Parent characterization of quality protein maize (Zea mays L.) and combining ability for tolerance to drought stress
- Authors: Pfunde, Cleopatra Nyaradzo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Corn -- Quality , Corn as food , Corn -- Effect of stress on , Corn -- Effect of drought on , Cluster analysis , Crops -- Effect of drought on , Corn -- Drought tolerance , Corn -- Breeding , Crops -- Drought tolerance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Crop Science)
- Identifier: vital:11869 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007536 , Corn -- Quality , Corn as food , Corn -- Effect of stress on , Corn -- Effect of drought on , Cluster analysis , Crops -- Effect of drought on , Corn -- Drought tolerance , Corn -- Breeding , Crops -- Drought tolerance
- Description: Quality protein maize (QPM) has enhanced levels of two essential amino acids, lysine and tryptophan compared to normal maize. This makes QPM an important cereal crop in communities where maize is a staple crop. The main abiotic factor to QPM production is drought stress. Little information is available on the effect of drought stress on QPM. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to: (i) conduct diversity analysis of QPM inbred lines using morpho-agronomic and simple sequence repeat markers, (ii) screen available QPM inbred lines and F1 progeny for tolerance to seedling drought stress, (iii) determine the combining ability and type of gene action of QPM inbred lines for tolerance to seedling drought stress, grain yield and endosperm modification. The study was conducted in South Africa, at the University of Fort Hare. Morphological characterisation of 21 inbred lines was done using quantitative and qualitative traits. A randomised complete block design with three replicates was used for characterizing the inbred lines in the field. Genstat statistical software, version 12 (Genstat ®, 2009) was used for analysis of variance (ANOVA) and descriptive statistics. Analysis of variance was performed on all quantitative data for morphological traits. Data for qualitative traits was tabulated in their nominal classes. Traits that contributed most to the variation were days to anthesis, days to silking, anthesis-silking interval, plant height, number of kernel rows, ear length and grain yield. Cluster analysis grouped the inbred lines into three main clusters. The first cluster was characterised by tall and average yielding lines, while the second cluster showed the least anthesis-silking interval, and had the highest yield. Cluster three consisted of lines that were early maturing, but were the least yielding. Genetic distances between maize inbred lines were quantified by using 27 simple sequence repeat markers. The genetic distances between genotypes was computed using Roger’s (1972) genetic distances. Cluster analysis was then carried out using the neighbour-joining tree method using Power Marker software version 3.25. A dendrogram generated from the genetic study of the inbred lines revealed three groups that concurred with expectations based upon pedigree data. These groups were not identical to the groups generated using morpho-agronomic characterisation. Twenty one QPM inbred lines were crossed using a North Carolina design II mating scheme. These were divided into seven sets, each with three inbred lines. The three inbred lines in one set were used as females and crossed with three inbred lines in another set consisting of males. Each inbred line was used as a female in one set, and as a male in a second set. Sixty three hybrids (7 sets x 9 hybrids) were formed and evaluated in October 2011, using a 6x8 alpha-lattice incomplete block design with three replicates under glasshouse and optimum field conditions. A randomised complete block design with three replicates was used for the 21 parental inbred lines. Traits recorded for the glasshouse study were, canopy temperature, chlorophyll content, leaf roll, stem diameter, plant height, leaf number, leaf area, fresh and dry root and shoot weights. Data for the various traits for each environment, 25 percent (stress treatment) and 75 percent (non-stress) of field capacity, were subjected to analysis of variance using the unbalanced treatment design in Genstat statistical package Edition 12. Where varietal differences were found, means were separated using Tukey’s test. Genetic analyses for grain yield and agronomic traits were performed using a fixed effects model in JMP 10 following Residual Maximum Likelihood procedure (REML). From the results, inbred lines that were not previously classified into heterotic groups and drought tolerance categories were classified based on their total dry weight performance and drought susceptibility index. Inbred lines L18, L9, L8, L6 and L3, in order of their drought tolerance index were the best performers under greenhouse conditions and could be recommended for breeding new varieties that are tolerant to seedling drought stress. Evaluation of maize seedlings tolerant to drought stress under glasshouse conditions revealed that cross combination L18 x L11 was drought tolerant, while cross L20 x L7 was susceptible. Total dry weight was used as the major criteria for classifying F1 maize seedlings as being resistant or susceptible. General combining ability effects accounted for 67.43 percent of the genetic variation for total dry weight, while specific combining ability effects contributed 37.57 percent. This indicated that additive gene effects were more important than non-additive gene action in controlling this trait. In the field study (non-drought), the experimental design was a 6x8 alpha lattice incomplete block design with three replicates. On an adjacent field a randomised complete block design with three replicates was used to evaluate the parental inbred lines. The following variables were recorded: plant height, ear height, ears per plant, endosperm modification, days to silking and days to anthesis, anthesis-silking interval, number of kernels per row, number of rows per ear and grain yield. General analyses for the incomplete lattice block design and randomised complete block design for hybrid and inbred data respectively were performed using JMP 10 statistical software. Means were separated using the Tukey's test. Genetic analyses of data for grain yield and agronomic traits were conducted using a fixed effects model using REML in JMP 10. The importance of both GCA (51 percent) and SCA (49 percent) was observed for grain yield. A preponderance of GCA existed for ear height, days to anthesis, anthesis-silking interval, ears per plant and number of kernels per row, indicating that predominantly, additive gene effects controlled hybrid performance under optimum field conditions. The highest heritability was observed for days to silking (48.27 percent) suggesting that yield could be improved through selection for this trait. Under field conditions, variation in time to maturity was observed. This implies that these inbred lines can be recommended for utilisation in different agro-ecologies. Early maturing lines such as L18 can be used to introduce earliness in local cultivars, while early maturing single crosses such as L18 x L2, L5 x L9, L3 x L4 and L2 x L21 could be recommended for maize growers in drought prone areas such as the former Ciskei. Single crosses L18xL11, L16xL18, L8xL21 and L9xL6 had good tolerance to seedling drought stress. On the other hand, single crosses L18xL11 and L11xL13 had high grain yield and good endosperm modification. All these single crosses could be recommended for commercial production after evaluation across locations in the Eastern Cape Province. Alternatively they can be crossed with other superior inbreds to generate three or four way hybrids, which could then be evaluated for potential use by farmers in the Eastern Cape.
