The influence of social media on the intention to vote for student political organisations in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Chininga, Tapiwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Students -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Student movements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11506 , vital:39078
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of social media on the intention to vote for students political organizations in the Eastern Cape. The main objectives included measuring the influence of predictor variables such as medium credibility, message credibility, tie strength with peers, identification with the peers, peer communication, user trust, information credibilit on the intention to vote. To measure these hypothesised relationships a conceptual model was developed for the study. Data collection was conducted in the Eastern Cape in which 381 participants were surveyed. To analyse the data the two stage structural equation modeling approach was adopted in which confimatory factor analysis and hypothesis testing was adopted. This was conducted ulitising Structural equation modelling. The main findings of the study were that all the proposed hypotheses were supported with the exception of that of peer commnication and tie strength with peers on the intention to vote. It was also important to note that identification with peers had the strongest impact on the intention to vote while the message credibility had the weakest. The implication was that users feel that the ability to identify with each other influenced their voting intentions however the message itself was irrelevant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Chininga, Tapiwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Students -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Student movements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11506 , vital:39078
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of social media on the intention to vote for students political organizations in the Eastern Cape. The main objectives included measuring the influence of predictor variables such as medium credibility, message credibility, tie strength with peers, identification with the peers, peer communication, user trust, information credibilit on the intention to vote. To measure these hypothesised relationships a conceptual model was developed for the study. Data collection was conducted in the Eastern Cape in which 381 participants were surveyed. To analyse the data the two stage structural equation modeling approach was adopted in which confimatory factor analysis and hypothesis testing was adopted. This was conducted ulitising Structural equation modelling. The main findings of the study were that all the proposed hypotheses were supported with the exception of that of peer commnication and tie strength with peers on the intention to vote. It was also important to note that identification with peers had the strongest impact on the intention to vote while the message credibility had the weakest. The implication was that users feel that the ability to identify with each other influenced their voting intentions however the message itself was irrelevant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Assessment of the role of traditional leadership in facilitating community development in rural Malaw
- Chinkonda, Sosten Sylvester Joseph
- Authors: Chinkonda, Sosten Sylvester Joseph
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Rural development -- Malawi , Community development -- Malawi , Tribal government -- Malawi , Land use, Rural -- Malawi , Traditional leaders , Development project , Power , Participation , Social capital , Neo-liberalism , Debt crisis , Structural Adjustment Programme , Rational choice
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11943 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1004907 , Rural development -- Malawi , Community development -- Malawi , Tribal government -- Malawi , Land use, Rural -- Malawi , Traditional leaders , Development project , Power , Participation , Social capital , Neo-liberalism , Debt crisis , Structural Adjustment Programme , Rational choice
- Description: The study was carried out to assess the extent to which the intervention of traditional leaders is effective in mobilising support for community development projects and to examine the perceptions that communities have about the role of the traditional leaders in development projects. The study has been guided by the critique of neoliberalism which exposes the negative effects of implementing the Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs) in Third World countries. The literature that has been reviewed has looked at the historical and political background of the role of chiefs and other traditional leaders in order to assess the nature of participation that is promoted through their involvement in development projects. An overview of the neo-liberal prescription and its critique has been made in order to expose the effects of the oil embargo of 1973 and the debt crisis of the 1980s on the economies of Third World countries in general and Malawi in particular. On the basis of evidence which has been gathered through a survey and focus group discussion, the study has found that the intervention of traditional leaders is very effective in mobilising communities for development projects. It has further been established that communities have high regard for their traditional leaders and that they perceive them as crucial role players in the conception and implementation of development projects. The study has however established that traditional leaders use unorthodox means such as threats of punishment to solicit the cooperation of the community members which in essence is counterproductive to the participatory approach to development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Chinkonda, Sosten Sylvester Joseph
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Rural development -- Malawi , Community development -- Malawi , Tribal government -- Malawi , Land use, Rural -- Malawi , Traditional leaders , Development project , Power , Participation , Social capital , Neo-liberalism , Debt crisis , Structural Adjustment Programme , Rational choice
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11943 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1004907 , Rural development -- Malawi , Community development -- Malawi , Tribal government -- Malawi , Land use, Rural -- Malawi , Traditional leaders , Development project , Power , Participation , Social capital , Neo-liberalism , Debt crisis , Structural Adjustment Programme , Rational choice
- Description: The study was carried out to assess the extent to which the intervention of traditional leaders is effective in mobilising support for community development projects and to examine the perceptions that communities have about the role of the traditional leaders in development projects. The study has been guided by the critique of neoliberalism which exposes the negative effects of implementing the Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs) in Third World countries. The literature that has been reviewed has looked at the historical and political background of the role of chiefs and other traditional leaders in order to assess the nature of participation that is promoted through their involvement in development projects. An overview of the neo-liberal prescription and its critique has been made in order to expose the effects of the oil embargo of 1973 and the debt crisis of the 1980s on the economies of Third World countries in general and Malawi in particular. On the basis of evidence which has been gathered through a survey and focus group discussion, the study has found that the intervention of traditional leaders is very effective in mobilising communities for development projects. It has further been established that communities have high regard for their traditional leaders and that they perceive them as crucial role players in the conception and implementation of development projects. The study has however established that traditional leaders use unorthodox means such as threats of punishment to solicit the cooperation of the community members which in essence is counterproductive to the participatory approach to development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Ni(II) and Pb(II) dithiocarbamate complexes as precursors for the synthesis of HDA-capped NiS and PbS nanoparticles
- Authors: Chintso, Thobani
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11349 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020201
- Description: Ni(II) and Pb(II) dithiocarbamate complexes were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FTIR and TGA and some of the Ni(II) complexes and one Pb(II) were further analyzed by 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. Generally all the dithiocarbamate ligands are soluble in water while the complexes were soluble mostly in solvents such as chloroform, toluene, DMSO and DCM. Based on the elemental analysis, the dithiocarbamate complexes are formulated as four coordinate (tetrahedral or square planar) compounds. However, the FTIR showed that each of the dithiocarbamate ligands acted as bidentate ligand through two sulfur atoms. The TGA of the most complexes showed one major decomposition step to give respective metal sulfide above 200 oC. In this research project, dithiocarbamate complexes were used as single source precursor for the synthesis of metal sulfide nanoparticles. We studied the optical and structural properties of metal sulfide nanoparticles using UV-Vis, photoluminescence (PL), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The absorption spectra of the metal sulfide nanoparticles are blue shifted in respect to bulk material and they also showed broad emission. The XRD of the NiS nanoparticles were indexed to the cubic and rhombohedral phase, with crystallite sizes of 15 - 18 nm. The XRD of PbS nanoparticles were indexed to the face centered cubic and cubic rock salts, with the crystallite sizes 12 - 18 nm. The TEM images of the metal sulfide nanoparticles showed particles with spherical and rectangular shapes with crystallite sizes 4 - 35 nm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chintso, Thobani
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11349 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1020201
- Description: Ni(II) and Pb(II) dithiocarbamate complexes were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FTIR and TGA and some of the Ni(II) complexes and one Pb(II) were further analyzed by 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. Generally all the dithiocarbamate ligands are soluble in water while the complexes were soluble mostly in solvents such as chloroform, toluene, DMSO and DCM. Based on the elemental analysis, the dithiocarbamate complexes are formulated as four coordinate (tetrahedral or square planar) compounds. However, the FTIR showed that each of the dithiocarbamate ligands acted as bidentate ligand through two sulfur atoms. The TGA of the most complexes showed one major decomposition step to give respective metal sulfide above 200 oC. In this research project, dithiocarbamate complexes were used as single source precursor for the synthesis of metal sulfide nanoparticles. We studied the optical and structural properties of metal sulfide nanoparticles using UV-Vis, photoluminescence (PL), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The absorption spectra of the metal sulfide nanoparticles are blue shifted in respect to bulk material and they also showed broad emission. The XRD of the NiS nanoparticles were indexed to the cubic and rhombohedral phase, with crystallite sizes of 15 - 18 nm. The XRD of PbS nanoparticles were indexed to the face centered cubic and cubic rock salts, with the crystallite sizes 12 - 18 nm. The TEM images of the metal sulfide nanoparticles showed particles with spherical and rectangular shapes with crystallite sizes 4 - 35 nm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Living with HIV/AIDS in King Williams Town, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Chinyama, Ephraim
