Determinants of household savings in South Africa: an econometric approach
- Authors: Chipote, Precious
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11479 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015281
- Description: Savings play a crucial role in promoting economic growth through their effect on investments. In addition, savings cushion the economy against fluctuating international capital flows. In periods of low or fluctuating capital, domestic savings are essential to finance high levels of capital formation thereby leading to increased productivity and sustainable economic growth. In South Africa saving levels have been declining, particularly household savings. This has been a major cause of concern as low savings hinder economic growth. In light of this, the study explored the determinants of household savings in South Africa over the period 1990 to 2011 using quarterly data. Based on the review of the theoretical and empirical literature, particular attention was paid to the effects of age dependency ratio, the level of household income, inflation and real interest rate on household savings. Apart from informal graphical test, the study employed the Augmented Dickey-Fuller and Phillips Perron unit root tests to test for stationarity in the time series. To identify the long-run and short-run dynamics among the variables, the study used the Johansen co-integration and the Error Correction Mechanism. Results of the study indicated that age dependency ratio, inflation and real interest rate have a positive impact on household savings whilst income has a negative long run relationship with household savings. In addition, the findings revealed that income, inflation and real interest rate play a major role in determining household savings whereas age dependency ratio is insignificant. The study recommends that the government should employ a countercyclical fiscal policy to avoid the development of excessive current account deficits during periods of more rapid economic growth, rising investment and falling saving.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chipote, Precious
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11479 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015281
- Description: Savings play a crucial role in promoting economic growth through their effect on investments. In addition, savings cushion the economy against fluctuating international capital flows. In periods of low or fluctuating capital, domestic savings are essential to finance high levels of capital formation thereby leading to increased productivity and sustainable economic growth. In South Africa saving levels have been declining, particularly household savings. This has been a major cause of concern as low savings hinder economic growth. In light of this, the study explored the determinants of household savings in South Africa over the period 1990 to 2011 using quarterly data. Based on the review of the theoretical and empirical literature, particular attention was paid to the effects of age dependency ratio, the level of household income, inflation and real interest rate on household savings. Apart from informal graphical test, the study employed the Augmented Dickey-Fuller and Phillips Perron unit root tests to test for stationarity in the time series. To identify the long-run and short-run dynamics among the variables, the study used the Johansen co-integration and the Error Correction Mechanism. Results of the study indicated that age dependency ratio, inflation and real interest rate have a positive impact on household savings whilst income has a negative long run relationship with household savings. In addition, the findings revealed that income, inflation and real interest rate play a major role in determining household savings whereas age dependency ratio is insignificant. The study recommends that the government should employ a countercyclical fiscal policy to avoid the development of excessive current account deficits during periods of more rapid economic growth, rising investment and falling saving.
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Dynamic linkages between monetary policy and the stock market: the case of South Africa
- Authors: Mabitle, Mope
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange , South African Reserve Bank , Monetary policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11483 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015290 , Johannesburg Stock Exchange , South African Reserve Bank , Monetary policy -- South Africa
- Description: This study analyses the linkage between monetary policy and the stock market in South Africa using monthly data for the period from 2000 to 2010. It provides an overview of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and the monetary regimes adopted by the South African Reserve Bank since the 1960s and the interrelation between the monetary variables and the stock market. It also provides a review of literature, both theoretical and empirical on the linkages between the two variables. Based on the review of literature, a Vector Autoregression [VAR] model was chosen as a method of analyzing the relationship between the two variables. The empirical results revealed that there is no long term relationship between the variables, however, in the short-run there is a dynamic relationship between monetary policy and the stock market in South Africa. This implies that innovations in the stock market affect the implementation of monetary policy and vice-versa. The study recommended that monetary authorities should pay attention to the fact that the stock market performance has a great impact on their decision making due to the fact it is greatly affected by repo rates.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mabitle, Mope
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange , South African Reserve Bank , Monetary policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11483 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015290 , Johannesburg Stock Exchange , South African Reserve Bank , Monetary policy -- South Africa
- Description: This study analyses the linkage between monetary policy and the stock market in South Africa using monthly data for the period from 2000 to 2010. It provides an overview of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and the monetary regimes adopted by the South African Reserve Bank since the 1960s and the interrelation between the monetary variables and the stock market. It also provides a review of literature, both theoretical and empirical on the linkages between the two variables. Based on the review of literature, a Vector Autoregression [VAR] model was chosen as a method of analyzing the relationship between the two variables. The empirical results revealed that there is no long term relationship between the variables, however, in the short-run there is a dynamic relationship between monetary policy and the stock market in South Africa. This implies that innovations in the stock market affect the implementation of monetary policy and vice-versa. The study recommended that monetary authorities should pay attention to the fact that the stock market performance has a great impact on their decision making due to the fact it is greatly affected by repo rates.
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Econometric analysis of labour demand in the South African textiles, clothing and footwear manufacturing sector: 1990-2012
- Authors: Chikwanha, Tafadzwa R
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11498 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018551
- Description: South Africa in its quest for socio-economic improvement still faces the problem of persistent unemployment. Unemployment in South Africa is very intricate and therefore makes it a complex challenge to tackle for policy makers. Differing unemployment phenomena exist in different sectors of the economy. Some sectors are facing employment growth while others are declining. This study examines the possible major determinants of labour demand (employment) in the textiles, clothing and footwear manufacturing sector in South Africa. The study is based on semi-annual time series data from 1990 to 2012. The Johansen (1991) model is used to examine the trends. The model is an error correction model imposed upon a vector autoregressive model. The results obtained showed that wages and imports both have negative relationships with the demand for workers. Based on these two important results, policy recommendations were made. The study recommended the introduction of a sector-based wage subsidy. The wage structure in South Africa is a perpetually problematic factor of the labour market and therefore a significant determinant in the viability of business and investment. Secondly, the import structure on textiles, clothing and footwear is not clearly and thoroughly setup. A complete restructuring of import tariffs on the entire sector is suggested.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chikwanha, Tafadzwa R
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11498 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018551
- Description: South Africa in its quest for socio-economic improvement still faces the problem of persistent unemployment. Unemployment in South Africa is very intricate and therefore makes it a complex challenge to tackle for policy makers. Differing unemployment phenomena exist in different sectors of the economy. Some sectors are facing employment growth while others are declining. This study examines the possible major determinants of labour demand (employment) in the textiles, clothing and footwear manufacturing sector in South Africa. The study is based on semi-annual time series data from 1990 to 2012. The Johansen (1991) model is used to examine the trends. The model is an error correction model imposed upon a vector autoregressive model. The results obtained showed that wages and imports both have negative relationships with the demand for workers. Based on these two important results, policy recommendations were made. The study recommended the introduction of a sector-based wage subsidy. The wage structure in South Africa is a perpetually problematic factor of the labour market and therefore a significant determinant in the viability of business and investment. Secondly, the import structure on textiles, clothing and footwear is not clearly and thoroughly setup. A complete restructuring of import tariffs on the entire sector is suggested.
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Education District Office support for teaching and learning in schools: the case of two districts in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mavuso, Mzuyanda Percival
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Schools -- Development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management teams -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School administrators -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School supervision -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Education)
- Identifier: vital:16194 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006259 , Schools -- Development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management teams -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School administrators -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School supervision -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The idea of district support for schools is based on the view that local education offices are best placed to play a critical role in the promotion of quality teaching and learning. In performing this mandate whose characterisation has, over time, moved away from ‘inspection’ and ‘supervision’ both of which are seen as old fashioned and undemocratic, to support, which is seen as developmental. The aim of this study was to understand how three categories of district based officers, Subject Advisors, Integrated Quality Management System Coordinators and Education Development Officers support teaching and learning in schools. This was a case study of two districts in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A total of six district officials and four school based officials participated in this study. In-depth interviews and document analysis were carried out. There were four main findings. First, support for schools by three district based officials was understood and practiced as administrative tasks, mainly consisting of monitoring policy implementation and monitoring resource provision to schools. School Management Teams saw district officers’ visits as focussing on compliance rather than support. Second, some pedagogical support was given by Subject Advisors through training teachers in subject content and methods of teaching that subject. This was done through workshops and demonstration lessons. However Subject Advisors did not at any time observe actual classroom teaching to see if teachers were implementing what they had learnt at workshops. Third, none of the officers mentioned direct support for teaching and learning at classroom level. Visits by officials were not directly linked to influencing teaching and learning classroom level. Fourth, schools saw district officials as working in separate pockets and sometimes sending different signals to them, despite claims by district officials that inter-disciplinary meetings were held among district officials, however, the nature of the coordination and the use to which it is put remains unclear. There were three main conclusions, first that although the district officials’ visits to schools were described as support, they exhibited the trappings of technicism of inspection; supervision and control; and appeared to neglect the developmental aspects implied in the notion of support. Second, the conception and practice of support visits by district officials were characterised by tension between support and control. Third, at district level support to schools lacked coordination among the three categories of officers who visit schools. This has implications for quality management in schools. Given the findings and conclusions of this study; it is recommended that the issue of support for schools be the focus of a survey research for which a probability sample must be drawn in order to generate findings that are generalisable across the participating target population. Other research could focus on investigating mechanisms by which the tension between support and control can be resolved. To improve practice of a framework for the development of a coordinated district support focusing on the core business of teaching and learning is suggested.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mavuso, Mzuyanda Percival
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Schools -- Development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management teams -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School administrators -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School supervision -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Education)
- Identifier: vital:16194 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006259 , Schools -- Development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management teams -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School administrators -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School supervision -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The idea of district support for schools is based on the view that local education offices are best placed to play a critical role in the promotion of quality teaching and learning. In performing this mandate whose characterisation has, over time, moved away from ‘inspection’ and ‘supervision’ both of which are seen as old fashioned and undemocratic, to support, which is seen as developmental. The aim of this study was to understand how three categories of district based officers, Subject Advisors, Integrated Quality Management System Coordinators and Education Development Officers support teaching and learning in schools. This was a case study of two districts in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A total of six district officials and four school based officials participated in this study. In-depth interviews and document analysis were carried out. There were four main findings. First, support for schools by three district based officials was understood and practiced as administrative tasks, mainly consisting of monitoring policy implementation and monitoring resource provision to schools. School Management Teams saw district officers’ visits as focussing on compliance rather than support. Second, some pedagogical support was given by Subject Advisors through training teachers in subject content and methods of teaching that subject. This was done through workshops and demonstration lessons. However Subject Advisors did not at any time observe actual classroom teaching to see if teachers were implementing what they had learnt at workshops. Third, none of the officers mentioned direct support for teaching and learning at classroom level. Visits by officials were not directly linked to influencing teaching and learning classroom level. Fourth, schools saw district officials as working in separate pockets and sometimes sending different signals to them, despite claims by district officials that inter-disciplinary meetings were held among district officials, however, the nature of the coordination and the use to which it is put remains unclear. There were three main conclusions, first that although the district officials’ visits to schools were described as support, they exhibited the trappings of technicism of inspection; supervision and control; and appeared to neglect the developmental aspects implied in the notion of support. Second, the conception and practice of support visits by district officials were characterised by tension between support and control. Third, at district level support to schools lacked coordination among the three categories of officers who visit schools. This has implications for quality management in schools. Given the findings and conclusions of this study; it is recommended that the issue of support for schools be the focus of a survey research for which a probability sample must be drawn in order to generate findings that are generalisable across the participating target population. Other research could focus on investigating mechanisms by which the tension between support and control can be resolved. To improve practice of a framework for the development of a coordinated district support focusing on the core business of teaching and learning is suggested.