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Impact of animal traction power on agricultural productivity: case of lowlands of Mohale's Hoek district of Lesotho
- Authors: Rampokanyo, Lepolesa Michael
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Animal traction -- Lesotho , Agricultural productivity -- Lesotho , Draft animals -- Lesotho , Food security -- Lesotho , Farm produce -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11178 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/483 , Animal traction -- Lesotho , Agricultural productivity -- Lesotho , Draft animals -- Lesotho , Food security -- Lesotho , Farm produce -- Lesotho
- Description: Most farming at subsistence level is located in rural areas where the majority of smallholder farmers have low productivity which results in high rate of food insecurity. The areas are characterised by animal traction and poor farming practises, and monoculture is mostly preferred. In light of this, this study analyzed the impact of animal power on agricultural productivity. Smallholder farmers in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district of Lesotho were investigated by means of a case study methodology. The aim of the study was to inform agricultural policy about the level and key determinants of inefficiency in the smallholder farming system so as to contribute to policy designed to raise productivity of smallholder farmers. The sampling frame comprised farmers and extension workers in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district. From this frame, 118 farmers and 4 extension workers were randomly selected from four villages, namely‘Mapotsane, Potsane, Tsoloane and Siloe. The four groups of farmers include; the farmers owning and using cattle for ploughing, farmers owning tractor and cattle and using them for ploughing, farmers owning tractor only and using it for ploughing, and farmers who owned neither cattle nor tractor and normally hire these when ploughing operations are to be done on the farm. The interviews of these farmers and extension workers were conducted by means of semi-structured questionnaire which consisted of both open and close ended questions. The study used the stochastic frontier production model for the production efficiencies and linear regression model for the impact of animal traction on agricultural productivity. Both procedures provided insights into the relative contributions of animal power and traditional systems to poverty alleviation and food security in the project areas. Descriptive statistics were employed for farming systems and challenges facing small scale farmers. Gross Margins analysis was conducted for the animal power and tractor power yield levels for maize crop to compare the two types of power. Some diagnostic tests to detect serial correlation and heteroskedasticity and t-tests were also performed. The significant variables include the area of sorghum ploughed, members of the household that assist with family labour, education, quantity of fertilizer applied, time taken by the farmers in farming, members who are formally employed, household size, area of land ploughed, old age, costs of tractor and animal, marital status, income, area of maize ploughed, area of sorghum ploughed, quantity of fertilizers applied, costs of seeds and fertilizers applied, maize and sorghum yield and amount sold and consumed. The study revealed that monoculture is mainly practised and many smallholder farmers used traditional technologies that fail to replace nutrients in the soil. Nonetheless family labour was not a problem. During the farming season, tractors were used as the main source of power for ploughing. Most farmers hired these for maize production as it is a staple food crop even where animal power is available. It was noted that the tractors were few and in most cases old and malfunctioning. The cost of using animals in farming obviouslyplayed a role in the production of both maize v and sorghum in the lowland areas of Mohale’s Hoek district. Smallholder farmers who owned both tractors and animals produced more but they were mainly affected by high costs of maintaining the aging tractors, generally purchased on the used-equipment market. The increased challenges resulted in lower productivity of the smallholder farmers, including: unhealthy animals, drought, marketing problems, late ploughing, poor soils, lack of extension services, low yields, low income, lack of information, lack of appropriate implements, lack of support services, nutrition inadequacy, inappropriate farming systems. The study recommended the adoption and promotion of low-cost mechanization in the lowlands of Mohale’s Hoek district so as to increase the production of the smallholder farmers. Increased productivity will in turn improve household food security.
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Perceptions of rural consumers and the quality of mutton at purchase points in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Rani, Zikhona Theodora
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Meat -- Quality , Mutton -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Quality of products , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007562 , Meat -- Quality , Mutton -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Quality of products , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine perceptions of rural consumers on mutton quality, and the quality of mutton at purchase points in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study was conducted in five different municipalities (Buffalo City, Nkonkobe, Ngqushwa, Lukhanje and Amahlathi). A survey was conducted where a sample of 215 consumers were randomly selected and interviewed, either at point of purchase or as they left the shops. The survey was not limited to the shoppers only but also extended to households from the villages. Questions on some of the most important meat quality cues were compiled. The physico-chemical quality of mutton purchased from different shops was also determined. Forty different shops and butcheries selling mutton from all the selected municipalities were visited. Different parts of mutton samples were bought. Physico-chemical qualities of mutton such as colour (L* - lightness, b* - redness and a* - yellowness) and meat pH measurements were taken at points of purchase. Cooking loss and tenderness evaluations were later done at the Meat Science laboratory at the University of Fort Hare. The results indicated that price was one of the major factors affecting the purchasing decisions of consumers. Thirty four percent of the consumers preferred mutton as compared to other protein sources, even though they were not buying this type of meat because it was not affordable to them. Both male and female consumers suggested that more sheep farmers need to be established in order to reduce the levels of imported mutton into South Africa. They also highlighted that selection programmes that will result in efficient sheep production and reduced mutton prices need to be implemented. Meat at points of purchase was affected by season resulting in lower lightness (L*24.7±0.49) values in winter and higher (L* 32.2±0.49) in Spring. The class of shop did not have an effect on meat quality attributes. Trotter had high values of lightness (L*30.4±2.78a), redness (a*30.4±2.78a), yellowness (13.1±1.08a), pH (6.3±0.12a), tenderness (24.9±3.69b) and cooking loss (39.5±4.38ab). The number of days from when the meat was put on the shelves to the time when it was purchased for consumption (days to purchase) had a significant (P<0.05) negative correlation with the Warner Braztler Shear Force (WBSF)values and lightness of the meat. Significant negative (P < 0.05) correlations between pH and colour of the meat (L*, a* and b*) were also observed. It was concluded that rural consumers perceive the quality of mutton as the best and that the physico-chemical quality of meat purchased from different shops was different, largely based on the part of meat, meat storage conditions and not necessarily on the class of the shop.