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , King William's Town (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11956 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005964 , AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , King William's Town (South Africa)
- Description: This study examines the lifestyle decisions of people who are diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in King Williams Town, Eastern Cape. The study was motivated by the ever growing number of people who are now living with HIV/AIDS. Therefore the researcher intended to examine their decisions regarding sexual choices, reproductive health, diet, physical fitness and their coping strategies. The study found that there is very low uptake of Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT). Most people only get tested if they are compelled by other factors, like illness and pregnancy. It also found that HIV positive people continue to engage in risky sexual behaviour regardless of their positive status. In addition it also found that HIV positive status does not affect sexual activity and social support from family and friends is a very important factor that is helping the respondents to cope with HIV diagnosis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Chinyama, Ephraim
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , King William's Town (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11956 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005964 , AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , HIV-positive persons -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , King William's Town (South Africa)
- Description: This study examines the lifestyle decisions of people who are diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in King Williams Town, Eastern Cape. The study was motivated by the ever growing number of people who are now living with HIV/AIDS. Therefore the researcher intended to examine their decisions regarding sexual choices, reproductive health, diet, physical fitness and their coping strategies. The study found that there is very low uptake of Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT). Most people only get tested if they are compelled by other factors, like illness and pregnancy. It also found that HIV positive people continue to engage in risky sexual behaviour regardless of their positive status. In addition it also found that HIV positive status does not affect sexual activity and social support from family and friends is a very important factor that is helping the respondents to cope with HIV diagnosis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Re-defining the calling – narratives of women excluded from the ordained ministry in the Seventh-Day Adventist church in South Africa
- Chinyamurindi, Willie Tafadzwa
- Authors: Chinyamurindi, Willie Tafadzwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Ordination of women
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Th
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17529 , vital:41085
- Description: This work gives focus to understanding the notion of a calling amongst women excluded from the ordained ministry in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South Africa. Historically, there is an observation that women attend religious services in larger numbers than their male counterparts. Despite this, it is notable that in terms of leadership, very few women occupy this preserve. Further, the experiences of those in positions of leadership (especially women) remain an under-researched area. This study used a qualitative approach, with an explanatory research design. Analyses were conducted by NVivo qualitative research software amongst 15 women who had completed theological training within the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South Africa. Narrative analysis was used as a means of analysing the collected data. The data analysis generated four main narratives and resultant sub-narrative(s): 1) calling as influencing decision to enter the pastoral ministry; 2) the pastoral ministry framed as a sustained challenge to women pastors; 3) the existence of a perceived theological disjuncture; and finally 4) passive yet overt resolution tactics. Implications for individual and organisational functioning are made based on these findings
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Chinyamurindi, Willie Tafadzwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Ordination of women
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Th
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17529 , vital:41085
- Description: This work gives focus to understanding the notion of a calling amongst women excluded from the ordained ministry in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South Africa. Historically, there is an observation that women attend religious services in larger numbers than their male counterparts. Despite this, it is notable that in terms of leadership, very few women occupy this preserve. Further, the experiences of those in positions of leadership (especially women) remain an under-researched area. This study used a qualitative approach, with an explanatory research design. Analyses were conducted by NVivo qualitative research software amongst 15 women who had completed theological training within the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South Africa. Narrative analysis was used as a means of analysing the collected data. The data analysis generated four main narratives and resultant sub-narrative(s): 1) calling as influencing decision to enter the pastoral ministry; 2) the pastoral ministry framed as a sustained challenge to women pastors; 3) the existence of a perceived theological disjuncture; and finally 4) passive yet overt resolution tactics. Implications for individual and organisational functioning are made based on these findings
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Critiquing the viability of a trade biased approach to regional integration in Southern Africa
- Authors: Chipendo, Kudakwashe
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Regionalism -- Africa, Southern , International economic integration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11409 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/163 , Regionalism -- Africa, Southern , International economic integration
- Description: Africa’s international marginalization is preponderantly conceptualized through world systems approaches, particularly structural dependency. Consequently, the region’s socioeconomic quagmire, characterized by economic stagnation, abysmal poverty, inequality and foreign dependency, is often attributed to its colonial heritage. Particular reference is made to the small size of the African state and its structural specialization in primary production. Collective self reliance based on mutual interdependence (regional integration) thus suggests itself as a logical way to overcome the structural constraints imposed by the small size of the state, while at the same time representing a viable alternative to asymmetric trade with developed countries. It is within the context of this theoretical framework that this study critiques the predisposition of the regional body in Southern Africa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), towards a trade biased approach to regional integration (market integration). This critique is based on theoretical and empirical findings showing that trade led strategies are primarily suited for developed countries with robust manufacturing industries and complimentary production structures. Countries in Southern Africa are however characterized by a near absence of manufacturing industries, are at different levels of development and show low levels of trade complementarities. This study therefore concludes that market integration is an inappropriate strategy for regional integration in Southern Africa and in the process suggests development integration – a political economy approach, as an alternative.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Chipendo, Kudakwashe
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Regionalism -- Africa, Southern , International economic integration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11409 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/163 , Regionalism -- Africa, Southern , International economic integration
- Description: Africa’s international marginalization is preponderantly conceptualized through world systems approaches, particularly structural dependency. Consequently, the region’s socioeconomic quagmire, characterized by economic stagnation, abysmal poverty, inequality and foreign dependency, is often attributed to its colonial heritage. Particular reference is made to the small size of the African state and its structural specialization in primary production. Collective self reliance based on mutual interdependence (regional integration) thus suggests itself as a logical way to overcome the structural constraints imposed by the small size of the state, while at the same time representing a viable alternative to asymmetric trade with developed countries. It is within the context of this theoretical framework that this study critiques the predisposition of the regional body in Southern Africa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), towards a trade biased approach to regional integration (market integration). This critique is based on theoretical and empirical findings showing that trade led strategies are primarily suited for developed countries with robust manufacturing industries and complimentary production structures. Countries in Southern Africa are however characterized by a near absence of manufacturing industries, are at different levels of development and show low levels of trade complementarities. This study therefore concludes that market integration is an inappropriate strategy for regional integration in Southern Africa and in the process suggests development integration – a political economy approach, as an alternative.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
The impact of monetary policy announcement on financial markets in South Africa
- Authors: Chipfunde, Memory
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange Monetary policy Money market
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12193 , vital:39195
- Description: Monetary policy announcements are among the major decisions that affect the economy as a whole. The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of monetary policy announcements on equity markets in South Africa during 2014-2015 financial years. That financial period is a unique year for analyzing the impact of monetary announcements on stock returns because the Reserve Bank Governor was changed in the last quarter of 2014. Moreover, interest rates were changed in four monetary policy announcements over the course of two years. This provides a good opportunity to investigate how monetary policy announcements can affect financial markets. The study used an event study methodology whereby a 15-day event window is used as well as a 45-day estimation window. Around the event window, abnormal returns were calculated using the market model and capital asset pricing model (CAPM) was used to calculate expected returns. The results are mixed; (both significant and insignificant) impact of monetary policy announcements on JSE stock returns. Of the 12 interest rates announcements, only four seemed to be significant. It was observed that of the four significant results, three of them were because of a hike in interest rates. The results show an asymmetric response by the market to interest rate changes. The results also suggest that the market anticipated the relative volatility arising from the change of the minister of the reserve bank governor. Following the appointment of the new Central Bank‟s governor in the last quarter of 2014, the first interest rate announcement seemed to have been anticipated by the public thereby rendering it insignificant. Inorder to improve the strength of the results in future, it is important that that there should be the absence of signalling effect in the market. It is recommended that the markets are efficient and the announcements should not be highly anticipated by the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chipfunde, Memory