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Effect of agricultural extension services on beneficiaries of the Nguni cattle project: the case of Ncera and Kwezana villages, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Gwala, Lindokuhle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture, Cooperative -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farmers -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019814 , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture, Cooperative -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farmers -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study was conducted to determine the effect of agricultural extension services on beneficiaries of the Nguni Cattle project in Ncera and Kwezana villages, both in Nkonkobe local Municipality of the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to determine the quality of extension services offered to the beneficiaries of the Nguni cattle project, relationship between extension officers and beneficiaries of the project, lastly was to determine communication strategies used by extension officers to communicate with the project beneficiaries. A total of 73 Nguni cattle project beneficiaries were interviewed. Semi- structured questionnaires were administered to the beneficiaries of the project who were willing to participate in the study. Xhosa speaking enumerators assisted in data collection. Focus group discussions were later carried out in both villages to determine effect of agricultural extension services on socio-economic status of the beneficiaries. The focus groups were divided into three groups of different ages and gender. The majority of the beneficiaries in the project were males (62.2 % Ncera and 75% Kwezana). There was an association between gender and extension services. Farmers depended on different sources of income. Old age pension and animal sales being the main contributing sources and also having a significant difference. The results of the study further revealed that the beneficiaries were faced with cattle production challenges, lack of extension support services being the main challenge. The results of the study indicated that the majority of beneficiaries had no access to extension services. Only 37.8% and 32.1 % at Ncera and Kwezana respectively reported that they had access to extension services. Although the latter is the case it was further explained by the beneficiaries that extension services offered to them were of poor quality due to poor communication strategies used to provide these services. Beneficiaries also reported the relationship between them and extension officers’ as poor. It was concluded that extension services had an effect on beneficiaries of the Nguni cattle project, largely based on the constraints they face on the project and limited access to extension services.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gwala, Lindokuhle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture, Cooperative -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farmers -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019814 , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture, Cooperative -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farmers -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study was conducted to determine the effect of agricultural extension services on beneficiaries of the Nguni Cattle project in Ncera and Kwezana villages, both in Nkonkobe local Municipality of the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to determine the quality of extension services offered to the beneficiaries of the Nguni cattle project, relationship between extension officers and beneficiaries of the project, lastly was to determine communication strategies used by extension officers to communicate with the project beneficiaries. A total of 73 Nguni cattle project beneficiaries were interviewed. Semi- structured questionnaires were administered to the beneficiaries of the project who were willing to participate in the study. Xhosa speaking enumerators assisted in data collection. Focus group discussions were later carried out in both villages to determine effect of agricultural extension services on socio-economic status of the beneficiaries. The focus groups were divided into three groups of different ages and gender. The majority of the beneficiaries in the project were males (62.2 % Ncera and 75% Kwezana). There was an association between gender and extension services. Farmers depended on different sources of income. Old age pension and animal sales being the main contributing sources and also having a significant difference. The results of the study further revealed that the beneficiaries were faced with cattle production challenges, lack of extension support services being the main challenge. The results of the study indicated that the majority of beneficiaries had no access to extension services. Only 37.8% and 32.1 % at Ncera and Kwezana respectively reported that they had access to extension services. Although the latter is the case it was further explained by the beneficiaries that extension services offered to them were of poor quality due to poor communication strategies used to provide these services. Beneficiaries also reported the relationship between them and extension officers’ as poor. It was concluded that extension services had an effect on beneficiaries of the Nguni cattle project, largely based on the constraints they face on the project and limited access to extension services.
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Effect of dietary inclusion of Moringa oleifera Lam leaf meal on feed conversion efficiency, meat quality, fatty acid composition, shelf life and consumer health-related perceptions of pork
- Authors: Mukumbo, Felicitas Esnart
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Moringa oleifera , Meat -- Quality , Feed utilization efficiency
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016071 , Moringa oleifera , Meat -- Quality , Feed utilization efficiency
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine the feed conversion efficiency (FCE), carcass characteristics, physico-chemical quality, fatty acid (FA) composition and shelf life of pork from pigs fed diets containing either 0% (T1), 2.5% (T2), 5% (T3) or 7.5% (T4) Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM). Consumer health-related perceptions on pork and fatty acids were also investigated. Twenty four crossbred Large White x Landrace pigs of both sexes at 18 weeks of age and initially weighing 71.6 kg on average were housed individually and had ad libitum access to one of the four dietary treatments for a period of six weeks. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) and average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratios (FCR) were calculated as an indication of FCE and pigs were slaughtered at an average live weight of 99.6 kg. Carcass traits such as back fat thickness (BFT), carcass temperatures and pH readings taken 45 minutes and 24 hours (pH45 and pHu) post mortem were recorded. M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) samples were taken from each carcass for the determination of lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), thawing loss percentage (TL%), cooking loss percentage (CL%), Warner Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF), shelf life and FA composition. Furthermore a survey was conducted amongst 80 University of Fort Hare Students to determine their health-related perceptions on pork and fatty acids as well as their pork consumption frequency using questionnaires. The FCE of pigs fed on 0-5% MOLM (T1, T2 and T3) diets did not differ significantly, but the FCE of pigs fed 7.5% MOLM (T4) was significantly (p<0.05) reduced. No significant relationship was reported between inclusion of MOLM carcass characteristics and physico-chemical pork quality. There was however a significant improvement (p<0.05) in the shelf life of the pork from MOLM fed pigs in terms of colour and odour during 10 days of refrigerated storage (at 3±1°C). There was a significant (p<0.05) reduction in the total intramuscular fat (IMF) content and the saturated fatty acid (SFA) C18:0 (stearic acid) content and an overall non-significant (p>0.05) increase in the poly unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content of pork from MOLM fed pigs. The possible reason for this is that the feeding of MOLM was commenced when the pigs were at an advanced age and weight. The survey revealed that the majority of interviewed students consume fresh (39.7%) and processed (32.4%) pork two to three times a week, perceive pork to be generally healthy (70%) and the second most healthy meat type (39.5%). While the majority (55.4%) were aware of the health implications of FAs they did not know which FA classes pose more of a health risk (51.3%). In conclusion2.5% and 5% of MOLM in finisher pig feed did not negatively affect FCE, carcass characteristics or physico-chemical meat quality; significantly improved pork shelf life and reduced total IMF and SFA content of pork but 7.5% MOLM negatively affected FCE; and the majority of students perceive pork to be the second most healthy type of meat and are generally aware of the health implications of FAs.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mukumbo, Felicitas Esnart
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Moringa oleifera , Meat -- Quality , Feed utilization efficiency
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016071 , Moringa oleifera , Meat -- Quality , Feed utilization efficiency
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine the feed conversion efficiency (FCE), carcass characteristics, physico-chemical quality, fatty acid (FA) composition and shelf life of pork from pigs fed diets containing either 0% (T1), 2.5% (T2), 5% (T3) or 7.5% (T4) Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM). Consumer health-related perceptions on pork and fatty acids were also investigated. Twenty four crossbred Large White x Landrace pigs of both sexes at 18 weeks of age and initially weighing 71.6 kg on average were housed individually and had ad libitum access to one of the four dietary treatments for a period of six weeks. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) and average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratios (FCR) were calculated as an indication of FCE and pigs were slaughtered at an average live weight of 99.6 kg. Carcass traits such as back fat thickness (BFT), carcass temperatures and pH readings taken 45 minutes and 24 hours (pH45 and pHu) post mortem were recorded. M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) samples were taken from each carcass for the determination of lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), thawing loss percentage (TL%), cooking loss percentage (CL%), Warner Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF), shelf life and FA composition. Furthermore a survey was conducted amongst 80 University of Fort Hare Students to determine their health-related perceptions on pork and fatty acids as well as their pork consumption frequency using questionnaires. The FCE of pigs fed on 0-5% MOLM (T1, T2 and T3) diets did not differ significantly, but the FCE of pigs fed 7.5% MOLM (T4) was significantly (p<0.05) reduced. No significant relationship was reported between inclusion of MOLM carcass characteristics and physico-chemical pork quality. There was however a significant improvement (p<0.05) in the shelf life of the pork from MOLM fed pigs in terms of colour and odour during 10 days of refrigerated storage (at 3±1°C). There was a significant (p<0.05) reduction in the total intramuscular fat (IMF) content and the saturated fatty acid (SFA) C18:0 (stearic acid) content and an overall non-significant (p>0.05) increase in the poly unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content of pork from MOLM fed pigs. The possible reason for this is that the feeding of MOLM was commenced when the pigs were at an advanced age and weight. The survey revealed that the majority of interviewed students consume fresh (39.7%) and processed (32.4%) pork two to three times a week, perceive pork to be generally healthy (70%) and the second most healthy meat type (39.5%). While the majority (55.4%) were aware of the health implications of FAs they did not know which FA classes pose more of a health risk (51.3%). In conclusion2.5% and 5% of MOLM in finisher pig feed did not negatively affect FCE, carcass characteristics or physico-chemical meat quality; significantly improved pork shelf life and reduced total IMF and SFA content of pork but 7.5% MOLM negatively affected FCE; and the majority of students perceive pork to be the second most healthy type of meat and are generally aware of the health implications of FAs.