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Lithostratigraphic correlation, mineralogy and geochemistry of the lower manganese orebody at the Kalagadi Manganese Mine in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Rasmeni, Sonwabile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Manganese mines and mining -- South Africa , Manganese ores -- Geology -- South Africa , Mineralogy -- South Africa , Geochemistry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11526 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016155 , Manganese mines and mining -- South Africa , Manganese ores -- Geology -- South Africa , Mineralogy -- South Africa , Geochemistry -- South Africa
- Description: The Kalagadi Manganese mine in the Kuruman area of the Northern Cape Province of South Africa contains reserves of Mn ore in excess of 100Mt. Mineralization in the mine lease area is restricted within the Hotazel Formation of the Voȅlwater Subgroup, belonging to the Postmasburg Group, the upper subdivision of the Transvaal Supergroup. Surface topography is characterized by flat lying, undulation with minimal faulting and the ore are slightly metarmophosed. This study investigates the general geology of the mine, lithostratigraphic subdivision and correlation of the economic Lower Manganese Orebody (LMO) of the Kalagadi Manganese Mine in order to guide mining plan and operations once the mine is fully commissioned. At the commencement of this study, Kalagadi Manganese mine was a project under exploration with no specific geology of the mine lease area and no lithostratigraphic subdivision. The study also aimed determining the extent of lithostratigraphic correlation between the LMO economic orebodies of the Kalagadi Manganese mine with that of underground Gloria and open-pit Mamatwan mines. Four methods including petrographic microscope, Scanning electron Microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses were applied mainly for the mineral identification, chemical composition and ore characterization of the Lower Manganese Orebody (LMO) at Kalagadi Manganese mine. The results of this study indicates the following: (1) Eleven textural distinct zones with economic zones restricted to the middle while the lower grade zones are confined to the top and bottom of the LMO; (2) The economic zones, comprising of Y, M, C and N subzones attain an average thickness of 10 m and are graded at an average of 40% Mn while the Mn/Fe ratio varies from 6 to 9; (3) The most economic zones are M and N subzones which are mostly characterized by oxidized ovoids and laminae, a characteristic applicable even to other zones of economic interest; (4) Braunite is the main mineral of the manganese ore and is often integrown with kutnahorite and other minerals (hematite, hausmannite, Mg-calcite, calcite, jacobsite, serpentine and garnet) which are present in variable amounts; (5) The Mg-rich calcite (Ca, Mg)CO3 is the second dominant manganese carbonate mineral and it corresponds to elevated MgO concentration and is often associated with marine environment. The occurrence of the Mgcalcite is not common in the manganese ore of this area except for the Mn-calcite, which was not determined by XRD analyses in this study; (6) MnO is the most abundant major oxide in the manganese ore while other major oxides present in decreasing order of abundance are CaO, SiO2, Fe2O3, and MgO. The oxides TiO2, Na2O, K2O, Al2O3, and Cr2O3 are depleted and are mostly 0.01wt% and 0.001wt% respectively while P2O5 concentrations are low ranging from 0.02wt% to 0.3wt%. The trace element concentrations of Ba, Zn and Sr in most borehole samples are slightly elevated ranging from 100ppm to 3.9% (36000pm) while Co, Cu, Ni, Y, As, Zr, V and La rarely exceed 50ppm. The enrichments of Cu, Zn, Ni, Co and V that are commonly associated with volcanogenic hydrothermal input in chemicals may reach up to 70ppm; (7) The mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of the manganese ore in the Kalagadi Manganese mine lease area are similar to that of Low-Grade Mamatwan-Type ore. The cyclicity (Banded Iron Formation ↔ Hematite lutite ↔ braunite lutite) and alternation of manganese and iron formation have been confirmed; and (8) The oxygen δ18O isotope values (18‰ to 22‰) indicate a slight influence of metamorphism of the manganese ore. No positive correlation exists between δ13C vs δ18O values and Mn vs δ13C values. Such observations indicate minimal action of organic carbon during manganese precipitation where the organic matter was oxidized and manganese content reduced. On the other hand, the manganese carbonates (CaO) are positively correlated with carbon isotope, this indicates diagenetic alteration and the involvement of biogenic carbonate during the formation of manganese carbonates. It is concluded that the lithostratigraphic subdivision at Kalagadi Manganese mine is best correlated physically, mineralogically and geochemically with that of Gloria mine operating in the Low Grade Mamatwan - Type ore while correlation with an open-pit Mamatwan mine is also valid.
