Effects of loading time and lairage duration on pig behaviour, sex and lairage time on pork physio-chemical characteristics
- Authors: Ntlatywa, Bongiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Pork -- Quality Meat -- Quality Loading and unloading
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12270 , vital:39225
- Description: The objectives of the study were to determine the effect of loading time, transportation unloading and lairage period, their subsequent effect on responses behaviour and the effect of sex and lairage period on the meat quality of cross breeds reared in commercial farm. The first part of the study assessed the behaviour of pigs during loading at the farm, offloading and in the lairages. A total of 900 pigs from 5 trips (180 per trip) were monitored on behaviour from farm to slaughter plant. The pigs were transported to a commercial abattoir which is 120 km distance, travelling for 2 hours from the farm. The results revealed that time spent in loading pigs was more than when offloading pigs. The frequency of slipping or falling-off in pigs was high (18percent) than voluntary movement (8percent) during loading times (χ2 >0.05) that when off-loading. A significant difference was determined on the avoidance (χ2=0.03), mounting behaviour (χ2 =0.01) and vocal sound (χ2 =0.02) during loading time on each observation day. Furthermore there was no significant difference determined on the time and day of observation in the lairages. These results also reveal that the avoidance behaviour was the highest (47percent) while fighting (34percent) and vocalizing were the least compared to other behaviour during the first 30 minutes after arrival at the abattoir. Moreover, the lying behaviour was found to have highest frequency (15percent) on day 6 compared to other sampling days. These results reveal that time of loading pigs had an influence on pigs’ behaviour before slaughter and consequently that affected physiological features and meat quality. The second section of the study assessed sex and the different lairage time effects on the pork quality attributes. A total of fifty four pigs, 22 weeks old of different sex (26 boars x 28 gilts) reared on a commercial farm and transported to the abattoir on the same day was used in this study. At the abattoir, pigs were grouped according to lairage periods of 17 hours (Group1; 13 gilts and 14 boars) and 36 hours (Group 2; 15 gilts and 12 boars). Results showed no significant difference on the sex of pigs (P >0.05) and meat pH. However, lairage time influenced the thawing loss (P= 0.02) of meat and also the interactions of sex by lairage had a significant difference (P= 0.04) on meat tenderness. There was a positive significant correlation found between sex and meat attributes values were high in boars (r= 0.61) than in gilts (r = 0.49). A negative correlation between a*and WBSF on lairage group1 (r= -0.52) was determined while on group 2 there was a positive correlation between a* and b* (r=0.49). This study suggest that a proper timing on farm feed withdrawal in combination with a sufficient lairage at the slaughter plant may result in better carcass and meat quality traits. Communication among producers and abattoirs is critical when planning the fasting and lairage times in order to elude carcass and technological pork quality complications. To conclude, there is influence caused by time of loading in stressing pigs before transportation and slaughter as aggressive behaviour showed and also lairage time affected meat quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ntlatywa, Bongiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Pork -- Quality Meat -- Quality Loading and unloading
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12270 , vital:39225
- Description: The objectives of the study were to determine the effect of loading time, transportation unloading and lairage period, their subsequent effect on responses behaviour and the effect of sex and lairage period on the meat quality of cross breeds reared in commercial farm. The first part of the study assessed the behaviour of pigs during loading at the farm, offloading and in the lairages. A total of 900 pigs from 5 trips (180 per trip) were monitored on behaviour from farm to slaughter plant. The pigs were transported to a commercial abattoir which is 120 km distance, travelling for 2 hours from the farm. The results revealed that time spent in loading pigs was more than when offloading pigs. The frequency of slipping or falling-off in pigs was high (18percent) than voluntary movement (8percent) during loading times (χ2 >0.05) that when off-loading. A significant difference was determined on the avoidance (χ2=0.03), mounting behaviour (χ2 =0.01) and vocal sound (χ2 =0.02) during loading time on each observation day. Furthermore there was no significant difference determined on the time and day of observation in the lairages. These results also reveal that the avoidance behaviour was the highest (47percent) while fighting (34percent) and vocalizing were the least compared to other behaviour during the first 30 minutes after arrival at the abattoir. Moreover, the lying behaviour was found to have highest frequency (15percent) on day 6 compared to other sampling days. These results reveal that time of loading pigs had an influence on pigs’ behaviour before slaughter and consequently that affected physiological features and meat quality. The second section of the study assessed sex and the different lairage time effects on the pork quality attributes. A total of fifty four pigs, 22 weeks old of different sex (26 boars x 28 gilts) reared on a commercial farm and transported to the abattoir on the same day was used in this study. At the abattoir, pigs were grouped according to lairage periods of 17 hours (Group1; 13 gilts and 14 boars) and 36 hours (Group 2; 15 gilts and 12 boars). Results showed no significant difference on the sex of pigs (P >0.05) and meat pH. However, lairage time influenced the thawing loss (P= 0.02) of meat and also the interactions of sex by lairage had a significant difference (P= 0.04) on meat tenderness. There was a positive significant correlation found between sex and meat attributes values were high in boars (r= 0.61) than in gilts (r = 0.49). A negative correlation between a*and WBSF on lairage group1 (r= -0.52) was determined while on group 2 there was a positive correlation between a* and b* (r=0.49). This study suggest that a proper timing on farm feed withdrawal in combination with a sufficient lairage at the slaughter plant may result in better carcass and meat quality traits. Communication among producers and abattoirs is critical when planning the fasting and lairage times in order to elude carcass and technological pork quality complications. To conclude, there is influence caused by time of loading in stressing pigs before transportation and slaughter as aggressive behaviour showed and also lairage time affected meat quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Elephant space use and impacts on vegetation in response to habitat expansion in succulent thicket
- Lochner, Christiaan Stefanus
- Authors: Lochner, Christiaan Stefanus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Grasses -- South Africa -- Addo Elephant National Park , Vegetation mapping -- South Africa -- Addo Elephant National Park Nature conservation -- South Africa -- Addo Elephant National Park Ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18597 , vital:28687
- Description: Elephant alter vegetation composition and structure, and at high densities biodiversity declines. While habitat expansion is one of several tools proposed to mitigate such effects, its effectiveness remains untested. Despite previous incremental expansions of the Addo Main Camp section of the Addo Elephant National Park to reduce the impacts of elephant on vulnerable Succulent Thicket habitats, significant declines in plant species richness, density and biomass were recorded. During 2010 the addition of the Colchester section effectively doubled the area (120 km2 to 230 km2) available to elephant, presumably releasing browsing intensity in the Addo Main Camp section, hence allowing for the regeneration (through growth and resprouting) of the vulnerable canopy shrubs (a key functional guild). I aim to test this hypothesis. I use space use data from before and after expansion to track the distribution of elephant utilization across the park. Additionally, I use data collected between 2008 and 2015 on shrub composition and structure and the structure of individual canopy species, to illustrate the long-term trends in elephant impact. I firstly show that although elephants shift a proportion of their utilization distribution into novel habitat, they continue to show a strong preference for the Addo Main Camp section, with its higher water availability yet heavier utilized vegetation. I also illustrate that within 5 years of the expansion, effects on the canopy shrub community declined, presumably by spreading impacts to novel areas. Specifically, I show that vegetation composition and structure (volume and density) remained stable during this period. While these results indicate that range expansion might be a viable tool to mitigate the impact of elephant on vegetation composition and structure, at least in the short-term, the consequences for ecological functioning remain to be measured. In the long-term, I predict that attempts to use range expansion as a management tool may fail if implemented without limiting population numbers and controlling the distribution of local densities (e.g. by managing surface water availability).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lochner, Christiaan Stefanus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Grasses -- South Africa -- Addo Elephant National Park , Vegetation mapping -- South Africa -- Addo Elephant National Park Nature conservation -- South Africa -- Addo Elephant National Park Ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18597 , vital:28687
- Description: Elephant alter vegetation composition and structure, and at high densities biodiversity declines. While habitat expansion is one of several tools proposed to mitigate such effects, its effectiveness remains untested. Despite previous incremental expansions of the Addo Main Camp section of the Addo Elephant National Park to reduce the impacts of elephant on vulnerable Succulent Thicket habitats, significant declines in plant species richness, density and biomass were recorded. During 2010 the addition of the Colchester section effectively doubled the area (120 km2 to 230 km2) available to elephant, presumably releasing browsing intensity in the Addo Main Camp section, hence allowing for the regeneration (through growth and resprouting) of the vulnerable canopy shrubs (a key functional guild). I aim to test this hypothesis. I use space use data from before and after expansion to track the distribution of elephant utilization across the park. Additionally, I use data collected between 2008 and 2015 on shrub composition and structure and the structure of individual canopy species, to illustrate the long-term trends in elephant impact. I firstly show that although elephants shift a proportion of their utilization distribution into novel habitat, they continue to show a strong preference for the Addo Main Camp section, with its higher water availability yet heavier utilized vegetation. I also illustrate that within 5 years of the expansion, effects on the canopy shrub community declined, presumably by spreading impacts to novel areas. Specifically, I show that vegetation composition and structure (volume and density) remained stable during this period. While these results indicate that range expansion might be a viable tool to mitigate the impact of elephant on vegetation composition and structure, at least in the short-term, the consequences for ecological functioning remain to be measured. In the long-term, I predict that attempts to use range expansion as a management tool may fail if implemented without limiting population numbers and controlling the distribution of local densities (e.g. by managing surface water availability).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Estimating maize grain yield from crop growth stages using remote sensing and GIS in the Free State Province, South Africa
- Authors: Mditshwa, Sithembele
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Crop yields Crops -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6016 , vital:29481
- Description: Early yield prediction of a maize crop is important for planning and policy decisions. Many countries, including South Africa use the conventional techniques of data collection for maize crop monitoring and yield estimation which are based on ground-based visits and reports. These methods are subjective, very costly and time consuming. Empirical models have been developed using weather data. These are also associated with a number of problems due to the limited spatial distribution of weather stations. Efforts are being made to improve the accuracy and timeliness of yield prediction methods. With the launching of satellites, satellite data are being used for maize crop monitoring and yield prediction. Many studies have revealed that there is a correlation between remotely sensed data (vegetation indices) and crop yields. The satellite based approaches are less expensive, save time, data acquisition covers large areas and can be used to estimate maize grain yields before harvest. This study applied Landsat 8 satellite based vegetation indices, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) and Moisture Stress Index (MSI) to predict maize crop yield. These vegetation indices were derived at different growth stages. The investigation was carried out in the Kopanong Local Municipality of the Free State Province, South Africa. Ground-based data (actual harvested maize yields) was collected from Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF). Satellite images were acquired from Geoterra Image (Pty) Ltd and weather data was from the South African Weather Service (SAWS). Multilinear regression approaches were used to relate yields to the remotely sensed indices and meteorological data was used during the development of yield estimation models. The results showed that there are significant correlations between remotely sensed vegetation indices and maize grain yield; up to 63 percent maize yield was predicted from vegetation indices. The study also revealed that NDVI and SAVI are better yield predictors at reproductive growth stages of maize and MSI is a better index to estimate maize yield at both vegetative and reproductive growth stages. The results obtained in this study indicated that maize grain yields can be estimated using satellite indices at different maize growth stages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mditshwa, Sithembele
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Crop yields Crops -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6016 , vital:29481
- Description: Early yield prediction of a maize crop is important for planning and policy decisions. Many countries, including South Africa use the conventional techniques of data collection for maize crop monitoring and yield estimation which are based on ground-based visits and reports. These methods are subjective, very costly and time consuming. Empirical models have been developed using weather data. These are also associated with a number of problems due to the limited spatial distribution of weather stations. Efforts are being made to improve the accuracy and timeliness of yield prediction methods. With the launching of satellites, satellite data are being used for maize crop monitoring and yield prediction. Many studies have revealed that there is a correlation between remotely sensed data (vegetation indices) and crop yields. The satellite based approaches are less expensive, save time, data acquisition covers large areas and can be used to estimate maize grain yields before harvest. This study applied Landsat 8 satellite based vegetation indices, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) and Moisture Stress Index (MSI) to predict maize crop yield. These vegetation indices were derived at different growth stages. The investigation was carried out in the Kopanong Local Municipality of the Free State Province, South Africa. Ground-based data (actual harvested maize yields) was collected from Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF). Satellite images were acquired from Geoterra Image (Pty) Ltd and weather data was from the South African Weather Service (SAWS). Multilinear regression approaches were used to relate yields to the remotely sensed indices and meteorological data was used during the development of yield estimation models. The results showed that there are significant correlations between remotely sensed vegetation indices and maize grain yield; up to 63 percent maize yield was predicted from vegetation indices. The study also revealed that NDVI and SAVI are better yield predictors at reproductive growth stages of maize and MSI is a better index to estimate maize yield at both vegetative and reproductive growth stages. The results obtained in this study indicated that maize grain yields can be estimated using satellite indices at different maize growth stages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating the importance of mangroves as fish nurseries in selected warm temperate South African estuaries