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Effectiveness of irrigation water management institutions in Zimbabwe: a new institutional economics theory approach
- Authors: Nhundu, Kenneth
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11195 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006784
- Description: Despite considerable advances in technology across the world, some scholars (Bratton, 1987; Namara et al., 2010) have argued that declining agricultural productivity among smallholder farmers in Africa remains a major bottleneck in the development of the continent. Unganai (1993) indicates that about 60% of the southern African region is semi-arid or arid and suffers from periodic droughts. In addition, World Bank (2003) notes that agricultural production is dominated by rain-fed agriculture and irrigation systems are limited. This is compounded by the scarcity and poor management of irrigation water resources. Water scarcity in agriculture has large impacts on the population, especially in rural areas, where more than 60 percent of the population are engaged in agriculture which represents their main source of food and income (FAO, 2008). On the macroeconomic level, agricultural share of the GDP is about 37 percent and 75 percent of the export value is generated from the agricultural sector globally. To this effect, management of agricultural water particularly in rain-fed systems remains imperative for improved farm level yields because the bulk of the food comes from rain-fed agriculture (FAO, 2008; Namara et al., 2010). However, increasing water scarcity and poor accessibility may become a limiting factor not only for agricultural production and the welfare of rural population but also for the entire economy. Improving the management of water resources and an efficient use of water by all sectors, including agricultural production, are therefore important if the welfare and health of the population, particularly in rural areas, are to be maintained and improved (Nyong & Kanaroglou, 1999).
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nhundu, Kenneth
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11195 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006784
- Description: Despite considerable advances in technology across the world, some scholars (Bratton, 1987; Namara et al., 2010) have argued that declining agricultural productivity among smallholder farmers in Africa remains a major bottleneck in the development of the continent. Unganai (1993) indicates that about 60% of the southern African region is semi-arid or arid and suffers from periodic droughts. In addition, World Bank (2003) notes that agricultural production is dominated by rain-fed agriculture and irrigation systems are limited. This is compounded by the scarcity and poor management of irrigation water resources. Water scarcity in agriculture has large impacts on the population, especially in rural areas, where more than 60 percent of the population are engaged in agriculture which represents their main source of food and income (FAO, 2008). On the macroeconomic level, agricultural share of the GDP is about 37 percent and 75 percent of the export value is generated from the agricultural sector globally. To this effect, management of agricultural water particularly in rain-fed systems remains imperative for improved farm level yields because the bulk of the food comes from rain-fed agriculture (FAO, 2008; Namara et al., 2010). However, increasing water scarcity and poor accessibility may become a limiting factor not only for agricultural production and the welfare of rural population but also for the entire economy. Improving the management of water resources and an efficient use of water by all sectors, including agricultural production, are therefore important if the welfare and health of the population, particularly in rural areas, are to be maintained and improved (Nyong & Kanaroglou, 1999).
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Effectiveness of TB dot support programme as percieved by community health workers at Inxuba Yethemba and Tsolwana Sub-districts under Chris Hani District
- Authors: Gili-Stemele, Lindiwe
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11196 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006882
- Description: Background: The National Department of Health realised that its TB control efforts had been ineffective and joined its international counterparts by adopting Directly Observed Treatment short course [DOTs] strategy to fight the spread of TB. DOT is the only globally recognised strategy for effective TB control. This strategy ensures that infectious TB patients are identified and cured using standardised drug combinations. Treatment supporters observe patients as they swallow their drugs daily (SA Tuberculosis control Programme practical guide, 2000). Objectives of the study are: to assess the relevancy and quality of training for DOT supporters at InxubaYethemba and Tsolwana sub – districts,to identify challenges faced by TB DOT supporters during the execution of their duties and to assess satisfaction of TB DOT supporters, with their remuneration packages and other conditions of employment. Method: A quantitative descriptive convenient design was conducted for this study. A self - administered questionnaire was used.The researcher’s targeted sample was 42 participants although only 39 filled in the questionnaires. The questionnaires were personally distributed by the researcher to TB DOT supporters. Items in the questionnaire included the following: Demographic data, working hours per day, distance covered, meeting with managers, salary and remuneration issues and acceptance by community members. Results: The research findings indicated that the TB DOT Supporters are generally not happy with the conditions they are working under. From the 100 percent (n=39) TB DOTS responses, 8 percent (n=11) received a three days training, which is not in line with the Department of Health’s guidelines, and resulted in rendering ineffective delivery of DOT programme. Of the 100 percent ) 23.1 percent (n=9) walk 8kilometres, 51.3 percent percent(n=20) walk 7kilometers, 12.8 percent (n=5) walk 5kilometers, 10.3 percent (n=4) walk 4kilometers. This is against the required distance allowed to travel by foot which is five kilometres. Conclusion:According the results of this study, the effectiveness of TB DOT Supporters is being distracted by many factors, such as: Not having transport for doing home visits, Less number of hours worked per day, few number of community health workers working as TB DOT supporters, not having meetings with the management to discuss their challenges, and most of all not being given a clear explanation as far as their salaries are concern. The mentioned factors render D OT Support programme is rendered in effective at the Chris Hani District. According to Tuberculosis, A training Manual proven for Health Workers (1998:13) the most effective means of controlling TB known to us is a strategy known as Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS). This strategy enables tuberculosis clients to complete their treatment and has four areas of strength when compared to previous TB control strategies in South Africa. Recommendation: The results from this study proves that there is a definite need for improvement of working condition amongst TB Co-ordinators, TB Managers and the TB DOT Supporters. It is clear that increased number of MDR/XDR is due to the challenges that were mentioned above. There is a need for the additional number of TB DOT Supporters, as the area is big for only two TB DOT Supporters in each area. Hours worked by TB DOT needs to be extended considering their salaries as well.Therefore it is essential to empower TB DOT Supporters with more knowledge and skills so that they can be able to make an impact in TB service delivery system.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gili-Stemele, Lindiwe
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11196 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006882
- Description: Background: The National Department of Health realised that its TB control efforts had been ineffective and joined its international counterparts by adopting Directly Observed Treatment short course [DOTs] strategy to fight the spread of TB. DOT is the only globally recognised strategy for effective TB control. This strategy ensures that infectious TB patients are identified and cured using standardised drug combinations. Treatment supporters observe patients as they swallow their drugs daily (SA Tuberculosis control Programme practical guide, 2000). Objectives of the study are: to assess the relevancy and quality of training for DOT supporters at InxubaYethemba and Tsolwana sub – districts,to identify challenges faced by TB DOT supporters during the execution of their duties and to assess satisfaction of TB DOT supporters, with their remuneration packages and other conditions of employment. Method: A quantitative descriptive convenient design was conducted for this study. A self - administered questionnaire was used.The researcher’s targeted sample was 42 participants although only 39 filled in the questionnaires. The questionnaires were personally distributed by the researcher to TB DOT supporters. Items in the questionnaire included the following: Demographic data, working hours per day, distance covered, meeting with managers, salary and remuneration issues and acceptance by community members. Results: The research findings indicated that the TB DOT Supporters are generally not happy with the conditions they are working under. From the 100 percent (n=39) TB DOTS responses, 8 percent (n=11) received a three days training, which is not in line with the Department of Health’s guidelines, and resulted in rendering ineffective delivery of DOT programme. Of the 100 percent ) 23.1 percent (n=9) walk 8kilometres, 51.3 percent percent(n=20) walk 7kilometers, 12.8 percent (n=5) walk 5kilometers, 10.3 percent (n=4) walk 4kilometers. This is against the required distance allowed to travel by foot which is five kilometres. Conclusion:According the results of this study, the effectiveness of TB DOT Supporters is being distracted by many factors, such as: Not having transport for doing home visits, Less number of hours worked per day, few number of community health workers working as TB DOT supporters, not having meetings with the management to discuss their challenges, and most of all not being given a clear explanation as far as their salaries are concern. The mentioned factors render D OT Support programme is rendered in effective at the Chris Hani District. According to Tuberculosis, A training Manual proven for Health Workers (1998:13) the most effective means of controlling TB known to us is a strategy known as Directly Observed Treatment Short Course (DOTS). This strategy enables tuberculosis clients to complete their treatment and has four areas of strength when compared to previous TB control strategies in South Africa. Recommendation: The results from this study proves that there is a definite need for improvement of working condition amongst TB Co-ordinators, TB Managers and the TB DOT Supporters. It is clear that increased number of MDR/XDR is due to the challenges that were mentioned above. There is a need for the additional number of TB DOT Supporters, as the area is big for only two TB DOT Supporters in each area. Hours worked by TB DOT needs to be extended considering their salaries as well.Therefore it is essential to empower TB DOT Supporters with more knowledge and skills so that they can be able to make an impact in TB service delivery system.