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange Monetary policy Money market
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12193 , vital:39195
- Description: Monetary policy announcements are among the major decisions that affect the economy as a whole. The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of monetary policy announcements on equity markets in South Africa during 2014-2015 financial years. That financial period is a unique year for analyzing the impact of monetary announcements on stock returns because the Reserve Bank Governor was changed in the last quarter of 2014. Moreover, interest rates were changed in four monetary policy announcements over the course of two years. This provides a good opportunity to investigate how monetary policy announcements can affect financial markets. The study used an event study methodology whereby a 15-day event window is used as well as a 45-day estimation window. Around the event window, abnormal returns were calculated using the market model and capital asset pricing model (CAPM) was used to calculate expected returns. The results are mixed; (both significant and insignificant) impact of monetary policy announcements on JSE stock returns. Of the 12 interest rates announcements, only four seemed to be significant. It was observed that of the four significant results, three of them were because of a hike in interest rates. The results show an asymmetric response by the market to interest rate changes. The results also suggest that the market anticipated the relative volatility arising from the change of the minister of the reserve bank governor. Following the appointment of the new Central Bank‟s governor in the last quarter of 2014, the first interest rate announcement seemed to have been anticipated by the public thereby rendering it insignificant. Inorder to improve the strength of the results in future, it is important that that there should be the absence of signalling effect in the market. It is recommended that the markets are efficient and the announcements should not be highly anticipated by the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
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:
- Date Issued: 2013
- 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:
- Date Issued: 2013
Human rights implications of the compulsory HIV/AIDS testing policy: a critical appraisal of the law and practice in South Africa, Uganda and Canada
- Authors: Chiringa, Kudakwashe E M
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Civil rights , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Legal status, laws, etc. , AIDS (Disease) -- Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11106 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1017298 , HIV infections -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Civil rights , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Legal status, laws, etc. , AIDS (Disease) -- Law and legislation
- Description: HIV/AIDS has been an obstacle to socio-economic development and a major cause of loss of human life. It has also caused vast inequities and frustration to the public health sector. One of the significant efforts made by the public health sector to combat the epidemic is the implementation of a mandatory HIV/AIDS testing policy to scale-up HIV treatment. This dissertation examines the impact of this policy on the human rights of people infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Coercive government policies aimed at controlling the AIDS pandemic often infringe on the rights of individuals known to be or suspected of living with HIV/AIDS and this decreases the effectiveness of public health measures. The research methodology involved the study of written literature and a comparative literature study of the law and practice obtaining in South Africa, Uganda and Canada. It revealed that voluntary testing is effective and suitable in South Africa. This dissertation aimed to show that any public health approach that aims to achieve a comprehensive prevention strategy must be consistent with respect for human rights as enshrined in regional and international human rights law. Public health and human rights should, therefore, not be regarded as opposing forces; rather they should be seen as a unified system of protection of human welfare under the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. The solution to the crisis lies not only in testing every single person but also requires a shift of focus to more pressing issues that include gender equality, stigma and discrimination; prioritizing human rights, institutional capacity and resources; and an end to extreme poverty. A human rights-based approach to HIV/AIDS testing, such as the Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) is recommended. Therefore, failure to adhere to the core principles of testing - which are informed consent, counselling and confidentiality of the test result - will only hinder the global fight against HIV/AIDS. The rights of those affected by HIV/AIDS need to be protected in order to address public health imperatives. This can be done through the use of the law as an instrument of social change as well as education and awareness. Key words, HIV/AIDS, mandatory testing, Voluntary Counselling and Testing, public health, human rights-based approach.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Chiringa, Kudakwashe E M
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Civil rights , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Legal status, laws, etc. , AIDS (Disease) -- Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11106 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1017298 , HIV infections -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Civil rights , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Legal status, laws, etc. , AIDS (Disease) -- Law and legislation
- Description: HIV/AIDS has been an obstacle to socio-economic development and a major cause of loss of human life. It has also caused vast inequities and frustration to the public health sector. One of the significant efforts made by the public health sector to combat the epidemic is the implementation of a mandatory HIV/AIDS testing policy to scale-up HIV treatment. This dissertation examines the impact of this policy on the human rights of people infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Coercive government policies aimed at controlling the AIDS pandemic often infringe on the rights of individuals known to be or suspected of living with HIV/AIDS and this decreases the effectiveness of public health measures. The research methodology involved the study of written literature and a comparative literature study of the law and practice obtaining in South Africa, Uganda and Canada. It revealed that voluntary testing is effective and suitable in South Africa. This dissertation aimed to show that any public health approach that aims to achieve a comprehensive prevention strategy must be consistent with respect for human rights as enshrined in regional and international human rights law. Public health and human rights should, therefore, not be regarded as opposing forces; rather they should be seen as a unified system of protection of human welfare under the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. The solution to the crisis lies not only in testing every single person but also requires a shift of focus to more pressing issues that include gender equality, stigma and discrimination; prioritizing human rights, institutional capacity and resources; and an end to extreme poverty. A human rights-based approach to HIV/AIDS testing, such as the Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) is recommended. Therefore, failure to adhere to the core principles of testing - which are informed consent, counselling and confidentiality of the test result - will only hinder the global fight against HIV/AIDS. The rights of those affected by HIV/AIDS need to be protected in order to address public health imperatives. This can be done through the use of the law as an instrument of social change as well as education and awareness. Key words, HIV/AIDS, mandatory testing, Voluntary Counselling and Testing, public health, human rights-based approach.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Agricultural mechanization for sustainable agriculture and food security in Zimbabwe: a case of Bindura District in Mashonaland Central Province
- Authors: Chisango, Future, T
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Farm mechanization -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural machinery -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural productivity -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe , Agriculture and state -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11156 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/348 , Farm mechanization -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural machinery -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural productivity -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe , Agriculture and state -- Zimbabwe
- Description: A cardinal development goal of the Zimbabwean government is agricultural mechanization through the acquisition and use of tractors by arable crop farmers in communal and resettlement state land. This research project therefore aimed at investigating the impact of mechanization on agricultural productivity focusing on farmers in Bindura district of Zimbabwe who benefitted under the ongoing farm mechanization program. The existing land policy and the issue of technical efficiency in agricultural productivity are assumed to be the drivers of the program. It is likely that these key issues will constitute an important consideration in determining the sustainability of the mechanization policy. A multistage sampling technique was used to randomly select 90 farmers in the study area. The Cobb Douglas approach and Logistic regression were used to analyze data obtained from the respondents. Results revealed that tractor use was positively influenced by household size, access to extension services and crop output equivalent. Education, land area cultivated, stoniness negatively influenced the probability of adoption of mechanized farming. Furthermore, the technical efficiency estimate of adopter and nonadopters of mechanized farming showed no difference in their level of technical efficiency in agricultural productivity that was 64 percent on average. The level of observed inefficiency was increased by slope, stoniness and household size while age reduced technical inefficiency. It is recommended that government should consolidate the present gains arising from extension services. Also, environmental factors such as slope (topography) and stoniness, which constituted major disincentives in communal areas, could be overcome if government and farmers can identify and open up new areas of farmland for occupation by farmers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Chisango, Future, T
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Farm mechanization -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural machinery -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural productivity -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe , Agriculture and state -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11156 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/348 , Farm mechanization -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural machinery -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural productivity -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe , Agriculture and state -- Zimbabwe
