An analysis of performance management and organisational success in local government administration in South Africa: A case study of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM)
- Ndasana, Mvuyisi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1615-7785
- Authors: Ndasana, Mvuyisi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1615-7785
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Local government--South Africa , Managing local government
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23765 , vital:60504
- Description: The study examined performance management and organizational success in local government administration in South Africa with a focus on Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), Eastern Cape Province. It adopted the mixed method approach, namely, qualitative, and quantitative research methods. In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with a sample of 20 participants from Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) who were selected using the purposive sampling technique. The study also distributed 100 questionnaires to BCMM employees who were selected using random sampling technique. The target population of the study was the employees of BCMM. Based on the analysis of data, the study found that the municipality did not have an electronic system; they were using a manual system in their performance management. Further to this, the respondents also highlighted that there was no approved Performance Management System (PMS) policy framework that had been endorsed by the council of the municipality. From this conclusion, the study recommended that the municipality must have an approved PMS policy framework and it should be implemented at all levels of employment within the organization. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Ndasana, Mvuyisi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1615-7785
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Local government--South Africa , Managing local government
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23765 , vital:60504
- Description: The study examined performance management and organizational success in local government administration in South Africa with a focus on Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), Eastern Cape Province. It adopted the mixed method approach, namely, qualitative, and quantitative research methods. In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with a sample of 20 participants from Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) who were selected using the purposive sampling technique. The study also distributed 100 questionnaires to BCMM employees who were selected using random sampling technique. The target population of the study was the employees of BCMM. Based on the analysis of data, the study found that the municipality did not have an electronic system; they were using a manual system in their performance management. Further to this, the respondents also highlighted that there was no approved Performance Management System (PMS) policy framework that had been endorsed by the council of the municipality. From this conclusion, the study recommended that the municipality must have an approved PMS policy framework and it should be implemented at all levels of employment within the organization. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Evaluation of groundwater potential using geological and geophysical methods in the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Adesola, Gbenga Olamide https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4151-5305
- Authors: Adesola, Gbenga Olamide https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4151-5305
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Groundwater , Geology, Structural -- South Africa , Geographical Information Systems
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22490 , vital:52344
- Description: Geological and geophysical methods were used to evaluate the groundwater potential in University of Fort Hare (Alice campus), Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Methodologies adopted for obtaining these results included a comprehensive literature review, thin section analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing and geophysical investigations (magnetic survey and vertical electrical sounding). The geology of the study area belongs to the Balfour Formation, which forms part of the Beaufort Group in the Karoo Supergroup. The rocks within the study area are composed majorly of sandstone and mudstone. Lineaments were automatically extracted using the PCI Geomatica 2018 software. Fifteen samples were collected at various locations within the study area and were analyzed using the petrographic microscope while others were analyzed with the Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) combined with an Energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry. The results show that the rocks are fractured, porous and contained minerals such as quartz, feldspar, calcite, mica and clay minerals. The occurrence of these fractures helps to improve the groundwater storage capacity in the study area. Out of the twenty seven (27) rock samples collected in the field, ten (10) rock samples were selected for densities (dry, wet and grain densities) and porosity measurements in the laboratory. The rocks density values range from 2.5763 – 2.6978 g/cm3. The average porosities of the rocks range from 0.85 – 2.56 percent. The density of the sandstone ranges from 2.5908 – 2.6820 g/cm3 whilst the porosity range from 0.85 – 2.02 percent. The density of the mudstone ranges from 2.5763 – 2.6978 g/cm3 whilst the porosity ranges from 1.84 – 2.56 percent. About 8458 magnetic measurements were taken at about 20 m spacing along linear and non-linear paths and road. A variety of magnetic maps were generated. Several magnetic highs were observed and the linear highs were interpreted to be due to dolerite dykes whilst the broader high zones were inferred to be due to dolerite sills. These Karoo dolerites intruded the sediments at various depths and must have fractured the sediments causing them to be more porous and permeable. The depth slices of magnetic data reveal that near surface magnetic bodies occur within the depth of approximately 19 m from the surface while deep seated ones occur as deep as 31 m and maybe deeper. The knowledge of the dolerite intrusions enabled the location of drilling targets for groundwater. Electrical resistivity data were collected at 28 sites using the Schlumberger array and a maximum cable length (250 m) from the centre point which achieved a maximum depth penetration of about 70 m to 162 m. The results from 1D modelling using WINRESIST software showed that the vertical electric sounding curves are composed of HA and HK curve-types, which show four geoelectric layers. The resistivity of the first layer which is the topmost layer has values ranging from 20 - 5752 Ωm and the thickness is between 0.4 – 1.8 m. The second layer which consists of clay, mudstone and sandstone has resistivity values varying from 3 - 51 Ωm and thickness varying from 0.8 – 17.5 m. The third layer which is interpreted to be the aquiferous layer of the study area is made up majorly of sandstone with resistivity that varies from 136 – 352 Ωm and thickness range from 9.9 – 143.9 m. The fourth layer of resistivity varying from 44 to 60428 Ωm is made up of mudstone and sandstone, which are in some places intruded by dolerites. Groundwater potential is favourably high in some of the areas investigated. Furthermore, the results of the research indicated that secondary porosity is the main porosity for the reservoir rocks in the study area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Adesola, Gbenga Olamide https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4151-5305
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Groundwater , Geology, Structural -- South Africa , Geographical Information Systems
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22490 , vital:52344
- Description: Geological and geophysical methods were used to evaluate the groundwater potential in University of Fort Hare (Alice campus), Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Methodologies adopted for obtaining these results included a comprehensive literature review, thin section analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing and geophysical investigations (magnetic survey and vertical electrical sounding). The geology of the study area belongs to the Balfour Formation, which forms part of the Beaufort Group in the Karoo Supergroup. The rocks within the study area are composed majorly of sandstone and mudstone. Lineaments were automatically extracted using the PCI Geomatica 2018 software. Fifteen samples were collected at various locations within the study area and were analyzed using the petrographic microscope while others were analyzed with the Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) combined with an Energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry. The results show that the rocks are fractured, porous and contained minerals such as quartz, feldspar, calcite, mica and clay minerals. The occurrence of these fractures helps to improve the groundwater storage capacity in the study area. Out of the twenty seven (27) rock samples collected in the field, ten (10) rock samples were selected for densities (dry, wet and grain densities) and porosity measurements in the laboratory. The rocks density values range from 2.5763 – 2.6978 g/cm3. The average porosities of the rocks range from 0.85 – 2.56 percent. The density of the sandstone ranges from 2.5908 – 2.6820 g/cm3 whilst the porosity range from 0.85 – 2.02 percent. The density of the mudstone ranges from 2.5763 – 2.6978 g/cm3 whilst the porosity ranges from 1.84 – 2.56 percent. About 8458 magnetic measurements were taken at about 20 m spacing along linear and non-linear paths and road. A variety of magnetic maps were generated. Several magnetic highs were observed and the linear highs were interpreted to be due to dolerite dykes whilst the broader high zones were inferred to be due to dolerite sills. These Karoo dolerites intruded the sediments at various depths and must have fractured the sediments causing them to be more porous and permeable. The depth slices of magnetic data reveal that near surface magnetic bodies occur within the depth of approximately 19 m from the surface while deep seated ones occur as deep as 31 m and maybe deeper. The knowledge of the dolerite intrusions enabled the location of drilling targets for groundwater. Electrical resistivity data were collected at 28 sites using the Schlumberger array and a maximum cable length (250 m) from the centre point which achieved a maximum depth penetration of about 70 m to 162 m. The results from 1D modelling using WINRESIST software showed that the vertical electric sounding curves are composed of HA and HK curve-types, which show four geoelectric layers. The resistivity of the first layer which is the topmost layer has values ranging from 20 - 5752 Ωm and the thickness is between 0.4 – 1.8 m. The second layer which consists of clay, mudstone and sandstone has resistivity values varying from 3 - 51 Ωm and thickness varying from 0.8 – 17.5 m. The third layer which is interpreted to be the aquiferous layer of the study area is made up majorly of sandstone with resistivity that varies from 136 – 352 Ωm and thickness range from 9.9 – 143.9 m. The fourth layer of resistivity varying from 44 to 60428 Ωm is made up of mudstone and sandstone, which are in some places intruded by dolerites. Groundwater potential is favourably high in some of the areas investigated. Furthermore, the results of the research indicated that secondary porosity is the main porosity for the reservoir rocks in the study area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Linkage to care of HIV clients following diagnosis in Engcobo Sub-district, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mthini, Sandiso
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Primary care (Medicine) , HIV infections AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27017 , vital:66223
- Description: Background: “Linkage to care” is an essential strategy in place for the retention of HIV diagnosed clients on treatment. It is vital throughout the management and care of an HIV client. Aim of the study was to explore the effectiveness of “linkage to care” of HIV clients following the diagnosis in the Engcobo sub-district, Eastern cape. Methodology: Qualitative, explorative, descriptive study design was used to explore and describe the effectiveness of “linkage to care” of HIV clients following diagnosis in the Engcobo sub-district. The population for the study were all healthcare workers, who are involved in the program of “linkage to care” of HIV positive clients. Purposive Sampling was used to select professional nurses, Community healthcare workers, Lay counsellors, linkage officers who are involved in the linkage of HIV positive patients and the facility managers whom their facilities provide HIV care services. Interview guide was used to collect data and Tesch’s method was used to analyse data. Findings: Themes that emerged from the study were flexible time to “linkage to care”; use of different policies; administration; team activities and “linkage to care” benefits. Recommendations: Training on “linkage to care”; case management model; TIER.NET system upgrade/ linkage App development, patient information packs; standardised extended hours; transport assistance/outreach mobile services. Conclusion “Linkage to care” is a team effort, it needs collaboration and knowledge. Despite the implementation of a linkage program, there are challenges that the department of health needs to act on as addressed on researcher’s recommendations. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Mthini, Sandiso