- Full Text:
Effectiveness of the high value crop-based extension model in improving rural livelihoods
- Jakavula, Siyabulela Cornelius
- Authors: Jakavula, Siyabulela Cornelius
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work , Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11202 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007533 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work , Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The problem that is researched in this study relates to the effectiveness of the extension model applied in the High Value Crop programme in improving rural livelihoods in the Eastern Cape. The extent of poverty in rural areas in the Eastern Cape motivated for the intervention of the Is‘Baya through the introduction of Integrated Village Renewal Programme (IVRP). The need to improve the quality of life of rural households through the promotion of agriculture and industry gave rise to the collaborative effort between the Is‘Baya Development Trust and Agricultural Research Council (ARC) in South Africa. The HVC programme was established to mitigate the effects of food shortage and poverty through the production of fruit trees, herbs and vegetables at household level. Evaluation of the effectiveness of this collaborative effort was carried out in four local municipalities of the OR Tambo District and these included: King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality (Zangci); Nyadeni municipality (Hluleka); Port St Johns municipality (Noqhekwana) and Ngquza Hill municipality (Hombe). An equal number of villages where Siyazondla was implemented by DRDAR were visited for the survey to relate the extension model applied with HVC. The villages visited included: OR Tambo (Mhlontlo local municipality) Xhokonxa village; Amathole (Amahlathi local municipality) Ndakana village, (Ngqushwa local municipality) Mgababa village and (Mbhashe local municipality) Mbanyana village. The broad objective of the study therefore, was to evaluate the effectiveness of the extension model applied on the HVC programme as well as to identify the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders involved in the model. The specific objectives of the study were to describe the HVC based extension model as it is currently organized and implemented in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in relation to the erstwhile Siyazondla programme, to establish the effectiveness of the extension model in terms of skills transfer and capacity development, to determine the socio-economic impact of the extension model on the livelihood of involved households, to establish the extent to which the extension model has empowered women and youths and to study the factors that has contributed to the sustainability of the extension model. In carrying out this research and in line with the practice of Agricultural Research for Development (ARD), qualitative and quantitative methods of information gathering were applied. Group approach such as the Rural Rapid Appraisal (RRA) and the Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) methods of data collection were used. These tools include semi-structured interviews, focus-group discussions, transect walks, seasonal calendars, key-informant interviews, resource maps and secondary data. A sample of 149 respondents was selected from eight villages in the OR Tambo and Amathole districts. The HVC model was analysed using qualitative approach, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The Is‘Baya/ARC extension model is thus said to be effective in meeting the objectives of the HVC programme due to the efficient transfer of skills and technology and its positive impact on the livelihood of the people. There was also an improvement of the income and food security status of the rural dwellers in O.R Tambo district. The regression analysis model was applied and the results of the model were significant to the highest income earned. Out of 22 explanatory variables fitted in the regression model, 12 were significant. The R² and adjusted R² are 73 percent and 68 percent respectively which shows the significance of the fitted variables in the model. The very high F value of 15.427 shows strong significance of the fitted variables to the model. The study therefore concluded that the HVC based extension model implemented by Is‘Baya and ARC was very effective in improving rural livelihoods. The study further recommended investment in infrastructure, market linkages, value adding, public-private partnerships, creation of tenure security, investigation of different funding sources, investment on agricultural research, extension of skills provided and implementation of similar model by the public sector.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jakavula, Siyabulela Cornelius
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work , Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11202 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007533 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work , Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The problem that is researched in this study relates to the effectiveness of the extension model applied in the High Value Crop programme in improving rural livelihoods in the Eastern Cape. The extent of poverty in rural areas in the Eastern Cape motivated for the intervention of the Is‘Baya through the introduction of Integrated Village Renewal Programme (IVRP). The need to improve the quality of life of rural households through the promotion of agriculture and industry gave rise to the collaborative effort between the Is‘Baya Development Trust and Agricultural Research Council (ARC) in South Africa. The HVC programme was established to mitigate the effects of food shortage and poverty through the production of fruit trees, herbs and vegetables at household level. Evaluation of the effectiveness of this collaborative effort was carried out in four local municipalities of the OR Tambo District and these included: King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality (Zangci); Nyadeni municipality (Hluleka); Port St Johns municipality (Noqhekwana) and Ngquza Hill municipality (Hombe). An equal number of villages where Siyazondla was implemented by DRDAR were visited for the survey to relate the extension model applied with HVC. The villages visited included: OR Tambo (Mhlontlo local municipality) Xhokonxa village; Amathole (Amahlathi local municipality) Ndakana village, (Ngqushwa local municipality) Mgababa village and (Mbhashe local municipality) Mbanyana village. The broad objective of the study therefore, was to evaluate the effectiveness of the extension model applied on the HVC programme as well as to identify the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders involved in the model. The specific objectives of the study were to describe the HVC based extension model as it is currently organized and implemented in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in relation to the erstwhile Siyazondla programme, to establish the effectiveness of the extension model in terms of skills transfer and capacity development, to determine the socio-economic impact of the extension model on the livelihood of involved households, to establish the extent to which the extension model has empowered women and youths and to study the factors that has contributed to the sustainability of the extension model. In carrying out this research and in line with the practice of Agricultural Research for Development (ARD), qualitative and quantitative methods of information gathering were applied. Group approach such as the Rural Rapid Appraisal (RRA) and the Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) methods of data collection were used. These tools include semi-structured interviews, focus-group discussions, transect walks, seasonal calendars, key-informant interviews, resource maps and secondary data. A sample of 149 respondents was selected from eight villages in the OR Tambo and Amathole districts. The HVC model was analysed using qualitative approach, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The Is‘Baya/ARC extension model is thus said to be effective in meeting the objectives of the HVC programme due to the efficient transfer of skills and technology and its positive impact on the livelihood of the people. There was also an improvement of the income and food security status of the rural dwellers in O.R Tambo district. The regression analysis model was applied and the results of the model were significant to the highest income earned. Out of 22 explanatory variables fitted in the regression model, 12 were significant. The R² and adjusted R² are 73 percent and 68 percent respectively which shows the significance of the fitted variables in the model. The very high F value of 15.427 shows strong significance of the fitted variables to the model. The study therefore concluded that the HVC based extension model implemented by Is‘Baya and ARC was very effective in improving rural livelihoods. The study further recommended investment in infrastructure, market linkages, value adding, public-private partnerships, creation of tenure security, investigation of different funding sources, investment on agricultural research, extension of skills provided and implementation of similar model by the public sector.
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Effects of BT Maize (MON810) crop and its residues on selected soil biological properties and N and P release in a sandy loam soil from Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Landzela, Besule
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Bacillus (Bacteria) , Bacillus thuringiensis , Corn -- Planting , Biomass , Plant proteins , Enzymes , Soil fertility , Crop residue management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Crop Science)
- Identifier: vital:11870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007542 , Bacillus (Bacteria) , Bacillus thuringiensis , Corn -- Planting , Biomass , Plant proteins , Enzymes , Soil fertility , Crop residue management
- Description: There are apprehensions that genetic modification of maize with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) may have negative effects on soil biodiversity, ecosystem processes and functions. This study aimed at determining the effect of Bt maize crop, Bt maize residues and its genetic modification on microbial biomass carbon (MBC), selected enzyme activities, vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi and N and P release patterns. The study was conducted under field, glasshouse and laboratory conditions. In 2010/2011 season, four maize cultivars; DKC 61-25B (Bt), DKC 61-24 (non-Bt), PAN 6Q-321B (Bt) and PAN6777 (non-Bt) were planted. Determination of MBC, enzyme activities and fungal spore count was done at 42, 70, and 105 days after planting (DAP). A loam soil amended with Bt or non-Bt maize leaf residues from a study of 2009/2010 season was incubated to investigate effects of Bt maize residues on MBC and soil enzyme activities. Leaf residues of Bt and non-Bt maize cultivars (DKC 61-25B, DKC 61-24, PAN 6Q-321B and PAN6777) were used and soil without residues was used as a control. Samples were collected at 7, 28 and 56 days of incubation (DOI). An incubation study was also carried out in the laboratory to determine the effect of Bt maize residues (i.e. leaf, stem and root) and its genetic modification on N and P release patterns. Residues of DKC 61-25B, DKC 61-24, PAN 6Q-321B and PAN6777and soil without residues as a control were incubated in the laboratory. After destructive sampling at 0, 7, 14, 28, and 56 DOI, N in the form of NH4-N and NO3-N and P mineralisation were determined. Amendment of soil with residues enhanced MBC (p < 0.05) at all the sampling dates. For example MBC increased from 95 in the control to 146.3 mg/kg in the DKC 61-25B treatment at the end of the glasshouse trial. In the field DKC 61-25B had 9.1 mg/kg greater MBC than DKC 61-24, while PAN 6Q-321B had 23.9 mg/kg more MBC than PAN6777 at the end of the trial. However, no differences (p < 0.05) were observed in enzyme activities under field and glasshouse conditions except for dehydrogenase that had greater activity where DKC 61-25B and PAN 6777 were grown. There were no differences between the type of residues (Bt and non-Bt) on enzyme activities tested. However, differences were observed among the sampling dates. No effects of Bt maize crop on fungal spore count were observed. Similarly no differences were observed in leaf, stem and root tissues composition between Bt and non-Bt maize cultivars. Net N and P mineralisation from Bt maize cultivars did not differ from that of non-Bt maize cultivars. However, differences were observed among the cultivars. The results of this study suggested that Bt maize with Bt MON810 event can be grown in the central region of the Eastern Cape (EC), South Africa without affecting MBC, soil enzyme activities, VAM, and release of N and P nutrients from its residues.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Landzela, Besule
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Bacillus (Bacteria) , Bacillus thuringiensis , Corn -- Planting , Biomass , Plant proteins , Enzymes , Soil fertility , Crop residue management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Crop Science)
- Identifier: vital:11870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007542 , Bacillus (Bacteria) , Bacillus thuringiensis , Corn -- Planting , Biomass , Plant proteins , Enzymes , Soil fertility , Crop residue management
- Description: There are apprehensions that genetic modification of maize with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) may have negative effects on soil biodiversity, ecosystem processes and functions. This study aimed at determining the effect of Bt maize crop, Bt maize residues and its genetic modification on microbial biomass carbon (MBC), selected enzyme activities, vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi and N and P release patterns. The study was conducted under field, glasshouse and laboratory conditions. In 2010/2011 season, four maize cultivars; DKC 61-25B (Bt), DKC 61-24 (non-Bt), PAN 6Q-321B (Bt) and PAN6777 (non-Bt) were planted. Determination of MBC, enzyme activities and fungal spore count was done at 42, 70, and 105 days after planting (DAP). A loam soil amended with Bt or non-Bt maize leaf residues from a study of 2009/2010 season was incubated to investigate effects of Bt maize residues on MBC and soil enzyme activities. Leaf residues of Bt and non-Bt maize cultivars (DKC 61-25B, DKC 61-24, PAN 6Q-321B and PAN6777) were used and soil without residues was used as a control. Samples were collected at 7, 28 and 56 days of incubation (DOI). An incubation study was also carried out in the laboratory to determine the effect of Bt maize residues (i.e. leaf, stem and root) and its genetic modification on N and P release patterns. Residues of DKC 61-25B, DKC 61-24, PAN 6Q-321B and PAN6777and soil without residues as a control were incubated in the laboratory. After destructive sampling at 0, 7, 14, 28, and 56 DOI, N in the form of NH4-N and NO3-N and P mineralisation were determined. Amendment of soil with residues enhanced MBC (p < 0.05) at all the sampling dates. For example MBC increased from 95 in the control to 146.3 mg/kg in the DKC 61-25B treatment at the end of the glasshouse trial. In the field DKC 61-25B had 9.1 mg/kg greater MBC than DKC 61-24, while PAN 6Q-321B had 23.9 mg/kg more MBC than PAN6777 at the end of the trial. However, no differences (p < 0.05) were observed in enzyme activities under field and glasshouse conditions except for dehydrogenase that had greater activity where DKC 61-25B and PAN 6777 were grown. There were no differences between the type of residues (Bt and non-Bt) on enzyme activities tested. However, differences were observed among the sampling dates. No effects of Bt maize crop on fungal spore count were observed. Similarly no differences were observed in leaf, stem and root tissues composition between Bt and non-Bt maize cultivars. Net N and P mineralisation from Bt maize cultivars did not differ from that of non-Bt maize cultivars. However, differences were observed among the cultivars. The results of this study suggested that Bt maize with Bt MON810 event can be grown in the central region of the Eastern Cape (EC), South Africa without affecting MBC, soil enzyme activities, VAM, and release of N and P nutrients from its residues.
