Assessment of capacity development through public-private partnership: a case study of the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sogoni, Mbulelo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Human capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public-private sector cooperation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11619 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/327 , Human capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public-private sector cooperation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a capacity development programme initiated by the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs (DEDEA) as a mechanism to enhance the performance of the employees in order to improve service delivery to the people of the Eastern Cape. The public service is enjoined by the Constitution to provide services that citizens need, and for this reason it is in need of educated, trained and professional public servants, especially in the technical, professional and managerial categories. The department also recognized the potential of public–private partnerships (PPPs) to improve performance in the areas of transformation and service delivery, and that it required investments aimed at developing and strengthening public management capacity. However, the effectiveness of the PPP as a mechanism for capacity development, remained unknown. The literature reviewed overwhelmingly supported the assertion that human capital development is critical for performance in the public service. The review also highlighted the importance of partnerships, especially the role of the private sector in the area of capacity development, advancing the argument that PPPs should be pursued in order to leverage ideas, resources, and capabilities to achieve public service goals. Various research tools, namely interviews, questionnaires and document analysis were used to conduct the study. Data collected and analysed provided empirical evidence of improved performance of both the individual managers and the department in the functional areas of financial governance and management; programme and project management; as well as ethics and professionalism. It suggested a strong correlation between training, capacity development and service delivery. This research found the DEDEA/National Business Initiative (NBI) PPP initiative, as a capacity development mechanism to enhance the performance of the department‟s employees, effective. On strength of the overwhelming evidence gathered through this research, it strongly recommends that the programme be rolled out to other employees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Sogoni, Mbulelo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Human capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public-private sector cooperation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11619 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/327 , Human capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public-private sector cooperation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a capacity development programme initiated by the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs (DEDEA) as a mechanism to enhance the performance of the employees in order to improve service delivery to the people of the Eastern Cape. The public service is enjoined by the Constitution to provide services that citizens need, and for this reason it is in need of educated, trained and professional public servants, especially in the technical, professional and managerial categories. The department also recognized the potential of public–private partnerships (PPPs) to improve performance in the areas of transformation and service delivery, and that it required investments aimed at developing and strengthening public management capacity. However, the effectiveness of the PPP as a mechanism for capacity development, remained unknown. The literature reviewed overwhelmingly supported the assertion that human capital development is critical for performance in the public service. The review also highlighted the importance of partnerships, especially the role of the private sector in the area of capacity development, advancing the argument that PPPs should be pursued in order to leverage ideas, resources, and capabilities to achieve public service goals. Various research tools, namely interviews, questionnaires and document analysis were used to conduct the study. Data collected and analysed provided empirical evidence of improved performance of both the individual managers and the department in the functional areas of financial governance and management; programme and project management; as well as ethics and professionalism. It suggested a strong correlation between training, capacity development and service delivery. This research found the DEDEA/National Business Initiative (NBI) PPP initiative, as a capacity development mechanism to enhance the performance of the department‟s employees, effective. On strength of the overwhelming evidence gathered through this research, it strongly recommends that the programme be rolled out to other employees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Poverty alleviation through the implementation of local economic development in rural municipalities
- Authors: Gcaba, Fikile Cameron
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39763 , vital:35357
- Description: The main purpose of the investigation was to assess the implementation of local economic development (LED) in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Local economic development has been seen as the best means of eradicating poverty in South Africa. The South African government is committed to working with communities to find ways of meeting their socio-economic needs and improve their quality of life. This investigation assessed the participation of rural communities in small business to improve their market-related activities. Communities should be able to identify their resources to promote a more competitive business environment. The study also considered whether rural communities are have been skilled enough to participate in the economic development of South Africa. In addition, the study assessed the understanding of the people who live in the vicinity of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality of how business information is obtained and put into effect for economic development purposes. The research was conducted among the employees of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. They comprised: the local development directorate, ward councillors, municipal officials, and municipal managers. The South African government promotes LED as part of the concept of the Development State and gives financial support to rural communities through relevant institutions to improve economic development. Many of the participants were educated people with a sound knowledge of local economic development, as a means of poverty eradication. However, almost all participants found it difficult to put LED into practice. The communities are less empowered about the LED concept. Documents are written in English, despite the fact that South Africa has eleven official languages. In addition there are few professionals who are knowledgeable about the LED concept. As a result, LED programmes have been poorly implemented. There is little enthusiasm on the part of the LED directorate to strengthen the already established business association or partner with the business sector to promote active participation in the economy by local people. The Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs, which is supposed to pioneer LED, has been inactive. As a result there has been very little LED in the rural King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Poverty alleviation through the implementation of local economic development in rural municipalities
- Authors: Gcaba, Fikile Cameron
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39763 , vital:35357
- Description: The main purpose of the investigation was to assess the implementation of local economic development (LED) in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Local economic development has been seen as the best means of eradicating poverty in South Africa. The South African government is committed to working with communities to find ways of meeting their socio-economic needs and improve their quality of life. This investigation assessed the participation of rural communities in small business to improve their market-related activities. Communities should be able to identify their resources to promote a more competitive business environment. The study also considered whether rural communities are have been skilled enough to participate in the economic development of South Africa. In addition, the study assessed the understanding of the people who live in the vicinity of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality of how business information is obtained and put into effect for economic development purposes. The research was conducted among the employees of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. They comprised: the local development directorate, ward councillors, municipal officials, and municipal managers. The South African government promotes LED as part of the concept of the Development State and gives financial support to rural communities through relevant institutions to improve economic development. Many of the participants were educated people with a sound knowledge of local economic development, as a means of poverty eradication. However, almost all participants found it difficult to put LED into practice. The communities are less empowered about the LED concept. Documents are written in English, despite the fact that South Africa has eleven official languages. In addition there are few professionals who are knowledgeable about the LED concept. As a result, LED programmes have been poorly implemented. There is little enthusiasm on the part of the LED directorate to strengthen the already established business association or partner with the business sector to promote active participation in the economy by local people. The Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs, which is supposed to pioneer LED, has been inactive. As a result there has been very little LED in the rural King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The entrepreneurial orientation of small businesses in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Matchaba-Hove, Mtonhodzi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9304 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017139