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Primary care (Medicine) , HIV infections AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27017 , vital:66223
- Description: Background: “Linkage to care” is an essential strategy in place for the retention of HIV diagnosed clients on treatment. It is vital throughout the management and care of an HIV client. Aim of the study was to explore the effectiveness of “linkage to care” of HIV clients following the diagnosis in the Engcobo sub-district, Eastern cape. Methodology: Qualitative, explorative, descriptive study design was used to explore and describe the effectiveness of “linkage to care” of HIV clients following diagnosis in the Engcobo sub-district. The population for the study were all healthcare workers, who are involved in the program of “linkage to care” of HIV positive clients. Purposive Sampling was used to select professional nurses, Community healthcare workers, Lay counsellors, linkage officers who are involved in the linkage of HIV positive patients and the facility managers whom their facilities provide HIV care services. Interview guide was used to collect data and Tesch’s method was used to analyse data. Findings: Themes that emerged from the study were flexible time to “linkage to care”; use of different policies; administration; team activities and “linkage to care” benefits. Recommendations: Training on “linkage to care”; case management model; TIER.NET system upgrade/ linkage App development, patient information packs; standardised extended hours; transport assistance/outreach mobile services. Conclusion “Linkage to care” is a team effort, it needs collaboration and knowledge. Despite the implementation of a linkage program, there are challenges that the department of health needs to act on as addressed on researcher’s recommendations. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines at selected primary health care facilities in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape Province
- Mazwembe-Hoho, Andiswa Zimkitha
- Authors: Mazwembe-Hoho, Andiswa Zimkitha
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Vaccines , Pharmaceutical policy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27942 , vital:70902
- Description: Background The World Health Organization has a standardized tool for assessing vaccine handling and management. South Africa has adopted WHO tools to suit its own conditions of supply and storage of vaccines, the WHO tool is a guideline for managing vaccines. Importantly, every person handling or supervising handling of vaccines should own this manual (s) and use it as a reference for the handling, storage, and management of vaccines and related items. Aim The aim of this study was to examine safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines by health care workers in PHC facilities of BCM Municipality. Methodology A quantitative research approach and descriptive design was used to assess the safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines in PHC facilities in BCM in EC. Results The results showed that safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines in PHC facilities in BCM does not comply fully on safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines. The overall compliance rate was 86%, and this indicated that healthcare workers have knowledge of what is required to be compliant with safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines. Conclusion Safe handling, storage, and management ovaccines in PHC facilities in BCM is conditionally compliant as the healthcare workers have moderate-to-satisfactory knowledge. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Mazwembe-Hoho, Andiswa Zimkitha
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Vaccines , Pharmaceutical policy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27942 , vital:70902
- Description: Background The World Health Organization has a standardized tool for assessing vaccine handling and management. South Africa has adopted WHO tools to suit its own conditions of supply and storage of vaccines, the WHO tool is a guideline for managing vaccines. Importantly, every person handling or supervising handling of vaccines should own this manual (s) and use it as a reference for the handling, storage, and management of vaccines and related items. Aim The aim of this study was to examine safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines by health care workers in PHC facilities of BCM Municipality. Methodology A quantitative research approach and descriptive design was used to assess the safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines in PHC facilities in BCM in EC. Results The results showed that safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines in PHC facilities in BCM does not comply fully on safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines. The overall compliance rate was 86%, and this indicated that healthcare workers have knowledge of what is required to be compliant with safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines. Conclusion Safe handling, storage, and management ovaccines in PHC facilities in BCM is conditionally compliant as the healthcare workers have moderate-to-satisfactory knowledge. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The utilization of contraceptives amongst adolescents at Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Ntengo-Kupula, Visisa
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Contraception , Birth control , Teenage pregnancy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27082 , vital:66272
- Description: Introduction Contraception has been identified as one way in which women can prevent unwanted pregnancies. Contraceptive utilization has been proved to minimize maternal mortality by lowering the risk of pregnancy and its associated life-threatening problems. Therefore, the researcher conducted a study at Stutterheim about the “utilization of contraceptives amongst adolescents at Stutterheim in Eastern Cape Province” with the intentions to explore perceptions of adolescents on utilization of contraceptives and to determine the factors that influence that contraceptive utilization. Methods This study adopted a quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional design which involved questionnaire tools completed by 436 adolescents between the ages of 14 and 19 years at Stutterheim health facilities and the surrounding schools, regardless of whether they were sexually active or not. After obtaining ethical clearance from the University ethics Committee and permission from the Department of Health the researcher visited the gatekeepers for obtaining informed consent and data collection procedures. The researcher administered the instruments herself to ensure validity and reliability of the instrument through a pilot study. The respondents of the pilot study did not participate in the major study. Any irregularities with the data instruments were corrected accordingly. Data collection took 3 weeks to complete all the sites. The raw data was captured onto an Excel spread sheet and analysed by the researcher with the assistance of a statistician. Results The data suggests that as much as the parents discuss about sex related issues and pregnancy, they are less likely to educate their adolescent girls about contraceptives probably due to the beliefs they have, lack of knowledge and the fear of introducing them into premarital sex. The 34.4percent of participants indicated that they were scared of contraceptive rumours spreading around the community as well as the stigmatization. Conclusion Due to the results of this study the Department of Health should work together with the department of education to put into effect the optimal utilization of contraceptives amongst adolescents by adding sexual, reproductive and contraceptives health education, as a subject in the school curriculum. Department of health must also make use of main media and social media since they are influential and can be the great sources of information for campaigns and more seminars on contraceptive utilization and its benefits to the adolescents, society and the State. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Ntengo-Kupula, Visisa
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Contraception , Birth control , Teenage pregnancy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27082 , vital:66272
- Description: Introduction Contraception has been identified as one way in which women can prevent unwanted pregnancies. Contraceptive utilization has been proved to minimize maternal mortality by lowering the risk of pregnancy and its associated life-threatening problems. Therefore, the researcher conducted a study at Stutterheim about the “utilization of contraceptives amongst adolescents at Stutterheim in Eastern Cape Province” with the intentions to explore perceptions of adolescents on utilization of contraceptives and to determine the factors that influence that contraceptive utilization. Methods This study adopted a quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional design which involved questionnaire tools completed by 436 adolescents between the ages of 14 and 19 years at Stutterheim health facilities and the surrounding schools, regardless of whether they were sexually active or not. After obtaining ethical clearance from the University ethics Committee and permission from the Department of Health the researcher visited the gatekeepers for obtaining informed consent and data collection procedures. The researcher administered the instruments herself to ensure validity and reliability of the instrument through a pilot study. The respondents of the pilot study did not participate in the major study. Any irregularities with the data instruments were corrected accordingly. Data collection took 3 weeks to complete all the sites. The raw data was captured onto an Excel spread sheet and analysed by the researcher with the assistance of a statistician. Results The data suggests that as much as the parents discuss about sex related issues and pregnancy, they are less likely to educate their adolescent girls about contraceptives probably due to the beliefs they have, lack of knowledge and the fear of introducing them into premarital sex. The 34.4percent of participants indicated that they were scared of contraceptive rumours spreading around the community as well as the stigmatization. Conclusion Due to the results of this study the Department of Health should work together with the department of education to put into effect the optimal utilization of contraceptives amongst adolescents by adding sexual, reproductive and contraceptives health education, as a subject in the school curriculum. Department of health must also make use of main media and social media since they are influential and can be the great sources of information for campaigns and more seminars on contraceptive utilization and its benefits to the adolescents, society and the State. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
A framework to prepare an information security awareness and training programme for a provincial government department in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
- Authors: Potelwa, Zandile
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Information technology--Security measures. , Employees--Training of. , Data encryption (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22289 , vital:52016
- Description: Provincial government departments do not have good audit reports on the information security section. The underlying issues are human factors associated with employee interaction with Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The problem to be addressed is how a provincial government needs to focus on employees’ information security awareness so that there is a residual improvement in information security culture to realise unqualified government audits for information security. A case study approach that focused on the provincial government departments in the Eastern Cape Province was used. The primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews containing questions related to information security awareness. Microsoft Teams was used to conduct online semi-structured interviews with 12 provincial government IT staff from two identified provincial departments. The data was analysed using thematic analysis and MS Excel for coding. The findings then were used to determine the outcome of this study which is the framework for preparing an information security awareness programme. The outcome of the study was achieved by condensing the themes that emerged in both the primary and secondary data. The framework was then explained as a way of recommending the importance of preparing information security awareness and training programmes in changing information security behaviour. The derived artefact of this study is an information security awareness framework that can be utilised in a provincial government department to increase the awareness of information security amongst government employees. The contribution of this study is a framework based on the Protection Motivation Theory and the Organisational Culture, to ascertain employees’ actions in relation to information risks and threats; requirements for preparing an information security awareness program for public sector employees and to determine the requirements to be considered when building information security culture in provincial government departments. The proposed framework can then be used to establish an information security culture within the government departments, which will mitigate security risks and threats. The significance of this study as per the constructs of ISA and training show that it can challenge thinking of how ISA can be prepared for not only provincial government but also for state-owned entities or local government. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Potelwa, Zandile