- Authors: Muller, Cuen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mangrove ecology -- South Africa Mangrove fisheries -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12080 , vital:27029
- Description: The value of mangrove habitats as fish nurseries was assessed by comparing communities of early stage and juvenile fishes between estuaries with and without mangroves. Early stage fishes were sampled using boat-based plankton towing while juveniles were sampled by seine netting. Sampling took place at five sites spaced 1 km apart starting near the estuary mouth in four estuaries along the temperate coastline of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Four estuaries were selected based on shared similarities which included catchment area, estuarine area and shared habitats barring the presence of mangroves which occupied the river margins of two systems. Results revealed that early stage and juvenile fish communities (both marine- and estuary-spawned) were similar between systems with and without mangrove habitats. Differences in fish communities among estuaries were rather attributed to axial salinity gradients associated with greater freshwater input, while season and temperature produced significant variances in fish densities with Generalised Additive Models revealing responses of communities to these variables. A common estuarine-dependent fish, Rhabdosargus holubi (Family Sparidae), was further investigated to determine habitat use, residency and dietary patterns in different mangrove habitats. High habitat residency in this species was revealed during a short-term tagging study using Visible Implant Elastomer tags and long-term isotope analysis in juveniles sampled from two contrasting mangrove habitats. A wider feeding niche was observed in an eelgrass-red mangrove connected habitat when compared with more exposed white mangrove areas. Low dependence on mangrove habitats in temperate estuaries is likely due to their tidally dominated inundation and limited refuge potential due to smaller area coverage by mangroves in temperate estuaries. Relatively lower primary productivity in warm temperate mangrove areas, relative to their tropical counterparts, provides no significant feeding advantage or refuge opportunities relative to other available habitats in these estuaries. Warm temperate estuaries, which are both spatially and temporally highly variable, instead host species which are habitat generalists, able to capitalise on these highly dynamic environments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Muller, Cuen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mangrove ecology -- South Africa Mangrove fisheries -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12080 , vital:27029
- Description: The value of mangrove habitats as fish nurseries was assessed by comparing communities of early stage and juvenile fishes between estuaries with and without mangroves. Early stage fishes were sampled using boat-based plankton towing while juveniles were sampled by seine netting. Sampling took place at five sites spaced 1 km apart starting near the estuary mouth in four estuaries along the temperate coastline of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Four estuaries were selected based on shared similarities which included catchment area, estuarine area and shared habitats barring the presence of mangroves which occupied the river margins of two systems. Results revealed that early stage and juvenile fish communities (both marine- and estuary-spawned) were similar between systems with and without mangrove habitats. Differences in fish communities among estuaries were rather attributed to axial salinity gradients associated with greater freshwater input, while season and temperature produced significant variances in fish densities with Generalised Additive Models revealing responses of communities to these variables. A common estuarine-dependent fish, Rhabdosargus holubi (Family Sparidae), was further investigated to determine habitat use, residency and dietary patterns in different mangrove habitats. High habitat residency in this species was revealed during a short-term tagging study using Visible Implant Elastomer tags and long-term isotope analysis in juveniles sampled from two contrasting mangrove habitats. A wider feeding niche was observed in an eelgrass-red mangrove connected habitat when compared with more exposed white mangrove areas. Low dependence on mangrove habitats in temperate estuaries is likely due to their tidally dominated inundation and limited refuge potential due to smaller area coverage by mangroves in temperate estuaries. Relatively lower primary productivity in warm temperate mangrove areas, relative to their tropical counterparts, provides no significant feeding advantage or refuge opportunities relative to other available habitats in these estuaries. Warm temperate estuaries, which are both spatially and temporally highly variable, instead host species which are habitat generalists, able to capitalise on these highly dynamic environments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluation of groundwater potential using neotectonics and geophysics in the context of post Karoo tectonic framework around Fort Beaufort and Smithfield, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Ndlovu, Nkosilathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Neotectonics -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Groundwater -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Geophysical surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12687 , vital:39299
- Description: Geological and geophysical methods were used to investigate the Karoo area extending from longitudes 25.50 E to 27.50 E and latitudes 300 S to 330 S in South Africa, particularly Fort Beaufort, Aliwal North, Venterstad and Smithfield. The geology of the area is dominated by the upper Beaufort Group (Adelaide Subgroup) with an extensive network of dolerite sills and dykes that intruded the sedimentary sequence. A relationship between neotectonics, post-Karoo tectonics, groundwater and lithology was investigated to locate suitable groundwater potential sites. Apart from studying the role of neotectonics and the post Karoo tectonics, this research aims at generating groundwater targets to alleviate water shortages mainly for farming and livestock, and prove that neotectonics is still active. Methodologies adopted for obtaining these results included a comprehensive literature review, thin section analysis, scanning electron microscopy, geophysical investigation (magnetic, gravity, and vertical electrical sounding), and the application of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing. Twenty 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 have variable mineralogy (presence of heavy minerals) within the rocks. The use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing in geological surveys, especially hydrogeology, has gained momentum over the past few years. This research is no exception as ArcMap software was used to create a map of seismic epicentres of the Eastern Cape Province. From the map it can be observed that seismicity still occurs and thus leading to the notion of neotectonics being active. Lineaments were also automatically extracted using the ENVI 5.1 and Geomatica 2013 software. Lineaments are zones of weakness in the subsurface of the Earth and are very important in locating groundwater potential sites. Geophysical techniques are essential and highly accurate for groundwater studies. Gravity and magnetic techniques were applied on data which was supplied as grids. Analysis using Geosoft Oasis 8.3 revealed extensive lineaments and ring like patterns and these were inferred to be dolerite intrusions (sills and dykes). The morphology of the intrusions help in identifying possible groundwater potential zones and thus they should be investigated. Vertical electrical sounding (VES) technique using the Schlumberger array was carried out at three sites (Fort Beaufort fracture which is possibly related to Quaternary surface uplift of the Amatole-Swaziland axis, splay of the Fort Beaufort fracture and at a site which showed high groundwater potential) to explore subsurface layering. IP2win (lite), 1-D modelling software was used to model the apparent resistivity data to obtain the geoelectric parameters of the subsurface (thickness and resistivity). The VES results are consistent with fractured rocks that aid groundwater movement. The VES data for the three sites was further modelled by the RES2DINV software and this shows low resistivity values associated with loose, water saturated top sandy soil and higher resistivity values associated with sedimentary sequences and dolerite. Moreover, potential sites for citing wells are predicted to be between 79.5 and 128 m on the profile. Further neotectonic studies need to be done, especially on the quaternary sediments as they would have more neotectonic evidence. The use of geophysical techniques for groundwater search need to be intensified, with more emphasis being put to the sedimentary sequences bordered by dolerite intrusions and fractured zones.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ndlovu, Nkosilathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Neotectonics -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Groundwater -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Geophysical surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12687 , vital:39299
- Description: Geological and geophysical methods were used to investigate the Karoo area extending from longitudes 25.50 E to 27.50 E and latitudes 300 S to 330 S in South Africa, particularly Fort Beaufort, Aliwal North, Venterstad and Smithfield. The geology of the area is dominated by the upper Beaufort Group (Adelaide Subgroup) with an extensive network of dolerite sills and dykes that intruded the sedimentary sequence. A relationship between neotectonics, post-Karoo tectonics, groundwater and lithology was investigated to locate suitable groundwater potential sites. Apart from studying the role of neotectonics and the post Karoo tectonics, this research aims at generating groundwater targets to alleviate water shortages mainly for farming and livestock, and prove that neotectonics is still active. Methodologies adopted for obtaining these results included a comprehensive literature review, thin section analysis, scanning electron microscopy, geophysical investigation (magnetic, gravity, and vertical electrical sounding), and the application of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing. Twenty 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 have variable mineralogy (presence of heavy minerals) within the rocks. The use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing in geological surveys, especially hydrogeology, has gained momentum over the past few years. This research is no exception as ArcMap software was used to create a map of seismic epicentres of the Eastern Cape Province. From the map it can be observed that seismicity still occurs and thus leading to the notion of neotectonics being active. Lineaments were also automatically extracted using the ENVI 5.1 and Geomatica 2013 software. Lineaments are zones of weakness in the subsurface of the Earth and are very important in locating groundwater potential sites. Geophysical techniques are essential and highly accurate for groundwater studies. Gravity and magnetic techniques were applied on data which was supplied as grids. Analysis using Geosoft Oasis 8.3 revealed extensive lineaments and ring like patterns and these were inferred to be dolerite intrusions (sills and dykes). The morphology of the intrusions help in identifying possible groundwater potential zones and thus they should be investigated. Vertical electrical sounding (VES) technique using the Schlumberger array was carried out at three sites (Fort Beaufort fracture which is possibly related to Quaternary surface uplift of the Amatole-Swaziland axis, splay of the Fort Beaufort fracture and at a site which showed high groundwater potential) to explore subsurface layering. IP2win (lite), 1-D modelling software was used to model the apparent resistivity data to obtain the geoelectric parameters of the subsurface (thickness and resistivity). The VES results are consistent with fractured rocks that aid groundwater movement. The VES data for the three sites was further modelled by the RES2DINV software and this shows low resistivity values associated with loose, water saturated top sandy soil and higher resistivity values associated with sedimentary sequences and dolerite. Moreover, potential sites for citing wells are predicted to be between 79.5 and 128 m on the profile. Further neotectonic studies need to be done, especially on the quaternary sediments as they would have more neotectonic evidence. The use of geophysical techniques for groundwater search need to be intensified, with more emphasis being put to the sedimentary sequences bordered by dolerite intrusions and fractured zones.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluation of low-cost technology options for sustainable water supply and sanitation in two peri-urban areas of Lusaka, Zambia: opportunities and constraints
- Authors: Chiliboyi, Yvonne
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Toilets -- Technological innovations -- South Africa , Sanitary engineering -- Technological innovations -- South Africa , Water resoures development -- Technological innovations -- South Africa , Water-supply -- Technological innovations -- South Africa , Household surveys -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7960 , vital:21328
- Description: Presently, at least 70% of the total urban population in Zambia resides in peri-urban areas. Peri-urban settlements are characterized by high population growth, high poverty levels and inadequate access to water and sanitation which often result in increased prevalence of diseases. The situation is even made worse because of the position that many local authorities have taken regarding the implementation of infrastructure and service development in these settlements. Local authorities in developing countries have continuously focused on implementation of traditional and unsustainable technologies for service provision to meet the demand despite the technologies’ inability to serve the rapidly growing peri-urban areas. These technologies have high costs, lack proper operation and maintenance, and are not affordable to majority of peri-urban residents. Therefore, this study was set out to identify and evaluate the existing and possible low-cost technology options for sustainable water supply and sanitation in two selected peri-urban areas of Lusaka, Zambia, namely Kanyama and Chazanga. This was achieved through a household survey conducted in the selected communities. Questionnaires and focus group discussions were held in the respective areas to obtain baseline data on the current water supply and sanitation situation, the type of technologies used, challenges faced regarding water and sanitation technologies, and to get the communities perceptions and preferences of different technology options. Thereafter, a Multi-Criterion Analysis methodological approach was used to assess the selected technologies by the communities, taking into consideration of the economic, socio-cultural, technical, institutional and environmental aspects. Results from the study revealed that a few low-cost water supply and sanitation technologies are feasible for peri-urban areas. For Chazanga, communal taps, boreholes, protected wells, and rain water harvesting were found to be feasible for water supply. For sanitation, on-site sanitation services such as compost toilets, dry toilets, as well as Ventilated Improved Pits (VIP) and Pour-flush, Fossa Alterna and the Urine Diversion Dry Toilet (UDDT) are some of the low-cost technologies that can be implemented in the area. The VIP is suitable for households that rely on water from communal taps for their use. As majority of households in the area have taps on their plots, the Pour-flush can be an alternative. The Fossa Alterna and the Urine Diversion Dry Toilet (UDDT) have low initial cost and can accommodate different households. Additionally, the area has a lower household size and majority of the residents in the area landlords, which makes it easy to teach users how the toilet operates as well as its maintenance. For Kanyama, feasible and sustainable low-cost water supply facilities include boreholes and communal taps. Kanyama has limited plot sizes thereby causing the challenge of implementing infrastructure such as rainwater harvesting. Additionally, continuous increase in urban population in the area, coupled with the construction of unregulated households and sanitation facilities, renders protected wells not feasible to implement in Kanyama. In terms of sanitation, wet on-site sanitation facilities such as Ventilated Improved Pit (VIP) latrines are accepted by the community. The VIP does not require water for use and if properly constructed can be used as a bathroom. The Pour-flush toilet is also another alternative for provision of sanitation in the area. However, the latrine can be expensive to construct for majority of the residents. Dry sanitation such as the Urine Diversion Dry Toilet (UDDT) is not feasible for Kanyama. The UDDT requires continuous awareness on its use especially in rented households where tenants are constantly changing. The method of evaluating appropriate technology options for peri-urban areas and thereafter letting the users from the communities choose from the proposed technologies ensures a participatory approach. Results from Multi-Criterion Analysis (MCA) showed that stakeholders’ influence is essential for the selection of sustainable technology options. However, it is important that the implementation process of any technology in peri-urban areas consider different aspects including the local environmental, socio-cultural, economic, technical, and institutional conditions. Finally, the outcome of this study will not only provide baseline data for successful implementation of appropriate low-cost water supply and sanitation technology options in Chazanga and Kanyama, but also other peri-urban communities in Zambia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Chiliboyi, Yvonne
