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Preventive diplomacy and conflict provention in Africa

  • Authors: Mandela, Siyabulela
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Diplomatic negotiations in international disputes Conflict management -- Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13435 , vital:27185
  • Description: South Africa‟s participation in international peace missions is guided by the White Paper of 1998 and premised specifically on the country‟s foreign policy objectives based on its vision of “a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world”. South Africa recognises itself as an integral part of the African continent and therefore sees its national interests as being intrinsically linked to Africa‟s stability, unity and prosperity. Since 1994, South Africa has placed itself at the forefront of Africa's peace and security endeavours, trying to transform itself from international villain during apartheid years to Pan-Africanist peacemaker. The country has played an instrumental role in both shaping and setting the normative agenda of the African Union and Southern African Development Community. South Africa‟s participation in conflict resolution and peace missions in Africa is informed by an understanding of the nexus that exists between peace, security and sustainable development. This research focuses on South Africa‟s diplomatic and peacekeeping engagement in Lesotho, covering the constitutional and electoral crises from 1994 - 2015 constitutional crisis. The author shows the importance and way forward to resolve conflicts before they become escalated and deadly. The study calls for a „timely‟ reaction to disputes and conflicts on the African continent via preventive diplomacy, conflict provention and addressing of underlying issues that give rise to disputes and conflict.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Primary health care nurses' knowledge regarding symptoms of mental illness in HIV-positive patients

  • Authors: Jantjies, Anderson Phumezo
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Primary health care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Nurses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18860 , vital:28739
  • Description: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive patients are at increased risk for developing mental health problems when compared with the general population. The identification and management of symptoms of mental illness in HIV-positive patients is thus crucial in reducing the risk to developing severe mental illness. The severe mental illness may lead to poor adherence to anti retro-viral drugs resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. The primary health care nurses are largely responsible for managing the treatment of HIV-positive patients as they spend the greatest degree of their time with these patients as compared to other health care professionals. Consequently it is important for primary health care nurses to identify symptoms of mental illness. However, it was unclear to the researcher, a professional psychiatric nurse, as to the level of knowledge among primary health care nurses concerning symptoms of mental illness in HIV-positive patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the knowledge of primary health care nurses regarding symptoms of mental illness in HIV-positive patients attending primary health care services. In addition, recommendations were developed for primary health care nurses for the purpose of improving their competence in the identification of symptoms of mental illness in HIV-positive patients attending primary health care services. The researcher has utilised quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design. Bloom’s Taxonomy was used as a theoretical lens, to explore the primary health care nurse’s knowledge regarding symptoms of mental illness in HIV-positive patients. The study was conducted in the primary health care services situated in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area. The research population consisted of the primary health care nurses working with HIV-positive patients in these primary health care services. The researcher utilised census survey to recruit participants. A structured questionnaire, with 3 sections was used in this study. The necessary principles of reliability and validity were exercised to ensure research of the highest quality. The data was analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. All ethical considerations pertaining to beneficence, maleficence, justice, autonomy and obtaining permission from relevant structures to conduct the study were strictly adhered to.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Property development in Mthatha: an interactive framework

  • Authors: Bavu, Sonwabile
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Real estate development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Land use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14553 , vital:27761
  • Description: Property development (PD) is basically driven by the need or demand from the people. Sustainable property development has emerged in response to a global problem – and the need to maintain environmental integrity, according to Gurry (2011) cited by Botha (2013: 7). Keeping and Shiers (2004) state that property development, as a whole, has to balance social, economic and environmental needs. Emanating from the above, any successful development project must offer investors security, infrastructure and efficiency and should also put the needs of citizens at the forefront of all its planning activities. Availability of land, existing infrastructure, availability of finance, economic conditions, political influence and corruption always influence growth of property development in any area. This study aims to identify factors that contribute to lack of property development in Mthatha. Data collected shows that the challenges sometimes lead to failure and delays of the development. The purpose of this study is to identify these challenges, investigate the available literature, consider what has been done so far to address these challenges and make recommendations. It is essential to understand the state of the town and perceptions of the people in the area dealing with Property Development. Mthatha is the main focus of the study because of the perceived number of failed and delayed property development initiatives. The primary and secondary data collected provide the basis for understanding challenges that lead to such failures and delays. This research was conducted by means of a review of the related literature and an empirical study. The empirical study was conducted using a quantitative statistical approach by distributing research questionnaires to members falling within the sample population. The primary objective of the study is to develop a framework for successful implementation of property developments in Mthatha. The study’s findings reveal shortcomings which contribute to the study’s identified problems relating to property development in Mthatha, namely: decaying infrastructure, shortage of land, implementation of the IDP, availability of finance to promote real estate developments, political influence and corruption. Wikipedia defines Property Development as a “multifaceted business encompassing activities that range from the renovations and release of existing buildings to the purchase of land and the sale of improved land or parcels to others”. Harvey and Jowsey (2004), as cited by Botha (2013: 5), define Property Development as a process that involves changing or intensifying the use of land to produce buildings for occupation.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Public procurement reforms in Ghana: impact on the growth of the local construction industry

  • Authors: Amoah, Christopher
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Government purchasing -- Ghana Construction industry -- Ghana
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15862 , vital:28285
  • Description: Public procurement reform has become a modern phenomenon where various countries are reforming their procurement systems either to make the systems more efficient, transparent, achieve value for money, reduce or eliminate corrupt activities, to meet the requirements of donor countries or to make the system meet the international standards. Some countries also use public procurement reform as a policy tool to address socio-economic issues including the promotion of local sectors and disadvantaged groups. Ghana has not remained stagnant in this regard but has followed suit in reforming its procurement systems to address the weaknesses of the past procurement practices. However, the effectiveness of these reforms in promoting the local construction firms has not been investigated. This research therefore, investigated how the various procurement reforms instituted by the government of Ghana have impacted on the growth of the Ghanaian construction sector. A comprehensive review of the related literature revealed that there is a relationship between public procurement reforms and the growth of the local sectors as various governments in the past have managed to use their procurements levers as policy tools to address the imbalances in the socio-economic development of their citizens. A phenomenological (qualitative) research approach was adopted for this study. Accra, the capital of Ghana was chosen based on its strategic position and also because of massive construction activities currently taking place in the city. Again, many construction firms are also registered and operating in this city. The research instrument used is the interview guide made of both tick box and open ended questions. Other sources of data included archival records such as contracts awarded, the current public procurement regulations, and manuals. It was concluded after the analysis of the findings that, even though public procurement reforms have brought about improved procurement practices, the reforms have failed to have a positive impact on the growth of the local construction industry. The implication is that, the construction industry in Ghana is still dominated by foreign firms executing major government projects to the detriment of the local construction firms thereby stifling their growth. The findings also revealed that local contractors only executive minor works devoid of complexities and mainly engaged as subcontractors by foreign firms on major government projects. The findings also revealed that government has so far not instituted any radical protective laws in the procurement systems to protect the local construction firms. The research has produced a tender evaluation template with protective mechanisms such as awarding points to bidders during the tender evaluation process. The research has also produced tender evaluation formulas for calculating points for bidders and how the successful bidder is arrived at. The study provides recommendations to all stakeholders in the Ghanaian construction industry and proposes that the evaluation criteria produced by this study be used in the public procurement system to help grow the indigenous construction industry.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Quality management systems – a fundamental business imperative for construction companies: a case study of Bay West city mall