- Description: The high failure rate among small businesses in South Africa has created an urgent need to identify strategies that will improve their levels of performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the entrepreneurial orientation of small businesses in the Eastern Cape and their level of business success. Entrepreneurial orientation was assessed in terms of the 5 dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation, namely Innovativeness, Proactiveness, Competitive aggressiveness, Risk-taking and Autonomy. Business success was assessed in terms of profitability and growth. A literature overview was firstly conducted. The nature and importance of small businesses were described, and the important contributions they make to economic growth, job creation and innovation, as well alleviating poverty and redistributing income were highlighted. The various challenges faced by small businesses were also discussed. Among these challenges, the lack of entrepreneurial orientation was specifically highlighted as a major barrier to small business success. The nature of entrepreneurial orientation and the five dimensions thereof were described. A theoretical framework was proposed illustrating the relationships between the 5 dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation and business success that were to be empirically tested. A positivistic research paradigm was followed and a quantitative approach was implemented. Convenience sampling was used and a total of 350 questionnaires were distributed to small businesses in the Eastern Cape; 317 usable questionnaires were yielded. A measuring instrument was developed based on reliable and valid items from existing studies. Statistical techniques including descriptive statistics, Pearson's product moment correlations, Structural Equation Modelling and an Analysis of Variance were performed on the gathered data. Demographic data relating to the gender, age and race of the respondents, as well as data relating to the number of employees, the tenure of the business, and nature of industry in which the small businesses operate, were collected. An exploratory factor analysis was undertaken, and Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients were calculated to assess the validity and reliability of the measuring instrument. The independent variables, Innovativeness and Proactiveness, could not be confirmed by the factor analysis and a new dimension emerged which was named Proactive innovativeness. As a result of the factor analysis the operational definitions were rephrased. The Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients reported were all greater than 0.7, deeming the scales measuring the various dimensions reliable. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarise the sample data, and Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficients were established to investigate the associations between the variables. Significant positive correlations were reported between all of the variables. SEM was performed to determine the significance of the relationships hypothesised between the independent and dependent variables in this study. The results of this study showed that the independent variables Competitive aggressiveness, Proactive innovativeness and Autonomy have a significant positive influence on the dependent variable Business success, while Risk-taking was found to have a significant negative influence on Business success. Furthermore, the results showed that Proactive innovativeness was higher in larger-sized small businesses, Autonomy was reported to be higher in small businesses where the owner was in possession of a tertiary qualification, and Risk-taking was found to be higher in small businesses owned by people of colour than in businesses owned by White respondents. In a business environment where change is constant, small business owners need to be able to adapt their operations and strategies to these changes and the consumer demands these changes may bring. Small business owners need to be able to strategically reinvent their businesses if they are to survive over the long term. The level of entrepreneurial orientation has been identified as having a positive influence on business success. The more small businesses implement Proactive innovativeness, Competitive aggressiveness, calculated and cautions Risk-taking and Autonomy, the better the chances are that they will be successful
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Matchaba-Hove, Mtonhodzi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9304 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017139
- Description: The high failure rate among small businesses in South Africa has created an urgent need to identify strategies that will improve their levels of performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the entrepreneurial orientation of small businesses in the Eastern Cape and their level of business success. Entrepreneurial orientation was assessed in terms of the 5 dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation, namely Innovativeness, Proactiveness, Competitive aggressiveness, Risk-taking and Autonomy. Business success was assessed in terms of profitability and growth. A literature overview was firstly conducted. The nature and importance of small businesses were described, and the important contributions they make to economic growth, job creation and innovation, as well alleviating poverty and redistributing income were highlighted. The various challenges faced by small businesses were also discussed. Among these challenges, the lack of entrepreneurial orientation was specifically highlighted as a major barrier to small business success. The nature of entrepreneurial orientation and the five dimensions thereof were described. A theoretical framework was proposed illustrating the relationships between the 5 dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation and business success that were to be empirically tested. A positivistic research paradigm was followed and a quantitative approach was implemented. Convenience sampling was used and a total of 350 questionnaires were distributed to small businesses in the Eastern Cape; 317 usable questionnaires were yielded. A measuring instrument was developed based on reliable and valid items from existing studies. Statistical techniques including descriptive statistics, Pearson's product moment correlations, Structural Equation Modelling and an Analysis of Variance were performed on the gathered data. Demographic data relating to the gender, age and race of the respondents, as well as data relating to the number of employees, the tenure of the business, and nature of industry in which the small businesses operate, were collected. An exploratory factor analysis was undertaken, and Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients were calculated to assess the validity and reliability of the measuring instrument. The independent variables, Innovativeness and Proactiveness, could not be confirmed by the factor analysis and a new dimension emerged which was named Proactive innovativeness. As a result of the factor analysis the operational definitions were rephrased. The Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients reported were all greater than 0.7, deeming the scales measuring the various dimensions reliable. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarise the sample data, and Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficients were established to investigate the associations between the variables. Significant positive correlations were reported between all of the variables. SEM was performed to determine the significance of the relationships hypothesised between the independent and dependent variables in this study. The results of this study showed that the independent variables Competitive aggressiveness, Proactive innovativeness and Autonomy have a significant positive influence on the dependent variable Business success, while Risk-taking was found to have a significant negative influence on Business success. Furthermore, the results showed that Proactive innovativeness was higher in larger-sized small businesses, Autonomy was reported to be higher in small businesses where the owner was in possession of a tertiary qualification, and Risk-taking was found to be higher in small businesses owned by people of colour than in businesses owned by White respondents. In a business environment where change is constant, small business owners need to be able to adapt their operations and strategies to these changes and the consumer demands these changes may bring. Small business owners need to be able to strategically reinvent their businesses if they are to survive over the long term. The level of entrepreneurial orientation has been identified as having a positive influence on business success. The more small businesses implement Proactive innovativeness, Competitive aggressiveness, calculated and cautions Risk-taking and Autonomy, the better the chances are that they will be successful
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Tourism and development : a case study of Mdumbi Backpackers and Transcape non-profit organisation
- Authors: Hitchcock, Kelly Alexandra
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Mdumbi Backpackers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Planning , Backpacking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies , Black people -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3377 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013143