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Toilets -- Technological innovations -- South Africa , Sanitary engineering -- Technological innovations -- South Africa , Water resoures development -- Technological innovations -- South Africa , Water-supply -- Technological innovations -- South Africa , Household surveys -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7960 , vital:21328
- Description: Presently, at least 70% of the total urban population in Zambia resides in peri-urban areas. Peri-urban settlements are characterized by high population growth, high poverty levels and inadequate access to water and sanitation which often result in increased prevalence of diseases. The situation is even made worse because of the position that many local authorities have taken regarding the implementation of infrastructure and service development in these settlements. Local authorities in developing countries have continuously focused on implementation of traditional and unsustainable technologies for service provision to meet the demand despite the technologies’ inability to serve the rapidly growing peri-urban areas. These technologies have high costs, lack proper operation and maintenance, and are not affordable to majority of peri-urban residents. Therefore, this study was set out to identify and evaluate the existing and possible low-cost technology options for sustainable water supply and sanitation in two selected peri-urban areas of Lusaka, Zambia, namely Kanyama and Chazanga. This was achieved through a household survey conducted in the selected communities. Questionnaires and focus group discussions were held in the respective areas to obtain baseline data on the current water supply and sanitation situation, the type of technologies used, challenges faced regarding water and sanitation technologies, and to get the communities perceptions and preferences of different technology options. Thereafter, a Multi-Criterion Analysis methodological approach was used to assess the selected technologies by the communities, taking into consideration of the economic, socio-cultural, technical, institutional and environmental aspects. Results from the study revealed that a few low-cost water supply and sanitation technologies are feasible for peri-urban areas. For Chazanga, communal taps, boreholes, protected wells, and rain water harvesting were found to be feasible for water supply. For sanitation, on-site sanitation services such as compost toilets, dry toilets, as well as Ventilated Improved Pits (VIP) and Pour-flush, Fossa Alterna and the Urine Diversion Dry Toilet (UDDT) are some of the low-cost technologies that can be implemented in the area. The VIP is suitable for households that rely on water from communal taps for their use. As majority of households in the area have taps on their plots, the Pour-flush can be an alternative. The Fossa Alterna and the Urine Diversion Dry Toilet (UDDT) have low initial cost and can accommodate different households. Additionally, the area has a lower household size and majority of the residents in the area landlords, which makes it easy to teach users how the toilet operates as well as its maintenance. For Kanyama, feasible and sustainable low-cost water supply facilities include boreholes and communal taps. Kanyama has limited plot sizes thereby causing the challenge of implementing infrastructure such as rainwater harvesting. Additionally, continuous increase in urban population in the area, coupled with the construction of unregulated households and sanitation facilities, renders protected wells not feasible to implement in Kanyama. In terms of sanitation, wet on-site sanitation facilities such as Ventilated Improved Pit (VIP) latrines are accepted by the community. The VIP does not require water for use and if properly constructed can be used as a bathroom. The Pour-flush toilet is also another alternative for provision of sanitation in the area. However, the latrine can be expensive to construct for majority of the residents. Dry sanitation such as the Urine Diversion Dry Toilet (UDDT) is not feasible for Kanyama. The UDDT requires continuous awareness on its use especially in rented households where tenants are constantly changing. The method of evaluating appropriate technology options for peri-urban areas and thereafter letting the users from the communities choose from the proposed technologies ensures a participatory approach. Results from Multi-Criterion Analysis (MCA) showed that stakeholders’ influence is essential for the selection of sustainable technology options. However, it is important that the implementation process of any technology in peri-urban areas consider different aspects including the local environmental, socio-cultural, economic, technical, and institutional conditions. Finally, the outcome of this study will not only provide baseline data for successful implementation of appropriate low-cost water supply and sanitation technology options in Chazanga and Kanyama, but also other peri-urban communities in Zambia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluation of some pseudomonas species isolated from Hogsback forest reserve for the production of antibacterial compounds
- Authors: Mkono, Yonela Pelokazi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Bacteriology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Pseudomonas
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5961 , vital:29458
- Description: Pseudomonas species are Gram-negative bacteria most abundant in soil and water bodies, with the capacity to thrive in varied environments. They are largely associated with resistant pathogenic bacteria linked to human and plant diseases. Species such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been particularly targeted as case studies due to the extremity to which they pose a threat to human health. With more focus directed at using these species for biocontrol and bioremediation purposes, their role in bioactive compound production may be equally important. As the crisis on antimicrobial resistance still persists, the need for effective antimicrobial compounds is ever more urgent and solutions may possibly still be dormant in bacterial species whose potential has not been fully investigated. On a bid to source out potential antimicrobial compound producers, soil samples were collected from Hogback forest reserve in the province of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. For bacterial screening, M1 and R2A agar were used and the cultures grown at 37˚C for a period of seven days. After the presumed Pseudomonas species were identified, antimicrobial production was determined by submerged fermentation method using nutrient broth as media of choice. Active isolates were further studied to determine the optimum conditions which best facilitate for antimicrobial compound production, with parameters such as temperature (25˚C – 40˚C) and pH (4 – 9) considered. The role plasmids play in antimicrobial compound production was also investigated. Each isolate was grown in fermentation media containing Sodium dodecyl sulphate and Ethedium Bromide, at varying concentrations, to facilitate for plasmid curing. With each sample, distinct colonies were identified with varying pigmentations most dominant being a cream colour. The identity of the isolated strains was achieved through sequencing of 16S rDNA. Phylogenetic analysis showed that isolate A16 had 80 percent homology with Pseudomonas plecoglossicida strain P4 and share a close ancestor with isolates Y52 and Y81, also isolate Y89 showed a 90 percent homology with Pseudomonas sp. Co-11a. With the exception of isolate A16, the isolates which were active against Gram-negative bacteria lost activity as the screening processes continued. When looking at temperature variations, isolates Y81 and A16 were highly active with maximum activity observed at 35˚C while Y89 performed best at 25˚C and Y52 showed constant activity across all studied temperatures. The plasmids in all isolates were found to be 48.5 kb in size with the exception of isolate Y89 which was 20 kb. The plasmids were cured at concentrations of (1 mg/ml; 5 mg/ml; 7 mg/ml; 10 mg/ml; 11 mg/ml) SDS and (125 μg/ml; 6.5 μg/ml; 5μg/ml) EtBr. The curing process also showed changes in both the antimicrobial activity of the isolates as well as their physical characteristics. The isolates are the first reported Pseudomonas species from Hogsback forest reserve with the ability to produce antimicrobial compounds which are active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These mesophilic bacteria also show that plasmids do not pay any role in the production of antimicrobial compounds and that the biosynthesis genes are highly likely to be chromosomal borne meaning that the production cannot be linked to horizontal transfer of genes. Therefore, these isolated Pseudomonas species provide a potential reservoir of antimicrobial compounds which may play an important role in the antimicrobial resistance phenomenon.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mkono, Yonela Pelokazi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Bacteriology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Pseudomonas
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5961 , vital:29458
- Description: Pseudomonas species are Gram-negative bacteria most abundant in soil and water bodies, with the capacity to thrive in varied environments. They are largely associated with resistant pathogenic bacteria linked to human and plant diseases. Species such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been particularly targeted as case studies due to the extremity to which they pose a threat to human health. With more focus directed at using these species for biocontrol and bioremediation purposes, their role in bioactive compound production may be equally important. As the crisis on antimicrobial resistance still persists, the need for effective antimicrobial compounds is ever more urgent and solutions may possibly still be dormant in bacterial species whose potential has not been fully investigated. On a bid to source out potential antimicrobial compound producers, soil samples were collected from Hogback forest reserve in the province of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. For bacterial screening, M1 and R2A agar were used and the cultures grown at 37˚C for a period of seven days. After the presumed Pseudomonas species were identified, antimicrobial production was determined by submerged fermentation method using nutrient broth as media of choice. Active isolates were further studied to determine the optimum conditions which best facilitate for antimicrobial compound production, with parameters such as temperature (25˚C – 40˚C) and pH (4 – 9) considered. The role plasmids play in antimicrobial compound production was also investigated. Each isolate was grown in fermentation media containing Sodium dodecyl sulphate and Ethedium Bromide, at varying concentrations, to facilitate for plasmid curing. With each sample, distinct colonies were identified with varying pigmentations most dominant being a cream colour. The identity of the isolated strains was achieved through sequencing of 16S rDNA. Phylogenetic analysis showed that isolate A16 had 80 percent homology with Pseudomonas plecoglossicida strain P4 and share a close ancestor with isolates Y52 and Y81, also isolate Y89 showed a 90 percent homology with Pseudomonas sp. Co-11a. With the exception of isolate A16, the isolates which were active against Gram-negative bacteria lost activity as the screening processes continued. When looking at temperature variations, isolates Y81 and A16 were highly active with maximum activity observed at 35˚C while Y89 performed best at 25˚C and Y52 showed constant activity across all studied temperatures. The plasmids in all isolates were found to be 48.5 kb in size with the exception of isolate Y89 which was 20 kb. The plasmids were cured at concentrations of (1 mg/ml; 5 mg/ml; 7 mg/ml; 10 mg/ml; 11 mg/ml) SDS and (125 μg/ml; 6.5 μg/ml; 5μg/ml) EtBr. The curing process also showed changes in both the antimicrobial activity of the isolates as well as their physical characteristics. The isolates are the first reported Pseudomonas species from Hogsback forest reserve with the ability to produce antimicrobial compounds which are active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These mesophilic bacteria also show that plasmids do not pay any role in the production of antimicrobial compounds and that the biosynthesis genes are highly likely to be chromosomal borne meaning that the production cannot be linked to horizontal transfer of genes. Therefore, these isolated Pseudomonas species provide a potential reservoir of antimicrobial compounds which may play an important role in the antimicrobial resistance phenomenon.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluation of the physicochemical qualities and heavy metal regimes of the final effluents of some wastewater treatment facilties in Berlin, Alice and Bedford communities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Agoro, Mojeed Adedoyin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Water -- Purification -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sewage -- Purification -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5003 , vital:28924
- Description: Wastewater treatment facilities have been identified as potential source of surface water pollution worldwide. In this study, the physicochemical qualities and heavy metal (including Zinc, Cadmium, Iron, Lead and Copper) concentrations in the final effluents, as well as the reduction efficiencies of three municipal wastewater plants in the Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated from September 2015 to February 2016 using standard methods. Wastewater effluent and sludge samples were collected from the selected plants on monthly basis over a period of six months from September 2015 to February 2016. Standard analytical method (Atomic absorption spectroscopy [AAS]) was used to assess the concentration levels of heavy metals. The physicochemical parameters assessed include pH, Temperature, Total Dissolved Solid, Turbidity, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Alkalinity, Dissolved Oxygen, Free chlorine, Chloride, Sulphate, Phosphate, Ammonium and Electrical Conductivity. The results of the evaluation showed that temperature ranges from 19 to 36 °C, Electrical Conductivity from 60-1095 mS/m, Alkalinity from 2.6-20.9 mg/L, Nitrate from 0.24-26.5 mg/L, Nitrite from 0.01-90 mg/L, Phosphate from 0.02-5.12 mg/L, Ammonium from 0.06-112 mg/L, Sulphate from 3-72 mg/L, Chloride from 3.25-224 mg/L, Chemical Oxygen Demand from 17-394 mg/L and Turbidity from 1.96-715 NTU. Free chlorine concentrations and dissolved oxygen were within the recommended limits for most part of the sampling period and ranged between 0.17-0.48 mg/L and 0.19-21.9 mg/L respectively. The pH, Phosphate, Sulphate and Free chlorine were within acceptable limits while Electrical Conductivity, Temperature, Total Dissolved Solid, Turbidity, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Chloride, Ammonium, Nitrate and Nitrite were not within specified limits. The reduction efficiencies observed generally ranged between 43.9 and 100 percent at all sampling points while zinc and lead were not detected throughout the sampling period. Cadmium showed low reduction rate ranging from 0 to 11.7 percent, while the rate of Copper reduction ranged from 0 to25 percent in January and February 2016. Zinc, lead and cadmium were generally not detected in the sludge samples except in January and February which could be due to the prevailing atmospheric conditions during the sampling period. Cu and Fe were detected through the sampling months of the study. We conclude that these municipal sewage plants are sources of pollution to their receiving watersheds and threats to public and environmental health.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Agoro, Mojeed Adedoyin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Water -- Purification -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sewage -- Purification -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5003 , vital:28924