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Information technology--Security measures. , Employees--Training of. , Data encryption (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22289 , vital:52016
- Description: Provincial government departments do not have good audit reports on the information security section. The underlying issues are human factors associated with employee interaction with Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The problem to be addressed is how a provincial government needs to focus on employees’ information security awareness so that there is a residual improvement in information security culture to realise unqualified government audits for information security. A case study approach that focused on the provincial government departments in the Eastern Cape Province was used. The primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews containing questions related to information security awareness. Microsoft Teams was used to conduct online semi-structured interviews with 12 provincial government IT staff from two identified provincial departments. The data was analysed using thematic analysis and MS Excel for coding. The findings then were used to determine the outcome of this study which is the framework for preparing an information security awareness programme. The outcome of the study was achieved by condensing the themes that emerged in both the primary and secondary data. The framework was then explained as a way of recommending the importance of preparing information security awareness and training programmes in changing information security behaviour. The derived artefact of this study is an information security awareness framework that can be utilised in a provincial government department to increase the awareness of information security amongst government employees. The contribution of this study is a framework based on the Protection Motivation Theory and the Organisational Culture, to ascertain employees’ actions in relation to information risks and threats; requirements for preparing an information security awareness program for public sector employees and to determine the requirements to be considered when building information security culture in provincial government departments. The proposed framework can then be used to establish an information security culture within the government departments, which will mitigate security risks and threats. The significance of this study as per the constructs of ISA and training show that it can challenge thinking of how ISA can be prepared for not only provincial government but also for state-owned entities or local government. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
A mobile based control system for smart homes
- Authors: Tshimanga, Danny Kazadi
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Smart power grids , Home automation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22632 , vital:52606
- Description: A Smart Home Control System can provide a secure home, convenience, comfort, and interactivity of life in a particular home. The system can enable the automatic controlling of a house via a Smart Phone. These systems are becoming vital and widely used in homes to improve conditions of life. Most commercial home automation systems are expensive and their maintenance would require experts who understand the underlying implementation of the systems. This study developed a mobile-based home automation system prototype. The system was developed using the waterfall model methodology. To evaluate the developed system, the study used a simulation method. Ten trials were conducted to determine the performance of the implemented system. The mean time to failure was used to evaluate the system’ reliability. The system’s performance analysis revealed that the developed system performed better than the two other approaches; the Bluetooth and ZigBee. The developed system showed a 0 percent error, while the Bluetooth had 8 percent error and ZigBee 6 percent error. The reliability results showed the average lifespan of assets in the system before they could fail. Knowing the lifespan of an asset before it fails can help in reducing downtime of the system by planning or scheduling maintenance and develop an improved maintenance strategy. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Tshimanga, Danny Kazadi
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Smart power grids , Home automation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22632 , vital:52606
- Description: A Smart Home Control System can provide a secure home, convenience, comfort, and interactivity of life in a particular home. The system can enable the automatic controlling of a house via a Smart Phone. These systems are becoming vital and widely used in homes to improve conditions of life. Most commercial home automation systems are expensive and their maintenance would require experts who understand the underlying implementation of the systems. This study developed a mobile-based home automation system prototype. The system was developed using the waterfall model methodology. To evaluate the developed system, the study used a simulation method. Ten trials were conducted to determine the performance of the implemented system. The mean time to failure was used to evaluate the system’ reliability. The system’s performance analysis revealed that the developed system performed better than the two other approaches; the Bluetooth and ZigBee. The developed system showed a 0 percent error, while the Bluetooth had 8 percent error and ZigBee 6 percent error. The reliability results showed the average lifespan of assets in the system before they could fail. Knowing the lifespan of an asset before it fails can help in reducing downtime of the system by planning or scheduling maintenance and develop an improved maintenance strategy. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
An appraisal of strategies to mitigate related to non-communicable diseases of the eye: a case study of Michael Mapongwane Health Clinic in Khayelitsha, Western Cape Metro District
- Authors: Ngcebetsha, Avela Ayanda
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Chronically ill--Care , Ophthalmic nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22908 , vital:53186
- Description: Preventive and curative eye-care services are a critical component of care for patients diagnosed with chronic diseases. The South African constitution guarantees health as a fundamental human right of all citizens. While most chronically ill patients are managed at the primary health care centers, eye care services are currently contracted to private service providers. The extent to which people, especially the chronically ill patients, have access to eye-care service under the current structure is less understood. The study aims to establish the effectiveness and sustainability of the eye-care service delivery model at the Michael Mapongwane CHC, with specific reference to access to eye-care services. Specifically, the study examined the rate and determinants of eye-care service utilisation, assess user’s satisfaction and perspectives of primary health workers and private service providers regarding the current structure of eye-care services. The study adopted a descriptive and explanatory design, which involved a survey and semi-structured interviews. The survey was conducted among 423 patients attending the two primary health centers selected for this study. Patients with chronic illness were recruited over a period of one month. Overall, 365 patients with chronic illness and 58 patients without chronic illness took part in the study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the quantitative date. Purposive sampling was used to select nine health workers and 10 private eye-care service providers for the semi-structured interviews. The data obtained were transcribed and coded. Thematic content analysis was performed on the qualitative data. The results show that less than half of the respondents (n=168) had ever had an eye test, and an even lower proportion (n=115) had had an eye test in the past two years. Age, female sex, formal rural dwelling, marital status, and income were significantly associated with ever having an eye test done. The results reveal a gross inequality in access to eye care test. Only 19.2% of patients diagnosed with hypertension had had their eyes examined. Even fewer proportions of the patients (8.5%) had had their eyes examined during or after diagnosis for hypertension. Likewise, only one in three patients diagnosed with diabetes has had their eyes examined before or after they were diagnosed with diabetes. The majority of patients who had used the services affirmed that it was easy to access eye care services. While most respondents agreed that waiting time to make an appointment was not too long, over half of them affirmed that waiting to see an eye doctor was too long. Most users were reasonably satisfied with the eye care services received. Primary health care providers highlighted challenges such as work overload, poor infrastructure, and patient’s forgetfulness of the appointment dates as factors affecting access to eye care services in their clinic. The primary challenges the private eye-care service providers experienced were small rooms or inappropriate clinic rooms, language barrier and inadequate support from the clinics. In conclusion, this study has shown that access to preventive and curative health care services was among patients attending primary health care centres, and especially those with chronic illness. The current structure of eye care services makes it difficult for patients to access care and for providers to provide quality care. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Ngcebetsha, Avela Ayanda
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Chronically ill--Care , Ophthalmic nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22908 , vital:53186
- Description: Preventive and curative eye-care services are a critical component of care for patients diagnosed with chronic diseases. The South African constitution guarantees health as a fundamental human right of all citizens. While most chronically ill patients are managed at the primary health care centers, eye care services are currently contracted to private service providers. The extent to which people, especially the chronically ill patients, have access to eye-care service under the current structure is less understood. The study aims to establish the effectiveness and sustainability of the eye-care service delivery model at the Michael Mapongwane CHC, with specific reference to access to eye-care services. Specifically, the study examined the rate and determinants of eye-care service utilisation, assess user’s satisfaction and perspectives of primary health workers and private service providers regarding the current structure of eye-care services. The study adopted a descriptive and explanatory design, which involved a survey and semi-structured interviews. The survey was conducted among 423 patients attending the two primary health centers selected for this study. Patients with chronic illness were recruited over a period of one month. Overall, 365 patients with chronic illness and 58 patients without chronic illness took part in the study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the quantitative date. Purposive sampling was used to select nine health workers and 10 private eye-care service providers for the semi-structured interviews. The data obtained were transcribed and coded. Thematic content analysis was performed on the qualitative data. The results show that less than half of the respondents (n=168) had ever had an eye test, and an even lower proportion (n=115) had had an eye test in the past two years. Age, female sex, formal rural dwelling, marital status, and income were significantly associated with ever having an eye test done. The results reveal a gross inequality in access to eye care test. Only 19.2% of patients diagnosed with hypertension had had their eyes examined. Even fewer proportions of the patients (8.5%) had had their eyes examined during or after diagnosis for hypertension. Likewise, only one in three patients diagnosed with diabetes has had their eyes examined before or after they were diagnosed with diabetes. The majority of patients who had used the services affirmed that it was easy to access eye care services. While most respondents agreed that waiting time to make an appointment was not too long, over half of them affirmed that waiting to see an eye doctor was too long. Most users were reasonably satisfied with the eye care services received. Primary health care providers highlighted challenges such as work overload, poor infrastructure, and patient’s forgetfulness of the appointment dates as factors affecting access to eye care services in their clinic. The primary challenges the private eye-care service providers experienced were small rooms or inappropriate clinic rooms, language barrier and inadequate support from the clinics. In conclusion, this study has shown that access to preventive and curative health care services was among patients attending primary health care centres, and especially those with chronic illness. The current structure of eye care services makes it difficult for patients to access care and for providers to provide quality care. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
An assessment of the impact of the Expanded Public Works Programme on youth empowerment in Amathole District Municipality, Eastern Cape.