- Description: The former Transkei region of the Eastern Cape of South Africa, in common with many of the other former Bantustans, is currently facing a developmental backlog. It is one of the poorest regions of the country and is a direct product of South Africa’s history of colonisation and geopolitical nature of apartheid in which people were forcibly located onto former tribal lands, called Bantustans. Tourism is one of the few business opportunities providing employment along the former Transkei coast. The tourism industry has been identified by many worldwide as a key strategy that can lead to economic upliftment, community development and poverty relief in the developing world. The predicament however, lies in the challenge of accepting or managing the negative consequences of tourism for the potential long term benefits offered by tourism-led development. Tourism development theory reflects development theory from traditional, top-down economic-growth based models to a more wide based approach with an emphasis on bottom-up planning, meeting of basic human need and a focus on sustainable development. Consequentially new and alternative forms of tourism have emerged and can be viewed as a response to some of the negative consequences of the mass tourism-led model of economic development. Backpacker tourism is one niche of the tourism market that is providing positive local socioeconomic benefits. This thesis is presented as a case study of Mdumbi Backpackers on the former Transkei coast. Mdumbi Backpackers is a unique example of a model of tourism that is providing meaningful benefits to the people who live in this community. By going one step further with the creation of the non-profit organisation Transcape, their involvement in the community has grown significantly, encouraging positive and sustainable development in the areas of social development, education and health. Mdumbi Backpackers goes beyond the notions of locally owned and sustainable approaches and actively encourages development by setting up community organisations and initiatives in a sustainable and equitable way. This approach to tourism-led development is well suited for the needs and objectives of the community as well preserving the natural environment. This thesis presents an exemplary example from which lessons can be learned and applied to developing tourism in a sustainable and equitable way in other rural communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Hitchcock, Kelly Alexandra
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Mdumbi Backpackers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Planning , Backpacking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies , Black people -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3377 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013143
- Description: The former Transkei region of the Eastern Cape of South Africa, in common with many of the other former Bantustans, is currently facing a developmental backlog. It is one of the poorest regions of the country and is a direct product of South Africa’s history of colonisation and geopolitical nature of apartheid in which people were forcibly located onto former tribal lands, called Bantustans. Tourism is one of the few business opportunities providing employment along the former Transkei coast. The tourism industry has been identified by many worldwide as a key strategy that can lead to economic upliftment, community development and poverty relief in the developing world. The predicament however, lies in the challenge of accepting or managing the negative consequences of tourism for the potential long term benefits offered by tourism-led development. Tourism development theory reflects development theory from traditional, top-down economic-growth based models to a more wide based approach with an emphasis on bottom-up planning, meeting of basic human need and a focus on sustainable development. Consequentially new and alternative forms of tourism have emerged and can be viewed as a response to some of the negative consequences of the mass tourism-led model of economic development. Backpacker tourism is one niche of the tourism market that is providing positive local socioeconomic benefits. This thesis is presented as a case study of Mdumbi Backpackers on the former Transkei coast. Mdumbi Backpackers is a unique example of a model of tourism that is providing meaningful benefits to the people who live in this community. By going one step further with the creation of the non-profit organisation Transcape, their involvement in the community has grown significantly, encouraging positive and sustainable development in the areas of social development, education and health. Mdumbi Backpackers goes beyond the notions of locally owned and sustainable approaches and actively encourages development by setting up community organisations and initiatives in a sustainable and equitable way. This approach to tourism-led development is well suited for the needs and objectives of the community as well preserving the natural environment. This thesis presents an exemplary example from which lessons can be learned and applied to developing tourism in a sustainable and equitable way in other rural communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Contribution of the wool clip project to beneficiaries in King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality
- Madiba, Nangamso Vuyo Hillary
- Authors: Madiba, Nangamso Vuyo Hillary
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Wool industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sheep industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30800 , vital:31136
- Description: The focus of the study was on the contribution of the Wool Clip Project to beneficiaries in King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality (KSD LM). KSD LM is predominantly rural and constitutes an integral part of OR Tambo District Municipality which is part of the Eastern Cape Province. The poverty head count in KSD LM was at 14,7% in 2016. The Eastern Cape had the highest percentage of households owning sheep in the country. Approximately 775, 300 sheep were in KSD LM in 2012. This study was located within the local economic development framework. A gap was identified in the yields in terms of national sales of wool which are not commensurate with the portion accounted for in the national flock. The National, Provincial and Local spheres of government intervened resulting in the introduction of the Wool Clip Project as a vehicle to mitigate the challenges encountered with regard to wool production. Through the intervention, it was expected that there should be an improvement in the national sales of wool. The aim of the research was to determine whether the Wool Clip Project has made a contribution to the beneficiaries. This was done through the following objectives: - Determination of whether the project has made a contribution to its intended beneficiaries in terms of its objectives, which are outlined in the Business Plan for the Wool Clip Project (2014). - Determination of whether there has been adequate public participation as dictated by Chapter 4, sections 17 to 22 of the Municipal Systems Act No. 32 of 2000. - Investigation of whether the project has made a meaningful contribution to the relevant communities through the creation of sustainable employment opportunities. v A literature review was done using relevant sources of information and knowledge such as books, journals, policies, research outputs. The aim was to provide a well thought out theoretical framework. The research methodology applied to this study was qualitative, taking into account the nature of the study. Data was collected by conducting semi-structured interviews with ten respondents, who were selected through purposive sampling. The data was then analysed and interpreted using themes and sub-themes. Based on the findings, it was concluding that the project has had a positive effect on the lives of the beneficiaries, even though there is room for improvement. Secondly, it has been established that public participation took place during the introduction of the project as legislated. Thirdly, the project has not contributed to sustainable job creation but there are, however, some benefits that the community has gained from it. Recommendations were made towards improved implementation of the project.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Madiba, Nangamso Vuyo Hillary
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Wool industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sheep industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30800 , vital:31136