- Description: Wastewater treatment facilities have been identified as potential source of surface water pollution worldwide. In this study, the physicochemical qualities and heavy metal (including Zinc, Cadmium, Iron, Lead and Copper) concentrations in the final effluents, as well as the reduction efficiencies of three municipal wastewater plants in the Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated from September 2015 to February 2016 using standard methods. Wastewater effluent and sludge samples were collected from the selected plants on monthly basis over a period of six months from September 2015 to February 2016. Standard analytical method (Atomic absorption spectroscopy [AAS]) was used to assess the concentration levels of heavy metals. The physicochemical parameters assessed include pH, Temperature, Total Dissolved Solid, Turbidity, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Alkalinity, Dissolved Oxygen, Free chlorine, Chloride, Sulphate, Phosphate, Ammonium and Electrical Conductivity. The results of the evaluation showed that temperature ranges from 19 to 36 °C, Electrical Conductivity from 60-1095 mS/m, Alkalinity from 2.6-20.9 mg/L, Nitrate from 0.24-26.5 mg/L, Nitrite from 0.01-90 mg/L, Phosphate from 0.02-5.12 mg/L, Ammonium from 0.06-112 mg/L, Sulphate from 3-72 mg/L, Chloride from 3.25-224 mg/L, Chemical Oxygen Demand from 17-394 mg/L and Turbidity from 1.96-715 NTU. Free chlorine concentrations and dissolved oxygen were within the recommended limits for most part of the sampling period and ranged between 0.17-0.48 mg/L and 0.19-21.9 mg/L respectively. The pH, Phosphate, Sulphate and Free chlorine were within acceptable limits while Electrical Conductivity, Temperature, Total Dissolved Solid, Turbidity, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Chloride, Ammonium, Nitrate and Nitrite were not within specified limits. The reduction efficiencies observed generally ranged between 43.9 and 100 percent at all sampling points while zinc and lead were not detected throughout the sampling period. Cadmium showed low reduction rate ranging from 0 to 11.7 percent, while the rate of Copper reduction ranged from 0 to25 percent in January and February 2016. Zinc, lead and cadmium were generally not detected in the sludge samples except in January and February which could be due to the prevailing atmospheric conditions during the sampling period. Cu and Fe were detected through the sampling months of the study. We conclude that these municipal sewage plants are sources of pollution to their receiving watersheds and threats to public and environmental health.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluation of the socio-economic performance of smallholder irrigation schemes in Idutywa Village of the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Jiba, Phiwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Irrigation farming -- Economic aspects Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4705 , vital:28497
- Description: South Africa and other African countries are faced with high levels of food insecurity and poverty levels as a result of slow growth of the macro economy and weak or sluggish rural development. Irrigation scheme development is seen as an important strategy to address the challenges faced by households in rural areas and restores growth and enhanced livelihoods. While the international experience shows that Irrigation schemes are potentially transformative of poor communities and have been operational for many years now, there is no marked improvement in living conditions of rural households in terms of livelihoods and income. This raises the question as to whether or not the schemes are viable from a socio-economic perspective and whether or not there are reasons for concern and revision of the policy framework for smallholder irrigation schemes. As a result of that, the broad objective of the study was to evaluate the contribution of smallholder irrigation schemes to household income and food security of rural households in Idutywa village of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. Specifically, this research investigated the major factors that influence their performance, impact of irrigation farming on rural livelihood and household food security as well as identifying the possible opportunities of production that would improve their performance. The study was carried out in Idutywa villages of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa and employed survey data obtained from 107 households. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and the study employed stratified random sampling. The study made use of descriptive and inferential statistics to estimate the central tendency and dispersion as well as testing the hypothesis that there is a difference in the contribution between irrigators and non-irrigators using STATA and SPSS. Probit regression model was used to estimate factors that influenced the performance of smallholder irrigation schemes. The descriptive statistics employed included means, percentages and frequencies on the socio-economic characteristics of households in the study areas. The results show that females were dominant with a representation of 66.7 percent. The majority of households were aged and the mean age was 65 years. High level of illiteracy in the project area was revealed by the data. The average number of years, households spent in school was between 6 years to 10 years in school. Farming was found to be the major agricultural economic activity. Sixty-three (63 percent) were full time farmers. The results further show that household size ranges between 1 to 5 persons. The households were shown to be mostly dependent on social grant with household income hovering around R 1 000. The results from propensity score matching revealed that irrigation exerts a positive impact on household income. This provides sufficient evidence that irrigation schemes do make a contribution to rural livelihoods through their effect on household income and food security. This implies that government should continue investing in irrigation schemes as part of a strategy to grow the rural economy and improve rural livelihoods. This is in line with the Agricultural Policy Action Plan (APAP) and National Development Plan (NDP) of South Africa. Probit analysis suggests that age of the households, household size and market were some of the key determinants that positively influenced households’ decision to participate in smallholder irrigation schemes while access to credit had significant but negative effect on households’ decision to participate in smallholder irrigation schemes. Based on the findings highlighted above, it is recommended that addressing such barriers may create enabling conditions that would encourage households to access and participate more effectively in smallholder irrigation schemes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Jiba, Phiwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Irrigation farming -- Economic aspects Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4705 , vital:28497
- Description: South Africa and other African countries are faced with high levels of food insecurity and poverty levels as a result of slow growth of the macro economy and weak or sluggish rural development. Irrigation scheme development is seen as an important strategy to address the challenges faced by households in rural areas and restores growth and enhanced livelihoods. While the international experience shows that Irrigation schemes are potentially transformative of poor communities and have been operational for many years now, there is no marked improvement in living conditions of rural households in terms of livelihoods and income. This raises the question as to whether or not the schemes are viable from a socio-economic perspective and whether or not there are reasons for concern and revision of the policy framework for smallholder irrigation schemes. As a result of that, the broad objective of the study was to evaluate the contribution of smallholder irrigation schemes to household income and food security of rural households in Idutywa village of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. Specifically, this research investigated the major factors that influence their performance, impact of irrigation farming on rural livelihood and household food security as well as identifying the possible opportunities of production that would improve their performance. The study was carried out in Idutywa villages of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa and employed survey data obtained from 107 households. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and the study employed stratified random sampling. The study made use of descriptive and inferential statistics to estimate the central tendency and dispersion as well as testing the hypothesis that there is a difference in the contribution between irrigators and non-irrigators using STATA and SPSS. Probit regression model was used to estimate factors that influenced the performance of smallholder irrigation schemes. The descriptive statistics employed included means, percentages and frequencies on the socio-economic characteristics of households in the study areas. The results show that females were dominant with a representation of 66.7 percent. The majority of households were aged and the mean age was 65 years. High level of illiteracy in the project area was revealed by the data. The average number of years, households spent in school was between 6 years to 10 years in school. Farming was found to be the major agricultural economic activity. Sixty-three (63 percent) were full time farmers. The results further show that household size ranges between 1 to 5 persons. The households were shown to be mostly dependent on social grant with household income hovering around R 1 000. The results from propensity score matching revealed that irrigation exerts a positive impact on household income. This provides sufficient evidence that irrigation schemes do make a contribution to rural livelihoods through their effect on household income and food security. This implies that government should continue investing in irrigation schemes as part of a strategy to grow the rural economy and improve rural livelihoods. This is in line with the Agricultural Policy Action Plan (APAP) and National Development Plan (NDP) of South Africa. Probit analysis suggests that age of the households, household size and market were some of the key determinants that positively influenced households’ decision to participate in smallholder irrigation schemes while access to credit had significant but negative effect on households’ decision to participate in smallholder irrigation schemes. Based on the findings highlighted above, it is recommended that addressing such barriers may create enabling conditions that would encourage households to access and participate more effectively in smallholder irrigation schemes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evolution of Fe-Ti-V oxides from the main magnetite layer, Upper Zone, Bushveld Complex, South Africa: a comparison across the Western, Northern and Eastern Lobes
- Authors: Iorga-Pavel, Adina
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Magnetite -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Mineralogy -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Oxides
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7357 , vital:21248
- Description: The Main Magnetite Layer (MML) from the Northern, Eastern and Western lobes of the Bushveld Complex shows significant differences in textures and in mineral chemistry. The MML in the Eastern and Western lobes is massive, with rare, small and altered pyroxene inclusions. By contrast, the MML in the Northern Lobe is more heterogeneous, and it is made of anastomosed and sometimes imbricated, thin layers of magnetitite, magnetite-rich and silicate-rich rocks, where the inclusions in Ti-magnetite are more numerous and consist of mainly altered subhedral and anhedral plagioclase. The comparison of the maximum values of the oxides shows that the MML in the Northern Lobe has the highest content of V2O3 (1.97 wt%), TiO2 (22.49 wt%) and MgO (2.92 wt%), while the MML in the Eastern Lobe has the highest content of Cr2O3 (2.92 wt%) and Al2O3 (9.80 wt%), but lowest V2O3 (0.52 wt%). The lower TiO2 content and higher V2O3 content in the MML of the Northern and Western Lobes suggest lower oxidising conditions during the crystallization of oxides. The MML in all three studied lobes consists of two layers of magnetitite, suggesting that MML was formed by two separate magma influxes, probably on a diverse and complex type of magma chamber floor. The high TiO2 content in magnetite, together with the negative correlation between TiO2 and V2O3 suggest that the maximum V content should represent a “less evolved” and less oxidized melt. In this respect, higher concentrations V2O3 in magnetite can be expected in magnetitite layers with lower TiO2. It can be inferred that the Ti-magetite in the MML from the Eastern Lobe was formed from a more evolved (TiO2 and FeO enriched) and more oxidized (lower V2O3) melt, compared with the MML from the Northern and Western lobes. These findings can be used to illustrate: a) that high fO2 can be responsible for the relatively low V content in magnetite from Fe-Ti oxide ores and b) the vanadium in magnetite decreases significantly in more evolved cumulates, due to a decreasing fO2 with differentiation. Compositional profiles of Ti- magnetite along the stratigraphic height of the MML in the Eastern Lobe (composed of two layers, separated in the outcrop by a parting plane) depicts a cryptic variation with depth in each of the two layers, where each layer can be divided into four sublayers, labelled upwards as A, B, C (with C1, C2, C3 and C4) and D based on Cr, Mg, Ti, Al and V variation. Small scale reversals of the mentioned elements and the repetition of A, B, C and D sub-layers in each layer suggest that MML formed from two successive influxes of magma (indicated by relatively elevated values of MgO), which evolved by crystallization and cooling in a similar manner, to produce the A to D variation. Based on these observations and theoretical considerations, this study dismisses several models for the genesis of the MML: the immiscibility, the increased oxygen fugacity, the relative increase of H2O content of the melt, pressure variation within the magma chamber, magma mixing, and crustal rock contamination. The model proposed here for MML genesis involves the crystallization of both Ti-magnetite and ilmenite from a Fe-Ti-Ca-Al-rich melt (ferro-diorite) along its line of descent, and gravitational settling of oxides in a dynamic regime. The factor which triggered the crystallization of magnetite is a critical saturation of melt in magnetite (attaining saturation of magnetite and ilmenite in the melt after some silicates crystallized). The difference between the nature of silicate inclusions in magnetite and the nature of the magnetite floor, suggest that the Fe-rich magma was not in equilibrium with the cumulates from the present floor, but rather it was emplaced laterally on long distances, the melt being disrupted from its own cumulates. The absence of correlation between the Cr2O3 in magnetite and co-existing ilmenite can indicate than no in-situ fractional crystallization took place at the moment of magnetite accumulation, but rather that magnetite and ilmenite gravitationally accumulated and the grains mechanically mixed from a flowing magma. The model presented herein proposes a five stage model of MML formation: Stage 1 is represented by the intrusion of a Fe-T-Ca-Al-rich magma which expands laterally within a flat and thin magma chamber. Oxides start to crystallize within a dynamic regime of the magma. Stage 2 is given by the accumulation of oxides at the bottom of the new floor. Some plagioclase starts to crystallize (e.g. subhedral plagioclase in the MML of the Northern Lobe). Stage 3 is a short living static regime, where both plagioclase and magnetite crystallized, without fractionation, forming the thin magnetite-anorthosite layer separating the MML into two layers. Stage 4 is represented by a new influx of Fe-Ti-Ca-Al-rich magma which is emplaced above the magnetite-bearing anorthosite, flushing out the liquid which was in equilibrium with the anorthosite. The oxides started crystallizing in a dynamic regime, as in Stage 1. In stage 5, the accumulation of oxides produced the upper layer of the MML. Our interpretation is that the flow of the magma was more dynamic (probably more turbulent on long distances) in the MML of the Northern Lobe, compared to the MML in the Western and Eastern lobes, producing highly heterogeneous and imbricated thin layers of magnetitite and silicates. The presence of olivine corona around orthopyroxene suggests the incongruent melting of orthopyroxene, which points out towards a local re-heating of existing silicate layers, this being a strong argument for multiple injections in generation of MML. Massive crystallization of oxides produced the sulphur saturation of the magma and caused the precipitation of the igneous sulphides, which nucleated on the existing oxides. Later hydrothermal fluids (and/or late magmatic volatiles?) percolated the MML, producing chloritization of the included silicates, remobilization of igneous sulphides and precipitation of hydrothermal sulphides.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Iorga-Pavel, Adina
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Magnetite -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Mineralogy -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Oxides
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7357 , vital:21248
