Budgeting, forecasting and financial planning as a strategic tool in the Eastern Cape's manufacturing industry
- Authors: Abrahams, Shaheed
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Budget process -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business forecasting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Manufacturing industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8940 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008408 , Budget process -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business forecasting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Manufacturing industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The primary objective of the study is to assess whether organisations are using their budgeting, forecasting and financial planning information as a strategic tool in the decision-making process. The research aims to investigate the various factors that hinder the success of the finance department in delivering a quality financial plan, budget or forecast to top management and the rest of the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Abrahams, Shaheed
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Budget process -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business forecasting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Manufacturing industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8940 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008408 , Budget process -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business forecasting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Manufacturing industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The primary objective of the study is to assess whether organisations are using their budgeting, forecasting and financial planning information as a strategic tool in the decision-making process. The research aims to investigate the various factors that hinder the success of the finance department in delivering a quality financial plan, budget or forecast to top management and the rest of the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Investigating the devolution of decision-making in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Adams, Sandiswa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Decision making -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Local government --South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9053 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006783 , Decentralization in government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Decision making -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Local government --South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The research investigates the devolution of decision-making at the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The research sets out to investigate the extent to which the Municipality offers resources to its politically elected representatives and whether the support enables a devolution that includes local citizens in decision-making. The study was demarcated within the NMBM, using an empirical survey, a population group composed of councillors and officials who work very closely with politicians in mobilizing the community in public participation. The data collection tool of choice for the study was a selfadministered questionnaire, supplemented by document analysis, unstructured interviews and the researcher’s observations. The purpose of the study is to investigate reasons why devolution is not having the desired results at NMBM, Investigate and find alternatives to how devolved decision-making can be enhanced, using the viable local political process at the NMBM and similar municipalities. The study argues from a theoretical base of good governance and public participation. The findings made were inter alia: Politicians in public office are not using the resources at their disposal optimally; tussles amongst politicians and with officials do have a negative effect on devolved decision-making; and vandalism and closing down of ward council offices are not purely a reflection of a ward councillor’s failure to account to the constituency, and the ward committee system at NMBM has not since 2009. The recommendation is that deliberate efforts need to be made to establish democratically elected ward committees in all sixty wards of NMBM. The establishment of ward committees has to be a joint effort between political office bearers, the broader political landscape and officials as previous efforts have failed to produce legitimate structures. The politicians and officials need to work together to win over public opinion and community buy-in towards the establishment of ward committees that are representative and functional.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Adams, Sandiswa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Decision making -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Local government --South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9053 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006783 , Decentralization in government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Decision making -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Local government --South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The research investigates the devolution of decision-making at the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The research sets out to investigate the extent to which the Municipality offers resources to its politically elected representatives and whether the support enables a devolution that includes local citizens in decision-making. The study was demarcated within the NMBM, using an empirical survey, a population group composed of councillors and officials who work very closely with politicians in mobilizing the community in public participation. The data collection tool of choice for the study was a selfadministered questionnaire, supplemented by document analysis, unstructured interviews and the researcher’s observations. The purpose of the study is to investigate reasons why devolution is not having the desired results at NMBM, Investigate and find alternatives to how devolved decision-making can be enhanced, using the viable local political process at the NMBM and similar municipalities. The study argues from a theoretical base of good governance and public participation. The findings made were inter alia: Politicians in public office are not using the resources at their disposal optimally; tussles amongst politicians and with officials do have a negative effect on devolved decision-making; and vandalism and closing down of ward council offices are not purely a reflection of a ward councillor’s failure to account to the constituency, and the ward committee system at NMBM has not since 2009. The recommendation is that deliberate efforts need to be made to establish democratically elected ward committees in all sixty wards of NMBM. The establishment of ward committees has to be a joint effort between political office bearers, the broader political landscape and officials as previous efforts have failed to produce legitimate structures. The politicians and officials need to work together to win over public opinion and community buy-in towards the establishment of ward committees that are representative and functional.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Trends and volatility in residential property prices in South Africa
- Authors: Anyikwa, Izunna Chima
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9012 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018221
- Description: This study sought to empirically investigate trends and volatility in residential property prices in South Africa using quarterly data over the period 1980Q1 to 2011Q4. The empirical analysis uses a range of unit root and stationarity tests as well as a number of ARCH-family of models. The results from the trend analysis suggest that the behaviour of house prices in South Africa follows a random walk process. The randomness in the behaviour of house prices could be attributed to permanent effect of shock. Investigation into the dynamic behaviour of the house prices supports the existence of conditional volatility that is time-varying and highly persistent. Moreover, volatility is found to be asymmetric in news suggesting evidence of anti-leverage effects. These findings have important portfolio implications especially, considering the fact that large-scale losses are possible if house prices exhibit the type of persistent in behaviour as captured in this study. Also, the existence of asymmetric effects in volatility suggests that more caution needs to be placed on news arrival as they may have significant impacts on the house price behaviour. Accordingly, this study suggests the need for residential property market to be treated like other asset markets with regards to risk.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Anyikwa, Izunna Chima
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9012 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018221
- Description: This study sought to empirically investigate trends and volatility in residential property prices in South Africa using quarterly data over the period 1980Q1 to 2011Q4. The empirical analysis uses a range of unit root and stationarity tests as well as a number of ARCH-family of models. The results from the trend analysis suggest that the behaviour of house prices in South Africa follows a random walk process. The randomness in the behaviour of house prices could be attributed to permanent effect of shock. Investigation into the dynamic behaviour of the house prices supports the existence of conditional volatility that is time-varying and highly persistent. Moreover, volatility is found to be asymmetric in news suggesting evidence of anti-leverage effects. These findings have important portfolio implications especially, considering the fact that large-scale losses are possible if house prices exhibit the type of persistent in behaviour as captured in this study. Also, the existence of asymmetric effects in volatility suggests that more caution needs to be placed on news arrival as they may have significant impacts on the house price behaviour. Accordingly, this study suggests the need for residential property market to be treated like other asset markets with regards to risk.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An investigation into the relationship between leadership and cognitive styles of supervisory employees in the automotive industry
- Authors: Attwell, Terry-Anne
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Supervisors, Industrial , Cognitive styles , Leadership , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9403 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009320 , Supervisors, Industrial , Cognitive styles , Leadership , Automobile industry and trade
