sustainable production of active keratinases and valorization of the abundantly generated keratinous biomass. The stability displayed by keratinases from Bacillus sp. FHNM and Bacillus sp. NFH5 suggests their promising candidacy for detergent formulation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Matches, Lupho
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Proteolytic enzymes , Poultry -- Processing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20451 , vital:45667
- Description: The poultry meat processing sector generates chicken feathers as by-products, and they are 90percent keratin in composition. Keratin is an insoluble and structural protein that shows recalcitrance to hydrolysis by classical proteolytic enzymes, including trypsin, pepsin, and papain. Keratinases are a group of proteolytic enzymes endowed with keratin degradation into peptides and amino acids. They are recently gaining traction for their multifaceted potential application in the green industrial space. Hence, keratinolytic bacteria previously isolated from dumpsite were identified using 16S rDNA sequencing. The optimal fermentation conditions were determined for enhanced extracellular keratinase production and chicken feather degradation. Also, the amino acid analysis of the chicken feather hydrolysates was carried out. The biochemical properties of the keratinases were also determined. Based on 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, the isolates coded as SSN-02 and HSN-03 showed a high percentage of sequence homology with Bacillus spp.; hence, they were identified as Bacillus sp. NFH5 and Bacillus sp. FHNM, respectively. Bacillus sp. NFH5 showed optimal keratinase production of 1149.99 ± 80.99 U/mL after 96 h of incubation time, in optimized fermentation conditions that included pH (4.0), chicken feather (1.5percent, w/v), inoculum size (3percent, v/v) and temperature (30 oC). Similarly, Bacillus sp. FHNM demonstrated the maximum keratinase production of 480 ± 41.14 U/mL 144 h post cultivation, in optimized fermentation conditions with pH (7.0), chicken feather (2.0percent, w/v), inoculum size (3percent, v/v) and temperature (30 oC). For Bacillus sp. NFH5 chicken feather hydrolysate, the amino acids in relatively higher concentration (>1.0g/100g sample) include arginine (1.8), serine (1.16), aspartic acid (1.95), glutamic acid (2.47), proline (1.16) and glycine (1.45). Bacillus sp. FHNM feather hydrolysates, contained (g/100g of sample): arginine (1.9), serine (1.4), aspartic acid (2.5), glutamic acid (2.51), glycine (1.51), proline (1.13), leucine (1.030, histidine (1.25), and lysine (1.06) (g/100g of sample) in high concentration. The keratinases were optimally active at pH 8.0. Bacillus sp. FHNM showed an optimal temperature of 100 oC; while Bacillus sp. NFH5 keratinase displayed optimal activity at 90 oC. EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline inhibited the keratinases, and the inhibition pattern indicated that they belong to metalloprotease. Keratinase from Bacillus sp. FHNM showed considerable residual activity in the presence of Co²⁺ (93percent), Fe³⁺ (99percent), and K⁺ (94percent). Bacillus sp. NFH5 keratinase retained 92percent, 92percent, 93percent of the original activity against Ba²⁺, Na⁺ and Fe³⁺ treatment. Bacillus sp. FHNM keratinase was remarkably stable after 60 min of detergents treatment with residual activity of 89percent, 96percent, 81percent, 73percent, 96percent, 88percent, 88percent and 98percent for Omo, Surf, Ariel, Sunlight, Prowash, Freshwave, Sky, and Evaklin, respectively. Maq impacted the enzyme stability negatively, with residual activity of 48percent after 60 min of incubation. Additionally, keratinase Bacillus sp. NFH5 retained 68percent, 78percent, 80percent, 84percent, 57percent, 80percent, 98percent, 106percent and 106percent of the original activity against Omo, Surf, Ariel, Sunlight, Maq, Prowash, Freshwave, Sky and Evaklin, respectively. Therefore, these results suggest that Bacillus spp. could be ideal candidates for sustainable production of active keratinases and valorization of the abundantly generated keratinous biomass. The stability displayed by keratinases from Bacillus sp. FHNM and Bacillus sp. NFH5 suggests their promising candidacy for detergent formulation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Waste keratinous biomass valorization and characterization of keratinases produced by exiguobacteria species
- Authors: Dlume, Tutuka
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Factory and trade waste -- Biodegradation , Bioremediation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20695 , vital:46438
- Description: Keratinous wastes are emanating in a million tons, as by-products, from various agro-industrial processing plants. Consequently, they create a serious solid waste problem in the environment due to poor handling. Microbial keratinases are proteolytic enzymes that effectively participate in keratin-rich biomass hydrolyses such as feathers, nail, hair, hooves, and horns. Therefore, proper management of these wastes via recycling into useful products is ecologically imperative. Biodegradation of keratin-rich biomass has been identified as an economical and environmentally friendly way of transforming these recalcitrant agro wastes into useful products, hence the motivation for this study. Feather degrading bacterial strains previously isolated from a municipal dumpsite and coded as SSB-02 and SSB-03 was identified through 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The fermentation conditions for keratinase production were optimized. The protein and amino acids constituents of the hydrolyzed chicken feather were analyzed. The biochemical properties of the keratinase produced were determined. Also, the effect of laundry detergents on the stability of the keratinase was studied. The isolates coded as SSB-02 and SSB-03 showed a high percentage of sequence homology with Exguobacterium spp., hence they were identified as Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 and Exiguobacterium acetylicum FHBD, respectively. Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 showed the highest extracellular keratinase production of 934.58 ± 27.27 U/mL at 72 h of incubation; in optimized fermentation conditions that included pH (5.0), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (0.5percent, w/v). Similarly, E. acetylicum FHBD displayed optimal keratinase production of 1023.64 ± 25.71 U/mL at 120 h of fermentation and improved fermentation conditions that involved pH (3.0), temperature (35 oC) and chicken feathers (0.5-1.5percent; w/v). The amino acid analysis showed that arginine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid were the most abundant amino acids cleaved from the degradation of chicken feathers by Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 at a respective concentration of 1.16, 1.28 and 1.45 (g/100g sample). Additionally, hydrolysate that emanated from E. indicum FHBD degradation of feather showed high concentrations of arginine, serine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and glycine at the respective concentration (g/100g sample) of 1.2, 1.12, 1.34, 1.58 and 1.29. The keratinases were optimally active at pH and temperature of 8.0 and 50 oC, respectively. EDTA and PMSF did not highly repress keratinolytic proteases' activity, and this inhibitory pattern suggests that they may belong to a mixed protease family. Keratinase from E. acetylicum FHBD was highly stable in the presence of SDS, with 99percent residual activity and displayed variable stability in other chemical agents tested. A similar stability pattern was observed with keratinase from Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5, although the enzyme lost about 40percent of its original activity in the presence of SDS. Evaluation of metal ion stability indicated that E. acetylicum FHBD keratinase was remarkably stable in the presence of Fe3+, Mg2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, and Ba2+, with residual activity of 94percent, 88percent, 89percent, 90percent, and 97percent, respectively. Similarly, Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 keratinase was considerably stable after treatment with Co2+, K+, and Zn2+ as it displayed a residual activity of 85percent, 84percent and 93percent, respectively. The study of the keratinases stability in laundry detergents showed that E. acetylicum FHBD keratinolytic proteases was activated in the presence of Omo, Surf, Sunlight, and Pro wash after 60 min of pre-incubation compared to 30 min, with residual activity of 94 ± 2.94percent, 91 ± 2.53percent, 95 ± 2.89percent and 87 ± 2.89percent respectively. Likewise, Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 keratinase activity was promoted after 60 min of incubation compared to 30 min, with a residual enzyme activity of 79percent, 84percent, 101percent, 103percent and 105percent and 106percent for Ariel, Surf, Prowash, Freewave, Sky and Evaklin, respectively. Therefore Exiguobacterium spp., demonstrated excellent keratinolytic potentials that could be exploited for sustainable development of bio-innovative products. The study keratinases' properties suggest their industrial and biotechnological application potentials, especially as bio-additive in the formulation of laundry detergents. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dlume, Tutuka
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Factory and trade waste -- Biodegradation , Bioremediation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20695 , vital:46438
- Description: Keratinous wastes are emanating in a million tons, as by-products, from various agro-industrial processing plants. Consequently, they create a serious solid waste problem in the environment due to poor handling. Microbial keratinases are proteolytic enzymes that effectively participate in keratin-rich biomass hydrolyses such as feathers, nail, hair, hooves, and horns. Therefore, proper management of these wastes via recycling into useful products is ecologically imperative. Biodegradation of keratin-rich biomass has been identified as an economical and environmentally friendly way of transforming these recalcitrant agro wastes into useful products, hence the motivation for this study. Feather degrading bacterial strains previously isolated from a municipal dumpsite and coded as SSB-02 and SSB-03 was identified through 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The fermentation conditions for keratinase production were optimized. The protein and amino acids constituents of the hydrolyzed chicken feather were analyzed. The biochemical properties of the keratinase produced were determined. Also, the effect of laundry detergents on the stability of the keratinase was studied. The isolates coded as SSB-02 and SSB-03 showed a high percentage of sequence homology with Exguobacterium spp., hence they were identified as Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 and Exiguobacterium acetylicum FHBD, respectively. Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 showed the highest extracellular keratinase production of 934.58 ± 27.27 U/mL at 72 h of incubation; in optimized fermentation conditions that included pH (5.0), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (0.5percent, w/v). Similarly, E. acetylicum FHBD displayed optimal keratinase production of 1023.64 ± 25.71 U/mL at 120 h of fermentation and improved fermentation conditions that involved pH (3.0), temperature (35 oC) and chicken feathers (0.5-1.5percent; w/v). The amino acid analysis showed that arginine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid were the most abundant amino acids cleaved from the degradation of chicken feathers by Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 at a respective concentration of 1.16, 1.28 and 1.45 (g/100g sample). Additionally, hydrolysate that emanated from E. indicum FHBD degradation of feather showed high concentrations of arginine, serine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and glycine at the respective concentration (g/100g sample) of 1.2, 1.12, 1.34, 1.58 and 1.29. The keratinases were optimally active at pH and temperature of 8.0 and 50 oC, respectively. EDTA and PMSF did not highly repress keratinolytic proteases' activity, and this inhibitory pattern suggests that they may belong to a mixed protease family. Keratinase from E. acetylicum FHBD was highly stable in the presence of SDS, with 99percent residual activity and displayed variable stability in other chemical agents tested. A similar stability pattern was observed with keratinase from Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5, although the enzyme lost about 40percent of its original activity in the presence of SDS. Evaluation of metal ion stability indicated that E. acetylicum FHBD keratinase was remarkably stable in the presence of Fe3+, Mg2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, and Ba2+, with residual activity of 94percent, 88percent, 89percent, 90percent, and 97percent, respectively. Similarly, Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 keratinase was considerably stable after treatment with Co2+, K+, and Zn2+ as it displayed a residual activity of 85percent, 84percent and 93percent, respectively. The study of the keratinases stability in laundry detergents showed that E. acetylicum FHBD keratinolytic proteases was activated in the presence of Omo, Surf, Sunlight, and Pro wash after 60 min of pre-incubation compared to 30 min, with residual activity of 94 ± 2.94percent, 91 ± 2.53percent, 95 ± 2.89percent and 87 ± 2.89percent respectively. Likewise, Exiguobacterium sp. FBH5 keratinase activity was promoted after 60 min of incubation compared to 30 min, with a residual enzyme activity of 79percent, 84percent, 101percent, 103percent and 105percent and 106percent for Ariel, Surf, Prowash, Freewave, Sky and Evaklin, respectively. Therefore Exiguobacterium spp., demonstrated excellent keratinolytic potentials that could be exploited for sustainable development of bio-innovative products. The study keratinases' properties suggest their industrial and biotechnological application potentials, especially as bio-additive in the formulation of laundry detergents. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Anti-oxidant and cytotoxicity activity against the HCC70 Breast cancer cell line of aqueous and methanolic extracts of two red algae species from the Eastern Cape Coast, South Africa
- Authors: Basera, Afra Tsitsi
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Drug resistance in cancer cells , Oxidative stress
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22589 , vital:52586
- Description: Cancer, despite extensive research, remains one of the leading causes of mortality. Research into plant-derived compounds has gained traction, as some are not cytotoxic towards healthy cells and pose fewer side effects. Marine algae produce secondary metabolites, protecting them from oxidative stress, which causes cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the anticancer potential of selected red algae species, collected from Humewood Beach, Gqeberha in South Africa, against HCC70 (human breast adenocarcinoma) cancer cells. Identification of the species was made through DNA barcoding of the rbcL gene. Methanolic and aqueous extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Laurencia natalensis were evaluated for antioxidant activity, phytochemical content, and anticancer potential. The phytochemical composition was determined using the phenol, flavonoid, flavonol, tannin, and proanthocyanidin content assays. Antioxidant potential was evaluated using the Ferric reducing antioxidant potential, Diphenyl-1- Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide, 2, 2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activity, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assays. The resazurin assay was used to determine the antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity of the methanolic extracts and solid-phase extraction fractions against the HCC70 breast cancer cells. The red algae species were identified as G. pristoides and L. natalensis. The aqueous extract of G. pristoides exhibited significantly higher phenols (24.0 mg/g GAE), tannins (31.6 mg/g TAE), and flavonols content (20.5 mg/g RE) than its methanolic extract, or the aqueous and methanolic extracts of L. natalensis. Methanolic extracts of G. pristoides and L. natalensis exhibited significantly higher proanthocyanidin contents (19.4 mg/g and 15.7 mg/g CE) than their respective aqueous extracts (13.0 mg/g and 11.8 mg/g CE). Flavonoids, however, were absent in both species. The aqueous and methanol extracts of Laurencia natalensis and Gelidium pristoides exhibited low inhibitory activities (less than 50%) against DPPH, ABTS, and nitric oxide radicals. Both species also showed low ferric reducing power. All the extracts were antiproliferative and cytotoxic against the HCC70 breast cancer cells, with L. natalensis exhibiting more significant inhibitory activity. However, its Solid Phase Extraction fractions did not display antiproliferative potential, unlike fraction 4 of G. pristoides. The study results suggest that both G. pristoides and L. natalensis possess bioactive compounds with potential anticancer activity. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Basera, Afra Tsitsi