- Description: The focus of the study was on the contribution of the Wool Clip Project to beneficiaries in King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality (KSD LM). KSD LM is predominantly rural and constitutes an integral part of OR Tambo District Municipality which is part of the Eastern Cape Province. The poverty head count in KSD LM was at 14,7% in 2016. The Eastern Cape had the highest percentage of households owning sheep in the country. Approximately 775, 300 sheep were in KSD LM in 2012. This study was located within the local economic development framework. A gap was identified in the yields in terms of national sales of wool which are not commensurate with the portion accounted for in the national flock. The National, Provincial and Local spheres of government intervened resulting in the introduction of the Wool Clip Project as a vehicle to mitigate the challenges encountered with regard to wool production. Through the intervention, it was expected that there should be an improvement in the national sales of wool. The aim of the research was to determine whether the Wool Clip Project has made a contribution to the beneficiaries. This was done through the following objectives: - Determination of whether the project has made a contribution to its intended beneficiaries in terms of its objectives, which are outlined in the Business Plan for the Wool Clip Project (2014). - Determination of whether there has been adequate public participation as dictated by Chapter 4, sections 17 to 22 of the Municipal Systems Act No. 32 of 2000. - Investigation of whether the project has made a meaningful contribution to the relevant communities through the creation of sustainable employment opportunities. v A literature review was done using relevant sources of information and knowledge such as books, journals, policies, research outputs. The aim was to provide a well thought out theoretical framework. The research methodology applied to this study was qualitative, taking into account the nature of the study. Data was collected by conducting semi-structured interviews with ten respondents, who were selected through purposive sampling. The data was then analysed and interpreted using themes and sub-themes. Based on the findings, it was concluding that the project has had a positive effect on the lives of the beneficiaries, even though there is room for improvement. Secondly, it has been established that public participation took place during the introduction of the project as legislated. Thirdly, the project has not contributed to sustainable job creation but there are, however, some benefits that the community has gained from it. Recommendations were made towards improved implementation of the project.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An investigation into causes of success and failure in small businesses within the Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Petrus, Henry George
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: South Africa -- Dept. of Social Development , South Africa -- Dept. of Trade and Industry , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Business enterprises -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003942
- Description: The failure rate of small business initiatives in South Africa is phenomenal, and much is needed to unravel the causes contributing to such failures. Yet small businesses are playing a vital part in our global economy and in particular in terms of job creation and poverty eradication. There are internal as well as external factors that play a significant role in determining the success of these small businesses. In South Africa much emphasis is placed by national, provincial and local governments on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to drive wealth creation and black economic empowerment. Therefore, an investigation into the factors contributing to the success and failure of SMEs is of vital importance. The South African government’s poverty eradication strategy, which is driven by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), allocated funds for job creation programmes as a method to combat poverty and more importantly, to develop young entrepreneurs. Among the seven departments mandated by DTI was the Department of Social Development. Since the birth of the new democracy, this department has transformed from offering a traditional remedial method of service delivery to an integrated developmental approach. This approach included extensive community work, which includes job creation and economic empowerment through the establishment of small businesses. Given the availability of funding, the inability to spend fiscal budgets as per allocation as well as the charity element of receiving involved, it is important to explore whether factors contributing to the success of these SMEs are any different to the traditional business strategies. In this study, the researcher gave special consideration to the social capital element and its contribution in the context of community support as well as the ability of SMEs to become sustainable business ventures over time. The research study aims to highlight unique factors contributing to the success and failures of SMEs established by the Department of Social Development and in doing so hopes to manifest an improved understanding of the management of these SMEs. In chapter one, the researcher gives a brief description of the activities of the Department of Social Development and its mandate to establish SMEs for job creation. A brief explanation regarding the context of the problem that was investigated is also given. Chapter two provides a detailed theoretical overview of the study, focusing in particular on factors contributing to the success and failure of small businesses. In chapter three, the research design and the various instruments used are discussed. Here, emphasis is placed on procedural issues and ethical considerations. The validity and reliability of the research is strongly motivated. In chapter four the research results are discussed. Chapter five aims to discuss the findings of the research with reference to the theoretical overview outlined in chapter two. Lastly, chapter six makes recommendations to the various stakeholders who may benefit from this research. These recommendations are the most important objectives of the research and should add value with regards to the management of SMEs in future, with special reference to the Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Petrus, Henry George
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: South Africa -- Dept. of Social Development , South Africa -- Dept. of Trade and Industry , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Business enterprises -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003942
- Description: The failure rate of small business initiatives in South Africa is phenomenal, and much is needed to unravel the causes contributing to such failures. Yet small businesses are playing a vital part in our global economy and in particular in terms of job creation and poverty eradication. There are internal as well as external factors that play a significant role in determining the success of these small businesses. In South Africa much emphasis is placed by national, provincial and local governments on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to drive wealth creation and black economic empowerment. Therefore, an investigation into the factors contributing to the success and failure of SMEs is of vital importance. The South African government’s poverty eradication strategy, which is driven by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), allocated funds for job creation programmes as a method to combat poverty and more importantly, to develop young entrepreneurs. Among the seven departments mandated by DTI was the Department of Social Development. Since the birth of the new democracy, this department has transformed from offering a traditional remedial method of service delivery to an integrated developmental approach. This approach included extensive community work, which includes job creation and economic empowerment through the establishment of small businesses. Given the availability of funding, the inability to spend fiscal budgets as per allocation as well as the charity element of receiving involved, it is important to explore whether factors contributing to the success of these SMEs are any different to the traditional business strategies. In this study, the researcher gave special consideration to the social capital element and its contribution in the context of community support as well as the ability of SMEs to become sustainable business ventures over time. The research study aims to highlight unique factors contributing to the success and failures of SMEs established by the Department of Social Development and in doing so hopes to manifest an improved understanding of the management of these SMEs. In chapter one, the researcher gives a brief description of the activities of the Department of Social Development and its mandate to establish SMEs for job creation. A brief explanation regarding the context of the problem that was investigated is also given. Chapter two provides a detailed theoretical overview of the study, focusing in particular on factors contributing to the success and failure of small businesses. In chapter three, the research design and the various instruments used are discussed. Here, emphasis is placed on procedural issues and ethical considerations. The validity and reliability of the research is strongly motivated. In chapter four the research results are discussed. Chapter five aims to discuss the findings of the research with reference to the theoretical overview outlined in chapter two. Lastly, chapter six makes recommendations to the various stakeholders who may benefit from this research. These recommendations are the most important objectives of the research and should add value with regards to the management of SMEs in future, with special reference to the Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Co-operatives support programme of the Cacadu District Municipality
- Authors: Kate, Pumelelo Maxwell
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social status -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5667 , vital:20961