- Description: The Main Magnetite Layer (MML) from the Northern, Eastern and Western lobes of the Bushveld Complex shows significant differences in textures and in mineral chemistry. The MML in the Eastern and Western lobes is massive, with rare, small and altered pyroxene inclusions. By contrast, the MML in the Northern Lobe is more heterogeneous, and it is made of anastomosed and sometimes imbricated, thin layers of magnetitite, magnetite-rich and silicate-rich rocks, where the inclusions in Ti-magnetite are more numerous and consist of mainly altered subhedral and anhedral plagioclase. The comparison of the maximum values of the oxides shows that the MML in the Northern Lobe has the highest content of V2O3 (1.97 wt%), TiO2 (22.49 wt%) and MgO (2.92 wt%), while the MML in the Eastern Lobe has the highest content of Cr2O3 (2.92 wt%) and Al2O3 (9.80 wt%), but lowest V2O3 (0.52 wt%). The lower TiO2 content and higher V2O3 content in the MML of the Northern and Western Lobes suggest lower oxidising conditions during the crystallization of oxides. The MML in all three studied lobes consists of two layers of magnetitite, suggesting that MML was formed by two separate magma influxes, probably on a diverse and complex type of magma chamber floor. The high TiO2 content in magnetite, together with the negative correlation between TiO2 and V2O3 suggest that the maximum V content should represent a “less evolved” and less oxidized melt. In this respect, higher concentrations V2O3 in magnetite can be expected in magnetitite layers with lower TiO2. It can be inferred that the Ti-magetite in the MML from the Eastern Lobe was formed from a more evolved (TiO2 and FeO enriched) and more oxidized (lower V2O3) melt, compared with the MML from the Northern and Western lobes. These findings can be used to illustrate: a) that high fO2 can be responsible for the relatively low V content in magnetite from Fe-Ti oxide ores and b) the vanadium in magnetite decreases significantly in more evolved cumulates, due to a decreasing fO2 with differentiation. Compositional profiles of Ti- magnetite along the stratigraphic height of the MML in the Eastern Lobe (composed of two layers, separated in the outcrop by a parting plane) depicts a cryptic variation with depth in each of the two layers, where each layer can be divided into four sublayers, labelled upwards as A, B, C (with C1, C2, C3 and C4) and D based on Cr, Mg, Ti, Al and V variation. Small scale reversals of the mentioned elements and the repetition of A, B, C and D sub-layers in each layer suggest that MML formed from two successive influxes of magma (indicated by relatively elevated values of MgO), which evolved by crystallization and cooling in a similar manner, to produce the A to D variation. Based on these observations and theoretical considerations, this study dismisses several models for the genesis of the MML: the immiscibility, the increased oxygen fugacity, the relative increase of H2O content of the melt, pressure variation within the magma chamber, magma mixing, and crustal rock contamination. The model proposed here for MML genesis involves the crystallization of both Ti-magnetite and ilmenite from a Fe-Ti-Ca-Al-rich melt (ferro-diorite) along its line of descent, and gravitational settling of oxides in a dynamic regime. The factor which triggered the crystallization of magnetite is a critical saturation of melt in magnetite (attaining saturation of magnetite and ilmenite in the melt after some silicates crystallized). The difference between the nature of silicate inclusions in magnetite and the nature of the magnetite floor, suggest that the Fe-rich magma was not in equilibrium with the cumulates from the present floor, but rather it was emplaced laterally on long distances, the melt being disrupted from its own cumulates. The absence of correlation between the Cr2O3 in magnetite and co-existing ilmenite can indicate than no in-situ fractional crystallization took place at the moment of magnetite accumulation, but rather that magnetite and ilmenite gravitationally accumulated and the grains mechanically mixed from a flowing magma. The model presented herein proposes a five stage model of MML formation: Stage 1 is represented by the intrusion of a Fe-T-Ca-Al-rich magma which expands laterally within a flat and thin magma chamber. Oxides start to crystallize within a dynamic regime of the magma. Stage 2 is given by the accumulation of oxides at the bottom of the new floor. Some plagioclase starts to crystallize (e.g. subhedral plagioclase in the MML of the Northern Lobe). Stage 3 is a short living static regime, where both plagioclase and magnetite crystallized, without fractionation, forming the thin magnetite-anorthosite layer separating the MML into two layers. Stage 4 is represented by a new influx of Fe-Ti-Ca-Al-rich magma which is emplaced above the magnetite-bearing anorthosite, flushing out the liquid which was in equilibrium with the anorthosite. The oxides started crystallizing in a dynamic regime, as in Stage 1. In stage 5, the accumulation of oxides produced the upper layer of the MML. Our interpretation is that the flow of the magma was more dynamic (probably more turbulent on long distances) in the MML of the Northern Lobe, compared to the MML in the Western and Eastern lobes, producing highly heterogeneous and imbricated thin layers of magnetitite and silicates. The presence of olivine corona around orthopyroxene suggests the incongruent melting of orthopyroxene, which points out towards a local re-heating of existing silicate layers, this being a strong argument for multiple injections in generation of MML. Massive crystallization of oxides produced the sulphur saturation of the magma and caused the precipitation of the igneous sulphides, which nucleated on the existing oxides. Later hydrothermal fluids (and/or late magmatic volatiles?) percolated the MML, producing chloritization of the included silicates, remobilization of igneous sulphides and precipitation of hydrothermal sulphides.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring acyl azides chemistry in continuous flow systems
- Authors: Sagandira, Cloudius Ray
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Organic compounds -- Synthesis Flow chemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12065 , vital:27028
- Description: Organic azides are important in the synthesis of many target molecules of great use in fine chemical and pharmaceutical production. The use of this class of compounds is however limited due to their hazardous nature and many safety concerns, as they are highly exothermic. Micro reactors can handle exotherms extremely well, due to the inherent high surface area to volume ratio, unlike the conventional batch process. This dissertation therefore aims to investigate the safe application of micro reactors in acyl azide chemistry.With this in mind, Chapter 1 provides a comprehensive background on organic azides, reaction calorimetric studies, flow chemistry technology (micro reactors) and their theoretical advantages. This chapter also discusses the preparation of organic azides in continuous flow systems and scaling up in continuous flow systems. Chapter 2 illustrates and discusses multivariate optimisation of benzoyl azide synthesis as a model reaction, synthesis of other acyl azides using the model reaction optimised conditions and multistep synthesis of carbamates, amides and amines in continuous flow systems via the Curtius rearrangement of benzoyl azide formed in situ from benzoyl chloride and sodium azide. The chapter also discusses process hazards analysis and evaluation of benzoyl azide synthesis and decomposition using calorimetric studies. It also investigates and discusses the effects of different mixing regimes and channel sizes on scale up. Chapter 3 has comprehensive experimental details for the whole dissertation with Chapter 4 providing the concluding remarks and future work recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Sagandira, Cloudius Ray
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Organic compounds -- Synthesis Flow chemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12065 , vital:27028
- Description: Organic azides are important in the synthesis of many target molecules of great use in fine chemical and pharmaceutical production. The use of this class of compounds is however limited due to their hazardous nature and many safety concerns, as they are highly exothermic. Micro reactors can handle exotherms extremely well, due to the inherent high surface area to volume ratio, unlike the conventional batch process. This dissertation therefore aims to investigate the safe application of micro reactors in acyl azide chemistry.With this in mind, Chapter 1 provides a comprehensive background on organic azides, reaction calorimetric studies, flow chemistry technology (micro reactors) and their theoretical advantages. This chapter also discusses the preparation of organic azides in continuous flow systems and scaling up in continuous flow systems. Chapter 2 illustrates and discusses multivariate optimisation of benzoyl azide synthesis as a model reaction, synthesis of other acyl azides using the model reaction optimised conditions and multistep synthesis of carbamates, amides and amines in continuous flow systems via the Curtius rearrangement of benzoyl azide formed in situ from benzoyl chloride and sodium azide. The chapter also discusses process hazards analysis and evaluation of benzoyl azide synthesis and decomposition using calorimetric studies. It also investigates and discusses the effects of different mixing regimes and channel sizes on scale up. Chapter 3 has comprehensive experimental details for the whole dissertation with Chapter 4 providing the concluding remarks and future work recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring feeding ecology and population growth rate responses of ungulates in Southern African arid biomes
- Authors: Vermeulen, Mika Margaret
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Ungulates -- South Africa Arid regions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15237 , vital:28189
- Description: Limited resources, extreme temperatures and predators are some of the stresses that are faced by ungulates in arid biomes. Understanding how these stressors influence ungulate feeding ecology and population growth rates is important for managers, as these could influence the persistence of ungulates in protected areas. An understanding of these stressors is especially relevant given the significant population declines in ungulate species globally. The Nama Karoo biome and the arid Savanna, an arid form of the Savanna biome, are both arid, but have distinct rainfall seasonality and vegetation structure and represent unique characteristics that need to be properly considered in their own regard. The literature on African ungulate feeding ecology covers a range of species and biomes from southern and east Africa, however, very little is known about ungulate dietary preferences in the Nama Karoo. Unexplained population declines in springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) and red hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus caama) have occurred at local scales across the Nama Karoo and the arid Savanna, most notably springbok population declines at the Karoo National Park (Karoo NP). This study sought to improve the understanding of ungulate feeding ecology and population growth rate responses in two arid biomes of South Africa. To achieve this, ungulate dietary composition was characterised, in terms of the proportional seasonal contribution of C4 and C3 plant forms, of a range of ungulates in the Nama Karoo, at the Karoo NP and the arid Savanna, at the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve (Tswalu KR), using stable carbon isotope analysis. Fresh faecal samples of ungulate species were collected from both the biomes during the dry, early wet and late wet seasons. Species were categorised per biome into feeding guilds and the effects of season, biome and the interaction thereof on the diets of the ungulate species explored. Furthermore, the findings were interpreted against what is known about diets of the respective species elsewhere in southern and east Africa. Secondly, trends in ungulate population growth rates were assessed within the Karoo NP and the Tswalu KR over the past 12 and14 years respectively. Furthermore, the variables influencing ungulate population growth rates (and generality of trends), with emphasis on ungulate biomass and rainfall, were explored at biome and species level. Population size data were obtained from annual aerial censuses for the period 2002-2015 and used to calculate annual growth rates and biomass for each ungulate species. The contribution of C4 forage to the diets of ungulate species in the arid Savanna was generally higher than in the Nama Karoo,in line with greater relative abundance of C4 grasses in the former. During winter (dry season) C3 intake was higher in the Nama Karoo than in the arid Savanna, reflecting C3 plant growth (C3 grasses and shrubs) and rainfall during winter in the Nama Karoo. Mean population growth rates during the study period were negative in some of the threatened species considered, i.e. mountain reedbuck (Redunca fulvorufula fulvorufula), tsessebe (Damaliscus lunatus lunatus) and Hartmann’s mountain zebra (Equus zebra hartmannae). No evidence for negative density dependent regulation (~intra-/interspecific competition) of ungulate population growth rates was found, whereas bottom up (~rainfall) and positive density dependent (~biomass of the species under investigation) regulatory mechanisms were most influential. The rainfall and biomass variables influenced the population growth rates of smaller ungulate species more than those of larger bodied ungulate species. Knowledge of ungulate diets will enable managers of protected areas to better understand how climate change, and resultant changes in relative abundances of plant growth forms, will influence specific ungulate species. The finding that increased population biomass positively influenced certain ungulate species’ growth rates has potential implications for management intervention as ungulate biomass is a variable that can be manipulated in protected areas. The reinforcement of existing mountain reedbuck, springbok and red hartebeest populations, specifically, at the Karoo NP and the Tswalu KR may counter their current negative growth rates in these two protected areas. Finally, the influence of protected area size and fencing, on ungulate vulnerability to predators (~top down) and forage quality (~bottom up) mechanisms in arid biomes needs to be further explored.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Vermeulen, Mika Margaret
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Ungulates -- South Africa Arid regions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15237 , vital:28189
- Description: Limited resources, extreme temperatures and predators are some of the stresses that are faced by ungulates in arid biomes. Understanding how these stressors influence ungulate feeding ecology and population growth rates is important for managers, as these could influence the persistence of ungulates in protected areas. An understanding of these stressors is especially relevant given the significant population declines in ungulate species globally. The Nama Karoo biome and the arid Savanna, an arid form of the Savanna biome, are both arid, but have distinct rainfall seasonality and vegetation structure and represent unique characteristics that need to be properly considered in their own regard. The literature on African ungulate feeding ecology covers a range of species and biomes from southern and east Africa, however, very little is known about ungulate dietary preferences in the Nama Karoo. Unexplained population declines in springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) and red hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus caama) have occurred at local scales across the Nama Karoo and the arid Savanna, most notably springbok population declines at the Karoo National Park (Karoo NP). This study sought to improve the understanding of ungulate feeding ecology and population growth rate responses in two arid biomes of South Africa. To achieve this, ungulate dietary composition was characterised, in terms of the proportional seasonal contribution of C4 and C3 plant forms, of a range of ungulates in the Nama Karoo, at the Karoo NP and the arid Savanna, at the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve (Tswalu KR), using stable carbon isotope analysis. Fresh faecal samples of ungulate species were collected from both the biomes during the dry, early wet and late wet seasons. Species were categorised per biome into feeding guilds and the effects of season, biome and the interaction thereof on the diets of the ungulate species explored. Furthermore, the findings were interpreted against what is known about diets of the respective species elsewhere in southern and east Africa. Secondly, trends in ungulate population growth rates were assessed within the Karoo NP and the Tswalu KR over the past 12 and14 years respectively. Furthermore, the variables influencing ungulate population growth rates (and generality of trends), with emphasis on ungulate biomass and rainfall, were explored at biome and species level. Population size data were obtained from annual aerial censuses for the period 2002-2015 and used to calculate annual growth rates and biomass for each ungulate species. The contribution of C4 forage to the diets of ungulate species in the arid Savanna was generally higher than in the Nama Karoo,in line with greater relative abundance of C4 grasses in the former. During winter (dry season) C3 intake was higher in the Nama Karoo than in the arid Savanna, reflecting C3 plant growth (C3 grasses and shrubs) and rainfall during winter in the Nama Karoo. Mean population growth rates during the study period were negative in some of the threatened species considered, i.e. mountain reedbuck (Redunca fulvorufula fulvorufula), tsessebe (Damaliscus lunatus lunatus) and Hartmann’s mountain zebra (Equus zebra hartmannae). No evidence for negative density dependent regulation (~intra-/interspecific competition) of ungulate population growth rates was found, whereas bottom up (~rainfall) and positive density dependent (~biomass of the species under investigation) regulatory mechanisms were most influential. The rainfall and biomass variables influenced the population growth rates of smaller ungulate species more than those of larger bodied ungulate species. Knowledge of ungulate diets will enable managers of protected areas to better understand how climate change, and resultant changes in relative abundances of plant growth forms, will influence specific ungulate species. The finding that increased population biomass positively influenced certain ungulate species’ growth rates has potential implications for management intervention as ungulate biomass is a variable that can be manipulated in protected areas. The reinforcement of existing mountain reedbuck, springbok and red hartebeest populations, specifically, at the Karoo NP and the Tswalu KR may counter their current negative growth rates in these two protected areas. Finally, the influence of protected area size and fencing, on ungulate vulnerability to predators (~top down) and forage quality (~bottom up) mechanisms in arid biomes needs to be further explored.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring the attitudes of selected community members on the interplay between incidences of poverty and the escalation of HIV/AIDS in Cofimvaba, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Mrashula, Zodidi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , AIDS (Disease) -- Economic aspects , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7941 , vital:30987