- Description: A cardinal development goal of the Zimbabwean government is agricultural mechanization through the acquisition and use of tractors by arable crop farmers in communal and resettlement state land. This research project therefore aimed at investigating the impact of mechanization on agricultural productivity focusing on farmers in Bindura district of Zimbabwe who benefitted under the ongoing farm mechanization program. The existing land policy and the issue of technical efficiency in agricultural productivity are assumed to be the drivers of the program. It is likely that these key issues will constitute an important consideration in determining the sustainability of the mechanization policy. A multistage sampling technique was used to randomly select 90 farmers in the study area. The Cobb Douglas approach and Logistic regression were used to analyze data obtained from the respondents. Results revealed that tractor use was positively influenced by household size, access to extension services and crop output equivalent. Education, land area cultivated, stoniness negatively influenced the probability of adoption of mechanized farming. Furthermore, the technical efficiency estimate of adopter and nonadopters of mechanized farming showed no difference in their level of technical efficiency in agricultural productivity that was 64 percent on average. The level of observed inefficiency was increased by slope, stoniness and household size while age reduced technical inefficiency. It is recommended that government should consolidate the present gains arising from extension services. Also, environmental factors such as slope (topography) and stoniness, which constituted major disincentives in communal areas, could be overcome if government and farmers can identify and open up new areas of farmland for occupation by farmers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Testing random walk hypothesis in the stock market prices: evidence from South Africa's stock exchange (2000- 2011)
- Chitenderu, Tafadzwa Thelmah
- Authors: Chitenderu, Tafadzwa Thelmah
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Stock exchanges -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Random walks (Mathematics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11461 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006931 , Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Stock exchanges -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Random walks (Mathematics)
- Description: The Johannesburg Stock Exchange market was tested for the existence of the random walk hypothesis using All Share Index (ALSI) and time series data for the period between 2000 and 2011. The traditionally used methods, the unit root tests and autocorrelation test were employed first and they all confirmed that during the period under consideration, the JSE price index followed the random walk process. In addition, the ARIMA model was built and it was found that the ARIMA ( 1, 1, 1) was the model that best fitted the data in question. Furthermore, residual tests to help determine whether the residuals of the estimated equation show random walk process in the series were done. It was found that the ALSI resembles series that follow random walk hypothesis with strong evidence of RWH indicated in the conducted forecasting tests which showed vast variance between forecasted values and actual indicating little or no forecasting strength in the series. To further validate the findings in this research, the variance ratio test was conducted under heteroscedasticity and it also strongly corroborated that the existence of a random walk process cannot be rejected in the JSE. It was concluded that since the returns follow the random walk hypothesis, it can be said that JSE is efficient in the weak form level of the EMH and therefore opportunities of making excess returns based on out- performing the market is ruled out and is merely a game of chance. In other words, it will be of no use to choose stocks based on information about recent trends in stock prices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Chitenderu, Tafadzwa Thelmah
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Stock exchanges -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Random walks (Mathematics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11461 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006931 , Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Stock exchanges -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Random walks (Mathematics)
- Description: The Johannesburg Stock Exchange market was tested for the existence of the random walk hypothesis using All Share Index (ALSI) and time series data for the period between 2000 and 2011. The traditionally used methods, the unit root tests and autocorrelation test were employed first and they all confirmed that during the period under consideration, the JSE price index followed the random walk process. In addition, the ARIMA model was built and it was found that the ARIMA ( 1, 1, 1) was the model that best fitted the data in question. Furthermore, residual tests to help determine whether the residuals of the estimated equation show random walk process in the series were done. It was found that the ALSI resembles series that follow random walk hypothesis with strong evidence of RWH indicated in the conducted forecasting tests which showed vast variance between forecasted values and actual indicating little or no forecasting strength in the series. To further validate the findings in this research, the variance ratio test was conducted under heteroscedasticity and it also strongly corroborated that the existence of a random walk process cannot be rejected in the JSE. It was concluded that since the returns follow the random walk hypothesis, it can be said that JSE is efficient in the weak form level of the EMH and therefore opportunities of making excess returns based on out- performing the market is ruled out and is merely a game of chance. In other words, it will be of no use to choose stocks based on information about recent trends in stock prices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The regulation of insider trading in South Africa: a roadmap for effective, competitive and adequate regulatory statutory framework
- Authors: Chitimira, Howard
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Insider trading in securities , Insider trading in securities -- South Africa , Financial instruments -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11116 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/230 , Insider trading in securities -- South Africa , Financial instruments -- South Africa
- Description: Insider trading is one of the practices that (directly or indirectly) lead to a host of problems for example inaccurate stock market prices, high inflation, reduced public investor confidence, misrepresentation and non disclosure of material facts relating to securities and financial instruments. Again it reduces efficiency in the affected companies and eventually leads to economic underperformance. The researcher observed that the South African insider trading regulatory framework has some gaps and flaws which need to be adequately addressed to ensure efficient and stable financial markets. Therefore, the aim of this research is to provide a clear roadmap for an effective, efficient, adequate and internationally competitive insider trading regulatory framework in South Africa. In order to achieve the above stated aim, the historical development of the regulation insider trading is critically analyzed. The effectiveness and adequacy of the Insider Trading Act, 135 of 1998 is also discussed. Furthermore, the prohibition of insider trading under Securities Services Act, 36 of 2004 is explored and analyzed to investigate its adequacy. The role of the Financial Services Board, the Courts and the Directorate for Market Abuse is also scrutinized extensively. Moreover, a comparative analysis is undertaken of the regulation of insider trading in other jurisdictions of United States of America, Canada and Australia. This is done to investigate any lessons that can be learnt or adopted from these jurisdictions. The researcher strongly contends that having the best insider trading laws on paper alone will not cure the insider trading problem. What is required are adequate laws that are enforced effectively in South African courts. Therefore an adequate insider trading regulatory framework must be put in place to improve the efficiency of South African financial markets, to maintain a stable economy, combat misrepresentation and non disclosure of material facts in transactions relating to securities. The researcher has attempted to state the law as at 31 August 2007.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Chitimira, Howard
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Insider trading in securities , Insider trading in securities -- South Africa , Financial instruments -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11116 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/230 , Insider trading in securities -- South Africa , Financial instruments -- South Africa
- Description: Insider trading is one of the practices that (directly or indirectly) lead to a host of problems for example inaccurate stock market prices, high inflation, reduced public investor confidence, misrepresentation and non disclosure of material facts relating to securities and financial instruments. Again it reduces efficiency in the affected companies and eventually leads to economic underperformance. The researcher observed that the South African insider trading regulatory framework has some gaps and flaws which need to be adequately addressed to ensure efficient and stable financial markets. Therefore, the aim of this research is to provide a clear roadmap for an effective, efficient, adequate and internationally competitive insider trading regulatory framework in South Africa. In order to achieve the above stated aim, the historical development of the regulation insider trading is critically analyzed. The effectiveness and adequacy of the Insider Trading Act, 135 of 1998 is also discussed. Furthermore, the prohibition of insider trading under Securities Services Act, 36 of 2004 is explored and analyzed to investigate its adequacy. The role of the Financial Services Board, the Courts and the Directorate for Market Abuse is also scrutinized extensively. Moreover, a comparative analysis is undertaken of the regulation of insider trading in other jurisdictions of United States of America, Canada and Australia. This is done to investigate any lessons that can be learnt or adopted from these jurisdictions. The researcher strongly contends that having the best insider trading laws on paper alone will not cure the insider trading problem. What is required are adequate laws that are enforced effectively in South African courts. Therefore an adequate insider trading regulatory framework must be put in place to improve the efficiency of South African financial markets, to maintain a stable economy, combat misrepresentation and non disclosure of material facts in transactions relating to securities. The researcher has attempted to state the law as at 31 August 2007.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Analysis of entrepreneurial behaviour of smallholder irrigation farmers: empirical evidence from Qamata Irrigation scheme
- Authors: Chitsa, Gilbert