- Authors: Ntamo, Banele
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Public works.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22220 , vital:51999
- Description: Since the dawn of democracy in 1994, the government of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) has launched numerous development programmes. These include youth empowerment initiatives aimed at developing the capacity of the youth in order for them to contribute to the economy. Optimistic prospects for any country depend on developing its young people. The measures to drive youth-focused delivery and to ensure youth development ought to move further than the establishment of structures and the delivering of policy statements. Government departments and municipalities are expected to implement meaningful youth empowerment programmes and ventures that are visible and that are adequately monitored. This study explored and assessed the effects of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) on youth empowerment. It used a case study of Amathole District in the Eastern Cape, South Africa province. The study utilised the qualitative technique to provide solutions to the research problem and to provide responses to the research hypothesis of the study. The sample comprised ten public representatives and thirty youth beneficiaries. In line with the purposive sampling approach, two sets of data were generated: the first set from public managers of the programme, and the second from programme beneficiaries. The researcher made use of the qualitative thematic content analysis approach, where data was analysed to arrive at emerging themes. The study was delimited to the effects of EPWP on youth empowerment. It was also limited to Amathole District within the Eastern Cape province. The results showed that most of the beneficiaries were engaged on a period of 1 to 12 months. This shows that most of participants were not engaged for viable and long periods, which they would need to truly increase their financial or monetary position in their households and have ample time to attain expertise. The results further indicated that in some cases the EPWP provides financial and income support to beneficiaries, but in some it does not. In general, the results showed that the EPWP reduces poverty because participants are able to look after their families and relatives after taking part in the EPWP. However, the training and skills participants attained in the EPWP interventions did not help them find employment elsewhere. This is linked to the findings that showed that beneficiaries were not provided with training certificates. Therefore, to enhance the execution of the EPWP and speed up poverty reduction, equity and joblessness in South Africa, the study recommends that ECDPW in ADM Area should design projects/programmes that are attractive to youth and that will equip them with necessary skills to empower youth to participant in the job market after the leave the programme. Furthermore, the study also recommends that the ECDPW in ADM Area consider public private partnership (PPP) for additional funding for the provision of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and training to participants. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Ntamo, Banele
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Public works.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22220 , vital:51999
- Description: Since the dawn of democracy in 1994, the government of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) has launched numerous development programmes. These include youth empowerment initiatives aimed at developing the capacity of the youth in order for them to contribute to the economy. Optimistic prospects for any country depend on developing its young people. The measures to drive youth-focused delivery and to ensure youth development ought to move further than the establishment of structures and the delivering of policy statements. Government departments and municipalities are expected to implement meaningful youth empowerment programmes and ventures that are visible and that are adequately monitored. This study explored and assessed the effects of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) on youth empowerment. It used a case study of Amathole District in the Eastern Cape, South Africa province. The study utilised the qualitative technique to provide solutions to the research problem and to provide responses to the research hypothesis of the study. The sample comprised ten public representatives and thirty youth beneficiaries. In line with the purposive sampling approach, two sets of data were generated: the first set from public managers of the programme, and the second from programme beneficiaries. The researcher made use of the qualitative thematic content analysis approach, where data was analysed to arrive at emerging themes. The study was delimited to the effects of EPWP on youth empowerment. It was also limited to Amathole District within the Eastern Cape province. The results showed that most of the beneficiaries were engaged on a period of 1 to 12 months. This shows that most of participants were not engaged for viable and long periods, which they would need to truly increase their financial or monetary position in their households and have ample time to attain expertise. The results further indicated that in some cases the EPWP provides financial and income support to beneficiaries, but in some it does not. In general, the results showed that the EPWP reduces poverty because participants are able to look after their families and relatives after taking part in the EPWP. However, the training and skills participants attained in the EPWP interventions did not help them find employment elsewhere. This is linked to the findings that showed that beneficiaries were not provided with training certificates. Therefore, to enhance the execution of the EPWP and speed up poverty reduction, equity and joblessness in South Africa, the study recommends that ECDPW in ADM Area should design projects/programmes that are attractive to youth and that will equip them with necessary skills to empower youth to participant in the job market after the leave the programme. Furthermore, the study also recommends that the ECDPW in ADM Area consider public private partnership (PPP) for additional funding for the provision of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and training to participants. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
An assessment of the role of Education Development (EDO) officers in promoting quality teaching and learning in selected secondary schools in the King Williams Town (KWT) District
- Mbande - Kwayini, Busisiwe Grissel
- Authors: Mbande - Kwayini, Busisiwe Grissel
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Education, Higher--South Africa. , School management and organization--South Africa. , Effective teaching.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22099 , vital:51983
- Description: Globally, concern have been raised against the quality of teaching and learning driven by international institution such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and agenda of the Education for All policy. In South Africa, the QTL in secondary school remains low and compromised despite the implementation of EFA policy and use of EDOs in South Africa generally and King Williams Town (KWT) in particular. The drive of this study is to assess the role played by EDOs in supporting QTL in selected secondary schools in King Williams Town District. The study used a qualitative approach, a case study design was followed and the case in point for this study is EDOs in KWT district. Their roles where assessed between two secondary schools namely Enoch Sontonga high school and Nosizwe high school. Ten (10) interviews using face-to face and telephonic method. The study managed to conduct five face-to-face interviews among EDOs as they were conveniently located during a period of workshops in the circuit and two educators and three principals were interviewed electronically. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used to select participants. Using the Popper’s theory of learning perspective the study found out that quality teaching and learning in KWT schools is dependent on factors such as time on task, scope of learning, learning environment, teaching methods and strategies, support and monitoring programmes, the teacher preparedness and their motivation and availability of attractive incentives to retain quality practitioners in their classrooms. The study found out that presently the EDOs are performing various roles such as offering support to the SMT through helping them understand their function within the school and the broader education system and helping in developing systems for monitoring and recording progress made by learners towards achievement of targets set. However, there are challenges encountered by EDOs when supporting schools to improve the QTL that were discussed namely, lack of human resources and material resources; educator resistance; non-academic activities; learner and teacher absenteeism; programmes alignment; and work overload. These challenges can be addressed using strategies such as human resources training and recruitment; programmes coordination and stakeholder cooperation; transport provision; consequence management; attitude change and policy alignment and implementation. The study recommends investment in leadership, Monitoring and evaluation, stakeholder engagement and training. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Mbande - Kwayini, Busisiwe Grissel
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Education, Higher--South Africa. , School management and organization--South Africa. , Effective teaching.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22099 , vital:51983