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Drug resistance in cancer cells , Oxidative stress
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22589 , vital:52586
- Description: Cancer, despite extensive research, remains one of the leading causes of mortality. Research into plant-derived compounds has gained traction, as some are not cytotoxic towards healthy cells and pose fewer side effects. Marine algae produce secondary metabolites, protecting them from oxidative stress, which causes cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the anticancer potential of selected red algae species, collected from Humewood Beach, Gqeberha in South Africa, against HCC70 (human breast adenocarcinoma) cancer cells. Identification of the species was made through DNA barcoding of the rbcL gene. Methanolic and aqueous extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Laurencia natalensis were evaluated for antioxidant activity, phytochemical content, and anticancer potential. The phytochemical composition was determined using the phenol, flavonoid, flavonol, tannin, and proanthocyanidin content assays. Antioxidant potential was evaluated using the Ferric reducing antioxidant potential, Diphenyl-1- Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide, 2, 2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activity, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assays. The resazurin assay was used to determine the antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity of the methanolic extracts and solid-phase extraction fractions against the HCC70 breast cancer cells. The red algae species were identified as G. pristoides and L. natalensis. The aqueous extract of G. pristoides exhibited significantly higher phenols (24.0 mg/g GAE), tannins (31.6 mg/g TAE), and flavonols content (20.5 mg/g RE) than its methanolic extract, or the aqueous and methanolic extracts of L. natalensis. Methanolic extracts of G. pristoides and L. natalensis exhibited significantly higher proanthocyanidin contents (19.4 mg/g and 15.7 mg/g CE) than their respective aqueous extracts (13.0 mg/g and 11.8 mg/g CE). Flavonoids, however, were absent in both species. The aqueous and methanol extracts of Laurencia natalensis and Gelidium pristoides exhibited low inhibitory activities (less than 50%) against DPPH, ABTS, and nitric oxide radicals. Both species also showed low ferric reducing power. All the extracts were antiproliferative and cytotoxic against the HCC70 breast cancer cells, with L. natalensis exhibiting more significant inhibitory activity. However, its Solid Phase Extraction fractions did not display antiproliferative potential, unlike fraction 4 of G. pristoides. The study results suggest that both G. pristoides and L. natalensis possess bioactive compounds with potential anticancer activity. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
The perception of police officers towards corruption in South African police services: a case study of Polokwane cluster policing area in Limpopo Province
- Authors: Rathogwa, Emmah Mufanadzo
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Corruption , Police corruption , Police misconduct
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27314 , vital:66935
- Description: The 1996 National Crime Prevention Strategy identified corruption within the criminal justice sector as the greatest threat to the governance of security. Police corruption has been a huge obstacle within the South African Police Service’s endeavours to tackle improper activities of police officers. A general definition of corruption is “use of public office for private gain”; this includes bribery and extortion, which involves at least two parties, and other types of malfeasance that a public official can carry out alone, including fraud and embezzlement. The corruption of police officers impinges on the capacity and ability of the entire force in ensuring that all citizens abide by the law. This study explored the perceptions of police officers towards corruption activities in South African Police Services (SAPS) within the Polokwane Cluster (Capricorn District) Policing Area in Limpopo province. In this study, a qualitative research design was used. The researcher used purposive sampling to select participants. For collection of data, semi-structured interviews were used where the researcher interviewed police officers within the Polokwane Cluster Capricorn District Policing Area. The researcher conducted fifty 50 interviews with five police officers from 10 police stations within the Polokwane Cluster Capricorn District Policing Area, namely: Botlokwa, Lebowakgomo, Polokwane,Westernburg, Seshego, Mankweng, Mashashane, Matlala, Mogwadi and Zebediela police stations. In addition, secondary sources were used where the researcher relied on documents from the Independent Police Investigations IPID on statistics on police corruption, among other scales of measurements. For the analysis of data, thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data collected through interviews whilst document analysis was used for analysing data collected from secondary sources. The findings gathered in this study revealed that police corruption is widespread within the Polokwane Cluster Capricorn District Policing Area in Limpopo province due some police officers’ fear of victimisation of their families or loved ones if they expose corrupt acts by other police officers. Furthermore, corruption of the South African Police Services personnel has been reported where potential police recruits are required to pay bribes for them to be placed for the job. Weak leadership within the South African police service and poor policy formulation and implementation have been identified by participants to be some of the main determinants of corruption within the South African Police Services. As a recommendation to counter the adverse effects of police corruption, a number of strategies have been formulated in this study such as the establishment of vibrant anticorruption mechanisms. It is essential for the government to recall passionate former police officials to investigate all the corrupt officials. The South African government should establish a very sophisticated anti-corruption body independent from the SAPS to spearhead the strategy to combat corruption. The recruitment of police personnel should culminate into hiring individuals who would see the police job as a calling and do it passionately. They should firstly target people who choose police related courses are already studying courses in crime investigation from grassroots level. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rathogwa, Emmah Mufanadzo
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Corruption , Police corruption , Police misconduct
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27314 , vital:66935
- Description: The 1996 National Crime Prevention Strategy identified corruption within the criminal justice sector as the greatest threat to the governance of security. Police corruption has been a huge obstacle within the South African Police Service’s endeavours to tackle improper activities of police officers. A general definition of corruption is “use of public office for private gain”; this includes bribery and extortion, which involves at least two parties, and other types of malfeasance that a public official can carry out alone, including fraud and embezzlement. The corruption of police officers impinges on the capacity and ability of the entire force in ensuring that all citizens abide by the law. This study explored the perceptions of police officers towards corruption activities in South African Police Services (SAPS) within the Polokwane Cluster (Capricorn District) Policing Area in Limpopo province. In this study, a qualitative research design was used. The researcher used purposive sampling to select participants. For collection of data, semi-structured interviews were used where the researcher interviewed police officers within the Polokwane Cluster Capricorn District Policing Area. The researcher conducted fifty 50 interviews with five police officers from 10 police stations within the Polokwane Cluster Capricorn District Policing Area, namely: Botlokwa, Lebowakgomo, Polokwane,Westernburg, Seshego, Mankweng, Mashashane, Matlala, Mogwadi and Zebediela police stations. In addition, secondary sources were used where the researcher relied on documents from the Independent Police Investigations IPID on statistics on police corruption, among other scales of measurements. For the analysis of data, thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data collected through interviews whilst document analysis was used for analysing data collected from secondary sources. The findings gathered in this study revealed that police corruption is widespread within the Polokwane Cluster Capricorn District Policing Area in Limpopo province due some police officers’ fear of victimisation of their families or loved ones if they expose corrupt acts by other police officers. Furthermore, corruption of the South African Police Services personnel has been reported where potential police recruits are required to pay bribes for them to be placed for the job. Weak leadership within the South African police service and poor policy formulation and implementation have been identified by participants to be some of the main determinants of corruption within the South African Police Services. As a recommendation to counter the adverse effects of police corruption, a number of strategies have been formulated in this study such as the establishment of vibrant anticorruption mechanisms. It is essential for the government to recall passionate former police officials to investigate all the corrupt officials. The South African government should establish a very sophisticated anti-corruption body independent from the SAPS to spearhead the strategy to combat corruption. The recruitment of police personnel should culminate into hiring individuals who would see the police job as a calling and do it passionately. They should firstly target people who choose police related courses are already studying courses in crime investigation from grassroots level. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
A trust framework to improve adoption of mobile banking by university students in South Africa
- Authors: van Heerden, Robyn
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems in education , Banks and banking, mobile , Education, Higher--Effect of technological innovations on
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20517 , vital:46073
- Description: Mobile banking, hereinafter referred to as m-banking, is a platform that allows individuals to conduct financial transactions using a mobile device at any given time. In today’s fast paced society, technologies have evolved to provide services that are convenient and benefit both the customer and service provider; these include m-banking. M-banking further encourages financial inclusion and economic growth, which are both crucial in South Africa. The aim of this research was to develop a trust framework to improve adoption of mobile banking by university students. This is an agency issue in the financial services industry as university students are a big segment of the future income earners and adopters of technology. Getting them to adopt and become regular m-banking users would significantly impact the revenue of banking institutions. The E-Commerce Acceptance Model and the Integrative Model of Organisational Trust were the two theoretical frameworks used as underlying theories to this study. A quantitative survey tool was employed to gather data at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape. After an extensive literature review, a questionnaire was formulated and distributed to students at the University of Fort Hare, of whom 471 responded. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data collected. Cronbach’s Alpha was employed to demonstrate the reliability of constructs used in the study and Pearson’s Product Moment. Correlation Coefficient r tested the strength of the relationships between these constructs. The study found that there are several factors that are significant, such as perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived risk when investigating trust and its influences on m-banking adoption amongst university students. As a result, the study recommends that banks should consider the above-mentioned factors in order to improve trust and increase m-banking adoption among university students in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: van Heerden, Robyn
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems in education , Banks and banking, mobile , Education, Higher--Effect of technological innovations on
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20517 , vital:46073
- Description: Mobile banking, hereinafter referred to as m-banking, is a platform that allows individuals to conduct financial transactions using a mobile device at any given time. In today’s fast paced society, technologies have evolved to provide services that are convenient and benefit both the customer and service provider; these include m-banking. M-banking further encourages financial inclusion and economic growth, which are both crucial in South Africa. The aim of this research was to develop a trust framework to improve adoption of mobile banking by university students. This is an agency issue in the financial services industry as university students are a big segment of the future income earners and adopters of technology. Getting them to adopt and become regular m-banking users would significantly impact the revenue of banking institutions. The E-Commerce Acceptance Model and the Integrative Model of Organisational Trust were the two theoretical frameworks used as underlying theories to this study. A quantitative survey tool was employed to gather data at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape. After an extensive literature review, a questionnaire was formulated and distributed to students at the University of Fort Hare, of whom 471 responded. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data collected. Cronbach’s Alpha was employed to demonstrate the reliability of constructs used in the study and Pearson’s Product Moment. Correlation Coefficient r tested the strength of the relationships between these constructs. The study found that there are several factors that are significant, such as perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived risk when investigating trust and its influences on m-banking adoption amongst university students. As a result, the study recommends that banks should consider the above-mentioned factors in order to improve trust and increase m-banking adoption among university students in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
Effects of paclobutrazol and plant spacing on growth, yield, and after effect on sprout development in seed potatoes (solanum tuberosum l.)