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Effects of exchange rate volatility on the stock market: a case study of South Africa
- Authors: Mlambo, Courage
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Capital movements -- South Africa , Cointegration -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign , International trade , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11468 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007125 , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Capital movements -- South Africa , Cointegration -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign , International trade , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Description: This study assessed the effects of currency volatility on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. An evaluation of literature on exchange rate volatility and stock markets was conducted resulting into specification of an empirical model.The Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedascity (1.1) (GARCH) model was used in establishing the relationship between exchange rate volatility and stock market performance. The study employed monthly South African data for the period 2000 – 2010. The data frequency selected ensured an adequate number of observations. A very weak relationship between currency volatility and the stock market was confirmed. The research finding is supported by previous studies. Prime overdraft rate and total mining production were found to have a negative impact on Market capitalisation. Surprisingly, US interest rates were found to have a positive impact on Market capitalisation. This study recommended that, since the South African stock market is not really exposed to the negative effects of currency volatility, government can use exchange rate as a policy tool to attract foreign portfolio investment. The weak relationship between currency volatility and the stock market suggests that the JSE can be marketed as a safe market for foreign investors. However, investors, bankers and portfolio managers still need to be vigilant in regard to the spillovers from the foreign exchange rate into the stock market. Although there is a weak relationship between rand volatility and the stock market in South Africa, this does not necessarily mean that investors and portfolio managers need not monitor the developments between these two variables.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mlambo, Courage
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Capital movements -- South Africa , Cointegration -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign , International trade , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11468 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007125 , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Capital movements -- South Africa , Cointegration -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign , International trade , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Description: This study assessed the effects of currency volatility on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. An evaluation of literature on exchange rate volatility and stock markets was conducted resulting into specification of an empirical model.The Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedascity (1.1) (GARCH) model was used in establishing the relationship between exchange rate volatility and stock market performance. The study employed monthly South African data for the period 2000 – 2010. The data frequency selected ensured an adequate number of observations. A very weak relationship between currency volatility and the stock market was confirmed. The research finding is supported by previous studies. Prime overdraft rate and total mining production were found to have a negative impact on Market capitalisation. Surprisingly, US interest rates were found to have a positive impact on Market capitalisation. This study recommended that, since the South African stock market is not really exposed to the negative effects of currency volatility, government can use exchange rate as a policy tool to attract foreign portfolio investment. The weak relationship between currency volatility and the stock market suggests that the JSE can be marketed as a safe market for foreign investors. However, investors, bankers and portfolio managers still need to be vigilant in regard to the spillovers from the foreign exchange rate into the stock market. Although there is a weak relationship between rand volatility and the stock market in South Africa, this does not necessarily mean that investors and portfolio managers need not monitor the developments between these two variables.
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Effects of management and leadership styles of school managers on teaching and learning in Fort Beaufort basic education district Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Zinto, Sinekhaya Homeboy
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11717 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016106
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the management and leadership styles of school managers and how it affects quality teaching and learning in Debe Nek schools at Fort Beaufort District. It was a mixed study that used both the qualitative and quantitative research methods. It adopted a correlation survey research design that helped in establishing the relationship of management and leadership styles and quality teaching and learning. In this regard, data for this study was collected on the independent variables, which was management and leadership styles, and that of the dependent variables, which was quality teaching and learning. The relationship between the two variables was investigated in order to determine the strength of the relationship that exists between them. The literature reviewed identify many factors affecting quality teaching and learning in schools. To achieve the aim of the study, the researcher administrated a number of questionnaires, conducted interviews and observed what is happening in schools during school visits. The findings of the assessment showed that there is relationship between management and leadership styles and quality teaching and learning. The researcher analysed democratic and autocratic management and leadership styles in relation to quality teaching and learning. The study established a positive relationship from the use of democratic management and leadership style and quality teaching and learning. The study also established that autocratic management and leadership style has a negative effect in quality teaching and learning in schools. The key recommendation of the study was the need for the programmes that must focus at development of management and leadership skills among school managers with the help from Districts in partnership with the Universities so as to help in the overall improvement of the schools.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Zinto, Sinekhaya Homeboy
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11717 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016106
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the management and leadership styles of school managers and how it affects quality teaching and learning in Debe Nek schools at Fort Beaufort District. It was a mixed study that used both the qualitative and quantitative research methods. It adopted a correlation survey research design that helped in establishing the relationship of management and leadership styles and quality teaching and learning. In this regard, data for this study was collected on the independent variables, which was management and leadership styles, and that of the dependent variables, which was quality teaching and learning. The relationship between the two variables was investigated in order to determine the strength of the relationship that exists between them. The literature reviewed identify many factors affecting quality teaching and learning in schools. To achieve the aim of the study, the researcher administrated a number of questionnaires, conducted interviews and observed what is happening in schools during school visits. The findings of the assessment showed that there is relationship between management and leadership styles and quality teaching and learning. The researcher analysed democratic and autocratic management and leadership styles in relation to quality teaching and learning. The study established a positive relationship from the use of democratic management and leadership style and quality teaching and learning. The study also established that autocratic management and leadership style has a negative effect in quality teaching and learning in schools. The key recommendation of the study was the need for the programmes that must focus at development of management and leadership skills among school managers with the help from Districts in partnership with the Universities so as to help in the overall improvement of the schools.
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Effects of the brittle national information policy framework on information services in Malawi
- Authors: Gausi, Hambani Adamson
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11573 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005989 , Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information services in Malawi. The objectives of the study were to: find out the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information access in Malawi; establish factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy in Malawi; find out the extent to which the absence of an overarching policy has affected capacity building in information services in Malawi; and identify the legal and regulatory framework implications of the absence of such a policy in Malawi. The study adopted an exploratory research design. Data were collected using document analysis, observations and in-depth interviews. Eighty-two face-to-face interviews were conducted with policy makers in government, Members of Parliamentary committees on legal and media issues, information scientists, information service providers, academicians, legal experts and information users. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. An interview guide comprising closed and open ended questions was used to interview respondents. Data were analysed using quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings of this study may be used by Government in developing relevant national information policies that would enhance free access and utilisation of information. Furthermore the study is significant in identifying factors that may impede the development of a national information policy. The study revealed that Malawi has a brittle national information policy framework for the provision of information services. Malawi doesn’t have an overarching policy framework for the sector and as a result, there is no policy guidance to drive the development of sectoral policies and supporting legislation. Policy development in Malawi is more reactive to issues than systematic and very slow. Consequently, access to and utilization of information is low; capacity building is low in terms of competencies and infrastructure and; the legal and regulatory framework for information services is weak. The study also revealed that factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy include: motivation for the development of sectoral information policies; lack of an institutional framework to guide the development of policy; lack of finances and technical capacity; lack of sustained political will; level of economic development; existence of overarching government development plans; international trends; and the diverse nature of the information sector. The general recommendation emanating from the findings of the study is that Malawi needs an overarching national information policy which would articulate and address issues regarding access to information, capacity building in terms of skills and infrastructure, and the legal and regulatory framework. Information is a cross-cutting issue requiring an all-encompassing policy. However, specific recommendations from the findings of this study are that government should expedite the development of policies and enactment of relevant pieces of legislation which are not yet in place to enhance free access and utilisation of information and ICTs; government should speed up the introduction of information literacy in the school curriculum starting from primary school level to university; government should develop a library policy to promote the development of school libraries in both primary and secondary schools, and public libraries in all towns, district assemblies and rural growth centres which should be well resourced including Internet facilities; and government should constantly review and harmonise policies and legislation in the information sector so that they are in line with current trends.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gausi, Hambani Adamson
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11573 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005989 , Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information services in Malawi. The objectives of the study were to: find out the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information access in Malawi; establish factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy in Malawi; find out the extent to which the absence of an overarching policy has affected capacity building in information services in Malawi; and identify the legal and regulatory framework implications of the absence of such a policy in Malawi. The study adopted an exploratory research design. Data were collected using document analysis, observations and in-depth interviews. Eighty-two face-to-face interviews were conducted with policy makers in government, Members of Parliamentary committees on legal and media issues, information scientists, information service providers, academicians, legal experts and information users. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. An interview guide comprising closed and open ended questions was used to interview respondents. Data were analysed using quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings of this study may be used by Government in developing relevant national information policies that would enhance free access and utilisation of information. Furthermore the study is significant in identifying factors that may impede the development of a national information policy. The study revealed that Malawi has a brittle national information policy framework for the provision of information services. Malawi doesn’t have an overarching policy framework for the sector and as a result, there is no policy guidance to drive the development of sectoral policies and supporting legislation. Policy development in Malawi is more reactive to issues than systematic and very slow. Consequently, access to and utilization of information is low; capacity building is low in terms of competencies and infrastructure and; the legal and regulatory framework for information services is weak. The study also revealed that factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy include: motivation for the development of sectoral information policies; lack of an institutional framework to guide the development of policy; lack of finances and technical capacity; lack of sustained political will; level of economic development; existence of overarching government development plans; international trends; and the diverse nature of the information sector. The general recommendation emanating from the findings of the study is that Malawi needs an overarching national information policy which would articulate and address issues regarding access to information, capacity building in terms of skills and infrastructure, and the legal and regulatory framework. Information is a cross-cutting issue requiring an all-encompassing policy. However, specific recommendations from the findings of this study are that government should expedite the development of policies and enactment of relevant pieces of legislation which are not yet in place to enhance free access and utilisation of information and ICTs; government should speed up the introduction of information literacy in the school curriculum starting from primary school level to university; government should develop a library policy to promote the development of school libraries in both primary and secondary schools, and public libraries in all towns, district assemblies and rural growth centres which should be well resourced including Internet facilities; and government should constantly review and harmonise policies and legislation in the information sector so that they are in line with current trends.