  • Authors: Mthi, Vuyolwethu Feza Philisa
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Construction projects -- Management Construction industry -- Management , Total quality management
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45908 , vital:39319
  • Description: The quality of construction projects in South Africa has long been below par which is evident in the reports of poor project performance, poorly implemented construction processes, or even worse projects delivered at an unexpected cost to the client. Private and public sector clients are dissatisfied with the quality of work produced by contractors whilst the rectification of substandard construction work on many of the low-cost housing projects throughout South Africa has left the state with a bill of around R50 billion. As a result this research suggests that company’s implement quality management systems as a means to differentiate and elevate themselves above current industry performance. The research inquiry was conducted through the use of a case study (Bay West City Mall). Data was collected primarily through participant observation and survey questionnaires with the various participants on the Bay West City Mall project. The collected data were extracted, errors eliminated/accounted for, coded and entered onto an excel spreadsheet for easy reference and analysis. For the interpretation of the data the researcher used the bivariate tabulation method where categorical data is measured using ordinal and nominal scales. The study concluded that the employment of quality management systems should no longer be seen as optional but as fundamental to the continual improvement of construction companies, those organizations that fully institutionalise the principles of quality management will have a strong chance of improving their project performance, reducing project costs, getting repeat business and increasing profits on projects. It is the recommendation of this study that more research be conducted into how quality management, in the construction industry, can assist in alleviating other problems that plague the South African construction industry such as poor performance relating to health & safety, cost, time, low profit margins and poor cultural practices.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Recent development concerning the unfair labour practice relating to promotion

  • Authors: Sotshononda, Ndomelele
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Unfair labor practices -- South Africa Promotions -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14400 , vital:27581
  • Description: This treatise considers the promotion process in the workplace and focuses on the meaning of promotion and the provisions of the Labour Relations Act, 66 of 19951 (Hereinafter referred to as the LRA) relating to promotion. It also considers unfair labour practices from an employee’s perspective. Chapter 2 of this treatise discusses the processes employers should follow when dealing with promotions. Neither the LRA nor the Constitution provides employees with a right to be promoted. However, the Constitution2 provides that all workers have the right to fair labour practices. The concept of unfair labour practices was introduced in South Africa in 1979 following the recommendations of the Wiehahn Commission. For a long time in South Africa the concept of unfair labour practice was defined in broad terms and included unprotected strikes and lockouts. It was left to the Industrial Court to determine conduct which constituted an unfair labour practice. The promulgation of LRA (which took effect in 1996) provided a clear definition of what constitute unfair labour practice in the workplace. The LRA provided a closed list of practices which constitute an unfair labour practice which provided as follows: “(a) unfair conduct by the employer relating to the promotion, demotion, probation (excluding disputes about dismissals for a reason relating to probation) or training of an employee or relating to the provision of benefits to an employee; (b) unfair suspension of an employee or any other unfair disciplinary action short of dismissal in respect of an employee; (c) a failure or refusal by an employer to reinstate or re-employ a former employee in terms of any agreement; and (d) an occupational detriment, other than dismissal, in contravention of the Protected Disclosures Act, 2000 (Act No. 26 of 2000), on account of the employee having made a protected disclosure defined in that Act.”The LRA brought about significant changes including the exemption of trade unions from committing unfair labour practice to the employers as it was the position under the old Act. There are conflicting views amongst employers and employees as well as labour law experts regarding the determination of the remedies available to applicants when unfairness has been proven in promotion disputes. It is has been observed that many awards has been successfully reviewed by employers, particularly awards that involves protective promotion. Chapter one will be an introduction regarding unfair labour practice, the originality of the concept and the changes and developments the concept has gone through. Chapter two will investigate the meaning of promotion in the workplace. This chapter will focus on the definition of promotion. Elements that constitute promotion will also be addressed. Chapter three considers the provisions of the LRA relating to unfair labour practice: promotion. However, the focus will be narrowed down from the definition of unfair labour practice to the issue of promotion as it is central to the study. Chapter four will examine the manner in which the applicants are differentiated. Furthermore, this chapter will also address the issue of whether the internal applicant should be given preference on the basis that he or she has been working in the organisation but not in the advertised post. Chapter five discusses the importance of substantive and procedural fairness in promotion processes. Chapter six examine the appropriate remedies for aggrieved applicants during the promotion process. A disappointed candidate has a statutory right to approach the relevant bargaining council to seek recourse with regard to the matter. The dispute must be referred to the CCMA within 90 days by the aggrieved applicant.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Recreational resource management in Nelson Mandela Bay: a choice experiment application