- Jokazi, Khuselo Bernad https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8620-9838
- Authors: Jokazi, Khuselo Bernad https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8620-9838
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Potatoes , Plant regulators
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21323 , vital:48406
- Description: Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the genus Solanum, in the Solanaceae family which is comprised of about 2 800 species (Sahair et al., 2018). Potato domestication can be traced back to the sixteenth century in the South American continent (Hawkes, 1978). The potato crop became a staple food for greater parts of the world towards the end of the seventeenth century. It is not clear when the crop was introduced to the African continent, although the literature indicates that it was grown in some parts of the continent by the late seventeenth century (Hawkes, 1978). Potato is a very bulky crop and is a source of high energy per given area of land (Tsegaw, 2005). Nutritionally, the crop is rich in carbohydrates and provides a considerable amount of protein, with a good balance of amino acids, vitamins (C, B6, and B1, folate), minerals (potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium), and the micronutrients iron and zinc. Potatoes are also a source of high dietary fiber, especially when eaten unpeeled. In addition, potatoes are rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols, vitamin C, carotenoids, and tocopherols (Bradshaw and Ramsay, 2009). Potatoes play a very important role in the global food system. It is South Africa’s most important vegetable crop (DAFF, 2012). Worldwide, it ranks fourth topmost important food crops following wheat, maize, and rice (Esmaielpour et al., 2011; Bradshaw and Ramsay, 2009), followed by barley (Allemann et al., 2003). South Africa is the 27th largest producer in the world and the 3rd largest producer in Africa after Egypt and Malawi (FAOSTAT, 2015). In the year 2014, potatoes were produced in 51 435 hectares of land, which yielded over 2 million tons (DAFF, 2015). This crop is produced in sixteen producing regions throughout South Africa with the Limpopo, Free State, Western Cape, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and Eastern Cape provinces being the leading regions (DAFF, 2015). Because of the different climatic regions in South Africa, potatoes are planted at different times of the year. As a result, the country enjoys fresh potatoes throughout the year (DAFF, 2014). According to the Potato Industry Research Strategy 2014-17 under Potato South Africa, the past few years have seen a decrease in the area of land under potato production, with an increase in the average yield per area. This yield increment can be accredited to an increase in the production under irrigation system, the use of improved cultivars and seed quality, and the application of research results (PSA, 2014). World potato production indicates that intensive cultivation has led to an increment of potato yields between 1960 and 1999, even though there was a reduction in the area planted with the crop (Fabeiro et al., 2001). However, there is a large gap between potential potato yield and actual yield per hectare. Research undoubtedly holds great potential for narrowing this gap. In order to do so, there is a need to understand the factors limiting potato yield. Temperature, plant spacing, and seed tuber quality are amongst the most significant factors affecting potato growth, yield, and quality. Potatoes are very adaptive; at present, they can be produced in different climatic regions. They are temperate crops, which prefer a cool and humid climate (Haverkort, 1990), but care should be taken to avoid high-stress periods such as temperature extremes. The optimum temperature for haulm growth and net photosynthesis is in the range between 15℃ and 25℃, and 20℃ is the optimum temperature for tuberization. Tuberization is inhibited by temperatures above 29℃, as the photoassimilate partitioning towards the tubers is decreased, leading to an increase in shoot growth (Gawronska et al., 1992). Plant spacing is usually determined by the target market and cultivar. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jokazi, Khuselo Bernad https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8620-9838
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Potatoes , Plant regulators
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21323 , vital:48406
- Description: Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the genus Solanum, in the Solanaceae family which is comprised of about 2 800 species (Sahair et al., 2018). Potato domestication can be traced back to the sixteenth century in the South American continent (Hawkes, 1978). The potato crop became a staple food for greater parts of the world towards the end of the seventeenth century. It is not clear when the crop was introduced to the African continent, although the literature indicates that it was grown in some parts of the continent by the late seventeenth century (Hawkes, 1978). Potato is a very bulky crop and is a source of high energy per given area of land (Tsegaw, 2005). Nutritionally, the crop is rich in carbohydrates and provides a considerable amount of protein, with a good balance of amino acids, vitamins (C, B6, and B1, folate), minerals (potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium), and the micronutrients iron and zinc. Potatoes are also a source of high dietary fiber, especially when eaten unpeeled. In addition, potatoes are rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols, vitamin C, carotenoids, and tocopherols (Bradshaw and Ramsay, 2009). Potatoes play a very important role in the global food system. It is South Africa’s most important vegetable crop (DAFF, 2012). Worldwide, it ranks fourth topmost important food crops following wheat, maize, and rice (Esmaielpour et al., 2011; Bradshaw and Ramsay, 2009), followed by barley (Allemann et al., 2003). South Africa is the 27th largest producer in the world and the 3rd largest producer in Africa after Egypt and Malawi (FAOSTAT, 2015). In the year 2014, potatoes were produced in 51 435 hectares of land, which yielded over 2 million tons (DAFF, 2015). This crop is produced in sixteen producing regions throughout South Africa with the Limpopo, Free State, Western Cape, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and Eastern Cape provinces being the leading regions (DAFF, 2015). Because of the different climatic regions in South Africa, potatoes are planted at different times of the year. As a result, the country enjoys fresh potatoes throughout the year (DAFF, 2014). According to the Potato Industry Research Strategy 2014-17 under Potato South Africa, the past few years have seen a decrease in the area of land under potato production, with an increase in the average yield per area. This yield increment can be accredited to an increase in the production under irrigation system, the use of improved cultivars and seed quality, and the application of research results (PSA, 2014). World potato production indicates that intensive cultivation has led to an increment of potato yields between 1960 and 1999, even though there was a reduction in the area planted with the crop (Fabeiro et al., 2001). However, there is a large gap between potential potato yield and actual yield per hectare. Research undoubtedly holds great potential for narrowing this gap. In order to do so, there is a need to understand the factors limiting potato yield. Temperature, plant spacing, and seed tuber quality are amongst the most significant factors affecting potato growth, yield, and quality. Potatoes are very adaptive; at present, they can be produced in different climatic regions. They are temperate crops, which prefer a cool and humid climate (Haverkort, 1990), but care should be taken to avoid high-stress periods such as temperature extremes. The optimum temperature for haulm growth and net photosynthesis is in the range between 15℃ and 25℃, and 20℃ is the optimum temperature for tuberization. Tuberization is inhibited by temperatures above 29℃, as the photoassimilate partitioning towards the tubers is decreased, leading to an increase in shoot growth (Gawronska et al., 1992). Plant spacing is usually determined by the target market and cultivar. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
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Parenting and moral behaviour: an exploration of young mothers raising children in golf course, Alice, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Nyatanga, Georgina
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Parenting , Child rearing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22339 , vital:52027
- Description: Regardless of the efforts that have been put forward to reduce adolescent pregnancies on a global scale, the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy is still on the rise, and this has ultimately led to young motherhood to be a common feature in many societies, South Africa inclusive. A number of factors have contributed towards the parenting capacity of young mothers to nurture their children towards developing warranted behavior to be questioned. Owing to this, this study embarked on a journey to explore how young motherhood influences the development of immoral or unwarranted behavior in children in Golf Course, Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Informed by the theoretical lenses of the Moral Development Theory, Social Learning Theory, and the Systems Theory; the study aimed to answer the following questions: (i) How does young motherhood influence the development of immoral behavior in children? (ii) What are the types of immoral behaviors that children raised by young mothers are involved in? (iii) What are the possible strategies that can be implemented to curb the prevalence of immoral behavior in children raised by young mothers? The study adopted a qualitative research approach with a case study research design. Data was collected through in depths interviews from the young mothers and key informants. A semi structured interview schedule was used as a data collection instrument. Non-probability sampling technique was used, and the sample of the study was obtained through purposive sampling. Twenty-five participants (twenty young mothers and five key informants) were recruited to participate in the study using the fore mentioned technique. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the collected data. The study revealed the following aspects: young mothers are confronted with a number of challenges which affect their parenting capacity and nurturing of their children; a majority of children raised by young mothers in Golf Course exhibit a number of unwarranted behavior which is influenced by their family situation and the nature of parenting they receive; lastly training in parenting, availability of child protection services and development of support group services for young mothers were identified as the strategies that can be employed to reduce the development of unwarranted behavior in children raised by young mothers. Based on the findings, the study recommends that government entities together with non-governmental social service providers provide the financial, social support and mental support to young mothers to empower and capacitate them so that they can be able to adopt positive parenting skills which are necessary towards nurturing warranted behavior in children. The study also recommends that young mothers must be conscious of their lifestyle and life choices as these have a direct impact on the behavior of their children. The study concludes that if the conditions of children raised by young mothers are to be enhanced, the prevalence of immoral or unwarranted behavior amongst children raised by young mothers will drop drastically. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nyatanga, Georgina
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Parenting , Child rearing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22339 , vital:52027
- Description: Regardless of the efforts that have been put forward to reduce adolescent pregnancies on a global scale, the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy is still on the rise, and this has ultimately led to young motherhood to be a common feature in many societies, South Africa inclusive. A number of factors have contributed towards the parenting capacity of young mothers to nurture their children towards developing warranted behavior to be questioned. Owing to this, this study embarked on a journey to explore how young motherhood influences the development of immoral or unwarranted behavior in children in Golf Course, Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Informed by the theoretical lenses of the Moral Development Theory, Social Learning Theory, and the Systems Theory; the study aimed to answer the following questions: (i) How does young motherhood influence the development of immoral behavior in children? (ii) What are the types of immoral behaviors that children raised by young mothers are involved in? (iii) What are the possible strategies that can be implemented to curb the prevalence of immoral behavior in children raised by young mothers? The study adopted a qualitative research approach with a case study research design. Data was collected through in depths interviews from the young mothers and key informants. A semi structured interview schedule was used as a data collection instrument. Non-probability sampling technique was used, and the sample of the study was obtained through purposive sampling. Twenty-five participants (twenty young mothers and five key informants) were recruited to participate in the study using the fore mentioned technique. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the collected data. The study revealed the following aspects: young mothers are confronted with a number of challenges which affect their parenting capacity and nurturing of their children; a majority of children raised by young mothers in Golf Course exhibit a number of unwarranted behavior which is influenced by their family situation and the nature of parenting they receive; lastly training in parenting, availability of child protection services and development of support group services for young mothers were identified as the strategies that can be employed to reduce the development of unwarranted behavior in children raised by young mothers. Based on the findings, the study recommends that government entities together with non-governmental social service providers provide the financial, social support and mental support to young mothers to empower and capacitate them so that they can be able to adopt positive parenting skills which are necessary towards nurturing warranted behavior in children. The study also recommends that young mothers must be conscious of their lifestyle and life choices as these have a direct impact on the behavior of their children. The study concludes that if the conditions of children raised by young mothers are to be enhanced, the prevalence of immoral or unwarranted behavior amongst children raised by young mothers will drop drastically. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