- Description: Human attributes that constitute a good leader in terms of leadership qualities and thinking styles are somewhat limited. The latter situation makes it difficult to employ the right person with the right leadership qualities in the continuously changing world of work (Lussier & Achua, 2000). The researcher investigated the relationship between cognitive styles and leadership styles of individuals who are employed in the automotive industry and in a supervisory position. A quantitative research methodology was employed for the study of (n= 115) using the Cognitive-Style Indicator (COSI) developed by Cools and van den Broeck (2007) and the Leadership-style questionnaire developed by Clark (2007). Leadership styles have been researched throughout the world, but a dearth of research specifically pertaining to cognitive styles was rather limiting in the context of the research that was undertaken. On the one hand, leadership focuses on three main dimensions, namely: Authoritarian, Participative and Delegative Leadership Styles. According to Clark (2007), the above three dimensions are the core styles that are used within the workplace. On the other hand, a three-dimensional cognitive style model, as proposed by Cools and Van den Broeck (2007) incorporates three dimensions with specific characteristics pertaining to each style. These three dimensions were labelled as: Knowing (K), Planning (P), and Creating (C) styles, which were utilised to find a significant relationship between the various leadership styles. Significant relationships were found between the Cognitive-Planning style and the Participative Leadership style, the Delegative Leadership style and the Knowing-Cognitive style, the Creative-Cognitive style and the Delegative Leadership style, and the Knowing-and-Planning Cognitive style. Similarities were also found between the Coloured and African groups, as the Delegative style is relevant to both the Coloured and African groups, while the participative style is more prominent in the White racial group. No significant correlations were produced for the Asian group, however. Organisations are rapidly changing and adapting to various types of change; and it is essential for all employees – and not only those within a leadership position – but it is imperative that leaders should not only understand and know their cognitive and leadership style, but also of those individuals who are reporting to them.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Attwell, Terry-Anne
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Supervisors, Industrial , Cognitive styles , Leadership , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9403 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009320 , Supervisors, Industrial , Cognitive styles , Leadership , Automobile industry and trade
- Description: Human attributes that constitute a good leader in terms of leadership qualities and thinking styles are somewhat limited. The latter situation makes it difficult to employ the right person with the right leadership qualities in the continuously changing world of work (Lussier & Achua, 2000). The researcher investigated the relationship between cognitive styles and leadership styles of individuals who are employed in the automotive industry and in a supervisory position. A quantitative research methodology was employed for the study of (n= 115) using the Cognitive-Style Indicator (COSI) developed by Cools and van den Broeck (2007) and the Leadership-style questionnaire developed by Clark (2007). Leadership styles have been researched throughout the world, but a dearth of research specifically pertaining to cognitive styles was rather limiting in the context of the research that was undertaken. On the one hand, leadership focuses on three main dimensions, namely: Authoritarian, Participative and Delegative Leadership Styles. According to Clark (2007), the above three dimensions are the core styles that are used within the workplace. On the other hand, a three-dimensional cognitive style model, as proposed by Cools and Van den Broeck (2007) incorporates three dimensions with specific characteristics pertaining to each style. These three dimensions were labelled as: Knowing (K), Planning (P), and Creating (C) styles, which were utilised to find a significant relationship between the various leadership styles. Significant relationships were found between the Cognitive-Planning style and the Participative Leadership style, the Delegative Leadership style and the Knowing-Cognitive style, the Creative-Cognitive style and the Delegative Leadership style, and the Knowing-and-Planning Cognitive style. Similarities were also found between the Coloured and African groups, as the Delegative style is relevant to both the Coloured and African groups, while the participative style is more prominent in the White racial group. No significant correlations were produced for the Asian group, however. Organisations are rapidly changing and adapting to various types of change; and it is essential for all employees – and not only those within a leadership position – but it is imperative that leaders should not only understand and know their cognitive and leadership style, but also of those individuals who are reporting to them.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An evaluation of changes in capital investment by automotive companies in preparation for the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP)
- Authors: Bacela, Bandile Sakhekile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Capital investments -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8797 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016075
- Description: To thrive, developing countries depend on high levels of protection being given to key industries such as manufacturing; specifically the automotive and textile industries. South Africa, as a developing country and especially under the emergence of globalisation, has followed suit in terms of developing policies and structures to protect certain critical industries. During an era (1980 to 1989) of high political instability, South Africa experienced isolation from the rest of the world, which resulted in declines in industrial revenues as well as the country’s automotive industry undergoing a stage of perilous stagnation. It was through a protection regime that the automotive industry realised growth, a regime which started slowly in 1989 and accelerated in 1995 with the introduction of the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) (Black, 2001). Through this regime the South African government sought to integrate the South African automotive industry into the global market by improving the competitiveness of this industry (The DTI, 2010). This led to the automotive industry becoming one of the most successful export sectors in South African manufacturing and a large net consumer of foreign currency, totalling R20 billion and R10 billion in imports and exports respectively by 1998 (Damoense and Simon, 2004). Reviews of the government legislation called the MIDP were held in year 1999 and 2002 and in 2008, a successor to the MIDP was named, the Automotive Production Development Programme (APDP) and is set to commence in year 2013 until 2020. Unlike its predecessor, the APDP policy promises to bring greater and more inclusive benefits to the automotive industry as a whole, provided organisations have prepared well to receive it. This study investigated whether organisations have prepared for the upcoming 2013 - 2020 APDP, with specific reference to capital investment in equipment. It determined whether automotive organisations have spent and are going to spend resources in securing equipment and technology in preparation for the introduction of the APDP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Bacela, Bandile Sakhekile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Capital investments -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8797 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016075
- Description: To thrive, developing countries depend on high levels of protection being given to key industries such as manufacturing; specifically the automotive and textile industries. South Africa, as a developing country and especially under the emergence of globalisation, has followed suit in terms of developing policies and structures to protect certain critical industries. During an era (1980 to 1989) of high political instability, South Africa experienced isolation from the rest of the world, which resulted in declines in industrial revenues as well as the country’s automotive industry undergoing a stage of perilous stagnation. It was through a protection regime that the automotive industry realised growth, a regime which started slowly in 1989 and accelerated in 1995 with the introduction of the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) (Black, 2001). Through this regime the South African government sought to integrate the South African automotive industry into the global market by improving the competitiveness of this industry (The DTI, 2010). This led to the automotive industry becoming one of the most successful export sectors in South African manufacturing and a large net consumer of foreign currency, totalling R20 billion and R10 billion in imports and exports respectively by 1998 (Damoense and Simon, 2004). Reviews of the government legislation called the MIDP were held in year 1999 and 2002 and in 2008, a successor to the MIDP was named, the Automotive Production Development Programme (APDP) and is set to commence in year 2013 until 2020. Unlike its predecessor, the APDP policy promises to bring greater and more inclusive benefits to the automotive industry as a whole, provided organisations have prepared well to receive it. This study investigated whether organisations have prepared for the upcoming 2013 - 2020 APDP, with specific reference to capital investment in equipment. It determined whether automotive organisations have spent and are going to spend resources in securing equipment and technology in preparation for the introduction of the APDP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Savings behaviour in selected poor townships of the Kouga municipal district
- Authors: Baxter, Chad
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Saving and investment -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9009 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014540
- Description: This study considers the nature of savings behaviour amongst low income earners residing in the township areas of Kouga Municipal District. It reflects on the popularity and persistence of informal savings and credit associations, also known as stokvels, in these communities in the face of an increase in the availability of formal savings products. This study argues that despite financial deepening taking place within the South African economy, the popularity and widespread usage of stokvels can largely be attributed to the lack of appropraite formal products available for low income earners. This study does not conclude that the usage of informal savings products results in increased savings behaviours amongst this group, but it does conclude that they provide a suitable mechanism in which savings can take place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Baxter, Chad