  • Authors: Ntshangase, Sindiswa
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Beaches -- Recreational use -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Recreational surveys -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Recreation areas -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19608 , vital:28904
  • Description: This dissertation represents one of the limited South African studies that attempts to estimate the recreational value of the identified set of bathing beaches within the local municipal area of the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB). More formally, this research presents the findings of selected stated preference study used for the monetary measurement of the benefits of the improvements to the NMB bathing coastlines. Using the choice experiment method, this dissertation examines the beach users’ preferences for beach management at various beaches in NMB. The choice experiment analysis was designed to elicit individuals’ willingness to pay for the selected changes. The results are used to assess the relative importance of each beach characteristic identified. The survey is implemented on the users of beaches in NMB. The beach characteristics or attributes by focus group discussions were namely (1) bathing water quality (2) public safety by means of visible policing (3) the presence of dog mess on beaches and (4) availability of lifeguards on duty. The monetary attribute selected by focus groups as most appropriate was an additional environmental water charge. The five attributes had varying levels, one corresponding to the current scenario (status quo) and the other levels to the marginal change. These attributes and their levels were combined to generate different management options, each associated with a 'monetary price'. Respondents were asked to choose their preferred alternative within the choice sets, each consisting of three management options where one alternative was the status quo. The estimation strategy consisted of estimating a conditional logit model. Results revealed that people are willing to pay to (1) keep the water quality at the excellent current level (2) for improvements in public safety through visible policing (3) the continued of the presence of dogs on beaches and (4) for an increase in the number of lifesavers on the bathing beaches. The findings of the analysis are used to inform the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM) on the improvements most preferred by beach users in the context of beach management.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Relationship between migraine triggers, auras and treatment

  • Authors: Louwrens, Bernadette
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Migraine -- Treatment Headache -- Treatment , Insomnia
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18266 , vital:28611
  • Description: Background: Migraine trigger factors are precipitating factors that can contribute to an attack by increasing the probability of a migraine occurring. For some migraineurs, the headache phase is preceded by a transient disturbance in neurological function (an aura). An aura could be visual or sensory in nature. There are medications that can be used to treat a migraine attack when it occurs (acute medication) and medication that can be used to reduce frequency and severity of migraine attacks (prophylactic medication). Objectives: The primary aim of the study was to identify if there was a relationship between migraine trigger factors, auras and treatment. Methods: The study was conducted in 2014 in Port Elizabeth and consisted of two self-administered questionnaire-based surveys, one for pharmacists and one for migraine patients. Migraine patient questionnaires were distributed to migraine patients who frequented pharmacies, physiotherapy practices and health shops. A total of 18 pharmacist questionnaires and 173 migraine patient questionnaires were analysed. Results: Experiencing an aura before a migraine attack was reported by 43.9% of respondents and only “sometimes” by 22.5% of respondents. Visual auras were experienced by 92.0% of respondents who indicated that they suffered from migraine with aura and sensory auras were experienced by 71.5% of respondents, with 62.8% of respondents experiencing both visual and sensory auras. Trigger factors were experienced by 89.0% of respondents. There was no statistical relationship between aura and trigger factors, but there was a statistical relationship between trigger factors and visual aura at the 5% level (Chi-square = 7.966, d.f. = 1, p-value = 0.005). Cramér’s V showed a small practical significance at 0.218. About 80.0% of respondents used over-the-counter (OTC) medication and only 12.6% used migraine specific medication to abort a migraine attack. There was no statistical relationship between aura (visual or sensory) and abortive medication. There was a statistical relationship between abortive medication and the presence of trigger factors (Chi-square = 8.775, d.f. = 3, p-value = 0.032). Cramér’s V showed a small practical significance at 0.244. There was no statistical relationship in the presence of trigger factors between aura and abortive medication. Conclusion: Migraine is a complex disease which affects people of all ages. There appears to be a statistical relationship between visual auras and trigger factors and between abortive medication and trigger factors. There was, however, no statistical relationship between aura and abortive medication in the presence of trigger factors. Further studies need to be conducted to substantiate these findings.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Resilience factors in low-income families with an autistic child

  • Authors: Horak, Alicia
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Developmental psychology , Autistic children -- Care , Low-income parents -- Psychological aspects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16033 , vital:28314
  • Description: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a group of life-long neurodevelopmental disorders. It is an enormous challenge to care for someone with ASD. The majority of people with ASD will need life-long support from family members and will not be able to function independently in society. This places emotional and financial strain on a family. There are many low-income families in South Africa with autistic children who cannot afford specialised intervention. It has been estimated that 135 000 autistic children are not getting the specialized education they need. Despite not receiving the needed support, there are many low-income families who remain resilient after their child is diagnosed. This study aimed to explore how these low-income families remain resilient. Qualitative data was gathered using in-depth, semi-structured interviews conducted in English and Afrikaans; depending on the participant’s language of preference. Six participants were recruited with the help of professionals in a local community in Cape Town, Western Cape. The data obtained was transcribed and analysed through thematic analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model (Krefting, 1990) was used to determine the trustworthiness of the data. The three themes that emerged from the study were (1) parents’ response to the diagnosis of their child, (2) the resources parents found helpful in their immediate environment and (3) the specific coping skills that parents use to remain resilient. Walsh’s family resilience framework as well as the Resiliency Model of Family Stress, Adjustment and Adaptation (The Resiliency Model) of McCubbin and McCubbin were used to understand how participants adjusted to their circumstance and remained resilient. This study provides a more in-depth understanding of the resilience factors of families with a child with ASD in a resource-limited setting in the Western Cape.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Resource partitioning in the world’s largest gannetry