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Drug abuse in selected Grahamstown schools
- Authors: Rungani, Judith
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: High school students -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization , Teenagers -- Drug abuse , Substance abuse -- Youth -- Grahamstown (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M SW
- Identifier: vital:11759 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1004784 , High school students -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization , Teenagers -- Drug abuse , Substance abuse -- Youth -- Grahamstown (South Africa)
- Description: The study explores drug abuse by learners in selected Grahamstown high schools. The study`s main concern is that drug abuse by learners is on the rise but yet there is less research on the drugs which are being used and the factors which motivate the learners to use such drugs. There are several drug abuse prevention strategies which are being implemented but yet they seem not to be very effective. It is in this frame of reference that this study saw it vital to focus on drug abuse by high school learners in Grahamstown. The study aims to identify the most commonly abused drugs by learners in the high schools of Grahamstown and the reasons why they use these drugs. The study made use of the mixed method research that is making use of both qualitative and quantitative research. The questionnaire was the instrument of data collection in quantitative data and interviews for the qualitative data. The packages which were used for the analysis of data include the Statistical Analysis System (SAS) V8 which was used to provide descriptive analysis and correlations. The findings of the study establish that the commonly abused drugs by learners are: alcohol with 58%, followed by cigarettes 22%, hookah-pipe 9%, dagga 7%. The main reasons why learners use drugs are: peer pressure, role models, availability, environment, and curiosity. Differences in drug use between male and female learners were noted. Twenty-five percent of the male learners and 16% of the female learners reported to be using drugs. In the view of these results, the researcher recommends that a comprehensive drug abuse prevention framework be formulated which focuses on preventing drug abuse at individual, family and community levels.
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Evaluating the efficacy of anti-corruption measures in the procurement system: a case study of Marondera municipality in Mashonaland, east of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Sabilika, Maxwell Seagent
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Civil service -- Zimbabwe , Government purchasing -- Zimbabwe , Municipal officials and employees -- Zimbabwe , Municipal government -- Zimbabwe , Political corruption -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11679 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007620 , Civil service -- Zimbabwe , Government purchasing -- Zimbabwe , Municipal officials and employees -- Zimbabwe , Municipal government -- Zimbabwe , Political corruption -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Anti-corruption measures are put forward as a panacea to effective procurement system, among other things, which ultimately improve service delivery. Corruption has demonstrated remarkable durability and flexibility to survive in all socio-economic systems with the conception of a corruption-free economy in reality, is hardly possible. Given this background, this study sought to evaluate the efficacy of the already implemented anti-corruption measures in the procurememt procecesses of Marondera municipality. To understand their effectiveness, relevant literature was reviewed. Different scholars point against the ineffectiveness of these measures, with Corruption Perception Index (CPI) from previous research showing devastating results in Zimbabwean local institutions. A further discussion of corruption cenception, different anti-corruption measures and legal frameworks gave a greater understanding of the area under study. In this study, a sample of 80 respondents was identified and data collected from them using both snow ball and purposive sampling methods. Thirty-five of them were females respondents and forty-five were male respondents from Marondera municipal community, with different demographic characteristics which was used for comparison of responses. Questionnaires and interviews were used as research instruments. Both the Quantitative and Qualitative research methods were used in the anaylsis of the data, to increase validity and reliability of the feelings.
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Exploring the influence of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) programmes on participants experience of time, particularly the present (here and now): a case study of Eastern Cape participants
- Authors: Schofield, Lorna
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Acceptance and commitment therapy , Stress management , Depression, Mental -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (C Psy)
- Identifier: vital:11611 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005640
- Description: This study aims to explore the extent to which participating in a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme may result in shifts in people’s relationship with time, notably whether they become more present-focussed. The eight week MBSR programme advocates mindfulness, which is defined as paying attention on purpose in the present moment without judgement, as a way of reducing stress. The programme has been available in East London since 2009. A case study of eight MBSR programme participants’ experiences using narrative analysis was conducted. Narrative psychology and social constructionism provided the theoretical basis in which our storied lives are located in culturally inscribed narratives, with specific discourses around time and stress. Time discourses tend to pressurise people to believe that it is better to go about daily life at a fast pace, which requires significant hurrying and rushing with pervasive senses of time urgency. Stress discourse locates stress management within individuals. One-on-one semi structured interviews were held so that participants could reflect on their experience of time and the present moment orientation of the programme. Participants’ perceived a shift in how they experienced time with greater awareness of being present-focussed and they identified stress reduction benefits, which included feeling calmer, less panicked and more self-accepting. However, some of the participants maintaining the formal mindfulness practices like the body scan, meditation and mindful movement after the programme often proved difficult, as they were drawn back into their dominant narratives around time which were characterised by busyness, productivity and time scarcity.