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Electricity generation, transmission and distribution policy: a comparative study of Nigeria (1960-2011) and South Africa (1960-2011)
- Authors: Okafor, Chukwuemeka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Electric power distribution -- Nigeria , Electric power distribution -- South Africa , Electric power consumption -- Nigeria , Electric power consumption -- South Africa , Electric power production -- Nigeria , Electric power production -- South Africa , Electric power transmission -- Nigeria , Electric power transmission -- South Africa , Electricity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (in Public Administration)
- Identifier: vital:11660 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007049 , Electric power distribution -- Nigeria , Electric power distribution -- South Africa , Electric power consumption -- Nigeria , Electric power consumption -- South Africa , Electric power production -- Nigeria , Electric power production -- South Africa , Electric power transmission -- Nigeria , Electric power transmission -- South Africa , Electricity
- Description: The electric power policies in Nigeria and South Africa are considered the governments’ intention to provide quality and affordable electricity to the people. A comparative study on the electric power policies focuses on the similarities and differences in the policy approaches, the policy issues that affect electrification, and the impact of the policy issues in achieving the goal of universal access to quality and affordable electricity power in both countries. The methodological approach allows for an in depth textual study on the electric power policy documents in both countries. In Nigeria, the government intends to address the massive demand-supply imbalance and achieve the goal of electrification through reforms that focus on private sector-led growth in the sub-sector. In South Africa, the identification of electrification as a public problem by the post apartheid government leads to an integrated policy framework that focuses on balancing economic concerns with social and environmental considerations. The study identifies electricity provision as a social welfare responsibility of the governments in both countries and examines the policy issues in the context of public welfare. In Nigeria, the policy issues are found to be self serving and not in line with sustainable public interest, given the socio-economic challenges. As a result they, exert less impact on achieving the goal of universal access to quality and affordable electricity in the country. In South Africa, good governance in the sub-sector has enabled the identification of policy issues in line with sustainable public interests of social equity, poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability; and government using public administration agencies to play a key role in service delivery. Recommendations of the study mainly derive from the South African experience on electrification, and are intended to offer some policy-lessons to Nigeria in the sub-sector. The study contributes to new knowledge in the discipline of public administration by opening up new vistas for a comparative analysis of electric power policy issues in both countries in the context of public welfare. Besides, a comparative study on electrification in Nigeria and South Africa from a policy angle contributes to the existing knowledge base in the discipline.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Okafor, Chukwuemeka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Electric power distribution -- Nigeria , Electric power distribution -- South Africa , Electric power consumption -- Nigeria , Electric power consumption -- South Africa , Electric power production -- Nigeria , Electric power production -- South Africa , Electric power transmission -- Nigeria , Electric power transmission -- South Africa , Electricity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (in Public Administration)
- Identifier: vital:11660 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007049 , Electric power distribution -- Nigeria , Electric power distribution -- South Africa , Electric power consumption -- Nigeria , Electric power consumption -- South Africa , Electric power production -- Nigeria , Electric power production -- South Africa , Electric power transmission -- Nigeria , Electric power transmission -- South Africa , Electricity
- Description: The electric power policies in Nigeria and South Africa are considered the governments’ intention to provide quality and affordable electricity to the people. A comparative study on the electric power policies focuses on the similarities and differences in the policy approaches, the policy issues that affect electrification, and the impact of the policy issues in achieving the goal of universal access to quality and affordable electricity power in both countries. The methodological approach allows for an in depth textual study on the electric power policy documents in both countries. In Nigeria, the government intends to address the massive demand-supply imbalance and achieve the goal of electrification through reforms that focus on private sector-led growth in the sub-sector. In South Africa, the identification of electrification as a public problem by the post apartheid government leads to an integrated policy framework that focuses on balancing economic concerns with social and environmental considerations. The study identifies electricity provision as a social welfare responsibility of the governments in both countries and examines the policy issues in the context of public welfare. In Nigeria, the policy issues are found to be self serving and not in line with sustainable public interest, given the socio-economic challenges. As a result they, exert less impact on achieving the goal of universal access to quality and affordable electricity in the country. In South Africa, good governance in the sub-sector has enabled the identification of policy issues in line with sustainable public interests of social equity, poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability; and government using public administration agencies to play a key role in service delivery. Recommendations of the study mainly derive from the South African experience on electrification, and are intended to offer some policy-lessons to Nigeria in the sub-sector. The study contributes to new knowledge in the discipline of public administration by opening up new vistas for a comparative analysis of electric power policy issues in both countries in the context of public welfare. Besides, a comparative study on electrification in Nigeria and South Africa from a policy angle contributes to the existing knowledge base in the discipline.
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Emotional intelligence as a moderator of the relations hip between participative leadership and psychological climate among the employees of an automotive dealer company in East London region
- Authors: Ramncwana, Ntombekhaya
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11561 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1014671
- Description: This study investigates the role of emotional intelligence in participative leadership and psychological climate. The objective of the study was to examine whether emotional intelligence is related to participative leadership and psychological climate, and whether participative leaders generally possess some levels of emotional intelligence. Based on the literature review an instrument composed of four sections was used to find the levels of perceived participative leadership, psychological climate and emotional int elligence. For this purpose, data from employees of an automotive dealer company was used. The study found no significant correlations between the three variables. However, the study did find a significant negative correlation between participative leadership and psychological climate. In addition, the study showed that emotional intelligence is not related to either participative leadership or psychological climate. Based on the findings, recommendations and suggestions for future research and for auto motive dealer managers are presented.
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- Authors: Ramncwana, Ntombekhaya
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11561 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1014671
- Description: This study investigates the role of emotional intelligence in participative leadership and psychological climate. The objective of the study was to examine whether emotional intelligence is related to participative leadership and psychological climate, and whether participative leaders generally possess some levels of emotional intelligence. Based on the literature review an instrument composed of four sections was used to find the levels of perceived participative leadership, psychological climate and emotional int elligence. For this purpose, data from employees of an automotive dealer company was used. The study found no significant correlations between the three variables. However, the study did find a significant negative correlation between participative leadership and psychological climate. In addition, the study showed that emotional intelligence is not related to either participative leadership or psychological climate. Based on the findings, recommendations and suggestions for future research and for auto motive dealer managers are presented.
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Ensuring high quality public safety data in participatory crowdsourcing used as a smart city initiative
- Authors: Bhana, Bhaveer
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11141 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1014673
- Description: The increase in urbanisation is making the management of city resources a difficult task. Data collected through observations of the city surroundings can be used to improve decision-making in terms of manage city resources. However, the data collected must be of quality in order to ensure that effective and efficient decisions are made. This study is focused on improving emergency and non-emergency services (city resources) by using Participatory Crowdsourcing as a data collection method (collect public safety data) utilising voice technology in the form of an advanced IVR system known as the Spoken Web. The study illustrates how Participatory Crowdsourcing can be used as a Smart City initiative by illustrating what is required to contribute to the Smart City, and developing a roadmap in the form of a model to assist decision-making when selecting the optimal Crowdsourcing initiative. A Public Safety Data Quality criteria was also developed to assess and identify the problems affecting Data Quality. This study is guided by the Design Science methodology and utilises two driving theories: the characteristics of a Smart City, and Wang and Strong’s (1996) Data Quality Framework. Five Critical Success Factors were developed to ensure high quality public safety data is collected through Participatory Crowdsourcing utilising voice technologies. These Critical Success Factors include: Relevant Public Safety Data, Public Safety Reporting Instructions, Public Safety Data Interpretation and Presentation Format, Public Safety Data Integrity and Security, and Simple Participatory Crowdsourcing System Setup.
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- Authors: Bhana, Bhaveer
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11141 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1014673
- Description: The increase in urbanisation is making the management of city resources a difficult task. Data collected through observations of the city surroundings can be used to improve decision-making in terms of manage city resources. However, the data collected must be of quality in order to ensure that effective and efficient decisions are made. This study is focused on improving emergency and non-emergency services (city resources) by using Participatory Crowdsourcing as a data collection method (collect public safety data) utilising voice technology in the form of an advanced IVR system known as the Spoken Web. The study illustrates how Participatory Crowdsourcing can be used as a Smart City initiative by illustrating what is required to contribute to the Smart City, and developing a roadmap in the form of a model to assist decision-making when selecting the optimal Crowdsourcing initiative. A Public Safety Data Quality criteria was also developed to assess and identify the problems affecting Data Quality. This study is guided by the Design Science methodology and utilises two driving theories: the characteristics of a Smart City, and Wang and Strong’s (1996) Data Quality Framework. Five Critical Success Factors were developed to ensure high quality public safety data is collected through Participatory Crowdsourcing utilising voice technologies. These Critical Success Factors include: Relevant Public Safety Data, Public Safety Reporting Instructions, Public Safety Data Interpretation and Presentation Format, Public Safety Data Integrity and Security, and Simple Participatory Crowdsourcing System Setup.