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Sedimentology, petrography and geochemistry of the Kuruman Banded Iron Formation in the Prieska area, Northern Cape Province of South Africa
- Mbongonya, Mainly Abongile https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2241-8558
- Authors: Mbongonya, Mainly Abongile https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2241-8558
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resources -- South Africa , Sedimentology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21345 , vital:48492
- Description: The sedimentary sequences hosted by the Griqualand West Basin within the Transvaal Supergroup, Northern Cape Province of South Africa, contain several iron and manganese ore deposits. Many studies have been conducted in the Griqualand West basin, particularly within the northern Ghaap plateau compartment where most iron and manganese mines are located, with less attention to the southern Prieska Compartment. Thus, the current study is targeted at the Kuruman Formation in the Prieska area to investigate the geological occurrence, including sedimentology, geochemistry, origin, and post-depositional alteration of the banded iron formation (BIF). Four stratigraphic sections were measured, and the fifth section was only mapped for lithology and sedimentary facies. These sections constitute portions of the stratigraphic sequence of the Transvaal Supergroup that occurs within the study area. The stratigraphic sequence of the area comprises nine successional cycles with five upward fining cycles and four upward-coarsening cycles. These cycles reflect fluctuation of the sea level and shallowing- and filling-up processes of the final basin. Four mineral paragenetic groups constituting primary minerals, diagenetic minerals, low-grade minerals, and weathering mineral assemblages were encountered in the area. The primary mineral assemblage includes magnetite, hematite, siderite, chert, quartz, and smectite. The diagenetic assemblage minerals in the area are martite, quartz (cement), illite, calcite, ankerite, and stilpnomelane. Low-grade assemblage minerals are riebeckite, crocidolite, and minnesotaite, whereas goethite, limonite, calcite (calcrete), quartz (silcrete), and clay minerals are the supergene (weathering) assemblage minerals. These mineral assemblages were confirmed by microscope petrography, XRD, SEM-EDX, and diagenesis studies. Eight sedimentary facies including Horizontal-laminated BIF facies (Hlb), Horizontal thin to medium bedded BIF facies (Hbb), Ripple laminated BIF facies (Rlb), Thin to medium bedded mudstone facies (Mbm), Medium to thick-bedded mudstone facies (Tbm), Medium to thick-bedded fine-sandstone facies (Mts), Laminated dolomite stromatolite facies (Ld), and Dome-shaped stromatolitic BIF facies (Dbif) were identified in the field. Five facies associations including Facies association 1 (Hlb + Hbb), Facies association 2 (Hlb + Hbb + Mbm + Tbm), Facies association 3 (Hlb + Hbb + Mbm + Tbm + Rlb), Facies association 4 (Mbm + Tbm + Mts), and Facies association 5 (Ld + Dbif + Mts) have been recognised. Mineralogy, petrography, and geochemical studies indicate that the studied samples have all been subjected to recent weathering that altered the primary mineralogy and the geochemical composition. Mineral assemblages of the Kuruman BIF within the Prieska area are dominated by quartz, which constitutes about 53 wt.percent, followed by the iron oxides averaging about 44 wt.percent. Other minerals such as carbonates and silicates are only occurring in concentrations of less than 3 wt. percent combined. The Prieska BIF is enriched in cobalt, tungsten, molybdenum, barium (Ba), and nickel compared to the BIF in the northern parts of the Griqualand West basin and other localities. Post-depositional mineral alteration studies show that most of the primary minerals had suffered various degrees of alteration. The bulk of quartz, silicate, and iron oxide minerals in the area have been recrystallized, partially replaced, dissolved, or leached out. Multiple formation processes were involved in the origin of the banded iron formation: (1). Deposition of iron-rich mud material in the deep ocean floor and formation of a mixture of iron-rich mud (felutite) on the seafloor; (2). Differentiation of felutite and formation of disseminated iron-oxide from mud; (3). Cohesion and diagenesis of disseminated iron-oxide and formation of iron-rich (magnetite/hematite) and silica-rich (chert/quartz) patches, lenses (pod), microbands, and laminations; (4). Consolidation and compaction, leading to the formation of the final banded iron formation (BIF). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mbongonya, Mainly Abongile https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2241-8558
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resources -- South Africa , Sedimentology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21345 , vital:48492
- Description: The sedimentary sequences hosted by the Griqualand West Basin within the Transvaal Supergroup, Northern Cape Province of South Africa, contain several iron and manganese ore deposits. Many studies have been conducted in the Griqualand West basin, particularly within the northern Ghaap plateau compartment where most iron and manganese mines are located, with less attention to the southern Prieska Compartment. Thus, the current study is targeted at the Kuruman Formation in the Prieska area to investigate the geological occurrence, including sedimentology, geochemistry, origin, and post-depositional alteration of the banded iron formation (BIF). Four stratigraphic sections were measured, and the fifth section was only mapped for lithology and sedimentary facies. These sections constitute portions of the stratigraphic sequence of the Transvaal Supergroup that occurs within the study area. The stratigraphic sequence of the area comprises nine successional cycles with five upward fining cycles and four upward-coarsening cycles. These cycles reflect fluctuation of the sea level and shallowing- and filling-up processes of the final basin. Four mineral paragenetic groups constituting primary minerals, diagenetic minerals, low-grade minerals, and weathering mineral assemblages were encountered in the area. The primary mineral assemblage includes magnetite, hematite, siderite, chert, quartz, and smectite. The diagenetic assemblage minerals in the area are martite, quartz (cement), illite, calcite, ankerite, and stilpnomelane. Low-grade assemblage minerals are riebeckite, crocidolite, and minnesotaite, whereas goethite, limonite, calcite (calcrete), quartz (silcrete), and clay minerals are the supergene (weathering) assemblage minerals. These mineral assemblages were confirmed by microscope petrography, XRD, SEM-EDX, and diagenesis studies. Eight sedimentary facies including Horizontal-laminated BIF facies (Hlb), Horizontal thin to medium bedded BIF facies (Hbb), Ripple laminated BIF facies (Rlb), Thin to medium bedded mudstone facies (Mbm), Medium to thick-bedded mudstone facies (Tbm), Medium to thick-bedded fine-sandstone facies (Mts), Laminated dolomite stromatolite facies (Ld), and Dome-shaped stromatolitic BIF facies (Dbif) were identified in the field. Five facies associations including Facies association 1 (Hlb + Hbb), Facies association 2 (Hlb + Hbb + Mbm + Tbm), Facies association 3 (Hlb + Hbb + Mbm + Tbm + Rlb), Facies association 4 (Mbm + Tbm + Mts), and Facies association 5 (Ld + Dbif + Mts) have been recognised. Mineralogy, petrography, and geochemical studies indicate that the studied samples have all been subjected to recent weathering that altered the primary mineralogy and the geochemical composition. Mineral assemblages of the Kuruman BIF within the Prieska area are dominated by quartz, which constitutes about 53 wt.percent, followed by the iron oxides averaging about 44 wt.percent. Other minerals such as carbonates and silicates are only occurring in concentrations of less than 3 wt. percent combined. The Prieska BIF is enriched in cobalt, tungsten, molybdenum, barium (Ba), and nickel compared to the BIF in the northern parts of the Griqualand West basin and other localities. Post-depositional mineral alteration studies show that most of the primary minerals had suffered various degrees of alteration. The bulk of quartz, silicate, and iron oxide minerals in the area have been recrystallized, partially replaced, dissolved, or leached out. Multiple formation processes were involved in the origin of the banded iron formation: (1). Deposition of iron-rich mud material in the deep ocean floor and formation of a mixture of iron-rich mud (felutite) on the seafloor; (2). Differentiation of felutite and formation of disseminated iron-oxide from mud; (3). Cohesion and diagenesis of disseminated iron-oxide and formation of iron-rich (magnetite/hematite) and silica-rich (chert/quartz) patches, lenses (pod), microbands, and laminations; (4). Consolidation and compaction, leading to the formation of the final banded iron formation (BIF). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
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The effects of Zimbabwe’s economic crises on child welfare: a case of Chitungwiza Town
- Authors: Midzi, Tendai
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Child welfare -- Economic aspects , Crisis management -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22401 , vital:52045
- Description: This study examined the effects of Zimbabwe’s economic crisis on the welfare of children (analysed in terms of two indicators of health and education) in Chitungwiza. The study endeavoured to achieve the following specific objectives: (i).to assess the effect of Zimbabwe’s economic crisis on the welfare of children in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe. (ii). to examine child support strategies that are implemented to sustain children during economic crisis in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe. The economic exigencies and shocks spawned by economic crisis on the weak welfare systems of the developing world countries drastically undermine the wellbeing of children. Therefore, this study focused on analysing the economic crises-spawned form and scale of child vulnerabilities at the household and national level because these units provide primary child care in Zimbabwe. This study was underpinned by two frameworks namely, the Social Risk Management Approach (SRMA) and the Transformative Social Protection Framework (T.S.P). The study used a mixed methods or triangulation approach, through use of primary data (quantitative and qualitative data) and secondary data (archival data) as the basis for data collection as well as the analysis. This was guided by a mixed research design specifically a case study and a mini survey. Complementarity of the research methods was achieved through the use of data from household surveys with 100 heads of households (selected through a combination cluster and random sampling) in Chitungwiza Town and in-depth interviews with 1 official from each of the following units; Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the Ministry of Public Service Labor, and Social Welfare, Ministry of Health and Child care, UNICEF, the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) and Child Line Zimbabwe (selected through a purposive sampling technique). Data was analyzed qualitatively through thematic analysis, while descriptive statistics was used to analyze quantitative data through the use of SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences, Version 25) and Microsoft Excel 2007. The study revealed that there are so many child vulnerabilities entrenched by the country’s chronic economic crisis that include poor education and health outcomes, drug abuse and juvenile delinquency, early pregnancies and child marriages, child labour and exploitation among others. Social safety nets in place such as BEAM, AMTO and HSCT are to some extent helping vulnerable children but currently these are not covering a significant percentage of children from poor households due to budget, capacity and fund appropriation challenges at the behest of the country’s economic crisis. Household child support strategies such as smallholder agriculture and gardening, informal trading and jobs are to some extent helping in promoting child wellbeing but their potential is undercut by challenges relating to inter alia the hyperinflationary economic environment, regulation and suppressed markets. The study inter alia recommends the institution of transparency and accountability as provided in the 2013 constitution to curb leakages and misallocation of the few resources, the reinstatement of the multicurrency monetary system in order to stabilise the country’s hyperinflationary environment, a transformation of the delivery of social safety nets in terms of targeting and coverage of the poor households, more effective budgeting and resource allocation system, supporting the informal sector and enhanced integration of social work practise in government social protection programs. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Midzi, Tendai
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Child welfare -- Economic aspects , Crisis management -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22401 , vital:52045