- Description: Globally, concern have been raised against the quality of teaching and learning driven by international institution such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and agenda of the Education for All policy. In South Africa, the QTL in secondary school remains low and compromised despite the implementation of EFA policy and use of EDOs in South Africa generally and King Williams Town (KWT) in particular. The drive of this study is to assess the role played by EDOs in supporting QTL in selected secondary schools in King Williams Town District. The study used a qualitative approach, a case study design was followed and the case in point for this study is EDOs in KWT district. Their roles where assessed between two secondary schools namely Enoch Sontonga high school and Nosizwe high school. Ten (10) interviews using face-to face and telephonic method. The study managed to conduct five face-to-face interviews among EDOs as they were conveniently located during a period of workshops in the circuit and two educators and three principals were interviewed electronically. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used to select participants. Using the Popper’s theory of learning perspective the study found out that quality teaching and learning in KWT schools is dependent on factors such as time on task, scope of learning, learning environment, teaching methods and strategies, support and monitoring programmes, the teacher preparedness and their motivation and availability of attractive incentives to retain quality practitioners in their classrooms. The study found out that presently the EDOs are performing various roles such as offering support to the SMT through helping them understand their function within the school and the broader education system and helping in developing systems for monitoring and recording progress made by learners towards achievement of targets set. However, there are challenges encountered by EDOs when supporting schools to improve the QTL that were discussed namely, lack of human resources and material resources; educator resistance; non-academic activities; learner and teacher absenteeism; programmes alignment; and work overload. These challenges can be addressed using strategies such as human resources training and recruitment; programmes coordination and stakeholder cooperation; transport provision; consequence management; attitude change and policy alignment and implementation. The study recommends investment in leadership, Monitoring and evaluation, stakeholder engagement and training. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
An investigation of a nexus between employee skill development and competences in the Eastern Cape Department of Education
- Authors: Gcezengana, Gcotyelwa
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Employees--Training of. , Public administration. , Public employees.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21886 , vital:51840
- Description: Better access to high-quality and relevant skills development is essential if South Africa is to achieve its National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 goals. The importance of training opportunities in promoting competence cannot be overstated. Equipping the workforce with the skills needed is a strategic priority for all developing countries’ national growth and progress. This paper seeks to investigate a nexus between employee skills development and competence in the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). The paper employed a qualitative research technique and the explanatory research design to achieve its desired objectives. The results of the paper confirmed that skills training and development strategy, when implemented by institutions, ensures that staff is empowered, informed, and taught, which results in better efficiency and effectiveness. In this situation, spin-offs will benefit public organizations since employees’ increased abilities open new opportunities for long-term employment growth and organizational effectiveness. Furthermore, the knowledgeable and well-trained individual would make sound organizational decisions while successfully listening to the clients' problems. The benefits will flow down to the areas where these organizations are headquartered, and the improved image will be the goal for the ECDoE. The conclusion drawn is that Skills Development Act aims to provide skills to the South African workforce, ensure that employees have more opportunities for skill acquisition, provide opportunities for new entrants to gain work experience. The ECDoE should invest more in skills development to increase the competencies of its employees. This will guarantee the achievement of its aims and objectives, through competent employees. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Gcezengana, Gcotyelwa
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Employees--Training of. , Public administration. , Public employees.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21886 , vital:51840
- Description: Better access to high-quality and relevant skills development is essential if South Africa is to achieve its National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 goals. The importance of training opportunities in promoting competence cannot be overstated. Equipping the workforce with the skills needed is a strategic priority for all developing countries’ national growth and progress. This paper seeks to investigate a nexus between employee skills development and competence in the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). The paper employed a qualitative research technique and the explanatory research design to achieve its desired objectives. The results of the paper confirmed that skills training and development strategy, when implemented by institutions, ensures that staff is empowered, informed, and taught, which results in better efficiency and effectiveness. In this situation, spin-offs will benefit public organizations since employees’ increased abilities open new opportunities for long-term employment growth and organizational effectiveness. Furthermore, the knowledgeable and well-trained individual would make sound organizational decisions while successfully listening to the clients' problems. The benefits will flow down to the areas where these organizations are headquartered, and the improved image will be the goal for the ECDoE. The conclusion drawn is that Skills Development Act aims to provide skills to the South African workforce, ensure that employees have more opportunities for skill acquisition, provide opportunities for new entrants to gain work experience. The ECDoE should invest more in skills development to increase the competencies of its employees. This will guarantee the achievement of its aims and objectives, through competent employees. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Assessment of soil erosion based on clustered geoinformatics approaches: a case study of Tyume River Catchment, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Mbatyoti, Siyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9736-5684
- Authors: Mbatyoti, Siyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9736-5684
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Soil erosion , Geoinformatics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22852 , vital:52969
- Description: This research centres on the holistic assessments of spatial and temporal dimensions of soil erosion zones based on the parameters of geomorphometry, hydro-statistics, and land use/cover dynamics. The study used a case study approach based on a clustered framework model of soil erosion parameters in the Tyume River basin in Eastern Cape, South Africa. The methods adopted for the investigation are, namely; non-parametric time-series assessment of streamflow dataset, semidecadal assessment of land use/cover (LU/C) dynamics, geospatial analysis of geomorphometric variables, vulnerability analysis of soil erosion zones, regression analysis of determination coefficient, and Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC). The delineation of soil erosion zones was based on the integrated analysis of the parameters of geomorphometry, geology, hydrology, and land use/ cover. The result of the hydro-statistical analysis of the Tyume River reports a major decline in the inter-annual regime frequency of storm flow based on the Mann- Kendall (MK) test and Sen’s slope assessment in 1992 (p-value = 0.031), 1997 (p-value = 0.045), 2003 (p-value = 0.021), 2008 (p-value = 0.003), and 2016 (p-value = 0.002). The MK test depicted a recurrence of peak streamflow acceleration in every three years based on low-flow and highflow transition. The sensitivity of LU/C to temporal dynamics of streamflow trends shown by the coefficient of correlation of trends of the LU/C water bodies with streamflow semi-decadal acceleration indicates a moderately relevant relationship, R = 0.76. The temporal analysis of LU/C and hydro-statistical analysis shows that the Tyume basin was highly vulnerable to soil erosion by water in 1999, 2009, and 2019. The vulnerability of the Tyume River basin in 2019 is exceptional and this is due to the conversion of forested area (woodland) into a built-up environment and farmland, with a high vulnerability in 2019 due to the slump in the rate of change of woodland and precipitation, and the increase in the rate of built-up and agricultural activities. The soil erosion vulnerability mapping divides the river basin into the critical high, high, moderate, low, nonvulnerable zones that cover 40 km2, 135 km2, 209 km2, and 186 km2 respectively. Regression analysis shows that the areas of soil erosion in the Tyume basin are moderately represented by the model (R2 = 56) while the model performance assessment based on success rate and prediction rate estimation from the area under the ROC curve shows that the model is good, Area Under Curve of the ROC = 0.899, and 0.897. The analysis suggests that soil erosion is driven by the impact of land use/land cover change, particularly in areas of high drainage density. Significantly, high vegetation density played a vital role in lowering high-flow on the hill-slope and low topographic wetness area as well as in areas with erodible geologic properties. The study, therefore, recommends the advocacy of crop rotation method of agricultural practice in the highly critical areas of soil erosion and recommends the development of riparian forests around the Tyume River. The study provides important information for environmental stakeholders on degradable areas which may require the urgent implementation of sustainable development measures. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Mbatyoti, Siyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9736-5684
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Soil erosion , Geoinformatics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22852 , vital:52969