  • Authors: Botha, Jonathan Aubrey
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Gannets -- South Africa Birds of prey -- Behavior -- South Africa , Birds -- Behavior
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14707 , vital:27828
  • Description: Understanding strategies of resource partitioning within populations is a fundamental aspect of the study of ecology, and one which has been well documented across various taxa. In seabirds, sex-specific differences in foraging behaviour are often thought to reflect strategies of resource partitioning to avoid intra-specific competition. At present Bird Island in Algoa Bay hosts the world’s largest breeding population of gannets, with recent population estimates numbering well over 90 000 breeding pairs. Given the large size of this colony, intense levels of intra-specific competition are expected during the breeding season, particularly in years of poor feeding conditions. In addition, continuous foraging around the breeding colony may lead to the local depletion of prey as the season progresses, calling for flexibility in the foraging behaviour and diet of breeding individuals. Therefore, the aim of this dissertation was to investigate resource partitioning in Cape gannets breeding at Bird Island through strategies of sex-specific foraging and intra-seasonal variability in foraging behaviour and diet. To achieve this, the spatial and temporal aspects of Cape gannet foraging behaviour were assessed during the early stages of chick rearing, over two consecutive breeding seasons (2011/12, 2012/13) using GPS tracking and VHF monitoring. In addition, intra-seasonal variability in foraging behaviour and diet were investigated, taking into account the influence of sex and chick age, to provide a comprehensive assessment of foraging behaviour throughout the chick rearing period. GPS tracking data for 79 birds revealed limited evidence for sex-specific differences over spatial dimensions. An extension in the foraging range of females during a year of lower prey availability (2012/13) was, however, evident. This suggests a possible sex-specific response to prey limitation, likely reflecting resource partitioning strategies or differences in nutritional requirements. VHF data for 95 additional birds revealed a clear pattern in temporal foraging behaviour. In general, females were more likely to be on a foraging trip during the early and mid-day hours, with the probability of males being on a foraging trip increasing towards the late afternoon. Continuous tracking of individuals throughout the 2015/16 breeding season further revealed little evidence for sex-specific differences in spatial distribution and forging effort during both the guard and post-guard stages of chick rearing. A clear increase in foraging range was evident during the early stages of chick rearing as the season progressed. However, birds attending chicks older than 50 days showed an unexpected contraction in foraging range, which appeared to coincide with a dietary shift. During the early stages of breeding the diet was comprised almost exclusively of anchovy, the proportion of which decreased progressively in the diet throughout the breeding season. This was mirrored by a substantial increase in the proportion of saury in the diet. These results suggest that Cape gannets increase their foraging range in response to local prey depletion as the breeding season progresses. However, when alternative prey becomes available they may shift their diet, allowing them to access prey closer to the breeding colony. Overall, this dissertation provides insight into sex-specific behaviour in a monomorphic seabird, suggesting a marginal degree of spatial segregation. The results provide the first support for sex-related temporal foraging segregation in gannets. Such separation could potentially be driven by resource partitioning, but could also relate to differential nutritional requirements. In addition, this study also provided the first comprehensive assessment of foraging behaviour throughout the guard and post guard stages of chick rearing in gannets. These results suggest that a combination of foraging and dietary flexibility may allow Cape gannets to buffer the effects of prey depletion during the breeding season. In conclusion, resource partitioning through sex-specific foraging appears to be limited in the Cape gannet population at Bird Island. Segregation via alternative pathways may however be possible and as such, future studies should consider the influence of individual level segregation and habitat specialization.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Revitalisation of the informal township economy in Mdantsane

  • Authors: Dyantyi, Unathi Sisikelelwe
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Mdantsane Economic development -- South Africa -- Mdantsane
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15611 , vital:28276
  • Description: The main focus of this study was to perform an assessment of viable and sustainable means of creating a vibrant and sustainable economy in the Mdantsane Township. In order to perform the assessment objectives were formulated which aimed at assessing whether the informal small business sector of Mdantsane was generating wealth and livelihoods for the people running them. The study also looked at whether the informal business sector is a preferred option by most South Africans or people in the townships would rather seek employment. A number of data collection methods were used in completing this study such as literature reviews and a semi-structured questionnaire. The study revealed that Local Economic development can be implemented in the townships in order to assist in stimulating a vibrant local township economy. The study also revealed that the central focus of Local Economic Development is to support the development, growth and retention of private or co-operative enterprises. The survey conducted in the study further revealed that most businesses in the township are driven by necessity in order for them to start their businesses mainly due to unemployment. These businesses all agreed on the significant role that Local Economic Development can play in assisting township entrepreneurs and communities to grow and prosper.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Rhenium complexes of benzazole derivatives