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Water requirements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11216 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019769 , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Water requirements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Albeit much effort having been put to review the performance trend of smallholder irrigation farmers in South Africa. However, there seems to be a paucity of information regarding the level of entrepreneurship on these farmers. Most research works on smallholder irrigation farmers have mainly focused on livelihoods trajectory providing a review on how the welfare of the rural poor has been transformed after the introduction of irrigation schemes. With most research evidence indicating a high degree of underperformance on most smallholder irrigation schemes, this research attempted to investigate the level of entrepreneurship among the small holder irrigation farmers. In order to achieve the main research objective, a sample of 110 farmers drawn from Qamata irrigation scheme was interviewed and each farmer’s performance on the nine components of entrepreneurship was assessed. The aspects assessed to determine the farmer’s entrepreneurial behaviour were: planning ability, risk taking, achievement motivation, leadership ability, Cosmo politeness, decision making, and innovativeness and farming knowledge. Basing on previous studies which indicated entrepreneurial behaviour to be influenced by several factors the study also analysed the determinants of entrepreneurship among the irrigation farmers and a binary logistic regression model was used to establish the connection between various independent variables and the farmers’ entrepreneurial performance given as a total score of the nine components. Though the findings of the study revealed a prevalently low level of entrepreneurship among the smallholder irrigation farmers on Qamata irrigation scheme, a high proportion of the respondent farmers (65.5% and 60.5%) showed to have a high degree of achievement motivation and decision making ability, respectively. The observed trend thus reflected that smallholder farmers have a potential to become entrepreneurs and are willing to succeed. The binary model results revealed that the prevailing land tenure system will be a strong determinant of the farmer’s level of entrepreneurship. Equally, levels of training in farming, motive for farming and information seeking tendency also proved to have a significant influence on the degree of farmer entrepreneurship. Based on the results of this study recommendations have thus been drawn on the need for policies and practices aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and not dependency among farmers. Key focus areas identified include: the need to revise the current land ii tenure system on irrigation schemes, intensify on entrepreneurship training for both farmers and extension officers and regular on-farm training on new technologies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Chitsa, Gilbert
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Water requirements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11216 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019769 , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Water requirements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Albeit much effort having been put to review the performance trend of smallholder irrigation farmers in South Africa. However, there seems to be a paucity of information regarding the level of entrepreneurship on these farmers. Most research works on smallholder irrigation farmers have mainly focused on livelihoods trajectory providing a review on how the welfare of the rural poor has been transformed after the introduction of irrigation schemes. With most research evidence indicating a high degree of underperformance on most smallholder irrigation schemes, this research attempted to investigate the level of entrepreneurship among the small holder irrigation farmers. In order to achieve the main research objective, a sample of 110 farmers drawn from Qamata irrigation scheme was interviewed and each farmer’s performance on the nine components of entrepreneurship was assessed. The aspects assessed to determine the farmer’s entrepreneurial behaviour were: planning ability, risk taking, achievement motivation, leadership ability, Cosmo politeness, decision making, and innovativeness and farming knowledge. Basing on previous studies which indicated entrepreneurial behaviour to be influenced by several factors the study also analysed the determinants of entrepreneurship among the irrigation farmers and a binary logistic regression model was used to establish the connection between various independent variables and the farmers’ entrepreneurial performance given as a total score of the nine components. Though the findings of the study revealed a prevalently low level of entrepreneurship among the smallholder irrigation farmers on Qamata irrigation scheme, a high proportion of the respondent farmers (65.5% and 60.5%) showed to have a high degree of achievement motivation and decision making ability, respectively. The observed trend thus reflected that smallholder farmers have a potential to become entrepreneurs and are willing to succeed. The binary model results revealed that the prevailing land tenure system will be a strong determinant of the farmer’s level of entrepreneurship. Equally, levels of training in farming, motive for farming and information seeking tendency also proved to have a significant influence on the degree of farmer entrepreneurship. Based on the results of this study recommendations have thus been drawn on the need for policies and practices aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and not dependency among farmers. Key focus areas identified include: the need to revise the current land ii tenure system on irrigation schemes, intensify on entrepreneurship training for both farmers and extension officers and regular on-farm training on new technologies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An investigation into the perceptions of female academics on their career development: a comparative study of South African and Zimbabwean universities
- Chitsamatanga, Bellita Banda
- Authors: Chitsamatanga, Bellita Banda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Career development -- Education (Higher) -- Africa , College teachers -- Africa , Universities and colleges -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019735 , Career development -- Education (Higher) -- Africa , College teachers -- Africa , Universities and colleges -- Africa
- Description: This study investigated the perceptions of female academics on their career development in South African and Zimbabwean universities. The study attempted to unravel the story of the female academics which must be heard but is seldom accorded the space within the academia. The interpretive paradigm was utilised in this study because it focuses on individual perceptions and experiences. In addition a qualititative approach was employed for the collection of data since it allowed for triangulation of data collection techniques so as to gain in-depth and rich information on the career trajectory of female academics in South African and Zimbabwean universities. Therefore, semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews and document analysis were employed. The participants were purposively selected for the sample of this study and comprised of 5 senior female academics from each university and 5 junior female academics also representing each university respectively. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse data and this was carried out in line with the research questions, aims and objectives of the study. Through the participants' answers from both universities under study, a transcript was formulated, coded and categorised in view of the career development of female academics in South African and Zimbabwean universities. It was discovered from the data that the female academics still encounter a number of challenges with regard to their career mobility both in and out of academia inter alia, (1) gender stereotyping and male domination (2) knowledge retention (3) lack of mentorship and organisational support especially through funding and professional staff development programmes (4) lack of female solidarity (5) under-representation of female academics (6) teaching workloads and research publications and (7) lack of family support, were illuminated by the participants as common fixtures that hinder their career development in academia. Moreover, there were variances in both universities under study especially with relations to funding, gender policies in place and male domination. Consequently, the above mentioned factors were more pronounced in Zimbabwean universities than in South African universities. As a result, emphasis was that both South African and Zimbabwean universities have to draw a line between theory and practice especially on the professional staff development programmes that are offered to the academics. A crucial observation was made by the researcher on how most of the participants from both universities under study had negotiated their roles as mothers, wifes, academic and sisters in a bid to realise career growth, such that striking a balance between work and family posed a continuous hindrance their career development. As a result, hard work, commitment, confidence, self-assertiveness and sacrifice cut across both universities as strategies used if the battle of career development of female academics had to be won. In sum, this study attempted to illuminate the perceptions and experiences of female academics and what it means to be a female academicin the 21st century universityn and why there is a need to create, cultivate and have a conducive and supportive working environment. Moreover, promotion of knowledge expansion and sharing, gender equity and equality needs to be employed by both universities under research. Additionally, the professtional staff development programmes offered need to be conducted by qualified and experienced personnel in a bid to avoid repetition of workshops and training programs. Furthermore, formalisation of mentoring and role modelling should also be employed by South African and Zimbabwean universities. Lastly, the study recommended that there is a need for universities source out resources for its academics if there are to produce well rounded scholars who will be able to experience career development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Chitsamatanga, Bellita Banda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Career development -- Education (Higher) -- Africa , College teachers -- Africa , Universities and colleges -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019735 , Career development -- Education (Higher) -- Africa , College teachers -- Africa , Universities and colleges -- Africa
- Description: This study investigated the perceptions of female academics on their career development in South African and Zimbabwean universities. The study attempted to unravel the story of the female academics which must be heard but is seldom accorded the space within the academia. The interpretive paradigm was utilised in this study because it focuses on individual perceptions and experiences. In addition a qualititative approach was employed for the collection of data since it allowed for triangulation of data collection techniques so as to gain in-depth and rich information on the career trajectory of female academics in South African and Zimbabwean universities. Therefore, semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews and document analysis were employed. The participants were purposively selected for the sample of this study and comprised of 5 senior female academics from each university and 5 junior female academics also representing each university respectively. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse data and this was carried out in line with the research questions, aims and objectives of the study. Through the participants' answers from both universities under study, a transcript was formulated, coded and categorised in view of the career development of female academics in South African and Zimbabwean universities. It was discovered from the data that the female academics still encounter a number of challenges with regard to their career mobility both in and out of academia inter alia, (1) gender stereotyping and male domination (2) knowledge retention (3) lack of mentorship and organisational support especially through funding and professional staff development programmes (4) lack of female solidarity (5) under-representation of female academics (6) teaching workloads and research publications and (7) lack of family support, were illuminated by the participants as common fixtures that hinder their career development in academia. Moreover, there were variances in both universities under study especially with relations to funding, gender policies in place and male domination. Consequently, the above mentioned factors were more pronounced in Zimbabwean universities than in South African universities. As a result, emphasis was that both South African and Zimbabwean universities have to draw a line between theory and practice especially on the professional staff development programmes that are offered to the academics. A crucial observation was made by the researcher on how most of the participants from both universities under study had negotiated their roles as mothers, wifes, academic and sisters in a bid to realise career growth, such that striking a balance between work and family posed a continuous hindrance their career development. As a result, hard work, commitment, confidence, self-assertiveness and sacrifice cut across both universities as strategies used if the battle of career development of female academics had to be won. In sum, this study attempted to illuminate the perceptions and experiences of female academics and what it means to be a female academicin the 21st century universityn and why there is a need to create, cultivate and have a conducive and supportive working environment. Moreover, promotion of knowledge expansion and sharing, gender equity and equality needs to be employed by both universities under research. Additionally, the professtional staff development programmes offered need to be conducted by qualified and experienced personnel in a bid to avoid repetition of workshops and training programs. Furthermore, formalisation of mentoring and role modelling should also be employed by South African and Zimbabwean universities. Lastly, the study recommended that there is a need for universities source out resources for its academics if there are to produce well rounded scholars who will be able to experience career development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Analysis of maximum power point tracking data for obtaining photovoltaic parameters
- Authors: Chitura, Anesu Godfrey
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Photovoltaic power system
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18576 , vital:42610
- Description: As a standard, photovoltaic (PV) modules are rated by the use of standard test conditions (STC). Such details entail current and voltage (I-V) measurements for modules under an irradiance of 1000 W/m2 an air mass ration of 1.5 global spectrum and 25˚C cell temperature. Outdoor weather conditions continuously vary with time and from one location to the other. This further offset the expected operational power outputs as outdoor conditions are generally characterized by high cell temperatures. The technology one uses will also complicate the power output prediction since different module technologies respond to these outdoor conditions differently. I-V tracers are able to measure the full I-V curve of the module thus can give the operational PV parameters at any given time. However, these tracers are sold at exorbitant prices and they require skilled personnel in order to operate them. Most if not all tracers require isolation of the module under test thereby disrupting the power production function of the module._________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ In this study a method to obtain photovoltaic (PV) parameters using the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) data is presented and tested under natural outdoor conditions. The method features a customized data acquisition system (DAS) designed for the measurement and storage of meteorological and MPPT data. The DAS is capable of extracting parameters from any combination of modules with an open circuit voltage 〖(V〗_oc) less than or equal to 120 Volts and a short circuit current 〖(I〗_sc) of 100 Amps. The system used is capable of extracting MPPT data using a reliable, improved storage and a programmable data logger. In order to match the sampling operational speeds of internal charge controller switches a computer interfaced Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) card was also used. Data collection and characterization of the MPPT data was done in such a way that the power generation process remained uninterrupted throughout the whole process. The regression nonlinear least squares method was used to fit MPPT crests and obtain the knee part of the I-V curve. This was then extrapolated to obtain the full I-V curve, which then produces the operational PV parameters. The resultant parameters from the characterization process were logged and accessible at any time. The end result was a method that can be incorporated within a charge controller for quick, hands-free PV parameter extraction, using only the MPPT scanned data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Chitura, Anesu Godfrey
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Photovoltaic power system
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18576 , vital:42610
- Description: As a standard, photovoltaic (PV) modules are rated by the use of standard test conditions (STC). Such details entail current and voltage (I-V) measurements for modules under an irradiance of 1000 W/m2 an air mass ration of 1.5 global spectrum and 25˚C cell temperature. Outdoor weather conditions continuously vary with time and from one location to the other. This further offset the expected operational power outputs as outdoor conditions are generally characterized by high cell temperatures. The technology one uses will also complicate the power output prediction since different module technologies respond to these outdoor conditions differently. I-V tracers are able to measure the full I-V curve of the module thus can give the operational PV parameters at any given time. However, these tracers are sold at exorbitant prices and they require skilled personnel in order to operate them. Most if not all tracers require isolation of the module under test thereby disrupting the power production function of the module._________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ In this study a method to obtain photovoltaic (PV) parameters using the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) data is presented and tested under natural outdoor conditions. The method features a customized data acquisition system (DAS) designed for the measurement and storage of meteorological and MPPT data. The DAS is capable of extracting parameters from any combination of modules with an open circuit voltage 〖(V〗_oc) less than or equal to 120 Volts and a short circuit current 〖(I〗_sc) of 100 Amps. The system used is capable of extracting MPPT data using a reliable, improved storage and a programmable data logger. In order to match the sampling operational speeds of internal charge controller switches a computer interfaced Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) card was also used. Data collection and characterization of the MPPT data was done in such a way that the power generation process remained uninterrupted throughout the whole process. The regression nonlinear least squares method was used to fit MPPT crests and obtain the knee part of the I-V curve. This was then extrapolated to obtain the full I-V curve, which then produces the operational PV parameters. The resultant parameters from the characterization process were logged and accessible at any time. The end result was a method that can be incorporated within a charge controller for quick, hands-free PV parameter extraction, using only the MPPT scanned data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
National development plan (NDP) and youth employment in South Africa. The case of Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Chivanga, Shylet Yvonne
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/855 , vital:26503
- Description: This research study explored the inadequacies of the National Development Plan on addressing the problem of youth unemployment in Eastern Cape in South Africa. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to evaluate the employment needs of youth in relation to the identified measures of employment creation outlined in the NDP. ii) to identify the gaps in the NDP policy interventions in relation to the prospects and problems embedded in addressing the problem of youth unemployment. The literature reviewed in the study was drawn from several researchers and the study was underpinned by the human capital theory, the capability approach and the public and the private sector partnership theory. Though many theories were used, the human capital theory was the major theory adopted in this study. Since the study was qualitative in nature, an interview guide which consisted of open ended questions was used on face to face interviews and focus groups to collect data from twenty one youth and five youth representatives in the Eastern Cape. The data of this study was thematically analysed. The analysis of the study made the following conclusions about the NDP and youth employment in the Eastern Cape. Firstly, there is a problem of high youth unemployment which is above 50% in the Eastern Cape. Secondly, the NDP’s economic measures have a potential of excluding the youth and as a result, the NDP will inadequately address the employment needs of the youth. Thirdly, the youth appreciated that the NDP is realising the problem of youth unemployment but they are not happy with the NDP’s proposed employment measures of wage subsidies, low wages, labour deregulation and SMMEs because they do not solve the root causes of youth unemployment. Rather, they provide unsustainable and low quality jobs in the long run if not properly monitored. In response to the findings, the study therefore made the following recommendations: The NDP’s economic growth policy to be labour intensive compliant, human capital to match the work place skills requirements, promoting entrepreneurship skills, addressing the root causes rather than focusing on symptoms of unemployment , rethinking on SMMEs, development policies to match the local employment needs, succinct youth employment policy implementation, productivity to match the wages, complementing the private and the public sector in creating youth employment, the NDP to promote adequate link of education to self-employment from the primary level, the NDP to promote higher levels of investment for the employment benefits of the youth and the NDP to fight corruption on the misuse of youth employment grants. The study concluded that NDP’s proposed economic measures will inadequately address the youth employment needs hence there is need for relooking at the NDP to be sustainable employment responsive in nature so as to reduce poverty and inequality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Chivanga, Shylet Yvonne
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/855 , vital:26503