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Saving and investment -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9009 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014540
- Description: This study considers the nature of savings behaviour amongst low income earners residing in the township areas of Kouga Municipal District. It reflects on the popularity and persistence of informal savings and credit associations, also known as stokvels, in these communities in the face of an increase in the availability of formal savings products. This study argues that despite financial deepening taking place within the South African economy, the popularity and widespread usage of stokvels can largely be attributed to the lack of appropraite formal products available for low income earners. This study does not conclude that the usage of informal savings products results in increased savings behaviours amongst this group, but it does conclude that they provide a suitable mechanism in which savings can take place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Assesssing small business training programme effectiveness in an incubator setting and beyond
- Authors: Booth-Jones, Laurene
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa , Small businesses -- South Africa -- Management , Employees -- Training of , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9298 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014074
- Description: The focus on entrepreneurs as drivers of the economies of nations has catapulted them into the forefront of the local and international marketplace. This has led to a demand for entrepreneurial education and training resulting in a plethora of different and often divergent views. One commonality that has emerged is that entrepreneurship can be taught; although it cannot be taught in conventional and traditional ways. It requires a move from traditional education and training to more enterprising participative and supportive forms of business development. It requires investments of time, resources and support. Incubators are facilities that are engaged with entrepreneurs and offer a variety of support including education and training. This study has assessed the effectiveness of training offered by the Seda Nelson Mandela Bay ICT incubator. There has been limited research undertaken on entrepreneurial education and training in an incubator setting. This study followed the qualitative paradigm. The sample comprised of 10 small businesses at the Seda Nelson Mandela Bay ICT incubator. Empirical data was obtained by interviewing the owners of the small businesses using an interview schedule. Issues such as the most effective training programme, content that it contained, methodology used and quality of the facilitator and applicability of the training programme were explored. The study found that the small businesses were opportunity driven rather than necessity driven and that the incubator served as a bridging facility in moving the businesses from the informal sector to the formal sector. The content of the training programmes was found to be effective when a mix of both theoretical and practical is offered especially with an emphasis on the underlying entrepreneurial themes of confidence, persistence and uncertainty and so on. It also found that training programmes should be linked to the life cycle of the business and address the specific needs of the small business owner. The start-up phase requires very specific training. Most of the facilitators were found to be experienced and empathetic. However, only a few were using a wider range of preferred learning styles favoured by entrepreneurs such as role playing, simulation, brainstorming and problem-solving techniques. The study also found that when generic training programmes are offered there was less recall on the part of the trainees. The management team of the incubator is an important determinant of the success of the incubatees and it is recommended that they need to be well versed in their sector and have good networking skills. There is a strong link between the theoretical and the practical content of training programmes especially where the emphasis is more on the practical content. It is recommended that facilitators pay attention to their relationship with trainees as it is a critical success factor in the training programme. Training programmes offered over a period of time add more value to the incubatee. This might be because of the mentoring and counselling that is available after each training module is completed. Finally, more research needs to be undertaken on the quality and effectiveness of training programmes offered by incubators to small businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Booth-Jones, Laurene
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa , Small businesses -- South Africa -- Management , Employees -- Training of , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9298 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014074
- Description: The focus on entrepreneurs as drivers of the economies of nations has catapulted them into the forefront of the local and international marketplace. This has led to a demand for entrepreneurial education and training resulting in a plethora of different and often divergent views. One commonality that has emerged is that entrepreneurship can be taught; although it cannot be taught in conventional and traditional ways. It requires a move from traditional education and training to more enterprising participative and supportive forms of business development. It requires investments of time, resources and support. Incubators are facilities that are engaged with entrepreneurs and offer a variety of support including education and training. This study has assessed the effectiveness of training offered by the Seda Nelson Mandela Bay ICT incubator. There has been limited research undertaken on entrepreneurial education and training in an incubator setting. This study followed the qualitative paradigm. The sample comprised of 10 small businesses at the Seda Nelson Mandela Bay ICT incubator. Empirical data was obtained by interviewing the owners of the small businesses using an interview schedule. Issues such as the most effective training programme, content that it contained, methodology used and quality of the facilitator and applicability of the training programme were explored. The study found that the small businesses were opportunity driven rather than necessity driven and that the incubator served as a bridging facility in moving the businesses from the informal sector to the formal sector. The content of the training programmes was found to be effective when a mix of both theoretical and practical is offered especially with an emphasis on the underlying entrepreneurial themes of confidence, persistence and uncertainty and so on. It also found that training programmes should be linked to the life cycle of the business and address the specific needs of the small business owner. The start-up phase requires very specific training. Most of the facilitators were found to be experienced and empathetic. However, only a few were using a wider range of preferred learning styles favoured by entrepreneurs such as role playing, simulation, brainstorming and problem-solving techniques. The study also found that when generic training programmes are offered there was less recall on the part of the trainees. The management team of the incubator is an important determinant of the success of the incubatees and it is recommended that they need to be well versed in their sector and have good networking skills. There is a strong link between the theoretical and the practical content of training programmes especially where the emphasis is more on the practical content. It is recommended that facilitators pay attention to their relationship with trainees as it is a critical success factor in the training programme. Training programmes offered over a period of time add more value to the incubatee. This might be because of the mentoring and counselling that is available after each training module is completed. Finally, more research needs to be undertaken on the quality and effectiveness of training programmes offered by incubators to small businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The impact of customer relationship management on retail banking using self-service channels
- Authors: Bothma, Tracy
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Customer services , Service industries -- Technological innovations , Customer relations -- Management , Consumer satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9346 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013654
- Description: If you do not own the latest technology today it is thought that you are left behind in this technology driven age. More businesses use Self- Service channels to accommodate the increasing demands of customers. It has been said that the use of self-service channels can reduce input costs, increase efficiency and improve customer service. Unfortunately, many customers are left unsatisfied because retail banks are moving away from the human interaction when visiting a branch or advise customers to use their self-service channels, sometimes without any assistance. This causes customers to move banks, complain and in so doing reduce profits and customer relationships with their banks.This research’s main objective was to determine the impact of customer relationship management on retail banks that make use of self-service channels. A theoretical overview of self-service channels and customer relationship management was given. Advantages and disadvantages of each option were explored. The researcher wanted to explore the relation between customers using self-service channels and the assistance and protection provided by retail banks. The customer experience questionnaire used in this research asked retail banking customers from the South African population to determine how customers perceive and experience their banks’ self-service channels and customer service. Many questions relating to their needs and wants with regards to banking have been explored. The results show that most customers are satisfied with their banks in general but do feel that the banks can improve their customer service and assistance with regards to using self-service channels like ATM’s, online and telephone banking and E-Wallet. It has concluded that most customers choose their banks based on advertisements and other media, not customer service, product range or word-of-mouth. The general perception is that customers say that their bank charges do justify the customer service received.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Bothma, Tracy
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Customer services , Service industries -- Technological innovations , Customer relations -- Management , Consumer satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9346 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013654