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Phytochemical analysis and bioactivity of Garcinia Kola (Heckel) seeds on selected bacterial pathogens
- Authors: Seanego, Christinah Tshephisho
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Drug resistance in microorganisms , Garcinia , Antibiotics , Medicinal plants , Microbial sensitivity tests , Streptococcal infections , Streptococcus , Staphylococcus aureus infections , Salmonella typhimurium , Traditional medicine
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11259 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/420 , Drug resistance in microorganisms , Garcinia , Antibiotics , Medicinal plants , Microbial sensitivity tests , Streptococcal infections , Streptococcus , Staphylococcus aureus infections , Salmonella typhimurium , Traditional medicine
- Description: Garcinia kola is one of the plants used in folklore remedies for the treatment of microbial infections. Bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics has necessitated the search for newer and alternative compounds for the treatment of drug resistant microbial infections. This study focuses on the bioactivity of G. kola seeds on Streptococcus pyogenes (ATCC 49399), Staphylococcus aureus (NCTC 6571), Plesiomonas Shigelloides (ATCC 51903) and Salmonella typhimurium (ATCC 13311), organisms which can cause illnesses from mild to severe with potentially fatal outcomes. The crude ethyl acetate, ethanol, methanol, acetone and aqueous extracts were screened by agar-well diffusion method and the activities of the extract were further determined by Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) assays. The inhibition zones ranged from 0 - 24 mm, while MIC and MBC of the extract ranged between 0.04 - 1.25 mg/mL and 0.081 - 2.5 mg/mL respectively. Chloroform/ Ethyl Acetate/ Formic acid (CEF) solvent system separated more active compounds followed by Ethyl Acetate/ Methanol/ Water (EMW) and Benzene/ Ethanol/ Ammonium Hydroxide (BEA). The extracts were fractionated by Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). Bioautography was used to assess the activity of the possible classes of compounds present in the more active extracts. Column chromatography was used to purify the active compounds from the mixture while Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify the phyto components of the fractions. The MIC of the fractions ranged between 0.0006 - 2.5 mg/mL. CEF 3 (F3), CEF 11 (F11) and CEF 12 (F12) revealed the presence of high levels fatty acids Linoleic acid, 1, 2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid and 2, 3-Dihydro-3, 5-dihydroxy-6-methyl, respectively. The results obtained from this study justify the use of this plant in traditional medicine and provide leads which could be further exploited for the development of new and potent antimicrobials.
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Assessing the effectivity of poverty eradication strategies on communities in the Eastern Cape province: the case of Ngqushwa local Municipality in Amathole District (2008- 2011)
- Authors: Seyisi, Sakhumzi Patrick
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11658 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007042
- Description: This study explored information about the strategies on communities to eradicate poverty through interactive process with relevant sources. An expedient sample of participants was drawn from strategic position that deal with poverty eradication in the area of Amathole District in Ngqushwa Local Municipality, Eastern Cape. The collection of data was done though focus groups, questionnaires, scheduled interviews, and observation. The results acquired from the analysed thesis of the study signify that the poverty alleviation projects are confronted with diverse challenges that impede their potential growth and long term viability. Key to these constraints are issues pertaining to lack of capacity from project members, lack of resources, lack of financial and project management skills.The study was useful in assessing the strategies so as to draw logical strength and wisdom to provide lasting solution to the problem facing poverty alleviation projects. At a broader scale, the future of these projects I guaranteed integrated approach , resource provision, capacity enhancement and shared understanding in conceptualization of poverty alleviation projects. The identified challenges can be resolved provided that, the Ngqushwa Municipalities and the Department of Social Development, as a champion of poverty alleviation of integrated developmental approach. This noble objective can be achieved if other government department, institutions and spheres are also committed to cause.
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The implementation of inclusion policy for learners with special education needs: a case study of four primary schools in the Grahamstown District
- Authors: Shadaya, Girlie
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Education and state -- South Africa , Inclusive education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education, Primary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Children with disabilities -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Special education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Grahamstown (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16183 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006239 , Education and state -- South Africa , Inclusive education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education, Primary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Children with disabilities -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Special education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Grahamstown (South Africa)
- Description: Inclusion is successful when all stakeholders in the education system accept the challenge to work together and to do their fair share of educating all children. Although the teacher has been placed at the heart of the system as a key person in shaping inclusion, the district office (Department of Education), schools, teachers and parents must engage in collaborative team-driven decision making that is focused on interventions designed to enhance social outcomes for learners. The aim of this study was to assess the implementation of the inclusion policy for learners with special education needs. This study made use a mixed method research approach which engaged both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. A total of twenty primary school teachers filled a questionnaire that had three parts: (i) Teacher demographics, (ii) Instructional modifications and (iii) Teaching strategies. Interviews, documents and observations were also used to collect data. Data was analysed by statistical and non-statistical procedures. Results showed that the inclusion policy is being implemented in schools. However, there are challenges that are being faced. For one, teachers have not received adequate training with regards to inclusive education. Staff development workshops to try and address this challenge are minimal, there is not enough collaboration being demonstrated by the different stakeholders with regards to support and monitoring the implementation process. The study recommends that all teachers and other personnel in the school receive adequate training. Also, the need for support must be met. Further studies could consider attitudes to inclusive education and the relationship between learner success and teacher preparedness in inclusive educational models.
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The perception of educators and subject advisors on the bearing that the South African mathematics curriculum design has on underachievement in schools in the King Williams Town education district of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sibanda, Bonani
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mathematics teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High school teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High school students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Education)
- Identifier: vital:16198 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013106 , Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mathematics teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High school teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , High school students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The present study investigates the National Curriculum Statement (NCS) Mathematics curriculum Design issues which have a bearing on underachievement at Grade 12 in selected schools in the King Williamstown Education District. It stems from the premise that curriculum design is plausible explanation for Mathematics achievement. In pursuit of this line of thought, the study looked at curriculum design types such as linear, sequential, and spiral arrangement of contents, as well as curriculum design aspects such as sequencing, progression, integration, pacing and organisation of contents. The study also looked at the perceptions educators and subject advisors have with respect to the bearing that these aspects have on underachievement in Mathematics. The interpretive paradigm was used to frame and focus the study. The sample included five schools selected on purpose, with underperformance in Mathematics as an inclusion criterion. These schools constituted the cases of this research. Data was obtained from the interviews which were conducted with the Mathematics educators of the selected schools, and the Mathematics subject advisor of the district to find out about their perceptions with regard to the impact of Mathematics curriculum design on students’ underachievement in Grade 12. In addition, the contents of the National Curriculum Statement for Mathematics documents were analysed. The findings revealed that the scope (contents coverage) is too wide, and that the skills which are supposed to be developed in learners per term are not fully developed. Time allocation is unreasonably limited as a result learners are unable to cover the scope for the term. Revisiting of topics done every year in a spiral fashion is good but the balance between superficiality and depth is not achieved, and that it is done without checking and understanding learners’ previous knowledge on the topic. The sequencing of certain topics has to be looked into and revised. The study also revealed that Mathematics curriculum design, link and progression from primary to high school is good but not all details covered which leave students with content gaps that impede the learning of certain topics. The researcher came out with the following recommendations: From this case study, it appears that teachers still need more empowerment in NCS. Educators still need training on the NCS so they can be confident with the Mathematics NCS content. In most schools the scope is not covered and skills that are supposed to be developed in learners every term are not developed because of slow learners and the time factor. Therefore, the Department of education needs to give the scope taking into consideration the slow learners and make sure that the time they give every term also takes into consideration the time used for tests. It also appears that the learners are slow because of the language barrier. Educators spend a lot of time saying the same things to the learners so that they can understand. Since the learners do almost all the subjects in English and write their examination in English if they are from an English medium school, it would be a good idea for the DOE to introduce English to the learners as early as grade R, as in the model C schools. If that is done, it might remove the language barrier and hence reduce underachievement in Mathematics. It appears that the educators revisit topics every year but do not balance superficiality and depth. Educators should be encouraged to take every topic seriously every year and not just repeat what they covered in the previous grade. They should use it as a base for the new content. If that is done, it might help the achievement in Mathematics.