  • Authors: Van Niekerk, Xandri
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Rhenium Benzimidazoles
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21252 , vital:29467
  • Description: A series of rhenium(I) complexes with monodentate benzazole ligands containing the fac-[Re(CO)3]+ was synthesized. The rhenium(I) compound [ReCl(Hmbt)2(CO)3] was prepared from the reaction of [Re(CO)5Cl] and 2-aminobenzothiazole (Hmbt) in toluene. The ligand coordinates in a monodentate manner via the thiazole nitrogen atom. A similar reaction between [Re(CO)5Cl] and N-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)-2- chloroacetamide (Hbct) resulted in the formation of [ReCl(Hbct)(CO)3(NCMe)], where only one ligand binds per rhenium in a monodentate fashion. The reaction of ligands 2-mercaptobenzimidazole (Hmbi) (dibenzothiazol-2-yl)tetraazathiapentalene (Hdbt) with rhenium(I) gave [ReCl(Hmbi)2(CO)3] and [ReCl(Hdbt)2(CO)3] respectively. The study on the coordination behaviour between ethyl-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl-sulfanyl) acetate (Hbsa) and [Re(CO)5Cl] surprisingly gave the dimeric species (μ-Cl)2[Re(Hbsa)(CO)3]2, where the two rhenium atoms are bridged by two chloro ligands. The coordination of Hbsa occurs through the imidazole nitrogen, leaving the ethoxy tail free on each Hbsa ligand. The coordination behaviour of benzimidazole and benzothiazole derivatives gave rhenium complexes in oxidation states I, III and V, where all the ligands coordinate as bidentate N,N-chelating ligands. The study on 2-(2-aminophenyl)-1-benzothiazole (Hapt) and 2-(2-aminophenyl)-1-benzimidazole (H2apz) with [ReVOCl3(PPh3)2] resulted in the formation of [ReVOCl2(apt)(OPPh3)] and [ReVCl2(apz)(PPh3)2](ReO4), respectively. 1,2-Bis(2-benzimidazole)-1,2-ethanediol (Hbed) and 2,6-bis(2- benzimidazol-2-yl)pyridine (H2bip) were studied towards rhenium(I) and rheniumV) respectively. The former gave a dimeric species (μ-bbi)[Re(CO)4]2 (H2bbi – bisbenzimidazole) by reaction with [Re(CO)5Cl], whereas H2bip produced the rhenium(III) cationic salt [ReCl3(H3bip)(PPh3)]Cl, where the ligand coordinates as a cationic H3bip+ with protonation of an uncoordinated imidazole nitrogen atom. The pyridine derivatives 2-hydrazino-pyridinyl-2-benzothiazole (Hhpt) and (E)-1-benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2- (pyridin-2-ylmethylene)hydrazine (btp) were reacted with [Re(CO)5Cl]. The neutral complex [ReCl(Hhpt)(CO)3] was isolated upon reaction with Hhpt, where Hhpt coordinates as a neutral bidentate ligand. The reaction of [Re(CO)5Cl] with btp gave two different complexes when using different solvents. In methanol, [ReCl(btp)(CO)3] was isolated, whereas in toluene, the conjugate of btp (btp1) was formed which resulted in the formation of [ReCl(btp1)(CO)3]. The study on potentially bidentate thiourea derivatives containing a benzothiazole moiety towards [ReI(CO)3]+ and [ReVO]3+ cores gave rise to a wide variety of complexes. The reaction of [Re(CO)5Cl] with N-phenyl-N-(2-benzothiazole)thiourea (Hpbt) produced the rhenium(I) complex [Re(Hpbt)(pbt)(CO)3]. Hpbt coordinates both as a monodentate neutral ligand and as a bidentate monoanionic chelate. The study of the reaction between trans-[ReOCl3(PPh3)2] and Hpbt gave the rhenium(V) product [ReOCl2(pbt)(PPh3)], with pbt acting as a bidentate ligand. The reaction of 1-(1,3- benzothiazol-2-yl)-3-benzoylthiourea (Hbbt) with [Re(CO)5Cl] led to the isolation of [ReCl(Hbbt)(CO)3]. Similar reaction of Hbbt with trans-[ReOCl3(PPh3)2] gave the unique compound [ReOCl2(Hbnt)(PPh3)], where the ligand coordinates via the ketonic oxygen and a methine carbon. The complex [Re(Hmby)(mby)(CO)3] was isolated upon reacting [Re(CO)5Cl] with methylbenzothiazol-2-ylidenecarbamodithioate (Hmby), with Hmby coordinating as a monodentate neutral ligand and mby as a bidentate monoanionic chelate. The coordination behaviour of N-(benzothiazol-2-yl)-S,S’- dimethyldithiocarboimine (Hbdc) towards rhenium(I) led to the formation of [ReCl(Hbdc)(CO)3]. The reactivity of 1-(benzothiozol-2-yl)-3,3-dimethylthiourea (Hbdm), a derivative of Hmby, was studied with trans-[ReOCl3(PPh3)2] and trans- [ReO(OEt)I2(PPh3)2] producing the square pyramidal compound [ReOCl(bdm)2] and the salt [Re(bdm)2(MeCN)2]I3, respectively. Pyrazole derivatives containing a benzothiazole ring were studied towards rhenium in oxidation states +I and +V. The reaction between 2-(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)benzothiazole (Hdmp) and [Re(CO)5Cl] gave the neutral rhenium complex [ReCl(Hdmp)(CO)3], whereas its reaction with [ReOCl3(PPh3)2] surprisingly results in the formation of a dimeric complex (μ-O)[ReOCl2(Hdmp)]2. The study on the reactivity of 1-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrrol-2-ol (Hbtm) with [Re(CO)5Cl] gave the unexpected trimer [Re(btm)(CO)3]3 containing the fac-[Re(CO)3]+ core. The ligand btm forms a bridge between each rhenium metal, serving as a bidentate ligand to one rhenium, and a monodentate ligand to another rhenium atom. The study on the coordination chemistry between trans-[ReOCl3(PPh3)2] and Hbtm gave two different complexes when using different solvents. In ethanol, [ReOCl(btm)(btm1)] formed, whereas [ReOCl(btm1)(btz)] (Hbtz = 1-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-4-(1-iminoethyl)-3- methyl-1H-pyrazol-5-ol) was isolated in acetonitrile. The reaction of cis-[ReO2I(PPh3)2] also gave two different products when using different solvents, where the respective solvents coordinate to the metal. The rhenium(V) compound [ReO(OMe)(btm)(btm1)] was formed in methanol, whereas [ReO(OEt)(btm)(btm1)] was formed in ethanol. The coordination chemistry of 2-(2-Benzothiazoleyl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-2H-indazol-3-ol (Hbth) was studied towards [Re(CO)5Cl] and trans-[ReOCl3(PPh3)2]. The resulting complexes which formed are [ReCl(Hbth)(CO)3] and [ReOCl(bth)(bth1)] respectively. The reactivity of potentially tridentate Schiff base ligands towards rhenium(I) and (V) was studied. The rhenium(I) precursor [Re(CO)5Cl] was reacted with (E)-1- (benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-(phenol-2-ylmethylene)hydrazine (H3bph) to give [ReCl(CO)3(H3bph)], which contains the kinetically inert fac-[Re(CO)3]+ core coordinated to a neutral bidentate ligand. The reaction of [ReO2(py)4Cl] with H3bph gave the dimeric species (μ-O)[ReO(Hbph)(py)]2, where the ligand coordinates as a tridentate dianionic chelate. A similar complex was isolated with (E)-1- (benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-(2,4-dihydroxy-2-ylmethylene)hydrazine (H3bdh) to give (μ-O)[ReO(Hbdh)(py)]2. The reaction of trans-[ReOCl3(PPh3)2] with H3bph afforded [Re(abt)(imp)Cl2(PPh3)] (abt = 2-aminobenzothiazole, imp = 2-(iminomethyl)phenol), where the ligand broke up into two fragments, both of which coordinated without any modification. The dioxo rhenium precursor cis-[ReO2I(PPh3)2] gave [ReO(Hbdh)(imp)] upon reaction with H3bdh. Ligand imp coordinates as a bidentate monoanionic ligand via the imine nitrogen and deprotonated phenolic oxygen and ligand Hbdh coordinatesas a tridentate dianionic chelate.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Role of disaster management in urban sustainability: case study of Red House

  • Authors: Banda, Cisomo
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Emergency management -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Natural disasters -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17448 , vital:28340
  • Description: Disasters are inevitable events that impact negatively on humanity in South Africa and globally. Though disasters are global the most at risk populations are predominantly from developing countries and particularly poor communities experience multi-layered threats from floods, droughts, poor energy supply, inter alia. However, the urban communities have not been spared the effects of these disasters and have cause of concern. Millions of people have suffered and passed on because of disasters. These disasters cannot be prevented in certain environments but mechanisms can be put in place by the relevant officials such as government institutions or relevant stakeholders to help mitigate and reduce the effects of these disasters and further contribute to sustainable development. The Disaster Management Act in South Africa provides clear mandates, through policy and guidelines, on how to identify and reduce risk to disasters and how to prepare and respond to emergencies and disasters, structures and mechanisms, as well as the necessary systems. The local authorities such as the Disaster Management Department‘s roles and responsibility have been clearly stipulated and emphasised. It is therefore the mandate of the department to ensure that each and every community receives the adequate services that are entitled to them to help reduce the effects of the natural disasters and in turn contribute to the promotion of sustainable development. The overall aim of the Case Study in Redhouse was to investigate the effectiveness of the NMBM Disaster Management Department in urban sustainability. The research made use of the qualitative research methodology and followed the inductive approach. This was supported by a survey which was administered to willing participants chosen at random whose extensive experience is relevant to this research topic. Interviews involved direct personal contact with participants who were asked to respond to questions relating to the research study. The research sample consisted of a total number of eight participants. The Disaster Management Official was represented by two participants: the Redhouse community, which was represented by five participants, and the local NGO, which was represented by 1 participant. Current knowledge on the topic has been analysed and new knowledge with recommendations, has been generated through findings from this study.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Role of midwives in facilitating the choice of delivery mode for labouring women in public sector birthing units in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and Sarah Baartman District