- Description: This research centres on the holistic assessments of spatial and temporal dimensions of soil erosion zones based on the parameters of geomorphometry, hydro-statistics, and land use/cover dynamics. The study used a case study approach based on a clustered framework model of soil erosion parameters in the Tyume River basin in Eastern Cape, South Africa. The methods adopted for the investigation are, namely; non-parametric time-series assessment of streamflow dataset, semidecadal assessment of land use/cover (LU/C) dynamics, geospatial analysis of geomorphometric variables, vulnerability analysis of soil erosion zones, regression analysis of determination coefficient, and Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC). The delineation of soil erosion zones was based on the integrated analysis of the parameters of geomorphometry, geology, hydrology, and land use/ cover. The result of the hydro-statistical analysis of the Tyume River reports a major decline in the inter-annual regime frequency of storm flow based on the Mann- Kendall (MK) test and Sen’s slope assessment in 1992 (p-value = 0.031), 1997 (p-value = 0.045), 2003 (p-value = 0.021), 2008 (p-value = 0.003), and 2016 (p-value = 0.002). The MK test depicted a recurrence of peak streamflow acceleration in every three years based on low-flow and highflow transition. The sensitivity of LU/C to temporal dynamics of streamflow trends shown by the coefficient of correlation of trends of the LU/C water bodies with streamflow semi-decadal acceleration indicates a moderately relevant relationship, R = 0.76. The temporal analysis of LU/C and hydro-statistical analysis shows that the Tyume basin was highly vulnerable to soil erosion by water in 1999, 2009, and 2019. The vulnerability of the Tyume River basin in 2019 is exceptional and this is due to the conversion of forested area (woodland) into a built-up environment and farmland, with a high vulnerability in 2019 due to the slump in the rate of change of woodland and precipitation, and the increase in the rate of built-up and agricultural activities. The soil erosion vulnerability mapping divides the river basin into the critical high, high, moderate, low, nonvulnerable zones that cover 40 km2, 135 km2, 209 km2, and 186 km2 respectively. Regression analysis shows that the areas of soil erosion in the Tyume basin are moderately represented by the model (R2 = 56) while the model performance assessment based on success rate and prediction rate estimation from the area under the ROC curve shows that the model is good, Area Under Curve of the ROC = 0.899, and 0.897. The analysis suggests that soil erosion is driven by the impact of land use/land cover change, particularly in areas of high drainage density. Significantly, high vegetation density played a vital role in lowering high-flow on the hill-slope and low topographic wetness area as well as in areas with erodible geologic properties. The study, therefore, recommends the advocacy of crop rotation method of agricultural practice in the highly critical areas of soil erosion and recommends the development of riparian forests around the Tyume River. The study provides important information for environmental stakeholders on degradable areas which may require the urgent implementation of sustainable development measures. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Determinants of Foreign Direct Investments into the Southern African Development Community Region: The case of financial sector development, institutional quality and financial openness
- Authors: Makalima, Sisonke
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Africa , International finance , Monetary policy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21954 , vital:51855
- Description: The SADC region is a 15-member states grouping. Countries in the region have experienced low growth coupled with high levels of poverty and inequality. Attracting FDI to the region has been top priority. However, much is still to be realised. The study employed the Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) technique for the period 1980 to 2019. Empirical results show that financial sector development and financial openness are important determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The results also showed that institutional quality is also a very important variable in determining the inflow of FDI, even though its effect is conditional on financial sector development and financial openness. These results imply that countries with good institutional framework, as well as a developed financial sector and are financially open tend to attract more capital inflows in the form of FDI, thereby creating adequate conditions to boost private sector and investment abroad. Countries in the SADC region should therefore pursue policies which are aimed at improving the institutional framework, the level of financial sector development and further enhance the openness of their financial openness. , Thesis (MCom,) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Makalima, Sisonke
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Africa , International finance , Monetary policy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21954 , vital:51855
- Description: The SADC region is a 15-member states grouping. Countries in the region have experienced low growth coupled with high levels of poverty and inequality. Attracting FDI to the region has been top priority. However, much is still to be realised. The study employed the Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) technique for the period 1980 to 2019. Empirical results show that financial sector development and financial openness are important determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The results also showed that institutional quality is also a very important variable in determining the inflow of FDI, even though its effect is conditional on financial sector development and financial openness. These results imply that countries with good institutional framework, as well as a developed financial sector and are financially open tend to attract more capital inflows in the form of FDI, thereby creating adequate conditions to boost private sector and investment abroad. Countries in the SADC region should therefore pursue policies which are aimed at improving the institutional framework, the level of financial sector development and further enhance the openness of their financial openness. , Thesis (MCom,) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Determinants of foreign direct investments into the Southern African Development Community Region: the case of financial sector development, institutional quality and financial openness.
- Authors: Makalima, Sisonke
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign (International law)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21948 , vital:51856
- Description: The SADC region is a 15-member states grouping. Countries in the region have experienced low growth coupled with high levels of poverty and inequality. Attracting FDI to the region has been top priority. However, much is still to be realised. The study employed the Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) technique for the period 1980 to 2019. Empirical results show that financial sector development and financial openness are important determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The results also showed that institutional quality is also a very important variable in determining the inflow of FDI, even though its effect is conditional on financial sector development and financial openness. These results imply that countries with good institutional framework, as well as a developed financial sector and are financially open tend to attract more capital inflows in the form of FDI, thereby creating adequate conditions to boost private sector and investment abroad. Countries in the SADC region should therefore pursue policies which are aimed at improving the institutional framework, the level of financial sector development and further enhance the openness of their financial openness. , Thesis (MCom) (Economics) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Makalima, Sisonke
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign (International law)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21948 , vital:51856
- Description: The SADC region is a 15-member states grouping. Countries in the region have experienced low growth coupled with high levels of poverty and inequality. Attracting FDI to the region has been top priority. However, much is still to be realised. The study employed the Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) technique for the period 1980 to 2019. Empirical results show that financial sector development and financial openness are important determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The results also showed that institutional quality is also a very important variable in determining the inflow of FDI, even though its effect is conditional on financial sector development and financial openness. These results imply that countries with good institutional framework, as well as a developed financial sector and are financially open tend to attract more capital inflows in the form of FDI, thereby creating adequate conditions to boost private sector and investment abroad. Countries in the SADC region should therefore pursue policies which are aimed at improving the institutional framework, the level of financial sector development and further enhance the openness of their financial openness. , Thesis (MCom) (Economics) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Disquieting high school learners’ indiscipline behaviour: A systematic review exploring the impact of learner indiscipline on learning and teacher’s impetus
- Vuyolwetu Soni https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7306-0368
- Authors: Vuyolwetu Soni https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7306-0368
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: High school students -- Conduct of life , School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23829 , vital:60913
- Description: High school teachers in South Africa have been voicing out their distress to the government, caused by the indiscipline of learners. The indiscipline became evident after the South African government scrapped punitive behaviour modification methods such as corporal punishment. Although the government had introduced alternative forms of behaviour modification, the teachers still maintain that these are not effective hence the rife indiscipline behaviour among high school learners. This study reviewed 14 articles on the impact of the alternative forms of punishment on high school learners’ indiscipline and the teachers’ motivation. Further, the studies highlight several factors involved in developing the learners’ indiscipline. This review indicates that high school learners’ indiscipline continues to be rife in South African schools and negatively affects high school teachers’ motivation. This is regardless of the government's introduction of alternative forms of punishment. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Vuyolwetu Soni https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7306-0368
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: High school students -- Conduct of life , School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23829 , vital:60913
- Description: High school teachers in South Africa have been voicing out their distress to the government, caused by the indiscipline of learners. The indiscipline became evident after the South African government scrapped punitive behaviour modification methods such as corporal punishment. Although the government had introduced alternative forms of behaviour modification, the teachers still maintain that these are not effective hence the rife indiscipline behaviour among high school learners. This study reviewed 14 articles on the impact of the alternative forms of punishment on high school learners’ indiscipline and the teachers’ motivation. Further, the studies highlight several factors involved in developing the learners’ indiscipline. This review indicates that high school learners’ indiscipline continues to be rife in South African schools and negatively affects high school teachers’ motivation. This is regardless of the government's introduction of alternative forms of punishment. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Effectiveness of Government-Wide Monitoring and Evaluation system: case of the Provincial Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Eastern Cape.