- Description: Cofimvaba has had a noticeable increase of people who got infected with HIV/AIDS and is one of the poorest of the poor in the Eastern Cape. Hence, the researcher became interested to investigate the interplay between incidences of poverty and the prevalence of HIV/AIDS. The reasons for the continued increase of HIV infection in Cofimvaba were investigated. The study used a qualitative approach, was descriptive and explorative and specifically used a case study as a specific research design. The study investigated 32 participants, nine of whom were infected and diagnosed to be seropositive between the years 2012, and 2014; six community members; twelve from the volunteer care givers who were members from the support group. The study also investigated a number of key informants who included a traditional leader, a care giver, a nurse, a social worker and a community development practitioner. The study used a non-probability sampling methodology, but specifically purposive sampling technique. On data collection, the study triangulated both in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The findings of the study revealed that people who are infected with HIV/AIDS are unemployed, illiterate and suffer from poverty. The study also found that poor people are more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS infections. The study findings were as follows: There is a lack knowledge about HIV/AIDS that leads to lack of prevention. It has been discovered that there is a high level of poverty and HIV/AIDS in Cofimvaba. High level of unemployment is a contributing factor of poverty and high level of HIV/AIDS in Cofimvaba. Level of unprotected sex as driver of HIV/AIDS has also been identified. There is an inextricable relationship poverty and prevalence of HIV/AIDS. Unreliability of the food parcel on people who are HIV positive leads to poverty. The study findings were also as: Caregivers breaching the ethos and principle of confidentiality leads to people not to to HIV/disclose their HIV/AIDS status. Migration driving vulnerability to HIV/AIDS. It has been insisted that transactional sex drives to HIV/AIDS. Low HIV/AIDS education makes people to be vulnerable to HIVAIDS., The fear of testing makes people unaware of their HIV/AIDS status. Also the excessive alcohol intake as a driver to HIV/AIDS vulnerability. It has also been noted that only women responded to the study and there was a high rate of death revealed on account of HIV/AIDS in Cofimvaba. The researcher has also made the following recommendations to the study: obligatory psychol-social support programs for PLWHA, extension and replication of community based organisation, collaboration between different stakeholders in the HIV/AIDS domain. Widen the horizon of training education and HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns and availability of counselling, job opportunity, social grants and food parcels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mrashula, Zodidi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , AIDS (Disease) -- Economic aspects , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7941 , vital:30987
- Description: Cofimvaba has had a noticeable increase of people who got infected with HIV/AIDS and is one of the poorest of the poor in the Eastern Cape. Hence, the researcher became interested to investigate the interplay between incidences of poverty and the prevalence of HIV/AIDS. The reasons for the continued increase of HIV infection in Cofimvaba were investigated. The study used a qualitative approach, was descriptive and explorative and specifically used a case study as a specific research design. The study investigated 32 participants, nine of whom were infected and diagnosed to be seropositive between the years 2012, and 2014; six community members; twelve from the volunteer care givers who were members from the support group. The study also investigated a number of key informants who included a traditional leader, a care giver, a nurse, a social worker and a community development practitioner. The study used a non-probability sampling methodology, but specifically purposive sampling technique. On data collection, the study triangulated both in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The findings of the study revealed that people who are infected with HIV/AIDS are unemployed, illiterate and suffer from poverty. The study also found that poor people are more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS infections. The study findings were as follows: There is a lack knowledge about HIV/AIDS that leads to lack of prevention. It has been discovered that there is a high level of poverty and HIV/AIDS in Cofimvaba. High level of unemployment is a contributing factor of poverty and high level of HIV/AIDS in Cofimvaba. Level of unprotected sex as driver of HIV/AIDS has also been identified. There is an inextricable relationship poverty and prevalence of HIV/AIDS. Unreliability of the food parcel on people who are HIV positive leads to poverty. The study findings were also as: Caregivers breaching the ethos and principle of confidentiality leads to people not to to HIV/disclose their HIV/AIDS status. Migration driving vulnerability to HIV/AIDS. It has been insisted that transactional sex drives to HIV/AIDS. Low HIV/AIDS education makes people to be vulnerable to HIVAIDS., The fear of testing makes people unaware of their HIV/AIDS status. Also the excessive alcohol intake as a driver to HIV/AIDS vulnerability. It has also been noted that only women responded to the study and there was a high rate of death revealed on account of HIV/AIDS in Cofimvaba. The researcher has also made the following recommendations to the study: obligatory psychol-social support programs for PLWHA, extension and replication of community based organisation, collaboration between different stakeholders in the HIV/AIDS domain. Widen the horizon of training education and HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns and availability of counselling, job opportunity, social grants and food parcels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring the suitability of causal loop diagrams to assess the value chains of aquatic ecosystem services: a case study of the Baviaanskloof, South Africa
- Authors: Rawlins, Jonathan Mark
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4909 , vital:20742
- Description: Healthy, functioning aquatic ecosystems are fundamental to the survival and development of any nation, particularly so for water-stressed countries like South Africa. Aquatic ecosystem services (AESs) are becoming increasingly recognised for their importance to society with regards to the ecological goods and services they provide in terms of health, social, cultural and economic benefits. The development of markets for AESs begins with a clear understanding of the nature and extent of the goods and services provided by aquatic ecosystems. However, an inclusive understanding of AESs and their associated values is currently lacking in South Africa. Although flows of ecosystem services provide a nearly limitless set of valuable properties, a large proportion of their services remain unpriced or inaccurately priced through traditional neo-classical markets. This often results in market failure, as these markets do not reflect the full social costs and/or benefits of ecosystem services. This provides incentive to identify and develop a tool to bridge the gap between ecosystem service valuation and practical, sustainable management recommendations for improving the provision of ecosystem services and their associated markets. This study explores the suitability of causal loop diagrams (CLDs) to assess the value chains of AESs in South Africa within the context of a case study. AESs do not usually have finite market values nor are they traded in formal markets, thus, a traditional approach to value chain analysis is unsuitable. A professional workshop environment was utilised to facilitate a transdisciplinary approach towards identifying relevant AESs and their complex inputs, interactions and trade-offs. Numerous CLDs were developed in an effort to map the complex relationships between these AESs and their associated inputs, which formed the basis to attempt subsequent scenario analyses and 'alternative' value chain analyses. The findings of this study show that CLDs have the potential to qualitatively identify challenges and opportunities within the value chains of AESs. Thus, the use of such 'alternative' value chain analyses can directly contribute towards the development of recommendations for improving sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Rawlins, Jonathan Mark
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4909 , vital:20742
- Description: Healthy, functioning aquatic ecosystems are fundamental to the survival and development of any nation, particularly so for water-stressed countries like South Africa. Aquatic ecosystem services (AESs) are becoming increasingly recognised for their importance to society with regards to the ecological goods and services they provide in terms of health, social, cultural and economic benefits. The development of markets for AESs begins with a clear understanding of the nature and extent of the goods and services provided by aquatic ecosystems. However, an inclusive understanding of AESs and their associated values is currently lacking in South Africa. Although flows of ecosystem services provide a nearly limitless set of valuable properties, a large proportion of their services remain unpriced or inaccurately priced through traditional neo-classical markets. This often results in market failure, as these markets do not reflect the full social costs and/or benefits of ecosystem services. This provides incentive to identify and develop a tool to bridge the gap between ecosystem service valuation and practical, sustainable management recommendations for improving the provision of ecosystem services and their associated markets. This study explores the suitability of causal loop diagrams (CLDs) to assess the value chains of AESs in South Africa within the context of a case study. AESs do not usually have finite market values nor are they traded in formal markets, thus, a traditional approach to value chain analysis is unsuitable. A professional workshop environment was utilised to facilitate a transdisciplinary approach towards identifying relevant AESs and their complex inputs, interactions and trade-offs. Numerous CLDs were developed in an effort to map the complex relationships between these AESs and their associated inputs, which formed the basis to attempt subsequent scenario analyses and 'alternative' value chain analyses. The findings of this study show that CLDs have the potential to qualitatively identify challenges and opportunities within the value chains of AESs. Thus, the use of such 'alternative' value chain analyses can directly contribute towards the development of recommendations for improving sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Farm level cost-benefit analysis of conservation agriculture for maize smallholder farners in Okhahlamba Municipality in Kwa-Zulu Natal Province, South Africa
- Authors: Tafa, Sanelise
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Agriculture -- South Africa -- Cost effectiveness , Agricultural conservation -- South Africa -- Kwa-Zulu Natal , Land use -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2809 , vital:28094
- Description: Land degradation is a serious problem that many poor communities face and this worsens their vulnerability and therefore, poses a threat to food security, as it reduces yield, forces farmers to use more inputs, and disproportionately affect the smallholder farmers in remote communities that also suffer diverse infrastructure disadvantages. In response to that, the international development agencies, donors, and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), especially faith-based organizations have turned towards sustainable farming approaches. Much attention has been paid to a combination of sustainable farming measures which are packaged under the “Conservation Agriculture” (CA) banner. The previous work in the KZN Province and elsewhere has demonstrated that CA has the potential to improve the soil structure, thereby reversing the effect of soil degradation. Consequently, many of the farmers in the areas in which these demonstrations have been conducted appreciate the ecological and economic value of adopting CA. However, the on-farm financial benefits of adopting a CA specific tillage practice are not as well known or thought to be as pronounced. By means of integrating field survey, reviewed literature, and econometric analysis, this study assessed the farm level cost-benefit analysis of conservation agriculture for smallholder maize farmers in OLM, specifically in one demonstration village of Bergville town. The analysis is based on the case study of the NGO’s work in which they had selected a community and participating households who received assistance in a number of ways such as maize seed, soil preparation, and CA planters. To analyse the farm level cost-benefit analysis, descriptive, linear regression, gross margin (GM) and appraisal indicators such as Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) were used. The descriptive analysis, used to analyse the factors affecting the extent of adoption of CA revealed that socio-economic characteristics have the influence on the level to which a farmer responds to incentives. Linear regression model used in this study showed that years in farming, involvement in joint farmer’s group, and use of cover crops have the significant effect on the extent of adoption of CA. Moreover, the calculated gross margins of the two tillage systems were different, revealing higher Gross Margins for CA plots than for conventional plots. The major cause of the difference was found to be differences in the variable costs. When using appraisal indicators (NPV, BCR, and IRR) the study projected a 10-year period at 8% and 10.5% discount rates. The study also revealed positive NPVs for both CA and conventional agriculture. The positive sign implies that there are positive pay-offs for investing in both trial and control plots. However, trial plots have larger NPVs compared to control plots, meaning that there are less additional returns for investing in control plots compared to trial plots. Results also reveal that with 10.5% discount rate, the NPVs are lower than with 8% discount rate, showing that lower discount rates are consistent with higher performance over the long term. This therefore means that at lower discount rate, it is more viable to produce maize using CA than using conventional tillage system. In the case of BRC presented in the study, it was revealed that at both low and high discount rates, the trial plots were more viable than the control plots. Finally, the IRR presented in the study reveal that the trial plots would be able to pay their way much faster than the control plots. Overall, the study found that there are incentives to adoption of CA compared to conventional farming. The message from the different results arising from the use of different discount rates is that farmers should receive assistance at low cost of capital in order for their operations to be viable and this works out well over the long term as shown by the 10-year period projections.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Tafa, Sanelise