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Exchange rates and economic growth in emerging economies: the case of South Africa
- Authors: Sibanda, Bornapart
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development , Currency convertibility -- South Africa , Foreign exchange -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Foreign exchange administration -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11464 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007045 , Economic development , Currency convertibility -- South Africa , Foreign exchange -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Foreign exchange administration -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Description: This study examines the impact of exchange rate volatility and misalignment on economic growth in South Africa. It applies the Johansen co integration test and the vector error correction model on quarterly data for the period 1990:01-2010:04. Exchange rate volatility is measured as the standard deviation of both the nominal and nominal effective exchange rate. The study constructs three measures of exchange rate misalignment, with two of the measures constructed using the Producer Price Index and Consumer Price index based Purchasing Power Parity. The third measure was based on the difference between the nominal and effective exchange rate. Contrary to pre-dominant findings in the exchange rate literature, the study finds a positive and significant relationship between exchange rate volatility and economic growth and attributes it to composition of the country’s exports that are largely made up of commodities that act as essential inputs in many production processes. As a result, the variability of prices caused by exchange rate volatility is not expected to deter demand for these commodities. A negative and significant relationship between exchange rate misalignment and economic growth was found. The findings of the study show that it is important for monetary authorities to ensure that the exchange rate is always at an appropriate level in order to avoid the negative implications of exchange rate misalignment on economic growth.
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Financial liberalisation and economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Sibanda, Hlanganani Siqondile.
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Finance -- Management , Capital movements -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Expenditures, Public
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11471 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007131 , Economic development -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Finance -- Management , Capital movements -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Expenditures, Public
- Description: This study examined the impact of financial liberalisation on economic growth in South Africa. The study used quarterly time series data for the period 1980 to 2010. A vector error correction model was used to determine the short run and long run effects of financial liberalisation on economic growth in South Africa. The other explanatory variables considered in this study were government expenditure, investment ratio, public expenditure on education and trade openness. Results from this study revealed that financial liberalisation, government expenditure and public expenditure on education have a positive impact on economic growth while trade openness negatively affects economic growth in South Africa. Policy recommendations were made using these results.
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The impact of real exchange rates on economic growth: a case study of South Africa
- Authors: Sibanda, Kin
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Foreign exchange -- South Africa , Interest rates -- South Africa , Money supply -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Saving and investment -- South Africa , Devaluation of currency -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11469 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007129 , Economic development -- South Africa , Foreign exchange -- South Africa , Interest rates -- South Africa , Money supply -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Saving and investment -- South Africa , Devaluation of currency -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Description: This study examined the impact of real exchange rates on economic growth in South Africa. The study used quarterly time series data for the period of 1994 to 2010. The Johansen cointegration and vector error correction model was used to determine the impact of real exchange on economic growth in South Africa. The explanatory variables in this study were real exchange rates, real interest rates, money supply, trade openness and gross fixed capital formation. Results from this study revealed that real exchange rates, gross fixed capital formation and real interest rates have a positive long run impact on economic growth, while money supply and trade openness have a negative long run impact on economic growth in South Africa. From the regression results, it was noted that undervaluation of the currency significantly hampers growth in the long run, whilst it significantly enhances economic growth in the short run. As such, the policy of depreciating the exchange rates to achieve higher growth rates is only effective in the short run and is not sustainable in the long run. Based on the findings of this study, the researcher recommended that misalignment (overvaluation and undervaluation) of the currency should be avoided at all costs. In addition, the results of the study showed that interest rates also have a significant impact on growth and since interest rates have a bearing on the exchange rate, it was recommended that the current monetary policy in South Africa should be maintained.