- Description: This research study explored the inadequacies of the National Development Plan on addressing the problem of youth unemployment in Eastern Cape in South Africa. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to evaluate the employment needs of youth in relation to the identified measures of employment creation outlined in the NDP. ii) to identify the gaps in the NDP policy interventions in relation to the prospects and problems embedded in addressing the problem of youth unemployment. The literature reviewed in the study was drawn from several researchers and the study was underpinned by the human capital theory, the capability approach and the public and the private sector partnership theory. Though many theories were used, the human capital theory was the major theory adopted in this study. Since the study was qualitative in nature, an interview guide which consisted of open ended questions was used on face to face interviews and focus groups to collect data from twenty one youth and five youth representatives in the Eastern Cape. The data of this study was thematically analysed. The analysis of the study made the following conclusions about the NDP and youth employment in the Eastern Cape. Firstly, there is a problem of high youth unemployment which is above 50% in the Eastern Cape. Secondly, the NDP’s economic measures have a potential of excluding the youth and as a result, the NDP will inadequately address the employment needs of the youth. Thirdly, the youth appreciated that the NDP is realising the problem of youth unemployment but they are not happy with the NDP’s proposed employment measures of wage subsidies, low wages, labour deregulation and SMMEs because they do not solve the root causes of youth unemployment. Rather, they provide unsustainable and low quality jobs in the long run if not properly monitored. In response to the findings, the study therefore made the following recommendations: The NDP’s economic growth policy to be labour intensive compliant, human capital to match the work place skills requirements, promoting entrepreneurship skills, addressing the root causes rather than focusing on symptoms of unemployment , rethinking on SMMEs, development policies to match the local employment needs, succinct youth employment policy implementation, productivity to match the wages, complementing the private and the public sector in creating youth employment, the NDP to promote adequate link of education to self-employment from the primary level, the NDP to promote higher levels of investment for the employment benefits of the youth and the NDP to fight corruption on the misuse of youth employment grants. The study concluded that NDP’s proposed economic measures will inadequately address the youth employment needs hence there is need for relooking at the NDP to be sustainable employment responsive in nature so as to reduce poverty and inequality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The effectiveness of HIV/AIDS programmes in tertiary institutions of higher learning: the case of the University of Forte Hare
- Authors: Chiwara, Emmanuel
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: HIV infections AIDS (Disease)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18085 , vital:42228
- Description: This study explored the effectiveness of HIV/AIDS programmes in tertiary institutions in South Africa, and used the University of Forte Hare as a research domain. The study entailed making a cross-examination of the UFH HIV/AIDS programmes in an attempt to test the effectiveness of HIV/AIDS programmes in South African Universities. The study had three objectives, which were to establish the perceptions of the UFH stakeholders pertaining HIV/AIDS programmes; to document the HIV/AIDS programmes offered at UFH; and to determine the resources available to implement the HIV/AIDS Programmes at UFH. The study used mixed methods, that is, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study used combined methods of data collection and instruments, such as in-depth interviews, focus groups interviews, key informants, and a questionnaire. The study adopted Structural Functionalist Theory. The researcher drew a sample of forty (40) participants from the UFH community. Thirty-three (33) student respondents were provided with questionnaire interview; while 5 (five) members of the staff; two (2) members of the UFH HIV/AIDS managers; and two (2) members of administration were interviewed. The study used a combination of both probability and non-probability sampling methods, specifically purposive sampling and systematic sampling methods to select the participants. The data was analyzed using a qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study established that there was inadequacy of financial and material resources to support the implementation of the programmes; inconsistency in condom distribution on campus; limited and unprofessional HIV/AID workers at the UFH campus; availability of various HIV/AIDS programme activities; adequate support structures but failing to be responsive towards HIV/AIDS; and adequate HIV/AIDS knowledge among the students.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Chiwara, Emmanuel
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: HIV infections AIDS (Disease)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18085 , vital:42228
- Description: This study explored the effectiveness of HIV/AIDS programmes in tertiary institutions in South Africa, and used the University of Forte Hare as a research domain. The study entailed making a cross-examination of the UFH HIV/AIDS programmes in an attempt to test the effectiveness of HIV/AIDS programmes in South African Universities. The study had three objectives, which were to establish the perceptions of the UFH stakeholders pertaining HIV/AIDS programmes; to document the HIV/AIDS programmes offered at UFH; and to determine the resources available to implement the HIV/AIDS Programmes at UFH. The study used mixed methods, that is, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study used combined methods of data collection and instruments, such as in-depth interviews, focus groups interviews, key informants, and a questionnaire. The study adopted Structural Functionalist Theory. The researcher drew a sample of forty (40) participants from the UFH community. Thirty-three (33) student respondents were provided with questionnaire interview; while 5 (five) members of the staff; two (2) members of the UFH HIV/AIDS managers; and two (2) members of administration were interviewed. The study used a combination of both probability and non-probability sampling methods, specifically purposive sampling and systematic sampling methods to select the participants. The data was analyzed using a qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study established that there was inadequacy of financial and material resources to support the implementation of the programmes; inconsistency in condom distribution on campus; limited and unprofessional HIV/AID workers at the UFH campus; availability of various HIV/AIDS programme activities; adequate support structures but failing to be responsive towards HIV/AIDS; and adequate HIV/AIDS knowledge among the students.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A review of five international forensic reports : fingerprint evidence lessons for South African lawyers
- Authors: Chiwara, Mercy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fingerprints Fingerprints -- Identification Forensic sciences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Law
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10927 , vital:35964
- Description: For more than a century fingerprint evidence has been used as a tool for the forensic identification of offenders, and has generally been accepted without being tested, challenged or scrutinized because the courts were convinced that no prints look alike or are the same. Fingerprint evidence has been used and accepted on the basis that each person’s friction ridges are unique, that the ridges are permanent and can be transferred to a surface. However, the transferability of the uniqueness raises issues that are very significant in relation to the reliability of fingerprint evidence because only a partial impression is typically transferred. Furthermore, the print can be distorted as a result of pressure and this inevitably affects the impression. Nevertheless, in recent and authoritative Reports from the United States and Scotland, criticisms are being raised against fingerprint evidence. These challenges include the fact that to date there has not been a study to validate the reliability of fingerprint individualisation, the fact that there is no specific requirement with regard as to how much constant or uniform detail between latent print and known print suffices to reach a decision of identification and the fact that there are no objective standards coupled with the problem that there is a lack of scientific validity of the method used for comparisons. This study reviews the law relating to fingerprint evidence in the light of the reports produced by the Office of the Inspector General, United States Department of Justice, Reviewing the Mayfield Case (US) in 2006, the National Academy of Sciences (US) Report in 2009, the Fingerprint Inquiry Report by Lord Campbell in Scotland in 2011, the National Institute of Standards and Technology and National Institute of Justice (US) Report in 2012, and the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology Report (US) in 2016, so as to establish lessons for South African lawyers in as far as reliability, weight and admissibility of fingerprint evidence is concerned. Finally, this study concludes that South Africa’s norm of accepting fingerprint evidence as unquestionable is problematic in law and in science and that there is a need for reform regarding the manner in which fingerprint evidence is evaluated by the courts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Chiwara, Mercy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fingerprints Fingerprints -- Identification Forensic sciences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Law
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10927 , vital:35964
- Description: For more than a century fingerprint evidence has been used as a tool for the forensic identification of offenders, and has generally been accepted without being tested, challenged or scrutinized because the courts were convinced that no prints look alike or are the same. Fingerprint evidence has been used and accepted on the basis that each person’s friction ridges are unique, that the ridges are permanent and can be transferred to a surface. However, the transferability of the uniqueness raises issues that are very significant in relation to the reliability of fingerprint evidence because only a partial impression is typically transferred. Furthermore, the print can be distorted as a result of pressure and this inevitably affects the impression. Nevertheless, in recent and authoritative Reports from the United States and Scotland, criticisms are being raised against fingerprint evidence. These challenges include the fact that to date there has not been a study to validate the reliability of fingerprint individualisation, the fact that there is no specific requirement with regard as to how much constant or uniform detail between latent print and known print suffices to reach a decision of identification and the fact that there are no objective standards coupled with the problem that there is a lack of scientific validity of the method used for comparisons. This study reviews the law relating to fingerprint evidence in the light of the reports produced by the Office of the Inspector General, United States Department of Justice, Reviewing the Mayfield Case (US) in 2006, the National Academy of Sciences (US) Report in 2009, the Fingerprint Inquiry Report by Lord Campbell in Scotland in 2011, the National Institute of Standards and Technology and National Institute of Justice (US) Report in 2012, and the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology Report (US) in 2016, so as to establish lessons for South African lawyers in as far as reliability, weight and admissibility of fingerprint evidence is concerned. Finally, this study concludes that South Africa’s norm of accepting fingerprint evidence as unquestionable is problematic in law and in science and that there is a need for reform regarding the manner in which fingerprint evidence is evaluated by the courts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A review of five international forensic reports : fingerprint evidence lessons for South African lawyers
- Authors: Chiwara, Mercy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fingerprints Criminal investigation Forensic sciences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10918 , vital:35963