- Description: This study examined the effects of Zimbabwe’s economic crisis on the welfare of children (analysed in terms of two indicators of health and education) in Chitungwiza. The study endeavoured to achieve the following specific objectives: (i).to assess the effect of Zimbabwe’s economic crisis on the welfare of children in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe. (ii). to examine child support strategies that are implemented to sustain children during economic crisis in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe. The economic exigencies and shocks spawned by economic crisis on the weak welfare systems of the developing world countries drastically undermine the wellbeing of children. Therefore, this study focused on analysing the economic crises-spawned form and scale of child vulnerabilities at the household and national level because these units provide primary child care in Zimbabwe. This study was underpinned by two frameworks namely, the Social Risk Management Approach (SRMA) and the Transformative Social Protection Framework (T.S.P). The study used a mixed methods or triangulation approach, through use of primary data (quantitative and qualitative data) and secondary data (archival data) as the basis for data collection as well as the analysis. This was guided by a mixed research design specifically a case study and a mini survey. Complementarity of the research methods was achieved through the use of data from household surveys with 100 heads of households (selected through a combination cluster and random sampling) in Chitungwiza Town and in-depth interviews with 1 official from each of the following units; Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the Ministry of Public Service Labor, and Social Welfare, Ministry of Health and Child care, UNICEF, the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) and Child Line Zimbabwe (selected through a purposive sampling technique). Data was analyzed qualitatively through thematic analysis, while descriptive statistics was used to analyze quantitative data through the use of SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences, Version 25) and Microsoft Excel 2007. The study revealed that there are so many child vulnerabilities entrenched by the country’s chronic economic crisis that include poor education and health outcomes, drug abuse and juvenile delinquency, early pregnancies and child marriages, child labour and exploitation among others. Social safety nets in place such as BEAM, AMTO and HSCT are to some extent helping vulnerable children but currently these are not covering a significant percentage of children from poor households due to budget, capacity and fund appropriation challenges at the behest of the country’s economic crisis. Household child support strategies such as smallholder agriculture and gardening, informal trading and jobs are to some extent helping in promoting child wellbeing but their potential is undercut by challenges relating to inter alia the hyperinflationary economic environment, regulation and suppressed markets. The study inter alia recommends the institution of transparency and accountability as provided in the 2013 constitution to curb leakages and misallocation of the few resources, the reinstatement of the multicurrency monetary system in order to stabilise the country’s hyperinflationary environment, a transformation of the delivery of social safety nets in terms of targeting and coverage of the poor households, more effective budgeting and resource allocation system, supporting the informal sector and enhanced integration of social work practise in government social protection programs. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
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The relationship between green behaviours and their effect on the performance of small businesses in South Africa
- Authors: Banana, Zingisa
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Small business--Management , Environmental economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21377 , vital:48514
- Description: Purpose: Academics and the government are placing more emphasis and importance on the role that enterprises can play in response to challenges of the environment. This study aimed to establish the relationship between green behaviours and the performance of small businesses in South Africa. Green behaviours are measured as consisting of green entrepreneurial orientation, green technology dynamism and green innovation behaviour. Conversely, performance is defined as consisting of environmental performance, objective performance and subjective performance. Design/methodology/approach: To achieve the purpose of this study, the study adopted a positivist paradigm which is motivated by the quantitative approach using a descriptive research design. Self-administered questionnaires were employed with a sample of 180 participants that were randomly selected across small businesses in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Findings/results: The major findings of the study, using simple linear regression analysis, revealed that a significant positive relationship between green entrepreneurial orientation and environmental, objective and subjective performance does exist. However, the hierarchical regression analysis results revealed that green technology dynamism and green innovation behaviour do not moderate the relationship between green entrepreneurial orientation and performance as measured by environmental, objective and subjective performance dimensions. Practical implications: Based on the findings of the study, small businesses need to develop policy related to promoting green behaviours, given that green entrepreneurial orientation has been found to be related to performance. Originality/value: The results of this study could guide small business owners and managers in the implementation of environmentally-friendly practices in an effort to reduce green economy issues and environmental problems facing the present generation. , Thesis (MCom) (Business Management) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Banana, Zingisa
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Small business--Management , Environmental economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21377 , vital:48514
- Description: Purpose: Academics and the government are placing more emphasis and importance on the role that enterprises can play in response to challenges of the environment. This study aimed to establish the relationship between green behaviours and the performance of small businesses in South Africa. Green behaviours are measured as consisting of green entrepreneurial orientation, green technology dynamism and green innovation behaviour. Conversely, performance is defined as consisting of environmental performance, objective performance and subjective performance. Design/methodology/approach: To achieve the purpose of this study, the study adopted a positivist paradigm which is motivated by the quantitative approach using a descriptive research design. Self-administered questionnaires were employed with a sample of 180 participants that were randomly selected across small businesses in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Findings/results: The major findings of the study, using simple linear regression analysis, revealed that a significant positive relationship between green entrepreneurial orientation and environmental, objective and subjective performance does exist. However, the hierarchical regression analysis results revealed that green technology dynamism and green innovation behaviour do not moderate the relationship between green entrepreneurial orientation and performance as measured by environmental, objective and subjective performance dimensions. Practical implications: Based on the findings of the study, small businesses need to develop policy related to promoting green behaviours, given that green entrepreneurial orientation has been found to be related to performance. Originality/value: The results of this study could guide small business owners and managers in the implementation of environmentally-friendly practices in an effort to reduce green economy issues and environmental problems facing the present generation. , Thesis (MCom) (Business Management) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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The role of good governance practices in enhancing service delivery: A case of Mnquma Municipality
- Authors: Sipuka, Noluthando
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Public administration , Government productivity
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20219 , vital:45429
- Description: This study examines the role of good governance practices in enhancing service delivery in Mnquma Municipality in an effort to assist municipalities in the greater Eastern Cape and South Africa in general. Good governance has become a popular theme in Africa and worldwide, attributed to the increasing need to alleviate rampant corruption in municipalities, of which Mnquma Municipality is not immune. This study positioned in the constructivist paradigm employed the qualitative research paradigm, using semi-structured interviews with 15 community members and officials, secondary data and field notes. Collected data was analysed using content analysis and various themes were extracted from the data. The study found that the community in the Mnquma Municipality is dissatisfied with service delivery as there are rural areas who are still battling to get clean water and decent ablution facilities. This municipality has been marred by violent protests, infighting amongst those who are tasked to oversee the delivery of services. The infighting amongst municipal officials and municipal council which results in minimal involvement of the third leg of the municipality which is the community in the affairs of the municipality. This study sought to explore the roles of good governance in enhancing service delivery in Mnquma Municipality, investigate the challenges that impede good governance practices in Mnquma Municipality and to recommend possible strategies that can be used to enhance good governance in Mnquma Municipality. Good governance has become a popular theme in Africa and worldwide, attributed to the increasing need to alleviate rampant corruption in municipalities, of which Mnquma Municipality is not immune. The study found that the community in the Mnquma Municipality is dissatisfied with service delivery as there are rural areas who are still battling to get clean water and decent ablution facilities. This municipality has been marred by violent protests, infighting amongst those who are tasked to oversee the delivery of services. The study recommends various approaches to end the bad governance and insufficient service delivery such as ensuring effective monitoring and evaluation of community projects, skills audits and trainings for municipal officials, increased community participation in municipal decisions as well as increased access to loans to community members. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sipuka, Noluthando
- Date: 2021-01
- Subjects: Public administration , Government productivity
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20219 , vital:45429
- Description: This study examines the role of good governance practices in enhancing service delivery in Mnquma Municipality in an effort to assist municipalities in the greater Eastern Cape and South Africa in general. Good governance has become a popular theme in Africa and worldwide, attributed to the increasing need to alleviate rampant corruption in municipalities, of which Mnquma Municipality is not immune. This study positioned in the constructivist paradigm employed the qualitative research paradigm, using semi-structured interviews with 15 community members and officials, secondary data and field notes. Collected data was analysed using content analysis and various themes were extracted from the data. The study found that the community in the Mnquma Municipality is dissatisfied with service delivery as there are rural areas who are still battling to get clean water and decent ablution facilities. This municipality has been marred by violent protests, infighting amongst those who are tasked to oversee the delivery of services. The infighting amongst municipal officials and municipal council which results in minimal involvement of the third leg of the municipality which is the community in the affairs of the municipality. This study sought to explore the roles of good governance in enhancing service delivery in Mnquma Municipality, investigate the challenges that impede good governance practices in Mnquma Municipality and to recommend possible strategies that can be used to enhance good governance in Mnquma Municipality. Good governance has become a popular theme in Africa and worldwide, attributed to the increasing need to alleviate rampant corruption in municipalities, of which Mnquma Municipality is not immune. The study found that the community in the Mnquma Municipality is dissatisfied with service delivery as there are rural areas who are still battling to get clean water and decent ablution facilities. This municipality has been marred by violent protests, infighting amongst those who are tasked to oversee the delivery of services. The study recommends various approaches to end the bad governance and insufficient service delivery such as ensuring effective monitoring and evaluation of community projects, skills audits and trainings for municipal officials, increased community participation in municipal decisions as well as increased access to loans to community members. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2021
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An appraisal of selected support services rendered by social workers to older persons in De Aar service area, Northern Cape Province
- Authors: Feni, Manezi
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Community health services for older people , Social work with older people , Older people--Services for
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21047 , vital:46925
- Description: This study was an appraisal of selected support services rendered by social workers to older persons in De Aar Service Area, Northern Cape Province in South Africa. The study endeavoured to achieve the following specific objectives: i) to appraise the nature and extent of the existing support services rendered by social workers to older persons; ii) to explore challenges experienced by older persons receiving support services from social workers; iii) to establish strategies that can be adopted by the Department of Social Development to restructure its interventions to enhance the services rendered to older persons; iv) and to assess measures that can be adopted by the service beneficiaries to ensure that they receive quality services. The study was premised on the theoretical lenses of sociology of weak ties (SWT) theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs model, and Social Exchange theory. The study was prompted by the growing number of elderly people who need the support services rendered by social workers as well as community based care. Methodologically, the study used a qualitative paradigm and was thus guided by the research design which was a case study complemented by explorative and descriptive study design types. The data was collected through in-depth one-on-one interviews, focus group discussions and key informants to strengthen the qualitative aspect of the study. This current study used a probability sampling method, specifically a purposive sampling technique, to purposefully select a study sample that has all the characteristics needed to contribute immensely to the phenomenon under study. Using this techniques, thirty-eight (38) participants were selected comprising sixteen (16) elderly persons who were 65 years and above, sixteen (16) Old-age Centre Caregivers, three (3) Generic Social Workers, and three Service Managers. Data was analysed qualitatively through thematic analysis, and revealed among other findings, that the social workers render extensive support to the older persons in De Aar Service Area, they do monthly assessments, conduct research, liaise with various stakeholders such as the DSD, Department of Health, SASSA, Caregivers, Older Persons (as service beneficiaries) and Municipalities in a bid to empower and improve the welfare of older persons. However, the study also showed that older persons receiving support from the Social Workers are experiencing various problems such as chronic illnesses and stress due to old age. Most importantly, the study gaps in the services rendered to older persons by Social Workers are identified and as a result, strategies to cover the gaps are suggested therefrom. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Feni, Manezi