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Environmental politics: the case of the Xolobeni Mining Project in Mbizana, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Sibane, Nomsa Virginia
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Environmental protection -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mining law -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Minerals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil (Environmental Studies)
- Identifier: vital:11880 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007574 , Environmental protection -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mining law -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Minerals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Conflict management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This research explored the nature of conflict that arose in Xolobeni, a small area in the Mbizana Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, and the environmental politics emanating from the arguments that supported development rather than environmental protection. The proposed mining project was known as the Xolobeni mining development project within the Amadiba Tribal Authority, an area dominated by Pondos or (Mpondos). The Xolobeni area is located between the Mzamba and Mtentu Rivers, covering some 2 867 hectares, and extends for 20km along the coast of the Mbizana Local Municipality, in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality. In 2005, the Minister of the National Department of Minerals and Energy (DME), now known as the Department of Minerals and Petroleum Resources, announced that an Australian company, Transworld Energy and Minerals (TEM) will establish a mining development project in Xolobeni to mine red sand dunes which are contained within five blocks, each named after the river at its southern boundary. These blocks were Mtentu, Sikombe, Kwanyana, Mnyameni and Mphalane. According to the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002), the Department of Minerals and Energy is the sole custodian of the mining licence and therefore the only Department that issues mining licences. The research investigated the nature of conflict that erupted in Xolobeni after this announcement, resulting in the formation of two groups namely, the Amadiba Crisis Committee (ACC) which represented the communities who were against the mining project in the area and the Xolobeni Local Community (Xolco) which was a Black Economic Empowerment company that represented the communities that supported the mining project and was to receive 26 percent of the proceeds from the mining company. The purpose of the Amadiba Crisis Committee was to channel complaints and grievances of local residents emanating from the mining development project and other development to all relevant authorities so that the Constitutional rights of residents can be respected. The research also investigated the role of each stakeholder in the proposed mining project, namely, local communities in the area, environmentalists, councillors, the National Department of Minerals and Energy, the National Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, the Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs (DEDEA), the traditional authority and the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Economic Development and Environmental Affairs. Central to this research was the level of consultation during the proposed mining project. Qualitative and quantitative research methodologies were used to collect data in Xolobeni. Interviews were conducted with the two opposing groups and other various stakeholders including the chieftaincy, environmentalists, councillors and officials in the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs (DEDEA). The researcher used questionnaires in order to get the views of the targeted participants. Eighty questionnaires were distributed among the targeted participants but only forty five were returned. Some of the participants were reluctant to participate in this study because the mining project had not taken place. Secondary data from the Departments of Environment of Affairs nationally and provincially revealed that the Department of Minerals and Energy through its Minister, Bulelwa Sonjica, awarded the mining licence despite recommendations of both Departments not to do so. The Minister of the new Department of Mineral Resources, Susan Shabangu, withdrew the licence and gave three months to Transworld Energy and Minerals to address the outstanding issues raised in the environmental impact assessment (EIA). The data collected revealed that the proposed mining project affected all communities in the Amadiba Tribal Administrative area. The research also illustrated how the Xolobeni community organised themselves and protested against development that intended to force them to relocate from their ancestral land without proper consultation. Issues of sustainable development and environmental protection also formed part of the discussions in this research. While the mining project had stalled, it emerged that the majority of respondents in the area did not want the mining project to proceed.
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Molecular detection and drug susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in raw milk from a major dairy farm in the Nkonkobe region, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Silaigwana, Blessing https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3324-1607
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Mycobacterium tuberculosis , Drug resistance in microorganisms , Tuberculosis -- Pathogenesis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24239 , vital:62543
- Description: Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) organisms are the causative agents of tuberculosis in humans as well as animals. The study aimed to use molecular techniques for detection and drug susceptibility testing of MTBC in raw milk from cattle at a dairy farm in the Nkonkobe region of South Africa. Two hundred samples (100mL each) were collected and processed using the modified Petroff’s method. DNA was isolated using the Zymo Research bacterial DNA kit and amplified using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE assay. Drug susceptibility testing was performed using the Genotype® MTBDRplus assay. MTBC DNA was detected in 11 (6percent) of the samples tested. Resistance to both rifampicin and isoniazid was detected in 90.9percent of the positive samples. The most frequent rpoB mutations detected were H526Y (90percent), H526D (80percent), S531L (60percent) and D516V (20percent). No mutation was detected in the katG gene. All isoniazid resistant samples harboured mutations in the inhA gene. The most frequent (100percent) mutation conferring low level isoniazid resistance was the T8A substitution. The inhA mutations C15T, A16G and T8C were equally represented with 60percent frequency. A high prevalence of multi-drug resistance was noted in the Nkonkobe region. Therefore, the results of this study have clinico-veterinary and epidemiological significance and calls for further studies and necessary actions to delineate the situation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2012
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Effect of fluoroquinolones antibiotics on vancomycin and oxacillin resistant staphylococcus species in Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Soyege, Oludotun
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Staphylococcus aureus , Quinolone antibacterial agents , Fluoroquinolones
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25349 , vital:64212