- Description: If you do not own the latest technology today it is thought that you are left behind in this technology driven age. More businesses use Self- Service channels to accommodate the increasing demands of customers. It has been said that the use of self-service channels can reduce input costs, increase efficiency and improve customer service. Unfortunately, many customers are left unsatisfied because retail banks are moving away from the human interaction when visiting a branch or advise customers to use their self-service channels, sometimes without any assistance. This causes customers to move banks, complain and in so doing reduce profits and customer relationships with their banks.This research’s main objective was to determine the impact of customer relationship management on retail banks that make use of self-service channels. A theoretical overview of self-service channels and customer relationship management was given. Advantages and disadvantages of each option were explored. The researcher wanted to explore the relation between customers using self-service channels and the assistance and protection provided by retail banks. The customer experience questionnaire used in this research asked retail banking customers from the South African population to determine how customers perceive and experience their banks’ self-service channels and customer service. Many questions relating to their needs and wants with regards to banking have been explored. The results show that most customers are satisfied with their banks in general but do feel that the banks can improve their customer service and assistance with regards to using self-service channels like ATM’s, online and telephone banking and E-Wallet. It has concluded that most customers choose their banks based on advertisements and other media, not customer service, product range or word-of-mouth. The general perception is that customers say that their bank charges do justify the customer service received.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Evaluating impact assessment of LED projects in Makana Municipality
- Authors: Bottoman, Phathiswa Esona
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- Evaluation , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Community development -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9062 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008190 , Economic development projects -- Evaluation , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Community development -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Description: Amongst other socio-economic challenges that South Africa has, unemployment still remains high; in July 2010 unemployment was at 25.3 percentage and in July 2011 it was at 25.7 percentage ; in a space of a year it grew by 0.4 percentage (Trading Economics, 2012). Even though South Africa has made some significant progress with its democracy; there is still significant socioeconomic problems. Poverty, lack of economic empowerment among the disadvantaged groups are amongst and lack of proper education are amongst some of these pressing challenges in South Africa. More than a quarter of South Africa's population currently receives social grants (Index mundi, 2011). The Eastern Cape Province is still faced with significant socio-economic challenges such as high unemployment rate. 74 percentage unemployed are the economically active group as they are under the age of 35 (ECDC, 2011:22). “More than a quarter (26.4 percentage) of households in the Eastern Cape relies on government grants as their main source of income. Nationally, the youth unemployment rate is estimated to be close to 35 percentage, with more than three million young people out of work. Youth unemployment in the Eastern Cape averages 41.4 percentage. This is more than twice the adult unemployment rate (18.4 percent). A total of 695,175 young people have been without work every year in the Eastern” (ECDC, 2010-2011: 23). Besides, this province has a third largest number of people who are living with HIV/AIDS in the country. These statistics have a major significance on the province’s economic prospects and progress (ECDC, 2010-2011:22). The RSA Constitution 1996, the White Paper on Local Government 1998 has mandated local governments to facilitate LED. South Africa adopted LED as a way of fighting poverty and stimulating economic growth and development for local residents. LED is promoting skills development, SMMEs and tourism to encourage economic development. However the success of LED has received mixed views in that; some successes of LED were recorded in urban or metropolitan municipalities. Few successes have been recorded of LED projects in rural municipalities. Some of the constraints of LED consist of capacity problems within the municipalities, understanding the role of LED in the municipality and lack of funding. In Makana Municipality, about 23 percentage of households live below poverty line of (R800.00 – R9600 a year). Most of the population earns between R801.00-R1600.00 per month with 24.7 percentage. A mere 0.6 percentage earn R204801.00 or more compared to 12.7 percentage with no income. Inadequate infrastructure poses as a threat to attracting and retaining investment in this municipality. In light of the above paragraphs, this thesis evaluated the impact assessment of the LED projects within Makana Municipality. The premise of this thesis is that realization and significant support of LED projects would impact positively on unemployment and poverty rate that this municipality is facing and subsequently; the burden of unemployment and poverty will be reduced in the region, province and country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Bottoman, Phathiswa Esona
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- Evaluation , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Community development -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9062 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008190 , Economic development projects -- Evaluation , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Community development -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Description: Amongst other socio-economic challenges that South Africa has, unemployment still remains high; in July 2010 unemployment was at 25.3 percentage and in July 2011 it was at 25.7 percentage ; in a space of a year it grew by 0.4 percentage (Trading Economics, 2012). Even though South Africa has made some significant progress with its democracy; there is still significant socioeconomic problems. Poverty, lack of economic empowerment among the disadvantaged groups are amongst and lack of proper education are amongst some of these pressing challenges in South Africa. More than a quarter of South Africa's population currently receives social grants (Index mundi, 2011). The Eastern Cape Province is still faced with significant socio-economic challenges such as high unemployment rate. 74 percentage unemployed are the economically active group as they are under the age of 35 (ECDC, 2011:22). “More than a quarter (26.4 percentage) of households in the Eastern Cape relies on government grants as their main source of income. Nationally, the youth unemployment rate is estimated to be close to 35 percentage, with more than three million young people out of work. Youth unemployment in the Eastern Cape averages 41.4 percentage. This is more than twice the adult unemployment rate (18.4 percent). A total of 695,175 young people have been without work every year in the Eastern” (ECDC, 2010-2011: 23). Besides, this province has a third largest number of people who are living with HIV/AIDS in the country. These statistics have a major significance on the province’s economic prospects and progress (ECDC, 2010-2011:22). The RSA Constitution 1996, the White Paper on Local Government 1998 has mandated local governments to facilitate LED. South Africa adopted LED as a way of fighting poverty and stimulating economic growth and development for local residents. LED is promoting skills development, SMMEs and tourism to encourage economic development. However the success of LED has received mixed views in that; some successes of LED were recorded in urban or metropolitan municipalities. Few successes have been recorded of LED projects in rural municipalities. Some of the constraints of LED consist of capacity problems within the municipalities, understanding the role of LED in the municipality and lack of funding. In Makana Municipality, about 23 percentage of households live below poverty line of (R800.00 – R9600 a year). Most of the population earns between R801.00-R1600.00 per month with 24.7 percentage. A mere 0.6 percentage earn R204801.00 or more compared to 12.7 percentage with no income. Inadequate infrastructure poses as a threat to attracting and retaining investment in this municipality. In light of the above paragraphs, this thesis evaluated the impact assessment of the LED projects within Makana Municipality. The premise of this thesis is that realization and significant support of LED projects would impact positively on unemployment and poverty rate that this municipality is facing and subsequently; the burden of unemployment and poverty will be reduced in the region, province and country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An enabling environment for women agri-entrepreneurs in the Tsitsikama area
- Authors: Buyambo, Ntombentsha
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Women -- Agriculture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013755
- Description: Agriculture plays an important role in the economy of every nation. Most countries depend on agriculture and other industries to survive. Economies around the world experience difficulties. There are many countries that have the potential to stimulate their economic growth through agriculture. The untapped resources have the potential of providing food, jobs and increased financial stability. Many countries utilise their agricultural sector to grow their economy. The growth of unemployment in South Africa has a big impact on our economy. This has caused an increase in poverty and unemployment (Ukpere & Slabbert, 2009). Women’s role in agriculture and food security is critical, but there is still lack of visibility regarding their participation and contribution in agriculture and development in general. This has led to two forms of agriculture in South Africa; so-called subsistence farming in the communal areas and white commercial farming (Kwa, 2001). Most emerging farmers are on communal land where they share decisions and ownership is unsecured, which discourages investment and limits productivity (Farmer's weekly, 2012). The main objective of the research was to determine if the women in the Tsitsikamma (Eastern Cape, South Africa), area have knowledge and strategies to manage their agribusiness in order to create an enabling environment and be competitive in their farming businesses. The qualitative method was used to answer questions in order to understand people’s perceptions, perspectives and understanding of particular situations. It is based on the belief that the researcher’s ability to interpret and make sense of what he or she sees is critical for an understanding of any social phenomenon. In seeking to create an enabling environment, a qualitative analysis investigated this particular situation. The sample consisted of 25 out of a possible 30 women in the agriculture industry. A structured questionnaire was used and interviews were conducted with women involved in agriculture regardless of owning a farm. This study was based in the farming industry, particular farm women who are interested or involved in agribusiness in the Tsitsikamma region. The results of the questionnaire revealed key findings, which enabled the researcher to draw meaningful conclusions and recommendations. The findings have suggested that the women farmers can overcome the identified constraints affecting the opportunities to grow their farming businesses. Further empirical results indicated that they do not have any strategies in running their farming businesses. The study also highlights areas in agribusiness that should be improved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Buyambo, Ntombentsha