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Community health services for older people , Social work with older people , Older people--Services for
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21047 , vital:46925
- Description: This study was an appraisal of selected support services rendered by social workers to older persons in De Aar Service Area, Northern Cape Province in South Africa. The study endeavoured to achieve the following specific objectives: i) to appraise the nature and extent of the existing support services rendered by social workers to older persons; ii) to explore challenges experienced by older persons receiving support services from social workers; iii) to establish strategies that can be adopted by the Department of Social Development to restructure its interventions to enhance the services rendered to older persons; iv) and to assess measures that can be adopted by the service beneficiaries to ensure that they receive quality services. The study was premised on the theoretical lenses of sociology of weak ties (SWT) theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs model, and Social Exchange theory. The study was prompted by the growing number of elderly people who need the support services rendered by social workers as well as community based care. Methodologically, the study used a qualitative paradigm and was thus guided by the research design which was a case study complemented by explorative and descriptive study design types. The data was collected through in-depth one-on-one interviews, focus group discussions and key informants to strengthen the qualitative aspect of the study. This current study used a probability sampling method, specifically a purposive sampling technique, to purposefully select a study sample that has all the characteristics needed to contribute immensely to the phenomenon under study. Using this techniques, thirty-eight (38) participants were selected comprising sixteen (16) elderly persons who were 65 years and above, sixteen (16) Old-age Centre Caregivers, three (3) Generic Social Workers, and three Service Managers. Data was analysed qualitatively through thematic analysis, and revealed among other findings, that the social workers render extensive support to the older persons in De Aar Service Area, they do monthly assessments, conduct research, liaise with various stakeholders such as the DSD, Department of Health, SASSA, Caregivers, Older Persons (as service beneficiaries) and Municipalities in a bid to empower and improve the welfare of older persons. However, the study also showed that older persons receiving support from the Social Workers are experiencing various problems such as chronic illnesses and stress due to old age. Most importantly, the study gaps in the services rendered to older persons by Social Workers are identified and as a result, strategies to cover the gaps are suggested therefrom. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Citizen`s experience of the batho pele principles of consultation and redress in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Gqamana, Athabile
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa , Civil service -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19759 , vital:43235
- Description: Everyday activities of communities are dependent on services provided by the local municipality, district or regional council and the national government. These activities range from water flowing freely from taps, a roof to hide under, and a clean and healthy environment, just to name a few. The Batho Pele principles were introduced to ensure that these services are provided for the benefit of the people. They were introduced to make sure that people are involved in the process of service delivery so that services are exactly what they need. It is important to note that the Batho Pele principles inform service standards and a customer care charter. This means that the government or providers of service listen to citizens’ views and take them into account when making decisions about service delivery. Informing service standards and a customer care charter also means that service providers or the government responds swiftly and sympathetically when the service standard falls below the promised standard. The problem occurs when citizens are not being consulted about the type of services they are entitled to. The citizens of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality had an issue with how services are provided. They stated that even though service delivery was improving, the manner in which these services were provided was not satisfactory. They complained that they were not asked about what they needed and what their priorities were. Moreover, they stated that when they complained, they did not receive an effective response. The main objective of this research was to establish citizens’ experience with consultation and redress as core functions of the Batho Pele Principles. Furthermore, this research sought to establish important elements of proper citizen consultation and redress in the literature, to determine the extent to which these principles are adopted in in BCMM, to establish the effects of current consultation and redress practice on citizens’ trust in their local government and to make recommendations on effective approaches to consultation and redress. The theories that guided the study are the agency theory, the social equity theory and the procedural justice as a derivative of social equity theory. The legislative framework includes the White Paper on Transforming Public Service Delivery (Notice No 1954 Of 1994), the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the Municipal Systems Act no 32 of 2000 and the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act 3 of 2000. The study used both the qualitative and quantitative methods. It also used a case study design. The study used a sample of 110 respondents and the data was collected using interviews, questionnaires and a focus group discussions. Analysis of data followed the narrative and descriptive paradigms. Most importantly, all the objectives of the study were met. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gqamana, Athabile
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa , Civil service -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19759 , vital:43235
- Description: Everyday activities of communities are dependent on services provided by the local municipality, district or regional council and the national government. These activities range from water flowing freely from taps, a roof to hide under, and a clean and healthy environment, just to name a few. The Batho Pele principles were introduced to ensure that these services are provided for the benefit of the people. They were introduced to make sure that people are involved in the process of service delivery so that services are exactly what they need. It is important to note that the Batho Pele principles inform service standards and a customer care charter. This means that the government or providers of service listen to citizens’ views and take them into account when making decisions about service delivery. Informing service standards and a customer care charter also means that service providers or the government responds swiftly and sympathetically when the service standard falls below the promised standard. The problem occurs when citizens are not being consulted about the type of services they are entitled to. The citizens of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality had an issue with how services are provided. They stated that even though service delivery was improving, the manner in which these services were provided was not satisfactory. They complained that they were not asked about what they needed and what their priorities were. Moreover, they stated that when they complained, they did not receive an effective response. The main objective of this research was to establish citizens’ experience with consultation and redress as core functions of the Batho Pele Principles. Furthermore, this research sought to establish important elements of proper citizen consultation and redress in the literature, to determine the extent to which these principles are adopted in in BCMM, to establish the effects of current consultation and redress practice on citizens’ trust in their local government and to make recommendations on effective approaches to consultation and redress. The theories that guided the study are the agency theory, the social equity theory and the procedural justice as a derivative of social equity theory. The legislative framework includes the White Paper on Transforming Public Service Delivery (Notice No 1954 Of 1994), the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the Municipal Systems Act no 32 of 2000 and the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act 3 of 2000. The study used both the qualitative and quantitative methods. It also used a case study design. The study used a sample of 110 respondents and the data was collected using interviews, questionnaires and a focus group discussions. Analysis of data followed the narrative and descriptive paradigms. Most importantly, all the objectives of the study were met. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
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Evaluation of surface functionalized electrospun polyacrylonitrile nanofibers for heavy metal ions removal from synthetic wastewater
- Maqinana, Siphosethu Sesethu
- Authors: Maqinana, Siphosethu Sesethu
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Nanofibers , Nanostructured materials
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20871 , vital:46680
- Description: Heavy metal ions are elements that are discharged into water streams from municipal or industrial waste. In abundance, they can be threating to the environment and human health. Amongst other several convention methods, adsorption has been proven to be the most effective method in the removal of heavy metal ions from wastewater. The aim of this research was to fabricate electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers and modify their surface to improve the adsorption efficiency for Chromium and Cadmium metal ions from synthetic wastewater. Electrospun nanofibers PAN nanofibers were fabricated via electrospinning process though careful monitoring of its parameters and modified via two-step process: hydrolysis with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), hydrochloric acid (HCl) and ethylenediamine (EDA). The morphologies, functional groups, thermal stability, chemical composition and crystallinities or amorphous structures of the nanofibers were characterised by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The experiments were conducted in batch tests to analyse the effect to pH, contact time and initial concentration of the solution. Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) was used to analyse the concentration of metal ions. The adsorption equilibrium was reached after 120 min with a maximum adsorption capacity of 301.1 mg/g for Cd(II) ions and 195.02 mg/g for Cr(VI) ions. The adsorption capacity increased with increasing pH and initial concentration of the solution. The adsorption capacity of Cd(II) and Cr(VI) ions was higher at pH 8 and 10, respectively. The equilibrium data was best described using Freundlich isotherm with a maximum adsorption capacity for Cd(II) ions than Cr(VI) ions. Pseudo-second order kinetic model best fitted both heavy metal ions with R2 value of 0.99 for Cr(VI) ions and 0.67 for Cd(II) ions. Heavy metal ions were desorbed from the nanofibers after one regeneration cycle with an equilibrium concentration of 4.83 mg/L for Cr(VI) ions and 43.06 mg/L for Cd(II) ions. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maqinana, Siphosethu Sesethu
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Nanofibers , Nanostructured materials
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20871 , vital:46680
- Description: Heavy metal ions are elements that are discharged into water streams from municipal or industrial waste. In abundance, they can be threating to the environment and human health. Amongst other several convention methods, adsorption has been proven to be the most effective method in the removal of heavy metal ions from wastewater. The aim of this research was to fabricate electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers and modify their surface to improve the adsorption efficiency for Chromium and Cadmium metal ions from synthetic wastewater. Electrospun nanofibers PAN nanofibers were fabricated via electrospinning process though careful monitoring of its parameters and modified via two-step process: hydrolysis with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), hydrochloric acid (HCl) and ethylenediamine (EDA). The morphologies, functional groups, thermal stability, chemical composition and crystallinities or amorphous structures of the nanofibers were characterised by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The experiments were conducted in batch tests to analyse the effect to pH, contact time and initial concentration of the solution. Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) was used to analyse the concentration of metal ions. The adsorption equilibrium was reached after 120 min with a maximum adsorption capacity of 301.1 mg/g for Cd(II) ions and 195.02 mg/g for Cr(VI) ions. The adsorption capacity increased with increasing pH and initial concentration of the solution. The adsorption capacity of Cd(II) and Cr(VI) ions was higher at pH 8 and 10, respectively. The equilibrium data was best described using Freundlich isotherm with a maximum adsorption capacity for Cd(II) ions than Cr(VI) ions. Pseudo-second order kinetic model best fitted both heavy metal ions with R2 value of 0.99 for Cr(VI) ions and 0.67 for Cd(II) ions. Heavy metal ions were desorbed from the nanofibers after one regeneration cycle with an equilibrium concentration of 4.83 mg/L for Cr(VI) ions and 43.06 mg/L for Cd(II) ions. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Monitoring the impact of deforestation on an aquatic ecosystem using remote sensing: a case study of the Mngazana mangrove forest in the eastern cape province.