  • Authors: Muthige, Noluthando
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Midwives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Midwifery -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Delivery (Obstetrics) Infants -- Care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public hospitals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19375 , vital:28860
  • Description: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that of all the live births per year no more than 10-15% of these should be delivered by caesarean section. Despite this recommendation there has been a global increase in the percentage of caesarean section deliveries over the past few decades. In South Africa the percentage is as high as 70% in certain health care institutions which is of concern to midwives. Caesarean section deliveries are needed when the life of the baby, mother or both are at stake. However, this method of delivery bears more disadvantages than advantages to the baby and mother. Despite these disadvantages, some women request a caesarean section in their birth plans while others are influenced by health professionals to request a caesarean section. Therefore, there is a need for labouring women to be guided where possible to have vaginal birth because of its many advantages. This study sought to explore and describe the perceptions of the midwives regarding their role in facilitating the choice of delivery mode for labouring women in public hospitals and midwifery obstetric units (MOUs) of the Nelson Mandela Bay and Sarah Baartman districts. Based on the results of the study, guidelines for midwives in this role were developed. Maputle’sWoman-Centred Childbirth Model (2010) was used as the theoretical lens through which this study was viewed. The researcher selected a quantitative survey design using an explorative, descriptive and contextual research approach. The population consisted of midwives who were working in labour wards at public hospitals and midwife-led MOUs. A non-probability convenience sample was used to collect data using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The reliability and validity of the data collection instrument were ensured by using various means including a pre-test and an expert panel. Altogether, 300 questionnaires were distributed and 288 were returned. This number excluded the pilot study. Data was collected over a period of three months using the assistance of two fieldworkers. Data was captured and analysed under the supervision of the statistician and supervisors. Analysis was done by means of descriptive analyses that involved the production of frequencies and presented using charts, figures and tables. The major findings of the study are: -The midwives perceived themselves as the main facilitators of a suitable decision by the labouring woman for a safe delivery method - The midwives emphasised the importance of the delivery position preferred by the labouring woman -The midwives indicated that a collaboration between doctors, senior midwives, midwives and midwives in management positions could assist with a decision for a suitable delivery mode option. -The midwives agreed that the culture of the labouring woman should be considered when deciding on a delivery mode and therefore midwifery curriculum should include lessons about cultural diversity. Three principal guidelines were developed, namely: 1. Create an environment that promotes acceptance of a woman’s choice of a delivery mode. 2. Create an environment promoting a collaborative health care relationship 3. Create an environment that is sensitive to cultural needs in the maternity unit Ethical considerations in this study were upheld by maintaining the principles of beneficence, maleficence, autonomy and justice.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Rural women's participation in commercial farming in Tweespruit

  • Authors: Sebolai, Bridget
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Rural women -- South Africa -- Free State Farmers -- Women -- South Africa -- Free State , Farms, Small -- Women -- South Africa -- Free State Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20466 , vital:29290
  • Description: This study assesses the challenges confronted by rural women participating in small-scale commercial farming in Tweespruit, a rural town of the Free State Province. A qualitative, descriptive and explorative study was used for the study, and data was collected using focus group discussions during August 2015. The study found that rural women farmers are extremely challenged, as they are inadequately equipped as farmers, and they do not receive adequate aid from government or other entities, to enable them to turn their form of farming from subsistence farming to a more beneficial, commercialized form of farming. As a result, the study made the following recommendations. Firstly, the government should intensify programmes and strategies aimed at assisting rural women involved in farming activities. Secondly, it should also assist these farmers with training, especially in modern farming technologies, so as to grow their business into a commercialized form of farming. Finally, it was recommended that government facilitates these farmers to obtain funding from foreign donors to further grow their business.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Satisfaction levels of visitors at the Tsitsikamma National Park

  • Authors: Maluwa, Lutendo Obed
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Tourism -- Research -- South Africa Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Customer relations -- South Africa National parks and reserves -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18058 , vital:28569
  • Description: The literature reviews on tourist satisfaction revealed that a satisfied tourist leads to positive word of mouth recommendation to friends and family, loyalty (return visits), competitive advantage and long-term profitability and sustainability. These favourable benefits resulting from satisfaction are necessary for any destination to survive in the competitive tourism industry. South African National Parks (SANParks) manages all 21 national parks in South Africa, with the TNP being the third in terms of visitor numbers and income generated from tourism products. Data captured from visitors to the TNP was used to achieve the goal and objective of this study. This goal was achieved by conducting a questionnaire survey at Storm’s River rest camp within the TNP from 01 May to 31 July 2015. A total of 120 questionnaires were completed and included in further analysis. The aim of this research was to determine the relationship between satisfaction, service and travel motivations of the visitors to the TNP. The statistical test was used to determine whether or not visitors’ expectations were met. This was also used to determine the relationship between travel behaviour, travel motives, and service satisfaction of the visitors to the TNP. Park management can use these results as tools to ensure that the product offered guarantees visitors’ satisfaction and therefore contributes to long-term park sustainability. Therefore, park management is able to obtain the ideal tourist experience by not only focusing on the travel motives but also on the quality of service delivered at the park. The results showed that park management needs to become aware of what the visitor sees as important factors for a memorable visitor experience and they can adapt certain aspects to improve the visitor’s experience. Park management can therefore improve their services and products as well as the quality thereof by knowing what the tourists see as important when visiting a national park to obtain a memorable experience, which will lead to positive word of mouth sharing, loyalty, increased revenue and sustainability of the TNP.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