- Description: Despite the efforts by government to support and direct resources and institutions to address high levels of poverty through co-operative programmes, the Eastern Cape Province remains one of the poorest provinces in the country. Even in the relatively more prosperous Cacadu District in the western portion of the Province, the socio- economic landscape is punctuated by pockets of acute poverty. In order to support government policies to promote co-operatives as a means to address past exclusions from the agricultural sector, as well as to promote socio-economic development in one of its poorest local municipalities, the Cacadu District Municipality has been implementing a support and mentoring programme to agricultural co-operatives in the Ikwezi Local Municipality. Furthermore, Ikwezi was selected because it has the highest concentration of co-operatives in the region supported by the District Municipality and by other Sector Departments from the National and Provincial Governments. The relationships between the support that is provided by Cacadu District Municipality to co-operatives and the extent to which supported co-operatives harness these advantages to grow and sustain their enterprises, forms the cornerstone of this research. As such, the hypothesis that will be tested reads as follows: The government support provided by Cacadu District Municipality to co-operatives in its area of jurisdiction has resulted in the growth and sustainability of the co-operative enterprises. The literature review considers the significant role that co-operatives play in local economic development. It provides a historical overview of co-operatives, as well as the policy framework on co-operatives in South Africa. The role of Cacadu District Municipality with regards to co-operatives and local economic development is reviewed, as well as its co- operative support and mentorship programme. An overview of the socio-economic profile of the Ikwezi Local Municipality and the agricultural co-operatives in the area concludes the literature review. The research approach is based on a mixed method between the qualitative and quantitative research families, with a bias towards the qualitative approach. The study placed more emphasis on the data gathered from individual co-operative businesses and the personal experiences of individuals involved in the co-operative sector. This approach requires qualitative techniques such as interviews and observations. The internet was used as a source for the gathering of relevant data related to the stated research objectives. Other relevant information is gathered through documents reviewed and case studies. The study used questionnaires to interview a sample of agricultural co-operatives in Ikwezi. The collected data was analysed and presented according to a set of themes that formed the basis for the analysis. The analysis provided insights into the background and history of the selected co-operatives, the challenges that they face to survive and the support that they require from government and other potential support structures. The analysis furthermore focussed on the perception of the members of the co-operatives of the impact – whether positive or negative – of the Cacadu co-operatives support and, in particular, it’s mentorship programme. The findings revealed that there was overwhelming support from the co-operative members for the intervention and mentorship provided by the Cacadu District Municipality. It became clear that accessing agricultural land and providing funding and inputs to emerging farmers and co-operatives is not enough. There needs to be a building and nurturing of an entrepreneurial spirit and business mentality accompanied by appropriate training and capacity building interventions for the co- operatives to become successful enterprises. This study reveals that this is possible given all the resources at the disposal of the state. In conclusion, the hypothesis that the support provided by Cacadu District Municipality to co-operatives in its area of jurisdiction has resulted in the growth and sustainability of the co-operative enterprises, was found to be valid.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kate, Pumelelo Maxwell
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social status -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5667 , vital:20961
- Description: Despite the efforts by government to support and direct resources and institutions to address high levels of poverty through co-operative programmes, the Eastern Cape Province remains one of the poorest provinces in the country. Even in the relatively more prosperous Cacadu District in the western portion of the Province, the socio- economic landscape is punctuated by pockets of acute poverty. In order to support government policies to promote co-operatives as a means to address past exclusions from the agricultural sector, as well as to promote socio-economic development in one of its poorest local municipalities, the Cacadu District Municipality has been implementing a support and mentoring programme to agricultural co-operatives in the Ikwezi Local Municipality. Furthermore, Ikwezi was selected because it has the highest concentration of co-operatives in the region supported by the District Municipality and by other Sector Departments from the National and Provincial Governments. The relationships between the support that is provided by Cacadu District Municipality to co-operatives and the extent to which supported co-operatives harness these advantages to grow and sustain their enterprises, forms the cornerstone of this research. As such, the hypothesis that will be tested reads as follows: The government support provided by Cacadu District Municipality to co-operatives in its area of jurisdiction has resulted in the growth and sustainability of the co-operative enterprises. The literature review considers the significant role that co-operatives play in local economic development. It provides a historical overview of co-operatives, as well as the policy framework on co-operatives in South Africa. The role of Cacadu District Municipality with regards to co-operatives and local economic development is reviewed, as well as its co- operative support and mentorship programme. An overview of the socio-economic profile of the Ikwezi Local Municipality and the agricultural co-operatives in the area concludes the literature review. The research approach is based on a mixed method between the qualitative and quantitative research families, with a bias towards the qualitative approach. The study placed more emphasis on the data gathered from individual co-operative businesses and the personal experiences of individuals involved in the co-operative sector. This approach requires qualitative techniques such as interviews and observations. The internet was used as a source for the gathering of relevant data related to the stated research objectives. Other relevant information is gathered through documents reviewed and case studies. The study used questionnaires to interview a sample of agricultural co-operatives in Ikwezi. The collected data was analysed and presented according to a set of themes that formed the basis for the analysis. The analysis provided insights into the background and history of the selected co-operatives, the challenges that they face to survive and the support that they require from government and other potential support structures. The analysis furthermore focussed on the perception of the members of the co-operatives of the impact – whether positive or negative – of the Cacadu co-operatives support and, in particular, it’s mentorship programme. The findings revealed that there was overwhelming support from the co-operative members for the intervention and mentorship provided by the Cacadu District Municipality. It became clear that accessing agricultural land and providing funding and inputs to emerging farmers and co-operatives is not enough. There needs to be a building and nurturing of an entrepreneurial spirit and business mentality accompanied by appropriate training and capacity building interventions for the co- operatives to become successful enterprises. This study reveals that this is possible given all the resources at the disposal of the state. In conclusion, the hypothesis that the support provided by Cacadu District Municipality to co-operatives in its area of jurisdiction has resulted in the growth and sustainability of the co-operative enterprises, was found to be valid.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Trade unions' attitudes and perceptions towards the Coega Industrial Development Zone
- Authors: Sikaka, Weziwe
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor unions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9085 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/850 , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor unions -- South Africa
- Description: In an attempt to create employment opportunities and uplift economic development, government has embarked on industrial development through arms acquisition. The two major Spatial Development Initiatives namely, the Fish River SDI and the Wild Coast SDI were developed to enhance economic development in the Eastern Cape. The Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) is one of the elements of the Fish River SDI aimed at enhancing economic development through industrial development (Haines & Hosking, 2005). The Coega IDZ is one of government’s initiatives under the Industrial Participation program that has gained a lot of recognition. The Coega project has been under a lot of controversy since its conception and was highly linked to the arms deal as this project consumed most of government funds through the arms procurement program (Haines & Hosking 2005). The study therefore will attempt to address aspects premised in objectives of this study from the viewpoint of trade unions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Sikaka, Weziwe
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor unions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9085 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/850 , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor unions -- South Africa
- Description: In an attempt to create employment opportunities and uplift economic development, government has embarked on industrial development through arms acquisition. The two major Spatial Development Initiatives namely, the Fish River SDI and the Wild Coast SDI were developed to enhance economic development in the Eastern Cape. The Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) is one of the elements of the Fish River SDI aimed at enhancing economic development through industrial development (Haines & Hosking, 2005). The Coega IDZ is one of government’s initiatives under the Industrial Participation program that has gained a lot of recognition. The Coega project has been under a lot of controversy since its conception and was highly linked to the arms deal as this project consumed most of government funds through the arms procurement program (Haines & Hosking 2005). The study therefore will attempt to address aspects premised in objectives of this study from the viewpoint of trade unions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The challenges faced by the Masizame bakery as a co-operative in Steynsburg aimed at alleviating poverty