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Women -- Agriculture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013755
- Description: Agriculture plays an important role in the economy of every nation. Most countries depend on agriculture and other industries to survive. Economies around the world experience difficulties. There are many countries that have the potential to stimulate their economic growth through agriculture. The untapped resources have the potential of providing food, jobs and increased financial stability. Many countries utilise their agricultural sector to grow their economy. The growth of unemployment in South Africa has a big impact on our economy. This has caused an increase in poverty and unemployment (Ukpere & Slabbert, 2009). Women’s role in agriculture and food security is critical, but there is still lack of visibility regarding their participation and contribution in agriculture and development in general. This has led to two forms of agriculture in South Africa; so-called subsistence farming in the communal areas and white commercial farming (Kwa, 2001). Most emerging farmers are on communal land where they share decisions and ownership is unsecured, which discourages investment and limits productivity (Farmer's weekly, 2012). The main objective of the research was to determine if the women in the Tsitsikamma (Eastern Cape, South Africa), area have knowledge and strategies to manage their agribusiness in order to create an enabling environment and be competitive in their farming businesses. The qualitative method was used to answer questions in order to understand people’s perceptions, perspectives and understanding of particular situations. It is based on the belief that the researcher’s ability to interpret and make sense of what he or she sees is critical for an understanding of any social phenomenon. In seeking to create an enabling environment, a qualitative analysis investigated this particular situation. The sample consisted of 25 out of a possible 30 women in the agriculture industry. A structured questionnaire was used and interviews were conducted with women involved in agriculture regardless of owning a farm. This study was based in the farming industry, particular farm women who are interested or involved in agribusiness in the Tsitsikamma region. The results of the questionnaire revealed key findings, which enabled the researcher to draw meaningful conclusions and recommendations. The findings have suggested that the women farmers can overcome the identified constraints affecting the opportunities to grow their farming businesses. Further empirical results indicated that they do not have any strategies in running their farming businesses. The study also highlights areas in agribusiness that should be improved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Barriers faced by SMMEs in accessing finance
- Authors: Caga, Siyabonga Macpherson
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- Finance , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8784 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013348
- Description: SMMEs have been cited as major players in economic development in South Africa and in other developing countries. In South Africa SMMEs contribute more than 52 percent towards the GDP. Subsequently, the South African government has taken various steps to encourage their growth and to improve access to finance for SMMEs. Despite this, securing finance remains a challenge in this group of enterprises. Since SMMEs have unique financial needs, commercial banks and other funders are faced with difficulties in catering for them. Banks in particular have been reluctant in financing these high-risk ventures. SMME owners as a result still prefer informal sources of finance such as personal savings, retained earnings or friends or family rather than bank loans. The study purpose was to examine the barriers that are faced by SMMEs in accessing finance. To do this a survey was conducted on 40 SMMEs operating in the manufacturing sector in Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. The research findings indicated various barriers that are faced by SMMEs in accessing finance. Dominating among the barriers are those that are related to perceived risks of SMMEs by funders, including lack of collateral or business assets, lack of financial statements, excessive red tape by funders, administrative burden associated with applications as well as unfair evaluation of risks and profitability of SMMEs by funders. Other factors that were identified as barriers were those that are associated with poor business plan development, poor business training and development and source of funding. The majority of the respondents recommended that there must be better risk and profitability evaluation, easy loan repayment methods, more government support for SMMEs, flexible eligibility criteria for SMME loans and proper loan amount allocations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Caga, Siyabonga Macpherson
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- Finance , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8784 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013348
- Description: SMMEs have been cited as major players in economic development in South Africa and in other developing countries. In South Africa SMMEs contribute more than 52 percent towards the GDP. Subsequently, the South African government has taken various steps to encourage their growth and to improve access to finance for SMMEs. Despite this, securing finance remains a challenge in this group of enterprises. Since SMMEs have unique financial needs, commercial banks and other funders are faced with difficulties in catering for them. Banks in particular have been reluctant in financing these high-risk ventures. SMME owners as a result still prefer informal sources of finance such as personal savings, retained earnings or friends or family rather than bank loans. The study purpose was to examine the barriers that are faced by SMMEs in accessing finance. To do this a survey was conducted on 40 SMMEs operating in the manufacturing sector in Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. The research findings indicated various barriers that are faced by SMMEs in accessing finance. Dominating among the barriers are those that are related to perceived risks of SMMEs by funders, including lack of collateral or business assets, lack of financial statements, excessive red tape by funders, administrative burden associated with applications as well as unfair evaluation of risks and profitability of SMMEs by funders. Other factors that were identified as barriers were those that are associated with poor business plan development, poor business training and development and source of funding. The majority of the respondents recommended that there must be better risk and profitability evaluation, easy loan repayment methods, more government support for SMMEs, flexible eligibility criteria for SMME loans and proper loan amount allocations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Determining the willingness-to-pay for the removal of a local undesirable land use
- Authors: Cloete, Le Ann
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Pollution , Willingness to pay -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Pollutants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9010 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015979
- Description: A manganese ore dump and oil tank farm have been situated in the Port Elizabeth harbour for more than forty years. Although these facilities are independently operated and managed, they are viewed as one distinct disamenity, and there is strong local opposition to their continued location in the harbour. The negative environmental impacts (for example, water and air pollution) caused by the ore dump and tank farm have been well documented. This pollution takes the form of oil leaks from the oil tank farm, and ore dust pollution from the manganese ore dump. The air pollution caused by the manganese ore dump is a result of the dump currently being an open air handling and storage facility. The ore dust is dispersed into the air due to strong prevailing winds in the Bay and has resulted in respiratory illnesses of residents living in close proximity to the facility. Oil pollution, due to leakages experienced at the oil tank farm, has extended far beyond the periphery of the harbour. Inter alia, there has been a decline in local fish populations, as well as a decline in passive and active use satisfaction associated with the adjacent beach area, i.e. Kings Beach. These oil leakages, first reported in 2001, could have a detrimental effect on the Blue Flag status of this beach, as well as the Blue Flag status of other beaches situated further up the coast. The lease agreements for the oil tank farm and manganese ore dump are set to expire in 2014 and 2016, respectively. As yet, there is no consensus on when these disamenities will be (re)moved. In order to mitigate the secondary impacts of these facilities, both of them should be removed. Although these impacts should be the focus of public policy debates and cost-benefit assessments, no direct valuation method exists to value the economic cost to affected communities. Instead, non-market valuation methods, such as the contingent valuation method (CVM), are often applied to assign values to these economic costs. This study seeks to determine Nelson Mandela Bay households‟ preferences for the immediate removal of the manganese ore dump and oil tank farm from the Port Elizabeth harbour. This case was selected since it represents a current public policy debate issue that has not been resolved. Monetary estimates of people‟s preferences for the removal of pollution-creating activities can assist policy-makers and other stakeholders when