- Description: This study shows the susceptibility profile of some Staphylococcus species isolated from commensal Staphylococci in Nkonkobe municipality, South Africa. A total number of 120 Staphylococcal isolates were screened for their susceptibilities to various classes of antibiotics such as Aminoglycoside (Gentamycin), Aminoglycoside (Kanamycin), Macrolide (Erythromycin), Tetracycline (Minocycline), Anti-tuberculous (Rifampicin), Lincosamides (Clindamycin), Cephalosporin and Fluoroquinolones in general. During the study, 32 (26percent) the test organisms were susceptible to both methicillin and vancomycin, while 12 (10percent) had co-resistance to the antibiotics. Furthermore, Gentamycin (an Aminoglycoside) had a relatively high potency against the isolates with 107 (89.17percent) of the bacteria being susceptible to it, while 10 (8.33percent) were resistant. On the other hand, Erythromycin (a Macrolide) was active against 72 (60percent) of the isolates, while 5 (4.17percent) and 74 (61.67percent) of the isolates yielded intermediate and resistant responses respectively. In addition , 51 (42.5percent) of the isolates were susceptible to rifampicin, while 1 (0.83percent) and 17 (14.17percent) were intermediate and resistant respectively. Ten percent of the isolates screened for their antibiotic susceptibility pattern in this study were positive for mecA gene among the vancomycin-oxacillin resistant strains while van gene was not detected in any of the isolates. This shows how the synergy of both vancomycin and oxacillin contribute to some resistance nature of Staphylococci. In order to overcome this resistance attributes of Staphylococci, to the commonly used antibiotics as discussed under this context, various types of fluoroquinolones were tested. The result shows that less than 10percent of the isolates were generally resistant to the fluoroquinolones except against Nalidix acid to which all the isolates were resistant. Other antibiotics had relatively higher resistance patterns as observed for minocycline (39.51percent), clindamycin (12.75percent), gentamycin (12.31percent) and vancomycin (12.3percent). The new generation fluoroquinolones including Gatifloxacin, Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin and Ciprofloxacin to which less than 5percent of the bacteria are resistant gives some clinical advantage over the Methicillin and Vancomycin resistant strains. About 31percent of the isolates had multiple antibiotic resistance index of ≥1 and suggests animals in the community as potential reservoirs of antibiotic resistance determinants in the environment. Data obtained in this study is of epidemiological importance and valuable for disease control. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2012
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An evaluation of women participation in housing delivery in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa: the case of the Mdantsane Township in Buffalo City Municipality (1962–2012)
- Authors: Ssekibuule, Henry Jacob Festus
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (in Public Administration)
- Identifier: vital:11689 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013593
- Description: This study, Women Participation in Housing Delivery of the Mdantsane Township Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) Area is explained in this thesis as a heterogeneous, long lasting, immobile and an essential consumer good that need to be delivered to the homeless. Such a delivery process needs to ensure that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality area remains sustainable. Women's participation in housing delivery in South Africa; the extent of empowerment in the post 1994 era, with specific reference to case studies in Mdantsane Township 1962 -1998, begins with the premise that post-apartheid housing policies, compared to those of the apartheid era, have provided women with greater access to housing. In 1994, the housing backlog was estimated to be about 3.5 million units, with the majority of those in need of shelter, being African women. This backlog was due to past policies that largely excluded women from ownership and access to capital or resources to build formal housing. The changes wrought by the democratic dispensation, such as constitutional provision for gender equality, promised women greater participation in the social, political and economic spheres of the country. The recognition of gender equality and housing as rights protected within the constitution was reinforced by pronouncements in various policy documents, such as the Housing White Paper (HWP) that underlined the need for women's involvement in shelter development. When the Government of National Unity took office in 1994, it inherited a country with severe inequalities in resource distribution and land ownership. In particular, it inherited a housing crisis, which was largely, caused by apartheid legislation and policies. This research focused on the women participation in the housing delivery crisis from 1962 to post-1994, by considering the impact and effect of the constitutional right towards women to have access to adequate housing, especially for those living in intolerable conditions. It does so by utilising a social-scientific approach to the law. This approach acknowledges that the housing right must exist alongside other social phenomena and as a part of everyday life in South Africa. Accordingly, the implementation of the housing right by three local municipalities in the EC was examined.
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The impact of motivations, personal values, management skills of managers on the perfomance of SME`s in selected towns (Port Elizabeth and Port Alfred) in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Tangwo, Asah Francis
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007046 , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Description: This study investigates the impact of motivations, personal values and managerial skills of managers on the performance of Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. The failure rate of SMEs in South Africa is very high and it is of great importance to investigate the factors that can impact on the performance of SMEs. Financial and non-financial methods were used to measure SMEs performance. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. Exploratory factor analysis was used to improve the research problems and enhance the validity of the research. Data analysis for this study includes descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and regression analysis. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach‟s Alpha while validity was ensured by using a statistician and by pre-testing the research instrument in a pilot study.
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Rural women and the land question in Zimbabwe: the case of Mutasa District
- Authors: Toro, Bigboy
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Land tenure -- Zimbabwe , Land reform -- Zimbabwe , Women in development -- Zimbabwe , Women farmers -- Zimbabwe , Inheritance and succession -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Rural women -- Zimbabwe , Women in agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Sex discrimination -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11431 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006945 , Land tenure -- Zimbabwe , Land reform -- Zimbabwe , Women in development -- Zimbabwe , Women farmers -- Zimbabwe , Inheritance and succession -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Rural women -- Zimbabwe , Women in agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Sex discrimination -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Zimbabwean rural women make significant contribution to agriculture and are the mainstay of the farm labour. Although women do the majority of agricultural work, men, for the most part continue to own the land, control women‟s labour and make agricultural decisions supported by patriarchal social systems. Thus, rural women faced difficulties than men in gaining access to land under Fast Track Land Reform Programme (FTLRP). Women‟s relationship with land is therefore through husbands, fathers, brothers or sons. Therefore, this study has undertaken with the objective of assessing the impact of land distribution programme with respect to its contribution to women‟s empowerment in the study area. The Gender and Development approach was employed to assess women access to land under the FTLRP. Such an approach to rural development can help in reducing the gender gap between women and men in order to achieve gender-balanced development. The study used qualitative research methodology where semi-structured interviews gather data from women in Mutasa District. Findings indicate that there are a number of challenges and constraints that are experienced by rural women under the Fast Track Land Reform Programme which include male land registration, no access to credit, inadequate government input support, lack of government laws and policies awareness on women land rights, shortage of farm implements and irrigation water supply and lack of agriculture training. On the other hand, culture and traditional practices still affect women in other cases, disadvantaging them in favour of men, as in inheritance of land and property in the household. It was generally assumed that the programme did not improve women access to land. To improve women access to land, in future, the study recommends that a serious intervention by the state should occur coupled with the revitalization of the programme and a paradigm shift towards an effective food security programme which emphasizes women and their important role in agriculture.
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