- Authors: Madasa, Akhona
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Remote sensing , Mangrove forests , Climatic changes
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20815 , vital:46598
- Description: Coastal mangrove vegetation at Mngazana continues to be threatened and reduced periodically due to unmonitored harvesting. Covering an area of 148ha, the Mngazana mangrove forest remains unreserved, thus, research on the Mngazana mangroves is essential in order to monitor their state and sustainable management. Since in-situ monitoring of mangrove areas is both challenging and time-consuming, remote sensing technologies have been used to monitor these ecosystems. This study was carried out to monitor the impact of deforestation using ASTER satellite images over ten years: from 2008 - 2018. Validation was carried out by comparing classification results with the ground-referenced data, which yielded satisfactory agreement, with an overall accuracy of 94.64 percent and Kappa coefficient of 0.93 for 2008; and in 2009, the overall accuracy was 88.62 percent and a Kappa coefficient of 0.85. While the overall accuracy of 95.08 percent and a Kappa coefficient of 0.92 for 2016 and 2018 were observed, the overall accuracy of 93.58 percent and a Kappa coefficient of 0.91 was yielded. NDVI and SAVI indices were used as monitoring indicators. The results obtained in the study indicated that the canopy density of the mangrove forest remained unchanged in the years under investigation. However, insignificant changes in canopy density were identified between 2009 and 2016. , Thesis (MSc) (Applied Remote Sensing & GIS) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Madasa, Akhona
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Remote sensing , Mangrove forests , Climatic changes
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20815 , vital:46598
- Description: Coastal mangrove vegetation at Mngazana continues to be threatened and reduced periodically due to unmonitored harvesting. Covering an area of 148ha, the Mngazana mangrove forest remains unreserved, thus, research on the Mngazana mangroves is essential in order to monitor their state and sustainable management. Since in-situ monitoring of mangrove areas is both challenging and time-consuming, remote sensing technologies have been used to monitor these ecosystems. This study was carried out to monitor the impact of deforestation using ASTER satellite images over ten years: from 2008 - 2018. Validation was carried out by comparing classification results with the ground-referenced data, which yielded satisfactory agreement, with an overall accuracy of 94.64 percent and Kappa coefficient of 0.93 for 2008; and in 2009, the overall accuracy was 88.62 percent and a Kappa coefficient of 0.85. While the overall accuracy of 95.08 percent and a Kappa coefficient of 0.92 for 2016 and 2018 were observed, the overall accuracy of 93.58 percent and a Kappa coefficient of 0.91 was yielded. NDVI and SAVI indices were used as monitoring indicators. The results obtained in the study indicated that the canopy density of the mangrove forest remained unchanged in the years under investigation. However, insignificant changes in canopy density were identified between 2009 and 2016. , Thesis (MSc) (Applied Remote Sensing & GIS) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
The Role of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in Rural Development:
- Authors: Fikeni, Thandokazi Gugu
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Information technology , Communication in rural development , Rural development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19747 , vital:43232
- Description: Abstract text. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Fikeni, Thandokazi Gugu
- Date: 2020-12
- Subjects: Information technology , Communication in rural development , Rural development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19747 , vital:43232
- Description: Abstract text. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
Effect of different fat levels and Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) inclusion on proximate composition, fatty acid profile, lipid oxidation, and sensory attributes of chicken droëwors
- Authors: Tembela, Nelisiwe
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Moringa oleifera , Meat--Quality , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20893 , vital:46709
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine the effect of different fat levels and Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MLM) inclusion on sensory attributes (aroma, meat flavour, spicy flavour, texture, colour, and saltiness), lipid oxidation, proximate composition, and fatty acid (FA) profile of chicken droëwors. Firstly, sensory attributes of chicken droëwors with different levels of fat and that of Moringa oleifera leaf meal were determined. In the second experiment, the effect of different fat and MLM inclusion levels on lipid oxidation during drying and storage, proximate composition, and fatty acid profile were also determined. A forty randomly selected consumers of different gender and age were used as the sensory panel. 75 percent of lean chicken meat and 25 percent of chicken fat was used during droëwors preparation. Thereafter, 9 treatments of chicken droëwors were produced, with MLM included either at 0 percent, 0.25 percent, 0.5 percent, and fat included at 10 percent and 15 percent. For fatty acid profile, the total lipid from dry sausage of all treatments was quantitatively extracted using chloroform and methanol in a ratio of 2:1. Lipid oxidation was measured by analyzing thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) at intervals during drying (0, 0.25, 0.5, 72h) and after 7 days of storage under ambient conditions. The results showed that consumers like the chicken droëwors when 0.5 percent MLM added to the product. The inclusion of MLM in chicken droëwors had a positive effect on consumer sensory. The results of the study demonstrated that chicken droëwors contained a significantly higher percentage (P<0.05) of C18:1c9 (Oleic) (30.95 to 32.65 percent) acid than other fatty acids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were all non-significant (P˃0.05) except for Docosahexanoic, which was observed to be significant (P˂ 0.05) in all treatments except T1. There was no significance (P> 0.05) in mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), except for Elaidic, vaccenic, linoleic, y-linoleic, erucic, and arachidonic. Lipid oxidation occurred more rapidly (P<0.05) when MLM was not added. During processing and storage, TBARS were higher (P< 0.05) in chicken droewors. TBARS during storage were lower (P>0.05) with MLM added. Results showed a significant difference (P<0.05) in proximate composition of chicken droëwors, containing on average 16.93±1.29 to 10.79± 1.83/ 100 g moisture, 45.80± 1.65 to 67.56± 2.33/ 100 g protein, 14.37± 2.15 to 26.13± 2.15/100 g ash. The current study resultsgave a summary of the composition of chicken droëwors and showed higher susceptibility to lipid oxidation in chicken droewors. Therefore, Moringa oleifera leaf powder showed antioxidant activity in chicken droëwors, reserved lipid oxidation in the product. In conclusion, MLM could be used as a functional antioxidant preservative in chicken droëwors. , Thesis (MSc) (Animal Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tembela, Nelisiwe
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Moringa oleifera , Meat--Quality , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20893 , vital:46709
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine the effect of different fat levels and Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MLM) inclusion on sensory attributes (aroma, meat flavour, spicy flavour, texture, colour, and saltiness), lipid oxidation, proximate composition, and fatty acid (FA) profile of chicken droëwors. Firstly, sensory attributes of chicken droëwors with different levels of fat and that of Moringa oleifera leaf meal were determined. In the second experiment, the effect of different fat and MLM inclusion levels on lipid oxidation during drying and storage, proximate composition, and fatty acid profile were also determined. A forty randomly selected consumers of different gender and age were used as the sensory panel. 75 percent of lean chicken meat and 25 percent of chicken fat was used during droëwors preparation. Thereafter, 9 treatments of chicken droëwors were produced, with MLM included either at 0 percent, 0.25 percent, 0.5 percent, and fat included at 10 percent and 15 percent. For fatty acid profile, the total lipid from dry sausage of all treatments was quantitatively extracted using chloroform and methanol in a ratio of 2:1. Lipid oxidation was measured by analyzing thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) at intervals during drying (0, 0.25, 0.5, 72h) and after 7 days of storage under ambient conditions. The results showed that consumers like the chicken droëwors when 0.5 percent MLM added to the product. The inclusion of MLM in chicken droëwors had a positive effect on consumer sensory. The results of the study demonstrated that chicken droëwors contained a significantly higher percentage (P<0.05) of C18:1c9 (Oleic) (30.95 to 32.65 percent) acid than other fatty acids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were all non-significant (P˃0.05) except for Docosahexanoic, which was observed to be significant (P˂ 0.05) in all treatments except T1. There was no significance (P> 0.05) in mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), except for Elaidic, vaccenic, linoleic, y-linoleic, erucic, and arachidonic. Lipid oxidation occurred more rapidly (P<0.05) when MLM was not added. During processing and storage, TBARS were higher (P< 0.05) in chicken droewors. TBARS during storage were lower (P>0.05) with MLM added. Results showed a significant difference (P<0.05) in proximate composition of chicken droëwors, containing on average 16.93±1.29 to 10.79± 1.83/ 100 g moisture, 45.80± 1.65 to 67.56± 2.33/ 100 g protein, 14.37± 2.15 to 26.13± 2.15/100 g ash. The current study resultsgave a summary of the composition of chicken droëwors and showed higher susceptibility to lipid oxidation in chicken droewors. Therefore, Moringa oleifera leaf powder showed antioxidant activity in chicken droëwors, reserved lipid oxidation in the product. In conclusion, MLM could be used as a functional antioxidant preservative in chicken droëwors. , Thesis (MSc) (Animal Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
Effect of Mucuna pruriens based-diets on fatty acids composition and sensory attributes of meat from broiler chickens
- Authors: Makhamba, Nasiphi
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Fatty acids , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20771 , vital:46554
- Description: The current study was conducted to determine the effect of feeding different inclusion levels of processed Mucuna pruriens on fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of broiler chickens. 120 Cob500 broilers were used in the experiment. The experiment was divided into 4 treatment (0, 10, 15 and 20 percent of Mucuna pruriens) groups, each treatment with 6 replicates (5 birds per replicate) in a completely randomized design. The first treatment (0 percent) was used as control against the three different levels of Mucuna pruriens. The birds were reared in a deep litter system until they reached slaughter weight of 2kg. At day 42 a total of 80 birds were slaughtered and breast muscles were sampled for the evaluation of sensory attributes and fatty acid composition. For sensory evaluation meat samples were prepared and boiled at 80°C until the internal temperature reached 82°C, 40 consumers were used to assess the meat samples and give scores according to 9-point hedonic scale. The fatty acid content was determined and recorded using the gas chromatography. Total saturated fatty acid (SFA), total monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and total polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) of the breast meat were not affected by diets. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid were also not influenced by treatment diets. However, breast muscle from broilers fed 20 percent Mucuna pruriens seed meal inclusion had lower Myristic acid. The sensory attributes; aroma, colour, flavour, juiciness, tenderness and acceptability were assessed, dietary treatments affected the juiciness, tenderness and acceptability of meat, the treatments showed no significant difference on colour, aroma and flavour. Different age groups accepted the meat differently, the respondents that were between 18 and 22 years old gave the highest scores to the acceptability of meat than the other age groups, and different age groups also gave different scores in the aroma of meat. Females and males accepted the meat differently, the female respondents gave higher scores on the flavour of meat than males. Different inclusion levels of Mucuna pruriens positively affected fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of broiler chickens without causing any detrimental effects. , Thesis (MSc) (Animal Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Makhamba, Nasiphi
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Fatty acids , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20771 , vital:46554