- Authors: Poti, Mthetheleli
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness--Evaluation. , Employees--Rating of. , Public administration--Evaluation.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22312 , vital:52018
- Description: Monitoring and evaluation have gained popularity due to the rising demand for the public sector to enhance both policy and project outcomes. A rising number of countries are pursuing outcomes orientation by establishing and enhancing their government's monitoring and evaluation system. The researcher discovered that the E.C DEDEAT lacks a thorough mechanism for monitoring and evaluating government performance and the effect of service delivery. As a result, the researcher set out to investigate the implementation of the GWM&E system. The study adopted a qualitative approach. Questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis were used to collect data, and a content analysis was adopted to analyze data. The study revealed that South Africa had set various legislative frameworks to support monitoring and evaluation. There is a significant shift from traditional methods of accountability towards public sector monitoring and evaluation. While this is true, the study also found out that monitoring systems are still faced with various challenges within the department. Lastly, the study proffered recommendations on how public sector monitoring and evaluation can be enhanced. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Poti, Mthetheleli
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness--Evaluation. , Employees--Rating of. , Public administration--Evaluation.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22312 , vital:52018
- Description: Monitoring and evaluation have gained popularity due to the rising demand for the public sector to enhance both policy and project outcomes. A rising number of countries are pursuing outcomes orientation by establishing and enhancing their government's monitoring and evaluation system. The researcher discovered that the E.C DEDEAT lacks a thorough mechanism for monitoring and evaluating government performance and the effect of service delivery. As a result, the researcher set out to investigate the implementation of the GWM&E system. The study adopted a qualitative approach. Questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis were used to collect data, and a content analysis was adopted to analyze data. The study revealed that South Africa had set various legislative frameworks to support monitoring and evaluation. There is a significant shift from traditional methods of accountability towards public sector monitoring and evaluation. While this is true, the study also found out that monitoring systems are still faced with various challenges within the department. Lastly, the study proffered recommendations on how public sector monitoring and evaluation can be enhanced. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Effects of climatic variability on maize productivity in South Africa from 1937-2018
- Awum Awum, Rudin https://orcid.org/ 0000-0002-8740-6163
- Authors: Awum Awum, Rudin https://orcid.org/ 0000-0002-8740-6163
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Crops and climate , Climatic changes
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21410 , vital:48576
- Description: Climate is an important factor in agricultural production. The world is facing climate change and variability, which result in high temperatures, low rainfall patterns, shortage of water and persistent droughts. Climate change poses a significant threat to South Africa’s water resources, food security, health, infrastructure, ecosystem services and biodiversity. Negative impacts of climate variability on agriculture, especially on maize the staple crop, will worsen the food security status of the nation as most of South Africa’s maize crop is produced in summer and highly depends on rainfall. This study attempted to assess the impact of climate on maize production in South Africa using secondary time series data for the period 1937 to 2018. Rainfall and temperature were used as proxies for climate variability. The Granger Causality Model was used to examine the causal linkages between climatic variables (temperature or rainfall) and maize output in South Africa for the study period. The major outcome of the analysis was that there is a two-way causal relationship between maize production and temperature. The results also indicated that there is uni-directional causality between maize yield and rainfall. Furthermore, the Variance Decomposition Model was used to forecast the relationship between climatic elements and maize production in South Africa. The result showed that all variables have an effect on maize yield, with temperature having the least effect. The last objective of the study was to profile the maize output trend for the period from 1937 to 2018. The main findings from the analysis indicate that maize production in South Africa has a general upward slope. The study recommends that the government should intensify the provision of irrigation systems for the farmers in the most vulnerable areas to mitigate the climate change. Government should also embark on massive campaigns using a variety of media to create the needed public awareness on climate change and its impact on food security. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Awum Awum, Rudin https://orcid.org/ 0000-0002-8740-6163
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Crops and climate , Climatic changes
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21410 , vital:48576
- Description: Climate is an important factor in agricultural production. The world is facing climate change and variability, which result in high temperatures, low rainfall patterns, shortage of water and persistent droughts. Climate change poses a significant threat to South Africa’s water resources, food security, health, infrastructure, ecosystem services and biodiversity. Negative impacts of climate variability on agriculture, especially on maize the staple crop, will worsen the food security status of the nation as most of South Africa’s maize crop is produced in summer and highly depends on rainfall. This study attempted to assess the impact of climate on maize production in South Africa using secondary time series data for the period 1937 to 2018. Rainfall and temperature were used as proxies for climate variability. The Granger Causality Model was used to examine the causal linkages between climatic variables (temperature or rainfall) and maize output in South Africa for the study period. The major outcome of the analysis was that there is a two-way causal relationship between maize production and temperature. The results also indicated that there is uni-directional causality between maize yield and rainfall. Furthermore, the Variance Decomposition Model was used to forecast the relationship between climatic elements and maize production in South Africa. The result showed that all variables have an effect on maize yield, with temperature having the least effect. The last objective of the study was to profile the maize output trend for the period from 1937 to 2018. The main findings from the analysis indicate that maize production in South Africa has a general upward slope. The study recommends that the government should intensify the provision of irrigation systems for the farmers in the most vulnerable areas to mitigate the climate change. Government should also embark on massive campaigns using a variety of media to create the needed public awareness on climate change and its impact on food security. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Experiences of midwives regarding the use of pharmacological and non-pharmacological labour pain interventions in Lejweleputswa District in Free State
- Parkies, Limakatso Elizabeth
- Authors: Parkies, Limakatso Elizabeth
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Pharmacology , Anesthesia in obstetrics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23567 , vital:58166
- Description: Due to the disabling effects of severe labour pains, labour pain management remains an important topic in midwifery and needs to be reviewed more often. According to studies, various pain relief options, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, are available to help women cope with pain, but midwives did not employ these techniques adequately because of various experiences. Studies further indicate that, though the limited number of these techniques were employed they were not effective on some women. Thus, the purpose of this research study was to explore and describe midwives’ experiences on pharmacological and non-pharmacological labour pain management in the Lejweleputswa District of the Free State Province. This study employed a qualitative, descriptive, explorative, and contextual design. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants. The target population was midwives who work in the maternity wards of the institutions under study with three to five years’ experience in midwifery. Individual, face-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted; these were recorded for the researcher’s reference purposes, so as not to overlook important information. In addition, the researcher made use of field notes, recording in them what was heard, observed, felt, experienced, and thought during the interview. Ethical principles and trustworthiness were maintained throughout this study. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Confidentiality and anonymity were ensured throughout the interviews. The nine themes and 19 sub-themes that emerged during data analysis were discussed comprehensively. The findings indicate that midwives use both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods in managing labour pain. Some methods are effective in relieving pain for certain mothers, while other methods proved ineffective. Midwives administer Pethidine and Phenergan as per doctors’ prescription; non-pharmacological methods, such as back massage, deep breathing exercises, mobilisation, and warm baths or showers are also employed. Midwives provide pharmacological methods to all women in labour, and routinely employ non- pharmacological methods. Although the midwives are willing to manage patients’ pain, they face certain challenges, such as shortage of staff, increased workload, as well as inadequate resources. This leads to inadequate provision of non-pharmacological care. In conclusion, the midwives’ experiences were that both pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques were used for all labouring women and they had relaxing and calming effects on some women, resulting to them giving birth with ease, although for some they were not effective. In addition, the pharmacological interventions caused drowsiness to some women and babies. The findings will provide evidence-based information to the Free State Department of Health in order to assist policymakers and stakeholders in initiating and developing appropriate policies, guidelines, and interventions that can improve labour pain management. The Free State Department of Health should consider using other opioids and non-opioids in managing labour pain to broaden the scope of pain relief methods available to the midwives. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Parkies, Limakatso Elizabeth
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Pharmacology , Anesthesia in obstetrics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23567 , vital:58166
- Description: Due to the disabling effects of severe labour pains, labour pain management remains an important topic in midwifery and needs to be reviewed more often. According to studies, various pain relief options, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, are available to help women cope with pain, but midwives did not employ these techniques adequately because of various experiences. Studies further indicate that, though the limited number of these techniques were employed they were not effective on some women. Thus, the purpose of this research study was to explore and describe midwives’ experiences on pharmacological and non-pharmacological labour pain management in the Lejweleputswa District of the Free State Province. This study employed a qualitative, descriptive, explorative, and contextual design. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants. The target population was midwives who work in the maternity wards of the institutions under study with three to five years’ experience in midwifery. Individual, face-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted; these were recorded for the researcher’s reference purposes, so as not to overlook important information. In addition, the researcher made use of field notes, recording in them what was heard, observed, felt, experienced, and thought during the interview. Ethical principles and trustworthiness were maintained throughout this study. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Confidentiality and anonymity were ensured throughout the interviews. The nine themes and 19 sub-themes that emerged during data analysis were discussed comprehensively. The findings indicate that midwives use both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods in managing labour pain. Some methods are effective in relieving pain for certain mothers, while other methods proved ineffective. Midwives administer Pethidine and Phenergan as per doctors’ prescription; non-pharmacological methods, such as back massage, deep breathing exercises, mobilisation, and warm baths or showers are also employed. Midwives provide pharmacological methods to all women in labour, and routinely employ non- pharmacological methods. Although the midwives are willing to manage patients’ pain, they face certain challenges, such as shortage of staff, increased workload, as well as inadequate resources. This leads to inadequate provision of non-pharmacological care. In conclusion, the midwives’ experiences were that both pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques were used for all labouring women and they had relaxing and calming effects on some women, resulting to them giving birth with ease, although for some they were not effective. In addition, the pharmacological interventions caused drowsiness to some women and babies. The findings will provide evidence-based information to the Free State Department of Health in order to assist policymakers and stakeholders in initiating and developing appropriate policies, guidelines, and interventions that can improve labour pain management. The Free State Department of Health should consider using other opioids and non-opioids in managing labour pain to broaden the scope of pain relief methods available to the midwives. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Exploration of the factors influencing the upscaling of medical male circumcision targets in selected hospitals in eThekwini District, South Africa