locating industries in an urban setting. These estimates can also be of use in understanding the benefits associated with air and water quality improvement projects. The primary valuation technique used in this study is the CVM. This method was chosen as it is capable of measuring the economic significance of lost passive-use values of individuals affected by negative externalities. Both a non-parametric and a parametric estimate of mean willingness-to-pay (WTP) were derived. On average, a respondent was willing to pay a once-off amount of between R47.09 (non-parametric estimate) and R93.21 (parametric estimate). Non-parametric estimation (via the Turnbull estimator) was conducted to test the sensitivity of the parametric results (via a logit model). The logit model‟s results showed that the probability of a „yes‟ answer to the referendum question varies with a number of covariates in a realistic and expected way, which offers some support for the construct validity of this CV study. Household income, education, age, and disamenity awareness were significant determinants of individuals‟ responses to the WTP question. A summary of the findings of WTP estimates for both parametric and non-parametric analysis is provided in Table 1. Three primary recommendations stem from this study. Firstly, the study used a relatively small sample size. Although it was sufficient for a pilot study it is recommended that future research into this issue should aim for a much larger sample size to ensure more precise estimates of the WTP for the removal of the disamenity. Secondly, the conservative non-parametric mean WTP estimate should be used as opposed to the higher parametric mean WTP estimate. Third, the aggregate WTP estimation constitutes only a partial analysis of cost. A number of other factors and value streams need to be analysed and compared with the cost estimates generated by this study if adequate holistic decision-making is to take place with regard to the removal of the manganese ore dump and oil tank farm. More specifically, the total WTP estimated in this study should be viewed as only one input into a comprehensive social cost-benefit analysis to determine the desirability of the removal of this disamenity for wider society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Cloete, Le Ann
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Pollution , Willingness to pay -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Pollutants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9010 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015979
- Description: A manganese ore dump and oil tank farm have been situated in the Port Elizabeth harbour for more than forty years. Although these facilities are independently operated and managed, they are viewed as one distinct disamenity, and there is strong local opposition to their continued location in the harbour. The negative environmental impacts (for example, water and air pollution) caused by the ore dump and tank farm have been well documented. This pollution takes the form of oil leaks from the oil tank farm, and ore dust pollution from the manganese ore dump. The air pollution caused by the manganese ore dump is a result of the dump currently being an open air handling and storage facility. The ore dust is dispersed into the air due to strong prevailing winds in the Bay and has resulted in respiratory illnesses of residents living in close proximity to the facility. Oil pollution, due to leakages experienced at the oil tank farm, has extended far beyond the periphery of the harbour. Inter alia, there has been a decline in local fish populations, as well as a decline in passive and active use satisfaction associated with the adjacent beach area, i.e. Kings Beach. These oil leakages, first reported in 2001, could have a detrimental effect on the Blue Flag status of this beach, as well as the Blue Flag status of other beaches situated further up the coast. The lease agreements for the oil tank farm and manganese ore dump are set to expire in 2014 and 2016, respectively. As yet, there is no consensus on when these disamenities will be (re)moved. In order to mitigate the secondary impacts of these facilities, both of them should be removed. Although these impacts should be the focus of public policy debates and cost-benefit assessments, no direct valuation method exists to value the economic cost to affected communities. Instead, non-market valuation methods, such as the contingent valuation method (CVM), are often applied to assign values to these economic costs. This study seeks to determine Nelson Mandela Bay households‟ preferences for the immediate removal of the manganese ore dump and oil tank farm from the Port Elizabeth harbour. This case was selected since it represents a current public policy debate issue that has not been resolved. Monetary estimates of people‟s preferences for the removal of pollution-creating activities can assist policy-makers and other stakeholders when locating industries in an urban setting. These estimates can also be of use in understanding the benefits associated with air and water quality improvement projects. The primary valuation technique used in this study is the CVM. This method was chosen as it is capable of measuring the economic significance of lost passive-use values of individuals affected by negative externalities. Both a non-parametric and a parametric estimate of mean willingness-to-pay (WTP) were derived. On average, a respondent was willing to pay a once-off amount of between R47.09 (non-parametric estimate) and R93.21 (parametric estimate). Non-parametric estimation (via the Turnbull estimator) was conducted to test the sensitivity of the parametric results (via a logit model). The logit model‟s results showed that the probability of a „yes‟ answer to the referendum question varies with a number of covariates in a realistic and expected way, which offers some support for the construct validity of this CV study. Household income, education, age, and disamenity awareness were significant determinants of individuals‟ responses to the WTP question. A summary of the findings of WTP estimates for both parametric and non-parametric analysis is provided in Table 1. Three primary recommendations stem from this study. Firstly, the study used a relatively small sample size. Although it was sufficient for a pilot study it is recommended that future research into this issue should aim for a much larger sample size to ensure more precise estimates of the WTP for the removal of the disamenity. Secondly, the conservative non-parametric mean WTP estimate should be used as opposed to the higher parametric mean WTP estimate. Third, the aggregate WTP estimation constitutes only a partial analysis of cost. A number of other factors and value streams need to be analysed and compared with the cost estimates generated by this study if adequate holistic decision-making is to take place with regard to the removal of the manganese ore dump and oil tank farm. More specifically, the total WTP estimated in this study should be viewed as only one input into a comprehensive social cost-benefit analysis to determine the desirability of the removal of this disamenity for wider society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Critical factors for the successful implementation of the proposed national health insurance system in South Africa
- Authors: Cortje, Gareth Frederick
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: National health insurance -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , National health services -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8783 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013090
- Description: South Africa has a complex healthcare system. The provision and financing of health care in South Africa occur within two fundamentally different systems: the public healthcare sector and non-governmental not-for-profit organisations, on the one hand, and the private healthcare system, on the other hand. The socioeconomic status of an individual in South Africa is the primary determinant of the system through which he or she will receive access to healthcare. The healthcare services provided by the public and private sectors are perceived to be unequal. The introduction of healthcare reforms by the South African government through the National Health Insurance (NHI) aims to address these disparities. The primary objective of this study was to contribute to the successful implementation of the proposed South African NHI by identifying critical success factors that would impact such implementation. A sample of managerial representatives of the following healthcare institutions in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) was drawn: Large private hospitals groups; Eastern Cape Department of Health; Independent medical practitioners groups; South African Dental Association; Pharmacy Association of South Africa; Optometrist Association of South Africa. A total of 250 questionnaires were distributed among these institutions and approximately 233 usable questionnaires were returned (response rate 93.2 percent). A literature review was conducted to identify the various viewpoints (critical success factors, as well as positive and negative perceptions) on NHIs in other countries, as well as the proposed one in South Africa. About 43 of such viewpoints were identified. The 233 respondents were surveyed on these 43 viewpoints. The empirical results revealed the following three critical success factors for the successful implementation of the South African NHI: The projected benefits for stakeholders, with specific reference to medical aid schemes; the projected benefits to the private healthcare sector in servicing the public sector; and strategic leadership. The empirical results also showed that the healthcare managers, who serve the poor versus the affluent geographical areas of the NMBM, differ with regard to their projected success of the NHI. Finally, the study highlighted these health managers’ general perceptions about the envisaged benefits and shortcomings of the NHI.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Cortje, Gareth Frederick
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: National health insurance -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , National health services -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8783 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013090