- Description: The current study was conducted to determine the effect of feeding different inclusion levels of processed Mucuna pruriens on fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of broiler chickens. 120 Cob500 broilers were used in the experiment. The experiment was divided into 4 treatment (0, 10, 15 and 20 percent of Mucuna pruriens) groups, each treatment with 6 replicates (5 birds per replicate) in a completely randomized design. The first treatment (0 percent) was used as control against the three different levels of Mucuna pruriens. The birds were reared in a deep litter system until they reached slaughter weight of 2kg. At day 42 a total of 80 birds were slaughtered and breast muscles were sampled for the evaluation of sensory attributes and fatty acid composition. For sensory evaluation meat samples were prepared and boiled at 80°C until the internal temperature reached 82°C, 40 consumers were used to assess the meat samples and give scores according to 9-point hedonic scale. The fatty acid content was determined and recorded using the gas chromatography. Total saturated fatty acid (SFA), total monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and total polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) of the breast meat were not affected by diets. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid were also not influenced by treatment diets. However, breast muscle from broilers fed 20 percent Mucuna pruriens seed meal inclusion had lower Myristic acid. The sensory attributes; aroma, colour, flavour, juiciness, tenderness and acceptability were assessed, dietary treatments affected the juiciness, tenderness and acceptability of meat, the treatments showed no significant difference on colour, aroma and flavour. Different age groups accepted the meat differently, the respondents that were between 18 and 22 years old gave the highest scores to the acceptability of meat than the other age groups, and different age groups also gave different scores in the aroma of meat. Females and males accepted the meat differently, the female respondents gave higher scores on the flavour of meat than males. Different inclusion levels of Mucuna pruriens positively affected fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of broiler chickens without causing any detrimental effects. , Thesis (MSc) (Animal Science) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Knowledge and perceptions of healthcare workers of the prescripts and implications of the Sexual Offences and Related matters amendment Act 5 of 2015 as applied to adolescent sexual and Reproductive health services in the Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Nake, Khanyisile
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Teenagers--Medical care--Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22885 , vital:53179
- Description: Background: In 2015, South Africa amended its Sexual Offences Act to address several disparities surrounding the issue of consensual sex among minors. The amendment has been faced with mixed reactions from the stakeholders with some supporting it while others opposing it. This study was conducted in clinics in East London to explore the knowledge and perception of healthcare workers about the prescripts of the ‘Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 5 of 2015 and their implications to adolescent sexual and reproductive health services. The purpose of the study was to explore the knowledge and perception of healthcare workers about the prescripts of the ‘Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 5 of 2015 and their implications to adolescent sexual and reproductive health services provision in Buffalo City Municipality in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methodology: This study applied the qualitative research approach and used a combination of descriptive and exploratory research design. Three clinic managers and nine professional nurses participated in the in-depth interviews. Thirteen general healthcare practitioners responsible for adolescents, sexual and reproductive health participated in key-informant interviews. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The study found that although healthcare practitioners are aware of the amendment act. However, there was inadequate understanding of the precise implications of this statutory initiative. Many of the participants were not informed of the intent of this act, whilst others suggested that they were not well trained regarding this act due to lack of funding in their respective clinics. Mixed views and perceptions on the impact of this act on their duties, on minors and on the general population were identified. Some were of the view that the Act will make it difficult to control the children while other welcomed it, because it leads to less teenage pregnancies, street abortions, and other similar experiences. Conclusion: In order to overcome these differences in perceptions, the Department of Health must create awareness among staff of the Act and its purpose. Develop initiatives to create understanding of the Act by all members of society to ensure the success of these legislative frameworks. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
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- Authors: Nake, Khanyisile
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Teenagers--Medical care--Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22885 , vital:53179
- Description: Background: In 2015, South Africa amended its Sexual Offences Act to address several disparities surrounding the issue of consensual sex among minors. The amendment has been faced with mixed reactions from the stakeholders with some supporting it while others opposing it. This study was conducted in clinics in East London to explore the knowledge and perception of healthcare workers about the prescripts of the ‘Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 5 of 2015 and their implications to adolescent sexual and reproductive health services. The purpose of the study was to explore the knowledge and perception of healthcare workers about the prescripts of the ‘Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 5 of 2015 and their implications to adolescent sexual and reproductive health services provision in Buffalo City Municipality in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methodology: This study applied the qualitative research approach and used a combination of descriptive and exploratory research design. Three clinic managers and nine professional nurses participated in the in-depth interviews. Thirteen general healthcare practitioners responsible for adolescents, sexual and reproductive health participated in key-informant interviews. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The study found that although healthcare practitioners are aware of the amendment act. However, there was inadequate understanding of the precise implications of this statutory initiative. Many of the participants were not informed of the intent of this act, whilst others suggested that they were not well trained regarding this act due to lack of funding in their respective clinics. Mixed views and perceptions on the impact of this act on their duties, on minors and on the general population were identified. Some were of the view that the Act will make it difficult to control the children while other welcomed it, because it leads to less teenage pregnancies, street abortions, and other similar experiences. Conclusion: In order to overcome these differences in perceptions, the Department of Health must create awareness among staff of the Act and its purpose. Develop initiatives to create understanding of the Act by all members of society to ensure the success of these legislative frameworks. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
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The evaluation of growth characteristics, biomass yield, and chemical composition of two cultivars of Panicum maximum (Mombaca and Gatton) and Brachiaria brizantha (Marandu) at different harvesting stages
- Sokupa, Mihle Inga https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3918-1393
- Authors: Sokupa, Mihle Inga https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3918-1393
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Pastures
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21433 , vital:48621
- Description: The objective of this study was to carry out a comparative assessment of growth characteristics, biomass yield and chemical composition of Panicum maximum and Brachiaria brizantha cultivars at different harvesting stages. The field experiment was conducted at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice, South Africa. The main factors were three cultivars: Mombaca, Gatton (Panicum maximum) and Marandu (Brachiaria brizantha) and three harvesting stages (6, 10 and 14 weeks after planting). This study was a 3 × 3 factorial set up in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Characteristics which included plant height, number of leaves and number of tillers were measured in five plants per plot at 2-week intervals from 4 to 14 weeks after planting (WAP). The fresh yield was weighed then oven dried at 65oC for 72 hours then dry matter yield was calculated after drying. The chemical composition (Ash, Fat, ADF, ADL, NDF, CP, Ca, Mg, Na, P, K, Cu, Fe, Zn and Mn) was determined on forage harvested at 6, 10 and 14WAP. Data was analysed using the Statistical Analysis Software in a 3x3 factorial to compute the ANOVA and all means of all treatments were calculated and the difference was tested for significance using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at P=0.05. The results showed variations (P<0.05) in plant height, but the number of leaves did not differ (P > 0.05) between the cultivars. The number of tillers were significantly different (P<0.05), the highest number of tillers was observed in Mombaca. Fresh yield showed significant differences at 10 and 14WAP, with Marandu producing the highest Fresh yield. The moisture content was different (P<0.05) across all the three harvests. Varying (P< 0.05) results were also observed in the dry matter yield of the cultivars with Mombaca producing the highest dry matter yield. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the ash content of the cultivars. The fat content also showed no significant differences. Variations (P<0.05) occured in the ADF of the cultivars, Marandu had the lowest ADF. The cultivar × WAP interactive effect was significant for ADL content. NDF significantly varied across the cultivars at 6WAP. There were no similarities (P<0.05) in the crude protein during the three harvesting intervals, Mombaca produced the highest CP and the lowest was obtained from Gatton. There was a significant interaction (P<0.05) between the cultivars and harvesting intervals for Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), K/Ca+Mg, Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn) and Manganese (Mn) contents of the cultivars. However, Phosphorus (P) showed no significant interaction (P>0.05) between the cultivars and harvesting intervals. The results obtained in this study showed that as the grasses grow, the biomass yield produced increases according to the genetic makeup and the factors affecting growth and biomass yield. However, the chemical composition decreased between cultivars. Mombaca showed superior traits in terms of growth biomass yield and chemical composition. Mombaca, which is a Panicum maximum cultivar can be used as a choice in forage production and chemical composition as it can supply both quality and quantity. It can be concluded that there are significant differences in growth characteristics, biomass yield and chemical composition of Panicum maximum and Brachiaria brizantha cultivars at different harvesting stages. It can also be recommended that the best harvesting stage is at 10 WAP, this is because both biomass yield and chemical composition are both satisfactory. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
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- Authors: Sokupa, Mihle Inga https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3918-1393
- Date: 2020-11
- Subjects: Pastures
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21433 , vital:48621
- Description: The objective of this study was to carry out a comparative assessment of growth characteristics, biomass yield and chemical composition of Panicum maximum and Brachiaria brizantha cultivars at different harvesting stages. The field experiment was conducted at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice, South Africa. The main factors were three cultivars: Mombaca, Gatton (Panicum maximum) and Marandu (Brachiaria brizantha) and three harvesting stages (6, 10 and 14 weeks after planting). This study was a 3 × 3 factorial set up in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Characteristics which included plant height, number of leaves and number of tillers were measured in five plants per plot at 2-week intervals from 4 to 14 weeks after planting (WAP). The fresh yield was weighed then oven dried at 65oC for 72 hours then dry matter yield was calculated after drying. The chemical composition (Ash, Fat, ADF, ADL, NDF, CP, Ca, Mg, Na, P, K, Cu, Fe, Zn and Mn) was determined on forage harvested at 6, 10 and 14WAP. Data was analysed using the Statistical Analysis Software in a 3x3 factorial to compute the ANOVA and all means of all treatments were calculated and the difference was tested for significance using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at P=0.05. The results showed variations (P<0.05) in plant height, but the number of leaves did not differ (P > 0.05) between the cultivars. The number of tillers were significantly different (P<0.05), the highest number of tillers was observed in Mombaca. Fresh yield showed significant differences at 10 and 14WAP, with Marandu producing the highest Fresh yield. The moisture content was different (P<0.05) across all the three harvests. Varying (P< 0.05) results were also observed in the dry matter yield of the cultivars with Mombaca producing the highest dry matter yield. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the ash content of the cultivars. The fat content also showed no significant differences. Variations (P<0.05) occured in the ADF of the cultivars, Marandu had the lowest ADF. The cultivar × WAP interactive effect was significant for ADL content. NDF significantly varied across the cultivars at 6WAP. There were no similarities (P<0.05) in the crude protein during the three harvesting intervals, Mombaca produced the highest CP and the lowest was obtained from Gatton. There was a significant interaction (P<0.05) between the cultivars and harvesting intervals for Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), K/Ca+Mg, Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn) and Manganese (Mn) contents of the cultivars. However, Phosphorus (P) showed no significant interaction (P>0.05) between the cultivars and harvesting intervals. The results obtained in this study showed that as the grasses grow, the biomass yield produced increases according to the genetic makeup and the factors affecting growth and biomass yield. However, the chemical composition decreased between cultivars. Mombaca showed superior traits in terms of growth biomass yield and chemical composition. Mombaca, which is a Panicum maximum cultivar can be used as a choice in forage production and chemical composition as it can supply both quality and quantity. It can be concluded that there are significant differences in growth characteristics, biomass yield and chemical composition of Panicum maximum and Brachiaria brizantha cultivars at different harvesting stages. It can also be recommended that the best harvesting stage is at 10 WAP, this is because both biomass yield and chemical composition are both satisfactory. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
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