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Agriculture -- South Africa -- Cost effectiveness , Agricultural conservation -- South Africa -- Kwa-Zulu Natal , Land use -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2809 , vital:28094
- Description: Land degradation is a serious problem that many poor communities face and this worsens their vulnerability and therefore, poses a threat to food security, as it reduces yield, forces farmers to use more inputs, and disproportionately affect the smallholder farmers in remote communities that also suffer diverse infrastructure disadvantages. In response to that, the international development agencies, donors, and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), especially faith-based organizations have turned towards sustainable farming approaches. Much attention has been paid to a combination of sustainable farming measures which are packaged under the “Conservation Agriculture” (CA) banner. The previous work in the KZN Province and elsewhere has demonstrated that CA has the potential to improve the soil structure, thereby reversing the effect of soil degradation. Consequently, many of the farmers in the areas in which these demonstrations have been conducted appreciate the ecological and economic value of adopting CA. However, the on-farm financial benefits of adopting a CA specific tillage practice are not as well known or thought to be as pronounced. By means of integrating field survey, reviewed literature, and econometric analysis, this study assessed the farm level cost-benefit analysis of conservation agriculture for smallholder maize farmers in OLM, specifically in one demonstration village of Bergville town. The analysis is based on the case study of the NGO’s work in which they had selected a community and participating households who received assistance in a number of ways such as maize seed, soil preparation, and CA planters. To analyse the farm level cost-benefit analysis, descriptive, linear regression, gross margin (GM) and appraisal indicators such as Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) were used. The descriptive analysis, used to analyse the factors affecting the extent of adoption of CA revealed that socio-economic characteristics have the influence on the level to which a farmer responds to incentives. Linear regression model used in this study showed that years in farming, involvement in joint farmer’s group, and use of cover crops have the significant effect on the extent of adoption of CA. Moreover, the calculated gross margins of the two tillage systems were different, revealing higher Gross Margins for CA plots than for conventional plots. The major cause of the difference was found to be differences in the variable costs. When using appraisal indicators (NPV, BCR, and IRR) the study projected a 10-year period at 8% and 10.5% discount rates. The study also revealed positive NPVs for both CA and conventional agriculture. The positive sign implies that there are positive pay-offs for investing in both trial and control plots. However, trial plots have larger NPVs compared to control plots, meaning that there are less additional returns for investing in control plots compared to trial plots. Results also reveal that with 10.5% discount rate, the NPVs are lower than with 8% discount rate, showing that lower discount rates are consistent with higher performance over the long term. This therefore means that at lower discount rate, it is more viable to produce maize using CA than using conventional tillage system. In the case of BRC presented in the study, it was revealed that at both low and high discount rates, the trial plots were more viable than the control plots. Finally, the IRR presented in the study reveal that the trial plots would be able to pay their way much faster than the control plots. Overall, the study found that there are incentives to adoption of CA compared to conventional farming. The message from the different results arising from the use of different discount rates is that farmers should receive assistance at low cost of capital in order for their operations to be viable and this works out well over the long term as shown by the 10-year period projections.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Forage production, nutritive value and intake rates by goats of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) forages grown in the subtropical region of South Africa
- Authors: Buthelezi, Lindokuhle Sizwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Forage Pigeon pea Forage plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7852 , vital:30773
- Description: Different growth stages and drying methods were used to assess forage production, nutritive value and intake of leaves from three Cajanus cajan varieties (ICEAP 00557, ICEAP 01514 and CIMMYT 100/01). In the 2016/17 growing season, three complete randomized block designs (CRBD’s) were conducted. Regrowth parameters were measured during both the both vegetative and flowering stages. The plots were harvested at the flowering stage. Biomass yields were measured at the flowering stage. The harvested leaves were then dried under the two different drying methods. The methods used were shade- and oven-drying at 60 oC. This was used to determine dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL) and total non-structural carbohydrates (TNC) for the C. cajan varieties. Minerals Ca, Mg, K, Na, K/(Ca+Mg), P and Zn, Cu, Mn and Fe and phytochemicals condensed tannins, phenolic compounds and saponins were also analyzed. The intake rates and in vitro and in sacco ruminal degradabilities were also determined. The survival percentage was significantly different (P<0.05) only across the means of varieties. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the number of shoots per plant, stems per shoot and coppice stems produced by the three C. cajan varieties at vegetative and flowering stage. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the heights of plants recorded by the varieties only at flowering stage. The yields of fresh biomass in C. cajan was significantly different (P<0.05) across all the varieties harvested in 2016. In all the varieties there was a significant difference (P<0.05) in dry matter yield in both seasons of 2016 and 2017. The effect of browse varieties and drying methods showed a significant effect (P<0.05) on DM, CP, fat, NDIN, ADIN and hemicellulose content of varieties. There was little impact by varieties and drying methods (P<0.05) on ash, NDF, ADF, ADL, TNC and cellulose content of varieties. Varieties and drying method had no effect (P>0.05) on Ca, Mg and K except for Na and P. There was no effect caused by varieties and drying methods (P>0.05) on Zn and Mn with Cu and Fe being the exceptions. Oven drying showed an overall reduction in the tannin concentration on leaves while there was an increase in saponins. The different varieties had no effect (P>0.05) on the IIR, 0.0275±0.0089, 0.0275±0.0077 and 0.0409±0.0109 for Cv1, Cv2 and Cv3, respectively. The day of the trial and browse variety had an effect (P<0.05) on bite rate. However, the day of trial had no significant effect (P>0.05) on both bite size and the instantaneous intake rate. Individual goat had a significant effect (P<0.05) on bite rate. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the in vitro and in sacco rapidly degradable fractions (a) of all the three varieties but the drying method had no effect (P>0.05). The slowly degradable fraction (b) and degradation rate constant (c) of all varieties was not significantly different (P>0.05) on both drying methods during IV DaisyII procedure. However, b and c, in all the varieties was significantly different (P<0.05) in both drying methods during the in sacco procedure. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the mean potentially degradable fraction (a+b) across all C. cajan varieties during IV DaisyII procedure, however a+c of all varieties was significantly different (P<0.05) in both the drying methods during the in sacco procedure. The effective in vitro and in sacco degradability of the varieties was significantly different (P<0.05) with a rumen outflow rate of 2, 5 and 8 percent per hour. The shade-dried varieties had a higher (P<0.05) ED than the oven-dried materials during IV DaisyII and the in sacco procedures. It was concluded that the decline in yield of C. cajan during the study is a reflection of poor survival, the insufficient regeneration from seed, nutrient depletion over time and the extended dry seasons. Therefore, shade drying is commended method of drying forages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Buthelezi, Lindokuhle Sizwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Forage Pigeon pea Forage plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7852 , vital:30773
- Description: Different growth stages and drying methods were used to assess forage production, nutritive value and intake of leaves from three Cajanus cajan varieties (ICEAP 00557, ICEAP 01514 and CIMMYT 100/01). In the 2016/17 growing season, three complete randomized block designs (CRBD’s) were conducted. Regrowth parameters were measured during both the both vegetative and flowering stages. The plots were harvested at the flowering stage. Biomass yields were measured at the flowering stage. The harvested leaves were then dried under the two different drying methods. The methods used were shade- and oven-drying at 60 oC. This was used to determine dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL) and total non-structural carbohydrates (TNC) for the C. cajan varieties. Minerals Ca, Mg, K, Na, K/(Ca+Mg), P and Zn, Cu, Mn and Fe and phytochemicals condensed tannins, phenolic compounds and saponins were also analyzed. The intake rates and in vitro and in sacco ruminal degradabilities were also determined. The survival percentage was significantly different (P<0.05) only across the means of varieties. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the number of shoots per plant, stems per shoot and coppice stems produced by the three C. cajan varieties at vegetative and flowering stage. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the heights of plants recorded by the varieties only at flowering stage. The yields of fresh biomass in C. cajan was significantly different (P<0.05) across all the varieties harvested in 2016. In all the varieties there was a significant difference (P<0.05) in dry matter yield in both seasons of 2016 and 2017. The effect of browse varieties and drying methods showed a significant effect (P<0.05) on DM, CP, fat, NDIN, ADIN and hemicellulose content of varieties. There was little impact by varieties and drying methods (P<0.05) on ash, NDF, ADF, ADL, TNC and cellulose content of varieties. Varieties and drying method had no effect (P>0.05) on Ca, Mg and K except for Na and P. There was no effect caused by varieties and drying methods (P>0.05) on Zn and Mn with Cu and Fe being the exceptions. Oven drying showed an overall reduction in the tannin concentration on leaves while there was an increase in saponins. The different varieties had no effect (P>0.05) on the IIR, 0.0275±0.0089, 0.0275±0.0077 and 0.0409±0.0109 for Cv1, Cv2 and Cv3, respectively. The day of the trial and browse variety had an effect (P<0.05) on bite rate. However, the day of trial had no significant effect (P>0.05) on both bite size and the instantaneous intake rate. Individual goat had a significant effect (P<0.05) on bite rate. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the in vitro and in sacco rapidly degradable fractions (a) of all the three varieties but the drying method had no effect (P>0.05). The slowly degradable fraction (b) and degradation rate constant (c) of all varieties was not significantly different (P>0.05) on both drying methods during IV DaisyII procedure. However, b and c, in all the varieties was significantly different (P<0.05) in both drying methods during the in sacco procedure. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the mean potentially degradable fraction (a+b) across all C. cajan varieties during IV DaisyII procedure, however a+c of all varieties was significantly different (P<0.05) in both the drying methods during the in sacco procedure. The effective in vitro and in sacco degradability of the varieties was significantly different (P<0.05) with a rumen outflow rate of 2, 5 and 8 percent per hour. The shade-dried varieties had a higher (P<0.05) ED than the oven-dried materials during IV DaisyII and the in sacco procedures. It was concluded that the decline in yield of C. cajan during the study is a reflection of poor survival, the insufficient regeneration from seed, nutrient depletion over time and the extended dry seasons. Therefore, shade drying is commended method of drying forages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Foraging behaviour and thermal physiology of Cape sugarbirds: sex-specific responses to temperature
- Authors: Molepo, Mokgatla Jerry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sexual dimorphism (Animals) , Sex differences Birds -- Behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19124 , vital:28775
- Description: Body size (Mb) determines an animal’s energy and water demands for thermoregulation. Sexual dimorphism in Mb is common across many species, but its physiological consequences (e.g. energy and water demands) remain poorly understood. In this study, I determined if the sexually dimorphic Cape Sugarbird (Promerops cafer)–males are up to 15% larger than females, show sex-specific foraging patterns and physiological responses. To determine intraspecific variability behavioural in response to temperature, I compared flower visitation rates between male and female Cape Sugarbirds at different times of the day, and among days that varied in maximum air temperature. A total of 1207 males and 561 females were observed. Female Cape Sugarbirds visited flowers more often and continued to feed especially on hot days. Males generally dominated flower resources throughout the day, except on hot days. I also compared physiological responses in EWL, RMR and Tb between males and females at high air temperatures. There were no significant differences between the two sexes. Aggression which was overlooked appeared to have a high influence on foraging behaviour of Cape Sugarbirds. These results suggest that female Cape Sugarbirds will be more prone to energy and water stress during hot and dry summers in the Fynbos region because of resource dominance by male Cape Sugarbirds. Endemic birds, such as the Cape Sugarbird, warrant a conservation priority, especially since they are the dominant pollinator of the Protea plants in the Fynbos biome. The findings of this study will provide insights into population persistence of Cape Sugarbirds in response to predicted heat waves and rise in global temperatures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Molepo, Mokgatla Jerry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sexual dimorphism (Animals) , Sex differences Birds -- Behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19124 , vital:28775
- Description: Body size (Mb) determines an animal’s energy and water demands for thermoregulation. Sexual dimorphism in Mb is common across many species, but its physiological consequences (e.g. energy and water demands) remain poorly understood. In this study, I determined if the sexually dimorphic Cape Sugarbird (Promerops cafer)–males are up to 15% larger than females, show sex-specific foraging patterns and physiological responses. To determine intraspecific variability behavioural in response to temperature, I compared flower visitation rates between male and female Cape Sugarbirds at different times of the day, and among days that varied in maximum air temperature. A total of 1207 males and 561 females were observed. Female Cape Sugarbirds visited flowers more often and continued to feed especially on hot days. Males generally dominated flower resources throughout the day, except on hot days. I also compared physiological responses in EWL, RMR and Tb between males and females at high air temperatures. There were no significant differences between the two sexes. Aggression which was overlooked appeared to have a high influence on foraging behaviour of Cape Sugarbirds. These results suggest that female Cape Sugarbirds will be more prone to energy and water stress during hot and dry summers in the Fynbos region because of resource dominance by male Cape Sugarbirds. Endemic birds, such as the Cape Sugarbird, warrant a conservation priority, especially since they are the dominant pollinator of the Protea plants in the Fynbos biome. The findings of this study will provide insights into population persistence of Cape Sugarbirds in response to predicted heat waves and rise in global temperatures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Formulation, development and evaluation of lipid nanocarriers for minocycline hydrochloride
- Authors: Ranchhod, Janeeta
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/65234 , vital:28712
- Description: Expected release date-May 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ranchhod, Janeeta
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/65234 , vital:28712