- Description: South Africa has a complex healthcare system. The provision and financing of health care in South Africa occur within two fundamentally different systems: the public healthcare sector and non-governmental not-for-profit organisations, on the one hand, and the private healthcare system, on the other hand. The socioeconomic status of an individual in South Africa is the primary determinant of the system through which he or she will receive access to healthcare. The healthcare services provided by the public and private sectors are perceived to be unequal. The introduction of healthcare reforms by the South African government through the National Health Insurance (NHI) aims to address these disparities. The primary objective of this study was to contribute to the successful implementation of the proposed South African NHI by identifying critical success factors that would impact such implementation. A sample of managerial representatives of the following healthcare institutions in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) was drawn: Large private hospitals groups; Eastern Cape Department of Health; Independent medical practitioners groups; South African Dental Association; Pharmacy Association of South Africa; Optometrist Association of South Africa. A total of 250 questionnaires were distributed among these institutions and approximately 233 usable questionnaires were returned (response rate 93.2 percent). A literature review was conducted to identify the various viewpoints (critical success factors, as well as positive and negative perceptions) on NHIs in other countries, as well as the proposed one in South Africa. About 43 of such viewpoints were identified. The 233 respondents were surveyed on these 43 viewpoints. The empirical results revealed the following three critical success factors for the successful implementation of the South African NHI: The projected benefits for stakeholders, with specific reference to medical aid schemes; the projected benefits to the private healthcare sector in servicing the public sector; and strategic leadership. The empirical results also showed that the healthcare managers, who serve the poor versus the affluent geographical areas of the NMBM, differ with regard to their projected success of the NHI. Finally, the study highlighted these health managers’ general perceptions about the envisaged benefits and shortcomings of the NHI.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
To what extent can microfinance sustain the livelihoods of the women of Mdantsane (Ward N.U. 9)
- Authors: Cuntu, Somila
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Women in economic development --South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9110 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014636
- Description: I have observed that in Mdantsane there is a clear gap between men and women, as people are tradition-bound, and men are often the breadwinners in their households, which leave some women sidelined and only left with household chores. Therefore this research aims to investigate these inequalities, and if microfinance can contribute positively towards the development of these women, so that they can develop and sustain their lifestyles. Chapter two of this research, containing available literature on this particular study which is sustainable livelihoods and microfinance for poor women, and covers both local as well as international studies. Here microfinance and sustainable livelihoods will be conceptualised accordingly so as to shed light on the subject. The third chapter covers the methodology used in the current study which clearly outlines the methodological framework, the research instruments, participants as well as the research design and procedure. The fourth chapter provides the findings and of the the current study, this will outline the main themes that surface and are prevalent among the participants. Chapter five will consist of the discussion of the results. Lastly chapter six will provide the conclusion as well as well as recommendations relevant to the results of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Cuntu, Somila
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Women in economic development --South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9110 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014636
- Description: I have observed that in Mdantsane there is a clear gap between men and women, as people are tradition-bound, and men are often the breadwinners in their households, which leave some women sidelined and only left with household chores. Therefore this research aims to investigate these inequalities, and if microfinance can contribute positively towards the development of these women, so that they can develop and sustain their lifestyles. Chapter two of this research, containing available literature on this particular study which is sustainable livelihoods and microfinance for poor women, and covers both local as well as international studies. Here microfinance and sustainable livelihoods will be conceptualised accordingly so as to shed light on the subject. The third chapter covers the methodology used in the current study which clearly outlines the methodological framework, the research instruments, participants as well as the research design and procedure. The fourth chapter provides the findings and of the the current study, this will outline the main themes that surface and are prevalent among the participants. Chapter five will consist of the discussion of the results. Lastly chapter six will provide the conclusion as well as well as recommendations relevant to the results of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The meaning of place of 'effective management' in the context of South African domestic tax law
- Authors: Daniels, Paul
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Double taxation -- Treaties , Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8960 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018822
- Description: South Africa has a residence based system of taxation in which South African tax residents are taxed on their worldwide income. A company or other artificial person is regarded as a South African resident for tax purposes if it is incorporated, established or formed in South Africa or if its ‗effective management‘ is located in South Africa. Where a tax treaty determines in terms of its tie breaker rule that an artificial person is not resident in South Africa for treaty purposes, the company will also not be regarded as a tax resident in terms of South African domestic law. Treaties to which South Africa is party will often use the effective management‘ as the tie-breaker where a person other than an individual is resident in both Contracting states in terms of the respective states‘ domestic laws. The tests of ‗incorporation, established and formed‘ provide simplicity and certainty to governments but are easily open to manipulation by taxpayers. Therefore, the legislature found it necessary to incorporate effective management‘ as a test for residency into the Act. Effective management‘ is a substance over form concept which be described as a function which embodies the periodic, most senior executive management functions, which are required for the management of the affairs of the entity as whole. The test of effective management‘ by its very nature is concerned with where the crucial decisions are made in order to make a business function. To identify the location of effective management‘ it is necessary to enquire who calls the shots‘ in the context of the management of the company as opposed to who controls the company notwithstanding that there may in certain instances be overlap between the two functions. It is submitted that any person who, on the face of it seems unconnected to a company, could effectively manage‘ a company if that person is, in substance, responsible for the most senior executive management functions of the company. The discussion paper issued by SARS recognises the principal difficulties experienced with its current interpretation of the concept and makes valuable points, concessions and recommendations. It also recognised that the 'calling of shots' by the most senior executive is a critical marker of effective management‘ and that control of a company is irrelevant in determining effective management‘. To determine who effectively manages‘ a company each situation would have to be analysed on its own as it is not possible to create a definitive rule on the concept. In many cases the nature of the entity and its modus operandi would have to be taken into account to determine effective management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Daniels, Paul
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Double taxation -- Treaties , Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8960 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018822
- Description: South Africa has a residence based system of taxation in which South African tax residents are taxed on their worldwide income. A company or other artificial person is regarded as a South African resident for tax purposes if it is incorporated, established or formed in South Africa or if its ‗effective management‘ is located in South Africa. Where a tax treaty determines in terms of its tie breaker rule that an artificial person is not resident in South Africa for treaty purposes, the company will also not be regarded as a tax resident in terms of South African domestic law. Treaties to which South Africa is party will often use the effective management‘ as the tie-breaker where a person other than an individual is resident in both Contracting states in terms of the respective states‘ domestic laws. The tests of ‗incorporation, established and formed‘ provide simplicity and certainty to governments but are easily open to manipulation by taxpayers. Therefore, the legislature found it necessary to incorporate effective management‘ as a test for residency into the Act. Effective management‘ is a substance over form concept which be described as a function which embodies the periodic, most senior executive management functions, which are required for the management of the affairs of the entity as whole. The test of effective management‘ by its very nature is concerned with where the crucial decisions are made in order to make a business function. To identify the location of effective management‘ it is necessary to enquire who calls the shots‘ in the context of the management of the company as opposed to who controls the company notwithstanding that there may in certain instances be overlap between the two functions. It is submitted that any person who, on the face of it seems unconnected to a company, could effectively manage‘ a company if that person is, in substance, responsible for the most senior executive management functions of the company. The discussion paper issued by SARS recognises the principal difficulties experienced with its current interpretation of the concept and makes valuable points, concessions and recommendations. It also recognised that the 'calling of shots' by the most senior executive is a critical marker of effective management‘ and that control of a company is irrelevant in determining effective management‘. To determine who effectively manages‘ a company each situation would have to be analysed on its own as it is not possible to create a definitive rule on the concept. In many cases the nature of the entity and its modus operandi would have to be taken into account to determine effective management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An evaluation of urban poverty and its alleviation in the Nelson Mandela Metro with special reference to prostitution as an income generator