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Ethnic conflict in Nigeria: a challenge to inclusive social and political development
- Authors: Adetiba, Toyin Cotties
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Genocide -- Nigeria , Ethnic conflict -- Nigeria , National characteristics, Nigerian , Citizenship -- Nigeria , Ethnicity -- Nigeria , Multiculturalism -- Nigeria , Economic development -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Politics and government , Nationalism -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Social Science Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11432 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006955 , Genocide -- Nigeria , Ethnic conflict -- Nigeria , National characteristics, Nigerian , Citizenship -- Nigeria , Ethnicity -- Nigeria , Multiculturalism -- Nigeria , Economic development -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Politics and government , Nationalism -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Social conditions
- Description: The question of ethnicity has been one of the most topical subjects of study by social scientists. The controversies around this phenomenon seem to have been heated up by the high visibility of mobilized and politicized ethnic groups in most multi-ethnic states. Therefore, the extent to which ethnic nationalities are able to effectively manage the interplay of ethnic differences determines to what extent a multi-ethnic nation develops without crisis. Historically Nigeria has come a long way from multi-ethnic entity with political differences and background to the amalgamation of 1914 till the present structure of thirty-six states. Ethnicity, no doubt has contributed immensely to ethnic conflicts in Nigeria because of long standing revulsion or resentments towards ethnic groups different from one’s own or fear of domination which can as well lead ethnic groups to resort to violence as a means to protect and preserve the existing ethnic groups. Significantly ethnicity in Nigeria, is a product inequality among the various ethnic groups orchestrated by a long period of colonialism; a period which witnessed the ascendancy of three major ethnic groups to the socio-political domination of other ethnic groups and a period when the three major ethnic groups were used as a pedestal for the distribution of socio-political goods, resulting in the inability of other ethnic groups to access these socio-political goods. This situation has continued to impact negatively on the forces of national integration and cohesion in ethnically divided Nigeria. Considering the relationship between ethnicity and development; socio-political exclusion is not only ethically dangerous to development but also economically unproductive. It deprives groups and individuals of the opportunity for the necessary development that can be beneficial to the society. Thus, it is important to develop an integrative socio-political frame-work that explicitly recognizes the participatory role of every ethnic group in governance. Hence, there is a need for the adoption of inclusive governance to manage ethnicity in Nigeria. Notwithstanding, ethnic conflict still persists and an attempt will be made in this study to identify the reasons. Central to socio-political sustainability in Nigeria is a system that should recognize that differences are important to development and encompass notions of equality. Such a system should acknowledge the socio-political and economic power of every ethnic group and promote a system devoid of ethnocentric and exclusionary socio-political and economic policies.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adetiba, Toyin Cotties
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Genocide -- Nigeria , Ethnic conflict -- Nigeria , National characteristics, Nigerian , Citizenship -- Nigeria , Ethnicity -- Nigeria , Multiculturalism -- Nigeria , Economic development -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Politics and government , Nationalism -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Social Science Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11432 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006955 , Genocide -- Nigeria , Ethnic conflict -- Nigeria , National characteristics, Nigerian , Citizenship -- Nigeria , Ethnicity -- Nigeria , Multiculturalism -- Nigeria , Economic development -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Politics and government , Nationalism -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Social conditions
- Description: The question of ethnicity has been one of the most topical subjects of study by social scientists. The controversies around this phenomenon seem to have been heated up by the high visibility of mobilized and politicized ethnic groups in most multi-ethnic states. Therefore, the extent to which ethnic nationalities are able to effectively manage the interplay of ethnic differences determines to what extent a multi-ethnic nation develops without crisis. Historically Nigeria has come a long way from multi-ethnic entity with political differences and background to the amalgamation of 1914 till the present structure of thirty-six states. Ethnicity, no doubt has contributed immensely to ethnic conflicts in Nigeria because of long standing revulsion or resentments towards ethnic groups different from one’s own or fear of domination which can as well lead ethnic groups to resort to violence as a means to protect and preserve the existing ethnic groups. Significantly ethnicity in Nigeria, is a product inequality among the various ethnic groups orchestrated by a long period of colonialism; a period which witnessed the ascendancy of three major ethnic groups to the socio-political domination of other ethnic groups and a period when the three major ethnic groups were used as a pedestal for the distribution of socio-political goods, resulting in the inability of other ethnic groups to access these socio-political goods. This situation has continued to impact negatively on the forces of national integration and cohesion in ethnically divided Nigeria. Considering the relationship between ethnicity and development; socio-political exclusion is not only ethically dangerous to development but also economically unproductive. It deprives groups and individuals of the opportunity for the necessary development that can be beneficial to the society. Thus, it is important to develop an integrative socio-political frame-work that explicitly recognizes the participatory role of every ethnic group in governance. Hence, there is a need for the adoption of inclusive governance to manage ethnicity in Nigeria. Notwithstanding, ethnic conflict still persists and an attempt will be made in this study to identify the reasons. Central to socio-political sustainability in Nigeria is a system that should recognize that differences are important to development and encompass notions of equality. Such a system should acknowledge the socio-political and economic power of every ethnic group and promote a system devoid of ethnocentric and exclusionary socio-political and economic policies.
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Euryops floribundus encroachment in Eastern Cape communal rangelands: indigenous and scientific understanding of effects on range
- Authors: Gxasheka, Masibonge
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: vital:11585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016203 , Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study was conducted in Eastern Cape Province to 1) investigate local people’s knowledge and perceptions on Euryops floribundus and 2) landscape distribution and effect of Euryops floribundus on herbaceous vegetation and soil. A total of 90 households who own livestock were randomly selected from the three communal areas, namely; Tsengiwe, Upper Mnxe and Manzimdaka for household surveys and group discussions. For landscape study, a total of about 5 ha of land were selected at Upper Mnxe communal area. Selection criteria included the presence of E. floribundus and different landscape gradients. A total of four 50mx50 plots were marked along the landscape gradients: Bottom, Middle, and Upper Slope and upland positions. To study the effect of E. floribundus invasion on the herbaceous vegetation and soil, a total of 4 ha communal land was selected in an accessible area which had a largely flat terrain. The area was selected to have adjacent sites with no invasion (< 5% shrub cover), light (5-15% shrub cover), moderate (>15-35) and heavy invasions (>35% shrub cover) of E. floribundus. The average household size in the study area was 6.8± 0.7. All people in the three communal areas unanimously ranked sheep as the most important species for their livelihood, but the ranking of cattle and goat varied among the communal areas. All elder groups agreed that Europs floribundus decreases both the quantity and quality of herbaceous forage as well as livestock production. Moreover, invaded patches create more bare areas which are responsible for the loss of top fertile soils and the formation of rills and gullies. The result showed that the total density of E. floribundus significantly increased from the topland (2301 plants ha-1) moving to the bottomland (4888 plants ha-1). Canopy cover was significantly lowest in the topland (17.9%), but the remaining gradients had similar cover. Grass dry matter yield was higher in the bottomlands and sloppy gradients than the toplands. Soil organic carbon was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the flat than the sloppy terrain. Soils from higher elevations (toplands and upper sloppy) had significantly higher N than the lower elevations (bottomlands and Middle sloppy). The lowest dry matter was observed at low invasion and non-invaded sites. Soil chemical properties were generally different from all density levels. In conclusion, E. floribundus encroachment was found to be major cause of decline in the peoples’ livelihood because as this reduces the vegetation diversity and livestock production, both of which are the major of their livelihoods.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gxasheka, Masibonge
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: vital:11585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016203 , Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study was conducted in Eastern Cape Province to 1) investigate local people’s knowledge and perceptions on Euryops floribundus and 2) landscape distribution and effect of Euryops floribundus on herbaceous vegetation and soil. A total of 90 households who own livestock were randomly selected from the three communal areas, namely; Tsengiwe, Upper Mnxe and Manzimdaka for household surveys and group discussions. For landscape study, a total of about 5 ha of land were selected at Upper Mnxe communal area. Selection criteria included the presence of E. floribundus and different landscape gradients. A total of four 50mx50 plots were marked along the landscape gradients: Bottom, Middle, and Upper Slope and upland positions. To study the effect of E. floribundus invasion on the herbaceous vegetation and soil, a total of 4 ha communal land was selected in an accessible area which had a largely flat terrain. The area was selected to have adjacent sites with no invasion (< 5% shrub cover), light (5-15% shrub cover), moderate (>15-35) and heavy invasions (>35% shrub cover) of E. floribundus. The average household size in the study area was 6.8± 0.7. All people in the three communal areas unanimously ranked sheep as the most important species for their livelihood, but the ranking of cattle and goat varied among the communal areas. All elder groups agreed that Europs floribundus decreases both the quantity and quality of herbaceous forage as well as livestock production. Moreover, invaded patches create more bare areas which are responsible for the loss of top fertile soils and the formation of rills and gullies. The result showed that the total density of E. floribundus significantly increased from the topland (2301 plants ha-1) moving to the bottomland (4888 plants ha-1). Canopy cover was significantly lowest in the topland (17.9%), but the remaining gradients had similar cover. Grass dry matter yield was higher in the bottomlands and sloppy gradients than the toplands. Soil organic carbon was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the flat than the sloppy terrain. Soils from higher elevations (toplands and upper sloppy) had significantly higher N than the lower elevations (bottomlands and Middle sloppy). The lowest dry matter was observed at low invasion and non-invaded sites. Soil chemical properties were generally different from all density levels. In conclusion, E. floribundus encroachment was found to be major cause of decline in the peoples’ livelihood because as this reduces the vegetation diversity and livestock production, both of which are the major of their livelihoods.