- Authors: Loni, Sisanda
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9167 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020093
- Description: This study investigated the challenges faced by the Masizame Bakery as a cooperative in Steynsburg. The co-operative sector, tracing back to the 1800s, has become recognised as a key vehicle for community development and poverty alleviation. According to the Department of Trade and Industry (2012), international practices show that countries which have achieved economic development also have a vibrant and a dynamic co-operative sector, contributing substantially to the growth of their economies. The sector’s international success and foundations in agriculture have found resonance with the post-apartheid government in achieving social transformation and alleviating poverty in South Africa. The co-operative model in South Africa proved a success during the apartheid era in the agricultural sector with a turnover of about R22.5 billion. Post-1994 the government hopes to achieve the same level of success through the sector to transform the country’s socio-economic landscape. The co-operative sector’s principles of self-help and self-reliance have become synonymous with democratic South Africa’s government plea to active citizenry in development – Vuku’zenzele. Some South Africans have responded to this call to change their economic conditions through co-operatives. However, investment in the co-operative sector has found varying degrees of success and failure across South Africa’s provinces, with the Northern Cape, the Eastern Cape, and Free State experiencing the highest mortality rates. The areas’ rural hinterland has been attributed to this high failure rate, thus posing the need to investigate the challenges faced by co-ops in small towns such as Steynsburg. The study provides an overview of the sector’s history, including its growth in countries across the world. The role of co-ops in poverty alleviation has also been discussed. This role was interrogated in discussions held through interviews and focus groups with both members of the Masizame Bakery and other projects in the area, including public officials involved in both community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Loni, Sisanda
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9167 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020093
- Description: This study investigated the challenges faced by the Masizame Bakery as a cooperative in Steynsburg. The co-operative sector, tracing back to the 1800s, has become recognised as a key vehicle for community development and poverty alleviation. According to the Department of Trade and Industry (2012), international practices show that countries which have achieved economic development also have a vibrant and a dynamic co-operative sector, contributing substantially to the growth of their economies. The sector’s international success and foundations in agriculture have found resonance with the post-apartheid government in achieving social transformation and alleviating poverty in South Africa. The co-operative model in South Africa proved a success during the apartheid era in the agricultural sector with a turnover of about R22.5 billion. Post-1994 the government hopes to achieve the same level of success through the sector to transform the country’s socio-economic landscape. The co-operative sector’s principles of self-help and self-reliance have become synonymous with democratic South Africa’s government plea to active citizenry in development – Vuku’zenzele. Some South Africans have responded to this call to change their economic conditions through co-operatives. However, investment in the co-operative sector has found varying degrees of success and failure across South Africa’s provinces, with the Northern Cape, the Eastern Cape, and Free State experiencing the highest mortality rates. The areas’ rural hinterland has been attributed to this high failure rate, thus posing the need to investigate the challenges faced by co-ops in small towns such as Steynsburg. The study provides an overview of the sector’s history, including its growth in countries across the world. The role of co-ops in poverty alleviation has also been discussed. This role was interrogated in discussions held through interviews and focus groups with both members of the Masizame Bakery and other projects in the area, including public officials involved in both community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of the Blue Crane development agency on tourism development: a comparative analysis
- Authors: Zokoza, Makhaya
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Travel agents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018602
- Description: This research investigates the impact of the Blue Crane Development Agency (BCDA) on tourism development by comparing the implementation of the Responsible Tourism Sector Plan of the Blue Crane Route Municipality (BCRM) with the Responsible Tourism Sector Plan of the Sundays River Valley Municipality (SRVM). In the latter instance, there is no development agency involved. A qualitative approach to research is applied with a specific focus on in-depth interviews. The literature review focuses on responsible tourism, local economic development (LED) and development agencies. The research is grounded in the Endogenous Growth Theory. The research notes the phenomenal success of the development agency model for delivery of LED projects. There is a notable growth in the tourism sector within the BCRM. With 45 permanent jobs created, the BCRM is a better place as compared to what it was in the era prior to the establishment of the BCDA. This surpasses by far the number of jobs created in the SRVM where the development agency model does not exist. The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) prefers a district-wide development agency as opposed to a local development agency. The establishment of Cacadu Development Agency (CDA) follows this suggestion. The findings of this research are thus very significant for the SALGA in their pursuit for best practices in LED. Both the BCRM and the SRVM are under-marketed, a negative factor on their tourism growth and development. Placing of billboards at the Ncanara interchange to advertise them would ideally enhance their tourism marketing campaigns. The research also finds that both local municipalities have inadequate monitoring and evaluation systems for projects. In this respect, the research suggests that the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) should consider conducting a provincial research covering all the districts, on the contribution of tourism to the local economies. As a provincial entity, the ECPTA would be better placed to undertake that task. They would have less legal restrictions imposed by jurisdictional issues than would a local municipality. The research recommends the relocation of the CDA and the CDM from the metropolitan city of Port Elizabeth to one of the local municipalities. That would most likely increase business tourism, thereby boosting the local economy in the relevant small municipality. In conclusion, this research proposes that the presence of a development agency enhances tourism growth and development in the BCRM.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Zokoza, Makhaya
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Travel agents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018602
- Description: This research investigates the impact of the Blue Crane Development Agency (BCDA) on tourism development by comparing the implementation of the Responsible Tourism Sector Plan of the Blue Crane Route Municipality (BCRM) with the Responsible Tourism Sector Plan of the Sundays River Valley Municipality (SRVM). In the latter instance, there is no development agency involved. A qualitative approach to research is applied with a specific focus on in-depth interviews. The literature review focuses on responsible tourism, local economic development (LED) and development agencies. The research is grounded in the Endogenous Growth Theory. The research notes the phenomenal success of the development agency model for delivery of LED projects. There is a notable growth in the tourism sector within the BCRM. With 45 permanent jobs created, the BCRM is a better place as compared to what it was in the era prior to the establishment of the BCDA. This surpasses by far the number of jobs created in the SRVM where the development agency model does not exist. The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) prefers a district-wide development agency as opposed to a local development agency. The establishment of Cacadu Development Agency (CDA) follows this suggestion. The findings of this research are thus very significant for the SALGA in their pursuit for best practices in LED. Both the BCRM and the SRVM are under-marketed, a negative factor on their tourism growth and development. Placing of billboards at the Ncanara interchange to advertise them would ideally enhance their tourism marketing campaigns. The research also finds that both local municipalities have inadequate monitoring and evaluation systems for projects. In this respect, the research suggests that the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) should consider conducting a provincial research covering all the districts, on the contribution of tourism to the local economies. As a provincial entity, the ECPTA would be better placed to undertake that task. They would have less legal restrictions imposed by jurisdictional issues than would a local municipality. The research recommends the relocation of the CDA and the CDM from the metropolitan city of Port Elizabeth to one of the local municipalities. That would most likely increase business tourism, thereby boosting the local economy in the relevant small municipality. In conclusion, this research proposes that the presence of a development agency enhances tourism growth and development in the BCRM.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The contribution of export support programmes for small and medium enterprises in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Fihlani, Asisipho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51400 , vital:43271