School libraries in former model c high schools – the case of the Framesby high school media centre

  • Authors: Olivier, Charleine
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: School libraries -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Instructional materials centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Multicultural education -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19795 , vital:28969
  • Description: The study explored the changing role of libraries/media centres at ex-Model C (now Section 21) high schools in the Nelson Mandela Metropole (NMM), focussing on a case study of the Framesby High School (FHS) media centre in Port Elizabeth. Model C schools originated in the 1990s, just before the transition to democratic rule in 1994, when White, or House of Assembly schools were given a choice of three school governing models, namely, fully-private Model A schools, Model B state schools and semi-private Model C schools. Model C schools would receive state subsidies of about 50%, with the balance raised through school fees. A major research purpose was to present a comprehensive description of the current ex- Model C school library context and how these influenced the service orientation and intended core functions of school librarians, such as teaching information literacy, providing academic support and promoting general literacy and reading. The FHS media centre service was further described with an aim of providing functional library/media centre management guidelines, applicable to high school libraries/media centres in similar ex-Model C school situations, or any libraries that could find such guidelines useful. This qualitative FHS media centre case study was based on the FHS media centre manager’s personal observation as participative action researcher and further supported by literature, an interview and questionnaire feedback from FHS educators and respondents from selected NMM ex-Model C high school libraries. By comparing historical and existing national and provincial school library issues, conclusions were reached regarding macro- and micro-school library contexts, for example, the effect of having no national policy, the support roles of school management and governing bodies, the influence of digital media and the position of school librarians. School librarian concerns, including their roles, qualifications, service conditions and professional status, especially within Section 21 schools, were considered with the high school library and librarian’s contribution towards curriculum outcomes and life-long learning. With specific reference to ex-Model C schools, the absence of a library policy also resulted in diverse levels of school management and school governing body recognition of the school library/media centre. This impacted on the school librarian’s role in curriculum support and information literacy teaching as well as the availability of funds, infrastructure and resources. It is recommended that government should address the supply of library facilities, services and posts for school librarians and assistants. Lack of governmental action is maintaining the growing divide between ex-Model C schools and disadvantaged schools, while the lack of school library services also has a negative influence on literacy and pass rates, especially in poorer regions, like the Eastern Cape. In the light of the vast difference between the results of ex-Model C schools and other schools in the Eastern Cape, these schools and their library services could provide a benchmark towards improving educational contexts in the province.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Seasonal physiological and behavioural responses of a small bird in a hot, arid habitat

  • Authors: Pattinson, Nicholas Bruce
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Birds -- Behavior Birds -- Physiology , Birds -- Ecophysiology
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19728 , vital:28948
  • Description: The role that climate plays in the ecology of organisms is perhaps the most pronounced where the earth’s environments are most extreme. In arid-zones, organisms have to deal with large seasonal shifts and/or extremes in temperature and/or moisture levels. As a result, arid-zone species are sensitive to climatic changes. I assessed the physiological and behavioural adjustments of an arid-zone endemic passerine, the rufous-eared warbler (Malcorus pectoralis), to seasonal changes in the Karoo semi-desert of South Africa. Respirometry measurements in the field showed that the warblers’ basal metabolic rate was lower and set point body temperature (Tb) was higher in summer compared to winter. At high air temperatures (Ta) evaporative water loss (EWL) rate was significantly lower in summer compared to winter, while Tb showed a clear pattern of heterothermy that was similar in both seasons. Compared to winter, the warblers in summer were able to remain calm, and tolerate higher Ta’s, before their Tb’s increased to potentially detrimental levels. Behavioural observations showed that free-living warblers exhibited significant temperature-dependence in their behaviour; they increased panting behaviour, and reduced activity levels, time spent preening, and foraging effort at high Ta’s in summer. The warblers also displayed a considerable decrease in foraging success, and a shift in microsite use, at high Ta’s in summer. I hypothesise that the flexible responses the rufous-eared warblers show are aimed at increasing their heat tolerance in summer, and help them balance their energy and water demands in an arid environment that exhibits wide seasonality in Ta, in addition to high summer Ta. My findings emphasise the importance of identifying, as well as understanding, the associated costs of physiological and behavioural responses to environmental variables. This information is valuable in terms of predicting biologically meaningful responses (and hence, vulnerability) of arid-zone avian communities to climactic shifts.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Seed ecology and growth comparisons of native (Virgilia divaricata) and invasive alien (Acacia mearnsii and A. melanoxylon) plants: implications for conservation