- Full Text:
Evaluating integrated participatory planning in a decentralised governance system: the case of Yei River County, Southern Sudan
- Authors: Matata, Khamis Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- South Sudan , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Sudan , Local government -- South Sudan , Political participation -- South Sudan , Human services -- South Sudan , Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11656 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006985 , Decentralization in government -- South Sudan , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Sudan , Local government -- South Sudan , Political participation -- South Sudan , Human services -- South Sudan , Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Politics and government
- Description: Local government is an important level of participatory democracy, where communities play an active role not only as the electorate, but also as end-users and consumers, and thereby holding their municipal councils accountable for their actions. Given the above statement, the interim Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011, entrusts local government with the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner. It also provides for the promotion of social and economic development and the promotion of a safe and healthy environment. This also entails the need for a commitment to service delivery hence, public representatives and public officials must take seriously their obligation to render services to the people that could be in the form of ensuring that refuse gets collected, electricity being supplied and other services rendered which better the general welfare of citizens. There are several definitions of public participation, but it can be defined as a process of empowering citizens by involving them in making decisions on all issues that concern them, which can be political, social or economic. The main aim of this study was to, investigate and identify the nature and extent of integrated participatory planning in Yei River County and the extent to which opportunities for public participation are accessible to the communities. The study sought to investigate: How different stakeholders in the community in Yei River County make use of public participation opportunities during the integrated participatory planning process? As such, the main objectives of the study were to; to assess the existing integrated participatory planning practices in Yei River County, to examine and evaluate how the existing integrated participatory planning practices influence service delivery in Yei River County and lastly to identify the barriers to effective integrated participatory planning in YRC and advance recommendations for improvement. Purposive and snowball sampling methods were used and data was collected from a sample of two hundred and twenty-six (226) public officials, comprising of Local Government officials, County councillors and members of the public. Results from the data collected using open and close-ended questionnaires, showed that public participation is very important in local government planning as it leads to incorporation of public suggestions and interests in the development strategies. The results further showed that public meetings and workshops were the only public participation mechanisms being used by Yei River County. The study therefore recommended among other things that, Yei River County should strengthen public participation in integrated participatory planning by providing adequate skilled human resources and establishing structures, as well as public participation mechanisms at the Payam and Boma levels. It was also recommended that the communities needed to utilise all available mechanisms of participation to ensure maximum participation during the integrated participatory planning processes.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Matata, Khamis Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- South Sudan , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Sudan , Local government -- South Sudan , Political participation -- South Sudan , Human services -- South Sudan , Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11656 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006985 , Decentralization in government -- South Sudan , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Sudan , Local government -- South Sudan , Political participation -- South Sudan , Human services -- South Sudan , Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Politics and government
- Description: Local government is an important level of participatory democracy, where communities play an active role not only as the electorate, but also as end-users and consumers, and thereby holding their municipal councils accountable for their actions. Given the above statement, the interim Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011, entrusts local government with the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner. It also provides for the promotion of social and economic development and the promotion of a safe and healthy environment. This also entails the need for a commitment to service delivery hence, public representatives and public officials must take seriously their obligation to render services to the people that could be in the form of ensuring that refuse gets collected, electricity being supplied and other services rendered which better the general welfare of citizens. There are several definitions of public participation, but it can be defined as a process of empowering citizens by involving them in making decisions on all issues that concern them, which can be political, social or economic. The main aim of this study was to, investigate and identify the nature and extent of integrated participatory planning in Yei River County and the extent to which opportunities for public participation are accessible to the communities. The study sought to investigate: How different stakeholders in the community in Yei River County make use of public participation opportunities during the integrated participatory planning process? As such, the main objectives of the study were to; to assess the existing integrated participatory planning practices in Yei River County, to examine and evaluate how the existing integrated participatory planning practices influence service delivery in Yei River County and lastly to identify the barriers to effective integrated participatory planning in YRC and advance recommendations for improvement. Purposive and snowball sampling methods were used and data was collected from a sample of two hundred and twenty-six (226) public officials, comprising of Local Government officials, County councillors and members of the public. Results from the data collected using open and close-ended questionnaires, showed that public participation is very important in local government planning as it leads to incorporation of public suggestions and interests in the development strategies. The results further showed that public meetings and workshops were the only public participation mechanisms being used by Yei River County. The study therefore recommended among other things that, Yei River County should strengthen public participation in integrated participatory planning by providing adequate skilled human resources and establishing structures, as well as public participation mechanisms at the Payam and Boma levels. It was also recommended that the communities needed to utilise all available mechanisms of participation to ensure maximum participation during the integrated participatory planning processes.
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Evaluating the Efficacy of Poverty Eradication Strategies and Interventions: Department Of Human Settlement (King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Sentiwe, Maxwell
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11715 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015269
- Description: Poverty in the Eastern Cape KSD Municipality remains widespread and deep due to South Africa’s Apartheid history, poverty is intergenerational and structural. The commitment by the South African government to poverty reduction has been expressed in recent years through various national, provincial and local policy interventions. As such since 1994 the South African government has introduced a large number of interventions to address poverty in its various manifestations, not least income poverty, human capital poverty, service poverty, asset poverty. Former president of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki in 2004 said “Endemic and widespread poverty continues to disfigure the face of our country, it will always be impossible for us to say that we have fully restored the dignity of all our people as long as this situation persists, for this reason the struggle to eradicate poverty has been and will continue to be a cornerstone of the national effort to build the new South Africa”. The ANC led government has committed itself to meeting the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. These goals aim at addressing extreme poverty in its many dimensions, including income, poverty, hunger, disease, adequate shelter and exclusion, to promote gender equality, education, and environmental sustainability. South African government has sought to address poverty from many angles, like The Reconstruction and Development Programme Policy Framework of 1994 which seeks to address poverty through five key programmes namely, Meeting basic needs, Developing our human resources, Building the economy, Democratizing the state and society, and Implementing the RDP. (RDP 1994). Interventions have varied from child support and disability grants, housing, water and electricity. There has been little means of appreciating the overall magnitude or significance of these attempts. Despite what appears to be overall progress in the fight against poverty, it is also generally recognized that there remain pockets of enduring poverty that government is struggling to eradicate. In particular, there is evidence that those residing in deep rural areas have tended to see fewer improvements across the board, be they access to improved services or amenities. At this point in time it appears somewhat fluid, in the sense that different statements package the elements differently, sometimes omitting one and including something else and this is evidence of a lack of coherence in government’s anti-poverty strategies. The unjust state of rural areas in the Eastern Cape has remained unchanged since 1994. Political analyst, Dr Somadoda Fikeni said even with rural development being national government’s priority, there has been no massive shift of resources from urban cities to the rural. “The fixation is on urban development, leaving the rural to fend off diseases, unemployment and pathetic leaving conditions”. The Eastern Cape OR Tambo district’s poverty rate is higher than the provincial and national averages, with an estimated 1,183,517 people living in poverty, According to the community survey report conducted in 2207 has determined the housing backlog showing the OR Tambo as the largest area of need by 36% and the largest part is the KSD Municipality with an average growth rate of -1.67, number of people in poverty from year 2000 to 2010 and average growth rate of -2.42 of poverty rate. Eastern Cape government have undertaken a series of programmes to address poverty, however programmes implemented since 1994 have not yielded the desired impact in eradicating poverty.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sentiwe, Maxwell
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11715 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015269
- Description: Poverty in the Eastern Cape KSD Municipality remains widespread and deep due to South Africa’s Apartheid history, poverty is intergenerational and structural. The commitment by the South African government to poverty reduction has been expressed in recent years through various national, provincial and local policy interventions. As such since 1994 the South African government has introduced a large number of interventions to address poverty in its various manifestations, not least income poverty, human capital poverty, service poverty, asset poverty. Former president of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki in 2004 said “Endemic and widespread poverty continues to disfigure the face of our country, it will always be impossible for us to say that we have fully restored the dignity of all our people as long as this situation persists, for this reason the struggle to eradicate poverty has been and will continue to be a cornerstone of the national effort to build the new South Africa”. The ANC led government has committed itself to meeting the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. These goals aim at addressing extreme poverty in its many dimensions, including income, poverty, hunger, disease, adequate shelter and exclusion, to promote gender equality, education, and environmental sustainability. South African government has sought to address poverty from many angles, like The Reconstruction and Development Programme Policy Framework of 1994 which seeks to address poverty through five key programmes namely, Meeting basic needs, Developing our human resources, Building the economy, Democratizing the state and society, and Implementing the RDP. (RDP 1994). Interventions have varied from child support and disability grants, housing, water and electricity. There has been little means of appreciating the overall magnitude or significance of these attempts. Despite what appears to be overall progress in the fight against poverty, it is also generally recognized that there remain pockets of enduring poverty that government is struggling to eradicate. In particular, there is evidence that those residing in deep rural areas have tended to see fewer improvements across the board, be they access to improved services or amenities. At this point in time it appears somewhat fluid, in the sense that different statements package the elements differently, sometimes omitting one and including something else and this is evidence of a lack of coherence in government’s anti-poverty strategies. The unjust state of rural areas in the Eastern Cape has remained unchanged since 1994. Political analyst, Dr Somadoda Fikeni said even with rural development being national government’s priority, there has been no massive shift of resources from urban cities to the rural. “The fixation is on urban development, leaving the rural to fend off diseases, unemployment and pathetic leaving conditions”. The Eastern Cape OR Tambo district’s poverty rate is higher than the provincial and national averages, with an estimated 1,183,517 people living in poverty, According to the community survey report conducted in 2207 has determined the housing backlog showing the OR Tambo as the largest area of need by 36% and the largest part is the KSD Municipality with an average growth rate of -1.67, number of people in poverty from year 2000 to 2010 and average growth rate of -2.42 of poverty rate. Eastern Cape government have undertaken a series of programmes to address poverty, however programmes implemented since 1994 have not yielded the desired impact in eradicating poverty.
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