- Description: Globally, government export support programmes have been created to assist SMEs with exports. In South Africa, there has been an introduction of government export support programme. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) for SMEs in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape, with specific focus on East London and Port Elizabeth. A qualitative methodology meant to acquire in-depth knowledge was employed in the study. A case study was developed, in which EMIA’s contribution to SMEs’ export was the case in study. A group of seventeen participants, which included government officials and SMEs were interviewed and thematic analysis was used to evaluate the contribution of EMIA to agro-processing SME exports. The study found that EMIA was useful towards SME exports but lacked on addressing key barriers to exports faced by SMEs. The study recommends that government should place more emphasis on linking SMEs with proper contacts of buyers in international markets and that SMEs should be incentivised for costs relating to logistics for initial export orders. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Fihlani, Asisipho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51400 , vital:43271
- Description: Globally, government export support programmes have been created to assist SMEs with exports. In South Africa, there has been an introduction of government export support programme. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) for SMEs in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape, with specific focus on East London and Port Elizabeth. A qualitative methodology meant to acquire in-depth knowledge was employed in the study. A case study was developed, in which EMIA’s contribution to SMEs’ export was the case in study. A group of seventeen participants, which included government officials and SMEs were interviewed and thematic analysis was used to evaluate the contribution of EMIA to agro-processing SME exports. The study found that EMIA was useful towards SME exports but lacked on addressing key barriers to exports faced by SMEs. The study recommends that government should place more emphasis on linking SMEs with proper contacts of buyers in international markets and that SMEs should be incentivised for costs relating to logistics for initial export orders. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Towards the modeling of indigenous poultry production in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa: characterization and extension evaluation for poverty reduction
- Yusuf, Shehu Folaranmi Gbolahan Shehu
- Authors: Yusuf, Shehu Folaranmi Gbolahan Shehu
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poultry -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019833 , Poultry -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Poverty remains a critical issue mostly in the rural South Africa. Various initiatives, policies and programs have been enacted by the government with attempting to reduce poverty at the national and provincial levels; poverty is yet to be abated. The target of the Millennium Development Goal 1 (MDG1) of halving poverty by the year 2015 notwithstanding, poverty remains a threat to quality livelihoods. Agriculture has continued to be one of the pillars of government efforts to address poverty. However, in livestock production interventions, efforts of government had largely been on cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and exotic poultry with little attention being given to indigenous poultry production (IPP). This study explores the option of using IPP to address rural poverty by capitalizing on its minimal inputs while recognizing its prevalence in a variety of households. The study addresses the characterization of the IPP from the perspectives of housing, feeding, healthcare management, breeding and marketing options.Skill competencies of the indigenous poultry farmers (IPFs) and the Agricultural Development Technicians (ADTs) were examined. This study reviewed poultry models in different parts of the world with special attention to Africa. The human resource development program of the department of rural development and agrarian reform was discussed. The study employed the use of multi-methods approach, the quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Descriptive statistical analysis, frequent count, percentage, means, standard deviation, chisquare, and principal component analysis was used in the quantitative data analysis while the “open social system” was used for the qualitative methodology. Findings revealed that IPFs face some challenges among which are, the poor housing that exposed the birds to inclement weather, predator attacks and stock theft, high mortality of chicks after hatching and expensive feed for the flock. The IPFs showed competencies in nine skill items that included ability to identify chicken predators (x=3.92) and high yielding chickens (x=3.79); control of predators(x=3.77); methods of using ethno veterinary drugs to treat chicken diseases and pests (x=3.72), and identify signs of diseases (x=3.69), among others. However, the ADTs did not show any competency in any of the 32 skills items. The principal component analysis with Varimax rotation was performed to ascertain the dimensionality of the measures. Six factors with eigen value of >1, which accounted for 77.317% were extracted, with each factor loading ranging from 0.523 to 0.93. Factor loading after rotation that emerged on the same component was described; as brooding, shelter and care of the chicks; predators and healthcare; hygiene and litter management; feeds and feeding stuff; and record keeping and marketing. The findings on the human resource development revealed that staff meetings were the most common method of capacity development. This was followed by in-service-training, formal study, workshop, and on the job training. The farmers’ field school and study tours were sparingly used. However, respondents were in favor of on-site training, staff meetings, formal study and in-service training. The findings on the appropriate model suggest a theoretical indigenous poultry production model (IPPM) for the Eastern Cape Province (ECP). The “open social system” was used to develop a framework for an indigenous poultry cooperative society (to be known as Abafuyi Benkukhu Zemveli [ABZ]). This was meant to create a binding force for capacity development, a strong economic foundation through equity contributions, creation of marketing channels, and the development of a concept of ‘‘our own'' product in the market. Lastly, the study offers options for a training program that would accommodate the new initiatives, with a strong capacity development training approach. In this context, the study advocates for institutional support for the IPFs and the incorporation of indigenous poultry in the curriculum of the agricultural training programs at higher education institutions in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Yusuf, Shehu Folaranmi Gbolahan Shehu
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poultry -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019833 , Poultry -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Poverty remains a critical issue mostly in the rural South Africa. Various initiatives, policies and programs have been enacted by the government with attempting to reduce poverty at the national and provincial levels; poverty is yet to be abated. The target of the Millennium Development Goal 1 (MDG1) of halving poverty by the year 2015 notwithstanding, poverty remains a threat to quality livelihoods. Agriculture has continued to be one of the pillars of government efforts to address poverty. However, in livestock production interventions, efforts of government had largely been on cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and exotic poultry with little attention being given to indigenous poultry production (IPP). This study explores the option of using IPP to address rural poverty by capitalizing on its minimal inputs while recognizing its prevalence in a variety of households. The study addresses the characterization of the IPP from the perspectives of housing, feeding, healthcare management, breeding and marketing options.Skill competencies of the indigenous poultry farmers (IPFs) and the Agricultural Development Technicians (ADTs) were examined. This study reviewed poultry models in different parts of the world with special attention to Africa. The human resource development program of the department of rural development and agrarian reform was discussed. The study employed the use of multi-methods approach, the quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Descriptive statistical analysis, frequent count, percentage, means, standard deviation, chisquare, and principal component analysis was used in the quantitative data analysis while the “open social system” was used for the qualitative methodology. Findings revealed that IPFs face some challenges among which are, the poor housing that exposed the birds to inclement weather, predator attacks and stock theft, high mortality of chicks after hatching and expensive feed for the flock. The IPFs showed competencies in nine skill items that included ability to identify chicken predators (x=3.92) and high yielding chickens (x=3.79); control of predators(x=3.77); methods of using ethno veterinary drugs to treat chicken diseases and pests (x=3.72), and identify signs of