- Description: For more than a century fingerprint evidence has been used as a tool for the forensic identification of offenders, and has generally been accepted without being tested, challenged or scrutinized because the courts were convinced that no prints look alike or are the same. Fingerprint evidence has been used and accepted on the basis that each person’s friction ridges are unique, that the ridges are permanent and can be transferred to a surface. However, the transferability of the uniqueness raises issues that are very significant in relation to the reliability of fingerprint evidence because only a partial impression is typically transferred. Furthermore, the print can be distorted as a result of pressure and this inevitably affects the impression. Nevertheless, in recent and authoritative Reports from the United States and Scotland, criticisms are being raised against fingerprint evidence. These challenges include the fact that to date there has not been a study to validate the reliability of fingerprint individualisation, the fact that there is no specific requirement with regard as to how much constant or uniform detail between latent print and known print suffices to reach a decision of identification and the fact that there are no objective standards coupled with the problem that there is a lack of scientific validity of the method used for comparisons. This study reviews the law relating to fingerprint evidence in the light of the reports produced by the Office of the Inspector General, United States Department of Justice, Reviewing the Mayfield Case (US) in 2006, the National Academy of Sciences (US) Report in 2009, the Fingerprint Inquiry Report by Lord Campbell in Scotland in 2011, the National Institute of Standards and Technology and National Institute of Justice (US) Report in 2012, and the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology Report (US) in 2016, so as to establish lessons for South African lawyers in as far as reliability, weight and admissibility of fingerprint evidence is concerned. Finally, this study concludes that South Africa’s norm of accepting fingerprint evidence as unquestionable is problematic in law and in science and that there is a need for reform regarding the manner in which fingerprint evidence is evaluated by the courts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Chiwara, Mercy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Fingerprints Criminal investigation Forensic sciences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10918 , vital:35963
- Description: For more than a century fingerprint evidence has been used as a tool for the forensic identification of offenders, and has generally been accepted without being tested, challenged or scrutinized because the courts were convinced that no prints look alike or are the same. Fingerprint evidence has been used and accepted on the basis that each person’s friction ridges are unique, that the ridges are permanent and can be transferred to a surface. However, the transferability of the uniqueness raises issues that are very significant in relation to the reliability of fingerprint evidence because only a partial impression is typically transferred. Furthermore, the print can be distorted as a result of pressure and this inevitably affects the impression. Nevertheless, in recent and authoritative Reports from the United States and Scotland, criticisms are being raised against fingerprint evidence. These challenges include the fact that to date there has not been a study to validate the reliability of fingerprint individualisation, the fact that there is no specific requirement with regard as to how much constant or uniform detail between latent print and known print suffices to reach a decision of identification and the fact that there are no objective standards coupled with the problem that there is a lack of scientific validity of the method used for comparisons. This study reviews the law relating to fingerprint evidence in the light of the reports produced by the Office of the Inspector General, United States Department of Justice, Reviewing the Mayfield Case (US) in 2006, the National Academy of Sciences (US) Report in 2009, the Fingerprint Inquiry Report by Lord Campbell in Scotland in 2011, the National Institute of Standards and Technology and National Institute of Justice (US) Report in 2012, and the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology Report (US) in 2016, so as to establish lessons for South African lawyers in as far as reliability, weight and admissibility of fingerprint evidence is concerned. Finally, this study concludes that South Africa’s norm of accepting fingerprint evidence as unquestionable is problematic in law and in science and that there is a need for reform regarding the manner in which fingerprint evidence is evaluated by the courts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An estimation of the effects of food aid on domestic food production and commercial food imports in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chiweta, Chenai
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Food relief -- Zimbabwe , Food crops -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural productivity -- Zimbabwe , Humanitarian assistance -- Zimbabwe , Foreign exchange -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11175 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/478 , Food relief -- Zimbabwe , Food crops -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural productivity -- Zimbabwe , Humanitarian assistance -- Zimbabwe , Foreign exchange -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Food aid and domestic food production capacities in Zimbabwe have been compromised by the poor performance in the country’s agricultural sector, which has necessitated an increase in and a continual need for humanitarian assistance over the past decade. The country’s commercial cereal food import capacity has not been an exception as it has also been greatly affected by the poor performance of the agricultural sector and the shortage of foreign currency that hit the country in the past few years. Secondary data on food aid, commercial cereal imports and cereal food production was obtained from World Food Programme (WFP), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) of Zimbabwe and from Zimbabwe Statistics (ZimSTATS) databases. This time series data was then analysed in the Vector Autoregression (VAR) analysis. Trends observed in the time series data reveal that commercial cereal food imports and cereal food aid inflows to Zimbabwe had been increasing between 1988 and 2008. Domestic cereal food production levels however were observed to have been declining within the same period. The restricted VAR model which was specified to investigate the short and long term effects of food aid on food production and on commercial food imports in the country revealed a low statistically significant positive relationship between domestic food production and food aid volumes. Results from the model also indicated a negative relationship between commercial food imports and food aid volumes. This means that as food aid volumes to Zimbabwe increase, the volume of commercial cereal food imported into Zimbabwe falls. This result therefore suggests that food aid in the country had a displacement effect on commercial cereal food imports in the short term. The results of the Granger causality test and the estimation of the Impulse Response Functions also helped to confirm and reinforce these findings from the vector error correction model. The conclusions drawn from the study were that the responsiveness of domestic food supply, that is, cereal production, to food aid inflows in the short term has been elastic. That is to say, an increase in food aid inflows would influence an increase in the level of domestic food production in the short term. However, in the long term, findings confirm that food aid does indeed discourage domestic food production in the country. Also, for the relationship between food aid and commercial food imports, it can be concluded from the study findings that food aid in the short term has caused a reduction in commercial food imports whereas in the long term, food aid inflows have actually stimulated the commercial food import capacity. In recommendation, the Government of Zimbabwe, the private and public institutions as well as the Non-Governmental Organisations should partner and work together in defining the criteria for vulnerability assessment, food aid targeting and distribution, and in the implementation of strategies for ensuring national food availability. Such partnerships would help in ensuring the sustainability of food aid and food security in Zimbabwe, which is the main goal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Chiweta, Chenai
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Food relief -- Zimbabwe , Food crops -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural productivity -- Zimbabwe , Humanitarian assistance -- Zimbabwe , Foreign exchange -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11175 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/478 , Food relief -- Zimbabwe , Food crops -- Zimbabwe , Agricultural productivity -- Zimbabwe , Humanitarian assistance -- Zimbabwe , Foreign exchange -- Zimbabwe , Food supply -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Food aid and domestic food production capacities in Zimbabwe have been compromised by the poor performance in the country’s agricultural sector, which has necessitated an increase in and a continual need for humanitarian assistance over the past decade. The country’s commercial cereal food import capacity has not been an exception as it has also been greatly affected by the poor performance of the agricultural sector and the shortage of foreign currency that hit the country in the past few years. Secondary data on food aid, commercial cereal imports and cereal food production was obtained from World Food Programme (WFP), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) of Zimbabwe and from Zimbabwe Statistics (ZimSTATS) databases. This time series data was then analysed in the Vector Autoregression (VAR) analysis. Trends observed in the time series data reveal that commercial cereal food imports and cereal food aid inflows to Zimbabwe had been increasing between 1988 and 2008. Domestic cereal food production levels however were observed to have been declining within the same period. The restricted VAR model which was specified to investigate the short and long term effects of food aid on food production and on commercial food imports in the country revealed a low statistically significant positive relationship between domestic food production and food aid volumes. Results from the model also indicated a negative relationship between commercial food imports and food aid volumes. This means that as food aid volumes to Zimbabwe increase, the volume of commercial cereal food imported into Zimbabwe falls. This result therefore suggests that food aid in the country had a displacement effect on commercial cereal food imports in the short term. The results of the Granger causality test and the estimation of the Impulse Response Functions also helped to confirm and reinforce these findings from the vector error correction model. The conclusions drawn from the study were that the responsiveness of domestic food supply, that is, cereal production, to food aid inflows in the short term has been elastic. That is to say, an increase in food aid inflows would influence an increase in the level of domestic food production in the short term. However, in the long term, findings confirm that food aid does indeed discourage domestic food production in the country. Also, for the relationship between food aid and commercial food imports, it can be concluded from the study findings that food aid in the short term has caused a reduction in commercial food imports whereas in the long term, food aid inflows have actually stimulated the commercial food import capacity. In recommendation, the Government of Zimbabwe, the private and public institutions as well as the Non-Governmental Organisations should partner and work together in defining the criteria for vulnerability assessment, food aid targeting and distribution, and in the implementation of strategies for ensuring national food availability. Such partnerships would help in ensuring the sustainability of food aid and food security in Zimbabwe, which is the main goal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012