- Description: Expected release date-May 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Geological and geophysical investigations of the reservoir rock properties of the Gamtoos Basin in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Mokoele, Salmina Phuthi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Petroleum reserves -- Mechanical properties Petroleum reserves -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Geophysics -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7863 , vital:30779
- Description: Geological and geophysical studies of the Gamtoos Basin were carried out by using the research methods of stratigraphic analysis, petrographic analysis, sedimentary facies analysis, and geophysical studies. The orientation of the Gamtoos Basin onshore is controlled by the Gamtoos Fault which cuts through the lithologies of the Cape Supergroup on the eastern edge of the basin. Magnetic data and depth slices show the presence of the Cape Supergroup basement on the south east corner of the onshore Kirkwood Formation which is further sitting on the Gamtoos Group basement from the Neoproterozoic extending up to 8860 m in depth. Most previously compiled stratigraphic profiles of the Uitanhage Group revealed the presence of reddish massive conglomerate units from the Enon Formation and massive reddish to greenish alternating units of sandstones, siltstones and mudstones from the Kirkwood Formation. The results obtained from this research also revealed the presence of reddish to whitish massive alternating units of sandstones, mudstones and siltstones from the upper Enon Formation overlaying the reddish massive conglomeritic layers while the alternating reddish to greenish units of sandstones, siltstones and mudstones from the Kirkwood Formation are overlaid by massive reddish to greyish conglomeritic layers. Thirteen types of lithofacies and five types of biofacies were accounted for across the Gamtoos Basin from core logs, field observations and petrographic analysis. The same type of reddish to greyish massive conglomerate facies interbedded with subordinate sandstone lenses were observed on both the Enon (Lower most part) and the Kirkwood (top most part) Formations. Similar reddish to whitish sandstone facies were also observed in both formations except some of the units from the Kirkwood Formation revealed the presence of a lot of sedimentary structures such as laminations, thin beds, tabular cross beds, trough cross beds, convolute structures, load casts and even secondary structures like calcite veins and honey comb structures. Mudstone deposits are divided into reddish laminated facies and whitish massive facies. The whitish mudstone facies of the Enon Formation comprise caliche indicating the process of leaching while the reddish facies contain mudcracks indicating the process of desiccation. The Kirkwood Formation comprises reddish laminated mudstone facies and whitish massive mudstones. Petrographic studies revealed the presence of quartz arenites, lithic arenites, quartz wacke, lithic wacke, pelletic wacke, siltstones and mudstones. The mineral compositions were monocrystalline and polycrystalline quartz, plagioclase, K-feldspar and lithic fragments as the main framework grains. Muscovite and glauconite were identified as accessory minerals along with heavy minerals of hematite spotted on a few occasions. The matrix was composed of clay (mainly kaolinite and smectite), bentonite, illite-sericite and fine quartz silts. Microscope petrography revealed that organic matters occurred in 4 occurrences, i.e. as organic intraclasts, kerogen pellets, organic carbon laminae or stringers, and diagenetic crack-filling organic carbon (asphalt). Density determinations onshore have revealed an average wet density of 2.439 g/cm3 for the Enon Formation sandstones and 2.589 g/cm3 for the Kirkwood Formation sandstones. The average rock density for Borehole Ha-B2 is 2.67 g/cm3 whereas Borehole Ha-G1 rocks show an average density of 2.64 g/cm3. Geophysical data from the offshore boreholes has indicated an increase in the following parameters with depth: bulk density, porosity and geothermal gradient. Data from borehole logs resulted in a linear relationship between bulk density and depth although some boreholes were represented by more than one linear segment in one graph still showing gradual increase of bulk density with depth. The basin was deposited in terrestrial environments (braided fluvial fans and meandering rivers) and marine environments (beach, shallow and deep marine).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mokoele, Salmina Phuthi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Petroleum reserves -- Mechanical properties Petroleum reserves -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Geophysics -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7863 , vital:30779
- Description: Geological and geophysical studies of the Gamtoos Basin were carried out by using the research methods of stratigraphic analysis, petrographic analysis, sedimentary facies analysis, and geophysical studies. The orientation of the Gamtoos Basin onshore is controlled by the Gamtoos Fault which cuts through the lithologies of the Cape Supergroup on the eastern edge of the basin. Magnetic data and depth slices show the presence of the Cape Supergroup basement on the south east corner of the onshore Kirkwood Formation which is further sitting on the Gamtoos Group basement from the Neoproterozoic extending up to 8860 m in depth. Most previously compiled stratigraphic profiles of the Uitanhage Group revealed the presence of reddish massive conglomerate units from the Enon Formation and massive reddish to greenish alternating units of sandstones, siltstones and mudstones from the Kirkwood Formation. The results obtained from this research also revealed the presence of reddish to whitish massive alternating units of sandstones, mudstones and siltstones from the upper Enon Formation overlaying the reddish massive conglomeritic layers while the alternating reddish to greenish units of sandstones, siltstones and mudstones from the Kirkwood Formation are overlaid by massive reddish to greyish conglomeritic layers. Thirteen types of lithofacies and five types of biofacies were accounted for across the Gamtoos Basin from core logs, field observations and petrographic analysis. The same type of reddish to greyish massive conglomerate facies interbedded with subordinate sandstone lenses were observed on both the Enon (Lower most part) and the Kirkwood (top most part) Formations. Similar reddish to whitish sandstone facies were also observed in both formations except some of the units from the Kirkwood Formation revealed the presence of a lot of sedimentary structures such as laminations, thin beds, tabular cross beds, trough cross beds, convolute structures, load casts and even secondary structures like calcite veins and honey comb structures. Mudstone deposits are divided into reddish laminated facies and whitish massive facies. The whitish mudstone facies of the Enon Formation comprise caliche indicating the process of leaching while the reddish facies contain mudcracks indicating the process of desiccation. The Kirkwood Formation comprises reddish laminated mudstone facies and whitish massive mudstones. Petrographic studies revealed the presence of quartz arenites, lithic arenites, quartz wacke, lithic wacke, pelletic wacke, siltstones and mudstones. The mineral compositions were monocrystalline and polycrystalline quartz, plagioclase, K-feldspar and lithic fragments as the main framework grains. Muscovite and glauconite were identified as accessory minerals along with heavy minerals of hematite spotted on a few occasions. The matrix was composed of clay (mainly kaolinite and smectite), bentonite, illite-sericite and fine quartz silts. Microscope petrography revealed that organic matters occurred in 4 occurrences, i.e. as organic intraclasts, kerogen pellets, organic carbon laminae or stringers, and diagenetic crack-filling organic carbon (asphalt). Density determinations onshore have revealed an average wet density of 2.439 g/cm3 for the Enon Formation sandstones and 2.589 g/cm3 for the Kirkwood Formation sandstones. The average rock density for Borehole Ha-B2 is 2.67 g/cm3 whereas Borehole Ha-G1 rocks show an average density of 2.64 g/cm3. Geophysical data from the offshore boreholes has indicated an increase in the following parameters with depth: bulk density, porosity and geothermal gradient. Data from borehole logs resulted in a linear relationship between bulk density and depth although some boreholes were represented by more than one linear segment in one graph still showing gradual increase of bulk density with depth. The basin was deposited in terrestrial environments (braided fluvial fans and meandering rivers) and marine environments (beach, shallow and deep marine).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Group membership and collective action among small-scale farmers in Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Arwari, Margaret Kwamboka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Farmers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8144 , vital:31535
- Description: In South Africa, the organisation of farmers into groups has been a basic tenet for numerous, small and dispersed small-scale farmers to make their voices heard, address challenges and access support services from the government and other development agencies. However, the literature shows that the South African government promotes inappropriate forms of farmer collective action, i.e. collective production. The government seems to lack knowledge on what forms of collective action to implement and support. It is also noted in the literature that in South Africa, the majority of farmers do not participate in farmer organisations. There is limited research on the determinants of membership in farmer organisations, especially in terms of the role of ‘human agency’. Human agency is a concept which is interrelated with the concept of ‘empowerme nt’, whereby a person with strong agency is someone who is an agent of positive change. Therefore, the study sought to address these gaps. The broad objective of this study was to explore the phenomenon of group membership and collective action among small-scale farmers in Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study used the mixed method approach where an exploratory design was employed. A mult istage sampling technique was used which employed random, purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 245 farmers using semistructured questionnaires and detailed qualitative data were elicited from 16 farmer organisat ions using interview guides. For the quantitative research, a cross-sectional survey design was employed. After discarded unusable observations, data from 228 farmers were analysed using a combination of descriptive statistics, simple inferential statistics, and econometric analysis. For the qualitative data obtained, thematic analysis was used in line with the study objectives. The study findings show that farmers undertake collective action through farmer organisations. These farmer organisations were categorised into two types, i.e. farmer cooperatives and farmer associations. However, low membership in these farmer organisations is noted and this was attributed to the following: (1) low farmer awareness of the existence of farmer organisations, (2) challenges faced by the organisations that contribute to their ineffectiveness and thus low membership, (3) the prevalence of negative perceptions of farmer organisations due to confusion as to their role, (4) the government’s farmer support approach which compels or encourages farmers to form groups. The results also showed that the following are determinants of participation in farmer organisations: farmer’s age, level of education, human agency, whether a farmer has off-farm income sources, whether a farmer is involved in government supported projects, whether a farmer accesses extension information, the number of visits from extension officers received by a farmer, and the number of adults in a household contributing family labour. The study findings also show that the farmers in farmer organisations have higher human agency compared to those not in farmer organisations. According to the study results, farmer groups offer a number of benefits. For one, farmer organisations are avenues for farmers’ voices to be heard, they lobby government for better access to support services such as credit, input supply, information, and training. In addition, farmers who belong to organisations experience the benefits of collective marketing. Despite the aforementioned benefits of farmer organisations, group challenges are observed. For example, farmer organisations face declining membership, the free rider problem and conflicts between members, have a problem of ineffective, old members and lack of commitment of some group members. It was therefore recommended that there is a need for concerted effort by the government, development agencies, non-governmental organisations, farmers, and farmer organisations to ensure the success of farmer organisations in promoting small-scale agriculture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Arwari, Margaret Kwamboka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Farmers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8144 , vital:31535
- Description: In South Africa, the organisation of farmers into groups has been a basic tenet for numerous, small and dispersed small-scale farmers to make their voices heard, address challenges and access support services from the government and other development agencies. However, the literature shows that the South African government promotes inappropriate forms of farmer collective action, i.e. collective production. The government seems to lack knowledge on what forms of collective action to implement and support. It is also noted in the literature that in South Africa, the majority of farmers do not participate in farmer organisations. There is limited research on the determinants of membership in farmer organisations, especially in terms of the role of ‘human agency’. Human agency is a concept which is interrelated with the concept of ‘empowerme nt’, whereby a person with strong agency is someone who is an agent of positive change. Therefore, the study sought to address these gaps. The broad objective of this study was to explore the phenomenon of group membership and collective action among small-scale farmers in Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study used the mixed method approach where an exploratory design was employed. A mult istage sampling technique was used which employed random, purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 245 farmers using semistructured questionnaires and detailed qualitative data were elicited from 16 farmer organisat ions using interview guides. For the quantitative research, a cross-sectional survey design was employed. After discarded unusable observations, data from 228 farmers were analysed using a combination of descriptive statistics, simple inferential statistics, and econometric analysis. For the qualitative data obtained, thematic analysis was used in line with the study objectives. The study findings show that farmers undertake collective action through farmer organisations. These farmer organisations were categorised into two types, i.e. farmer cooperatives and farmer associations. However, low membership in these farmer organisations is noted and this was attributed to the following: (1) low farmer awareness of the existence of farmer organisations, (2) challenges faced by the organisations that contribute to their ineffectiveness and thus low membership, (3) the prevalence of negative perceptions of farmer organisations due to confusion as to their role, (4) the government’s farmer support approach which compels or encourages farmers to form groups. The results also showed that the following are determinants of participation in farmer organisations: farmer’s age, level of education, human agency, whether a farmer has off-farm income sources, whether a farmer is involved in government supported projects, whether a farmer accesses extension information, the number of visits from extension officers received by a farmer, and the number of adults in a household contributing family labour. The study findings also show that the farmers in farmer organisations have higher human agency compared to those not in farmer organisations. According to the study results, farmer groups offer a number of benefits. For one, farmer organisations are avenues for farmers’ voices to be heard, they lobby government for better access to support services such as credit, input supply, information, and training. In addition, farmers who belong to organisations experience the benefits of collective marketing. Despite the aforementioned benefits of farmer organisations, group challenges are observed. For example, farmer organisations face declining membership, the free rider problem and conflicts between members, have a problem of ineffective, old members and lack of commitment of some group members. It was therefore recommended that there is a need for concerted effort by the government, development agencies, non-governmental organisations, farmers, and farmer organisations to ensure the success of farmer organisations in promoting small-scale agriculture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017