- Authors: Tshabalala, Sandile Clement
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Circumcision
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22005 , vital:51930
- Description: Medical male circumcision has been shown to reduce female to male HIV transmission. This study was designed to examine the underlying factors responsible for, or influencing, the inability of the health care system to achieve the MMC targets in selected hospitals in KZN. The objective of this study to was explore the challenges that lead to failure of the government to meet set targets, regarding the implementation of the MMC programme in the province of KZN, as perceived by the health care workers. Methodology A mixed quantitative and qualitative study where 150 questionnaires were used and in-depth open-ended interviews were conducted. Participants were from Clairwood and Wentworth hospitals in the district of eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. Eighteen healthcare workers (nurse managers, doctors, nurses and counsellors) were purposively selected from the two hospitals. Results Findings showed that poor marketing of MMC, in line with the cultural and religious inclination of the catchment populations, had an effect on the targets. The fear of pain by the male clients came out as the biggest factor followed by the fear of having an HIV test done. The six weeks healing period before indulgence in sexual intercourse had a part to play in the reluctance of clients to do MMC. Some clients feared losing the ability to have an erection post MMC and would therefore not come for MMC. Other contributory factors for failure to reach targets included shortage of staff, poor mobilisation by the staff due to lack of training on how to mobilise and how to market MMC, lack of availability of mobilisation and marketing resources, inadequate and inequitable allocated of resources. Other factors include, lack of incentives for staff to stay in the programme or even within the Department, lack of training, cultural and religious beliefs in the community. The staff also felt that the MMC targets were too high. Notwithstanding, the staff members were willing to learn how to market MMC and to mobilise clients. Clients and community education on the importance of MMC and the combination of this process with good sexual behaviour would improve MMC uptake and reduce HIV prevalence and the incidence. Conclusions The fear of pain, fear to do HIV test and the fear to loose erection were the most prominent reasons why the males would not come for MMC procedure. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Tshabalala, Sandile Clement
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Circumcision
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22005 , vital:51930
- Description: Medical male circumcision has been shown to reduce female to male HIV transmission. This study was designed to examine the underlying factors responsible for, or influencing, the inability of the health care system to achieve the MMC targets in selected hospitals in KZN. The objective of this study to was explore the challenges that lead to failure of the government to meet set targets, regarding the implementation of the MMC programme in the province of KZN, as perceived by the health care workers. Methodology A mixed quantitative and qualitative study where 150 questionnaires were used and in-depth open-ended interviews were conducted. Participants were from Clairwood and Wentworth hospitals in the district of eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. Eighteen healthcare workers (nurse managers, doctors, nurses and counsellors) were purposively selected from the two hospitals. Results Findings showed that poor marketing of MMC, in line with the cultural and religious inclination of the catchment populations, had an effect on the targets. The fear of pain by the male clients came out as the biggest factor followed by the fear of having an HIV test done. The six weeks healing period before indulgence in sexual intercourse had a part to play in the reluctance of clients to do MMC. Some clients feared losing the ability to have an erection post MMC and would therefore not come for MMC. Other contributory factors for failure to reach targets included shortage of staff, poor mobilisation by the staff due to lack of training on how to mobilise and how to market MMC, lack of availability of mobilisation and marketing resources, inadequate and inequitable allocated of resources. Other factors include, lack of incentives for staff to stay in the programme or even within the Department, lack of training, cultural and religious beliefs in the community. The staff also felt that the MMC targets were too high. Notwithstanding, the staff members were willing to learn how to market MMC and to mobilise clients. Clients and community education on the importance of MMC and the combination of this process with good sexual behaviour would improve MMC uptake and reduce HIV prevalence and the incidence. Conclusions The fear of pain, fear to do HIV test and the fear to loose erection were the most prominent reasons why the males would not come for MMC procedure. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Public Health, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Organophosphate flame retardant’s signatures in the Buffalo River Estuary and their removal using modified cyclodextrins
- Authors: Bika, Sinozuko Hope
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Water purification chemicals industry , Organic water pollutants , Rivers
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27500 , vital:67363
- Description: The increasing scarcity of fresh and clean water in many places around the world is a major concern. Water is a basic need that must be availed to humans, plants and animals at any given time. It is a requirement that each human on earth should get between 20-50 L of fresh, clean and pure water a day. It is very difficult to keep up with this need due to drastic increase in global pollution by emerging contaminants. The increase is due to human activities, modern way of life, industrialization and improper disposal of materials that contain these OPFRs. Organophosphate flame retardants OPFRs are the organic pollutants considered in this study. OPFRs are semi volatile compounds SVOCs that are used in many industries as flame retardants and additives. They were developed because of environmental and health concerns of previously used brominated and chlorinated flame retardants FRs. They show acute toxicity and exhibit adverse effects such as neurotoxicity, they are also carcinogenic to humans and animals. In recent years, some researchers have started investigating the occurrence and distribution of OPFRs in South African rivers. The aim of this study was to identify signatures of OPFRs in the aquatic environment of Buffalo River Estuary, and soil from a nearby dumpsite: and to develop a method for their removal using modified cyclodextrins. In this study, the concentration of OPFRs were investigated in sediments and soil samples collected from Buffalo River Estuary. This estuary is located close to a major port in East London city in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Collection of samples was done across two seasons i.e. winter and spring. OPFRs in sediment and soil samples in this study were extracted using ultrasonic extraction method. Solid-phase extraction SPE was employed for the cleanup of the extracts, in order to reduce potential matrix interference and also for sample purification. The congeners of interest in this study were Tris 2-Choroethyl phosphate TCEP and Tris 1,3-Dicloro-2-propyl phosphate (TDCP). Samples were air dried immediately on arrival at the laboratory after being stored in an ice chest at 4 ℃ and further processed for further analysis.The concentrations of OPFRs were determined using GC-μECD (gas chromatograph coupled with micro electron capture detector) from soil and sediments in that area and they were found high in winter compared to spring owing to high level of discharge of industrial and domestic waste into the aquatic system and also the nearby dumpsite. The total concentrationof OPFRs Ʃ 2OPFRs for sediments and soil for both seasons was 39935±7619 μg/g and 10376±601 μg/g, respectively. The dominant congener in the Buffalo River Estuary was TCEP. The ecological risk assessment was estimated for the study area, and TCEP moderate risk while TDCP presented low risk. From this study, it could be inferred that the Buffalo River Estuary and the nearby dumpsite in East London are polluted by emerging pollutants i.e. OPFRs. Hence, strict control measures should be put in place to monitor all activities contributing to such magnitude of pollution in the estuary, which is of great economic value to the country. Furthermore in this study, an insoluble and hydrophilic polymer EDTA-Cysteine-β-Cyclodextrin was prepared and synthesized for the remediation of OPFRs in soil and sediments. This newly developed method was tested for the removal of TDCP an OPFR congener and it was successful with an average removal rate of 77.49 percent. , Thesis (MSci) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Bika, Sinozuko Hope
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Water purification chemicals industry , Organic water pollutants , Rivers
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27500 , vital:67363
- Description: The increasing scarcity of fresh and clean water in many places around the world is a major concern. Water is a basic need that must be availed to humans, plants and animals at any given time. It is a requirement that each human on earth should get between 20-50 L of fresh, clean and pure water a day. It is very difficult to keep up with this need due to drastic increase in global pollution by emerging contaminants. The increase is due to human activities, modern way of life, industrialization and improper disposal of materials that contain these OPFRs. Organophosphate flame retardants OPFRs are the organic pollutants considered in this study. OPFRs are semi volatile compounds SVOCs that are used in many industries as flame retardants and additives. They were developed because of environmental and health concerns of previously used brominated and chlorinated flame retardants FRs. They show acute toxicity and exhibit adverse effects such as neurotoxicity, they are also carcinogenic to humans and animals. In recent years, some researchers have started investigating the occurrence and distribution of OPFRs in South African rivers. The aim of this study was to identify signatures of OPFRs in the aquatic environment of Buffalo River Estuary, and soil from a nearby dumpsite: and to develop a method for their removal using modified cyclodextrins. In this study, the concentration of OPFRs were investigated in sediments and soil samples collected from Buffalo River Estuary. This estuary is located close to a major port in East London city in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Collection of samples was done across two seasons i.e. winter and spring. OPFRs in sediment and soil samples in this study were extracted using ultrasonic extraction method. Solid-phase extraction SPE was employed for the cleanup of the extracts, in order to reduce potential matrix interference and also for sample purification. The congeners of interest in this study were Tris 2-Choroethyl phosphate TCEP and Tris 1,3-Dicloro-2-propyl phosphate (TDCP). Samples were air dried immediately on arrival at the laboratory after being stored in an ice chest at 4 ℃ and further processed for further analysis.The concentrations of OPFRs were determined using GC-μECD (gas chromatograph coupled with micro electron capture detector) from soil and sediments in that area and they were found high in winter compared to spring owing to high level of discharge of industrial and domestic waste into the aquatic system and also the nearby dumpsite. The total concentrationof OPFRs Ʃ 2OPFRs for sediments and soil for both seasons was 39935±7619 μg/g and 10376±601 μg/g, respectively. The dominant congener in the Buffalo River Estuary was TCEP. The ecological risk assessment was estimated for the study area, and TCEP moderate risk while TDCP presented low risk. From this study, it could be inferred that the Buffalo River Estuary and the nearby dumpsite in East London are polluted by emerging pollutants i.e. OPFRs. Hence, strict control measures should be put in place to monitor all activities contributing to such magnitude of pollution in the estuary, which is of great economic value to the country. Furthermore in this study, an insoluble and hydrophilic polymer EDTA-Cysteine-β-Cyclodextrin was prepared and synthesized for the remediation of OPFRs in soil and sediments. This newly developed method was tested for the removal of TDCP an OPFR congener and it was successful with an average removal rate of 77.49 percent. , Thesis (MSci) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03