diseases (x=3.69), among others. However, the ADTs did not show any competency in any of the 32 skills items. The principal component analysis with Varimax rotation was performed to ascertain the dimensionality of the measures. Six factors with eigen value of >1, which accounted for 77.317% were extracted, with each factor loading ranging from 0.523 to 0.93. Factor loading after rotation that emerged on the same component was described; as brooding, shelter and care of the chicks; predators and healthcare; hygiene and litter management; feeds and feeding stuff; and record keeping and marketing. The findings on the human resource development revealed that staff meetings were the most common method of capacity development. This was followed by in-service-training, formal study, workshop, and on the job training. The farmers’ field school and study tours were sparingly used. However, respondents were in favor of on-site training, staff meetings, formal study and in-service training. The findings on the appropriate model suggest a theoretical indigenous poultry production model (IPPM) for the Eastern Cape Province (ECP). The “open social system” was used to develop a framework for an indigenous poultry cooperative society (to be known as Abafuyi Benkukhu Zemveli [ABZ]). This was meant to create a binding force for capacity development, a strong economic foundation through equity contributions, creation of marketing channels, and the development of a concept of ‘‘our own'' product in the market. Lastly, the study offers options for a training program that would accommodate the new initiatives, with a strong capacity development training approach. In this context, the study advocates for institutional support for the IPFs and the incorporation of indigenous poultry in the curriculum of the agricultural training programs at higher education institutions in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A case study of the strategic nature of DaimlerChrysler South Africa's corporate social investment programmes in the local communities of the Border-Kei region in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mak'ochieng, Alice Atieno
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: DaimlerChrysler , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1165 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002781 , DaimlerChrysler , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Corporate social responsibility has become the business issue of the 21st century. Heightened expectations of the business sector, globalisation and increased media attention on the role of business in society are casting an intense spotlight on this issue. As a result, pressure has built on business to play a larger role in bringing about socio-economic development to many local communities where they operate. While for a long time companies have been involved in the community on a philanthropy basis, many companies today are reassessing the manner in which they conduct their corporate social responsibility programmes. Many companies are including corporate social responsibility issues into their strategic planning process and overall corporate strategy. Emphasis is given to certain strategic indicators that must be present in order for a company to be said to have taken a strategic approach to corporate social responsibility. This study adopted a critical-realist approach using a case study method to evaluate DaimlerChrysler South Africa’s corporate social investment programmes in the local community of the Border-Kei region against these strategic indicators. This new form of engagement is even challenging for a multinational corporation, which may feel that it is only obliged to assist the local community where its corporate headquarters is located. But as companies derive an everlarger share of revenue and profits from international operations, multinational companies are being called upon to redefine “community”, by looking beyond local, domestic and geographical communities to include those in regions where they have factories or factories operated by key suppliers. This study found that DCSA was strategically involved and had a good relationship with its local community. However, the company needs to be more connected with the rural communities to make local projects more successful especially after handover.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Mak'ochieng, Alice Atieno
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: DaimlerChrysler , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1165 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002781 , DaimlerChrysler , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Corporate social responsibility has become the business issue of the 21st century. Heightened expectations of the business sector, globalisation and increased media attention on the role of business in society are casting an intense spotlight on this issue. As a result, pressure has built on business to play a larger role in bringing about socio-economic development to many local communities where they operate. While for a long time companies have been involved in the community on a philanthropy basis, many companies today are reassessing the manner in which they conduct their corporate social responsibility programmes. Many companies are including corporate social responsibility issues into their strategic planning process and overall corporate strategy. Emphasis is given to certain strategic indicators that must be present in order for a company to be said to have taken a strategic approach to corporate social responsibility. This study adopted a critical-realist approach using a case study method to evaluate DaimlerChrysler South Africa’s corporate social investment programmes in the local community of the Border-Kei region against these strategic indicators. This new form of engagement is even challenging for a multinational corporation, which may feel that it is only obliged to assist the local community where its corporate headquarters is located. But as companies derive an everlarger share of revenue and profits from international operations, multinational companies are being called upon to redefine “community”, by looking beyond local, domestic and geographical communities to include those in regions where they have factories or factories operated by key suppliers. This study found that DCSA was strategically involved and had a good relationship with its local community. However, the company needs to be more connected with the rural communities to make local projects more successful especially after handover.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Youth entrepreneurship and poverty alleviation in Kentane
- Authors: Potwana, Viwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Young adults -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19850 , vital:28985
- Description: The goal of this research was to explore the experiences of the youth in Kentane with respect to the role that a entrepreneurship plays in alleviation poverty, with the intention to enhance recommendations to the local municipality, the private sector and governmental departments. The study focused on entrepreneurship as one of the strategies that is deemed capable of reducing poverty and increasing economic growth. A qualitative research approach was used to explore the experiences of the entrepreneurial youth, where permission was attained from the youth prior to the commencement of the study. Purposive sampling was utilised to recruit participants and data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Qualitative data analysis was carried out using steps outlined in Creswell (2003). Five main themes were identified during data analysis where the main finding was that there was a lack of knowledge and resources to broaden the scope of youth based businesses in the area. Another major finding from this study was the introduction and imposition of haphazard short-term projects aimed at alleviating poverty that often failed as they did not address the needs specific to the community. Youth of Kentane are dedicated as entrepreneurs; however, they need the collaboration of interested parties and stakeholders to realise their respective potentials. Developmental and training programmes are crucial to assist the entrepreneurial youth of Kentane.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Potwana, Viwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Young adults -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19850 , vital:28985
- Description: The goal of this research was to explore the experiences of the youth in Kentane with respect to the role that a entrepreneurship plays in alleviation poverty, with the intention to enhance recommendations to the local municipality, the private sector and governmental departments. The study focused on entrepreneurship as one of the strategies that is deemed capable of reducing poverty and increasing economic growth. A qualitative research approach was used to explore the experiences of the entrepreneurial youth, where permission was attained from the youth prior to the commencement of the study. Purposive sampling was utilised to recruit participants and data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Qualitative data analysis was carried out using steps outlined in Creswell (2003). Five main themes were identified during data analysis where the main finding was that there was a lack of knowledge and resources to broaden the scope of youth based businesses in the area. Another major finding from this study was the introduction and imposition of haphazard short-term projects aimed at alleviating poverty that often failed as they did not address the needs specific to the community. Youth of Kentane are dedicated as entrepreneurs; however, they need the collaboration of interested parties and stakeholders to realise their respective potentials. Developmental and training programmes are crucial to assist the entrepreneurial youth of Kentane.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017