  • Authors: Goets, Stefan Albert
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Seeds -- Ecology Plants -- Reproduction , Vegetation dynamics
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15248 , vital:28191
  • Description: The abundance of invasive alien plants, with their numerous associated negative effects, has resulted in challenging and costly management requirements in South Africa. Management of invasives is further complicated when species have rapid inherent growth rates, atmospheric nitrogen fixing capabilities and large, persistent seed banks. Management strategies other than the usual mechanical, chemical, and biological (and combinations thereof) methods may be more effective. An alternative strategy is ’habitat management’, whereby management may be aimed at favouring native species. If the native species could compete favourably with, and possibly exclude, the invasive species, which is more likely when the species are ecologically similar, management may be more effective. This study investigated the competitive performance of two invasive species, Acacia mearnsii De Wild. and Acacia melanoxylon R.Br., and an indigenous ecological analogue, Virgilia divaricata Adamson, on the southern Cape Coast of South Africa. Both acacias are included among the five worst invasive species in the native forest and fynbos shrubland ecosystems. Performance was compared among the three species in terms of germination success (responses to five stimuli, namely chipping, hot water exposure, dry heat pulse, smoke, and control, incubated at 12 or 20°C), soil-stored seed bank densities and viability at different soil depths, and individual growth performance in seedling and sapling stages (and the effect of inter-specific competition on the latter). Virgilia divaricata performed comparably to the acacias in most aspects. Responses to germination stimuli at both temperature regimes were comparable among species, with chipping and hot water exposure resulting in the highest germination success. Acacia melanoxylon displayed poorer germination response under the cool temperature regime than the warm regime. Of the three species, A. mearnsii (7 596 seeds m-2) had the highest seed bank density, followed by V. divaricata (938 seeds m-2) and A. melanoxylon (274 seeds m-2). Seed viability was high (87-91%) in all three species. Neither seed density nor seed viability differed significantly between soil depths, and there were no clear differences in this aspect between species. In terms of growth during the seedling stage, V. divaricata outperformed A. mearnsii. In the sapling stage, growth was comparable between the three species and was not affected by the extent of competition from neighbouring saplings. Overall, the findings of this study suggest that the success of A. mearnsii as an invader is primarily attributable to its large seed banks. However, the good performance of V. divaricata seedlings and no apparent negative effect of competition on sapling growth from A. mearnsii and A. melanoxylon suggest that it may be used in the management of the acacias along with other management strategies. Due to the similarity observed between the three species, any management operation (such as fire) that would benefit V. divaricata recruitment would benefit the acacias equally (except for potentially reduced germination of A. melanoxylon in cooler seasons). Management should thus attempt to prevent the germination of Acacia seeds. Alternatively, dense localised Acacia seed banks may be reduced by repeat burning. On a small scale, areas where V. divaricata would occur naturally (or which are completely compromised ecologically) can be seeded with pre-treated (chipped or hot water exposure) V. divaricata seeds. If V. divaricata is given enough time to establish dense stands, subsequent germination and growth of the acacias should be suppressed and simultaneously promote forest re-establishment. To further decrease Acacia success, biocontrol (seed-boring weevils, flower-galling midges, and rust fungus) should be widely disseminated.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Selected marketing and branding practices among small and medium-sized family business in the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Richardson, Bianca
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Marketing , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Management Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Management
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19960 , vital:29012
  • Description: Based on the importance of small and medium-sized family businesses, with regard to their economic contributions, as well as the fact that their high failure rates limit their ability to positively contribute to the economic growth of South Africa, this study focused on selected marketing and branding practices of South African family SMEs, and whether these practices influence their financial performance and ultimately their survival. Against this background, the primary objective of this study was to investigate selected marketing and branding practices adopted by family SMEs in the Eastern Cape. An overview of the literature was provided whereby the nature and importance of SMEs, and more specifically family SMEs, were described. The various challenges SMEs face were explored, with marketing and branding being identified as one of the main challenges that contributes to the high failure rate of family SMEs. In addition to the marketing challenges faced by non-family SMEs, family SMEs face extra marketing hurdles, given the overlapping subsystem of family and business. However, despite these challenges, family SMEs are able to make use of their familial aspect by marketing and branding the business as family-owned. A positivistic research paradigm and quantitative research methodology was adopted for this study, using a descriptive research approach. The primary data collection procedures involved selecting the population, the sample, sampling techniques, and sample size. For the purpose of this study, the population consisted of all family SME owners operating within the borders of the Eastern Cape province. From the population, a sample was selected using both judgemental and convenience sampling. A total of 500 questionnaires were distributed, which resulted in 325 usable questionnaires, giving an effective response rate of 65.00 per cent. Given the cross-sectional nature of this study, a survey research method using a structured, selfadministered questionnaire was used to collect the primary data. The scales used to measure the factors under investigation were developed based on previous research. In order to assess the validity of the ordinal scales, tests for unidimensionality were undertaken. Only factor loadings exceeding the 0.5 cut-off point were considered significant. Not all the items loaded as expected. Only five of the original six items intended to measure the dependent variable Perceived financial performance loaded onto this factor. The researcher, together with two experts in the field of marketing and family businesses, deemed the items for the dichotomous questions to show evidence of content validity. The reliability of the ordinal scales was assessed by calculating Cronbach’s alpha coefficients, whereby coefficients greater than 0.7 were deemed a scale to be reliable. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of greater than 0.7 were returned for all the factors measured using ordinal scales, except one factor namely Customer service differentiation. This factor was not considered for any further statistical analyses. The reliability of the dichotomous questions was assessed using the Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 (K-R 20). For the purpose of this study, Kuder-Richardson values greater than 0.5 deemed the dichotomous questions to be reliable. Kuder-Richardson values of greater than 0.5 were reported for the dichotomous items relating to Branding of the family name, but not for Marketing function. However, given that the questions were used for descriptive purposes only, the items measuring Marketing function were used for statistical analysis. The independent variables returned mean scores of between 3.220 and 3.773, with the majority of respondents feeling neutral or agreeing with the statements measuring these factors. The dependent variable Perceived financial performance returned the highest mean score of all the factors with the majority of respondents agreeing with the statements measuring this factor. The dichotomous questions relating to the Marketing function indicated that majority of respondents did not have a written marketing strategy or a separate department that deals with marketing for their family business. The dichotomous questions relating to Branding of the family name revealed that in most instances the family name (surname) does not appear in the name, brand, logo or advertising material of the family business. Most of the independent variables (Promotion of family business, Family business image and Stakeholder perception) reported significant and positive relationships with each other. The independent variable Perceived financial performance reported significantly positive relationships with two independent variables, namely Product differentiation and Family business image. The multiple regression analyses undertaken revealed that only one of the independent variables, namely Product differentiation, had a significant positive influence on the dependaet variable Perceived financial performance. This study found that the independent variables Promotion of family business and Family business image did not have a significant influence on the dependent variable Perceived financial performance. The results of the two single regression analyses revealed that a significant positive linear relationship exists between Stakeholder perception and Promotion of family business, as well as between Stakeholder perception and Family business image. The findings of the analysis of variance found that Number of employees was the only demographic variable that exerted a significant influence on Product differentiation. The results also indicated that Age of respondent, Generation ownership and Nature of family business had an influence on Promotion of family business. However, the post-hoc Scheffé test revealed that only Generation ownership had a significant influence on Promotion of family business. The analysis of variance also found that the demographic variables Age of respondent, Generation ownership and Number of employees exerted a significant influence on Family business image; however, the post-hoc Scheffé found that only Generation ownership had a significant influence on Family business image. Based on the findings of this study, numerous recommendations were proposed to assist the owners of family SMEs to ultimately improve their business’s financial performance by adopting appropriate marketing and branding practices. The findings of this study showed that by adopting a Product differentiation competitive orientation, family SME owners can enhance their financial performance. It is hoped that the findings of this study will provide family SME owners with practical suggestions on how to use a product differentiation competitive orientation to ultimately increase their longevity, and that the suggestions for future research will inspire future researchers to continue investigating the unique marketing and branding practices of family SMEs.
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  • Date Issued: 2017
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