- Authors: De Bruin, Mbulelo Douglas
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic conditions -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality , Poverty -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality , Prostitution -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9001 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011663 , Economic conditions -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality , Poverty -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality , Prostitution -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Description: This paper is set to evaluate the factors leading to prostitution and provide the understanding of the hardships that are experienced by prostitutes in their pursuit for income generation. However, this will be preceded by the background to the study. Secondly, this paper will lament or touch on the strategies employed by the Nelson Mandela Metro and other countries in an attempt to alleviate poverty. Thirdly, the views of academics and other experts in the fields of both the prostitution and poverty will be put into perspective. The relevant research methodology used to this study was found to be a descriptive study. The concluding remarks and recommendations on what is needed in order to improve the situation in the Nelson Mandela Metro are provided for the purpose of this study. Towards the end of this study, bibliography has been provided followed by the relevant annexures which will serve as evidence that inform this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: De Bruin, Mbulelo Douglas
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic conditions -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality , Poverty -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality , Prostitution -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9001 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011663 , Economic conditions -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality , Poverty -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality , Prostitution -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Description: This paper is set to evaluate the factors leading to prostitution and provide the understanding of the hardships that are experienced by prostitutes in their pursuit for income generation. However, this will be preceded by the background to the study. Secondly, this paper will lament or touch on the strategies employed by the Nelson Mandela Metro and other countries in an attempt to alleviate poverty. Thirdly, the views of academics and other experts in the fields of both the prostitution and poverty will be put into perspective. The relevant research methodology used to this study was found to be a descriptive study. The concluding remarks and recommendations on what is needed in order to improve the situation in the Nelson Mandela Metro are provided for the purpose of this study. Towards the end of this study, bibliography has been provided followed by the relevant annexures which will serve as evidence that inform this study.
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- Date Issued: 2012
Sustainability, viability and stability : the case of income generating projects in the Nelson Mandela Bay
- Dikana, Zukisile Christopher
- Authors: Dikana, Zukisile Christopher
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Public investments -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9157 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019860
- Description: This study explores issues of sustainability, viability and stability in the projects funded by the Department of Social Development, situated in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The researcher makes use of a combination of qualitative and quantitative research designs to gather data. The sample consisted of about three members from each of the four projects selected, as well as two officials of the Department of Social Development in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The respondents participated in structured and semi-structured interviews exploring their demographic information, information about the project and how it is managed, views and opinions about differences between a business venture and a project, their understanding of what constitutes a sustainable, viable and stable income-generating project as well as their opinions about what would contribute to ensuring sustainability, viability and stability in these projects. The results of the study reveal that it is important to structure and run the income generating projects using business principles which include vigorous marketing and proper costing. There is also a need to train the participants in business management so that they can run the ventures successfully. It has also become apparent that a clear leader or manager is lacking and thus decision making process is too long, meaning a meeting must take place involving all project members before a decision that affects the operations can be made. Almost all key factors contributing to a sustainable and viable income generating project, as defined by Mango (2004) and Madi (2007) were also found to be lacking in these projects.
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- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Dikana, Zukisile Christopher
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Public investments -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9157 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019860
- Description: This study explores issues of sustainability, viability and stability in the projects funded by the Department of Social Development, situated in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The researcher makes use of a combination of qualitative and quantitative research designs to gather data. The sample consisted of about three members from each of the four projects selected, as well as two officials of the Department of Social Development in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The respondents participated in structured and semi-structured interviews exploring their demographic information, information about the project and how it is managed, views and opinions about differences between a business venture and a project, their understanding of what constitutes a sustainable, viable and stable income-generating project as well as their opinions about what would contribute to ensuring sustainability, viability and stability in these projects. The results of the study reveal that it is important to structure and run the income generating projects using business principles which include vigorous marketing and proper costing. There is also a need to train the participants in business management so that they can run the ventures successfully. It has also become apparent that a clear leader or manager is lacking and thus decision making process is too long, meaning a meeting must take place involving all project members before a decision that affects the operations can be made. Almost all key factors contributing to a sustainable and viable income generating project, as defined by Mango (2004) and Madi (2007) were also found to be lacking in these projects.
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- Date Issued: 2012
The exploration of sustainable and diversified livelihood options for residents of Enon-Bersheba
- Authors: Dlamini, Tembile Daniel
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable living -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable living
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9115 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015643
- Description: Enon-Bersheba (E&B) area has approximately 10 200 hectors of pristine communal land that is rare to find in the Cacadu region. This prime communal land is situated in the bank of the Sundays River Valley in the Eastern Cape Province. Enon-Bersheba falls under the jurisdiction of the Sundays River Local Municipality. The Municipal jurisdiction provides easy access to this pristine commonage that presents opportunities for economic development as well as residential opportunities. This study presents the diversity of sustainable livelihood alternatives from the community‟s perspective. This study finds that giving the beneficiaries of land restitution authority over decision-making on land usage is an important contributor to success. Land is a significant asset, and it becomes more valuable and development-worthy if legal institutions are in place to manage the planning and development processes, for its full utilisation. In addition to this, the study provides a community-driven development framework with which potential development partners can interact to enhance revenue generating activities and strengthen the institutional environment through the formation of community-private-public-partnerships. The participatory research process that was undertaken made essential findings. The study validates the use of livelihoods-based approach to poverty alleviation. A bottom-up participatory process was effective in determining how best Enon-Bersheba communal land can be put into effective and efficient use. Likewise, an integrated approach to development planning was proven to be important. This study proved an extra-ordinary belief that the stability and changed value systems within a community often derive from complex social problems that are inherently dynamic. The involvement of the Independent Electoral Commission in the referendum process for Enon-Bersheba‟s legal entity that will manage the land suggests the credibility of the process. The existing information around potential development options of Enon-Bersheba was consolidated and verified by the community. The awareness of community abilities and resources served to enhance community mobilization for social action. The study provides a framework for development policy imperatives and a new vision for Enon-Bersheba.
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- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Dlamini, Tembile Daniel
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable living -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable living
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9115 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015643
- Description: Enon-Bersheba (E&B) area has approximately 10 200 hectors of pristine communal land that is rare to find in the Cacadu region. This prime communal land is situated in the bank of the Sundays River Valley in the Eastern Cape Province. Enon-Bersheba falls under the jurisdiction of the Sundays River Local Municipality. The Municipal jurisdiction provides easy access to this pristine commonage that presents opportunities for economic development as well as residential opportunities. This study presents the diversity of sustainable livelihood alternatives from the community‟s perspective. This study finds that giving the beneficiaries of land restitution authority over decision-making on land usage is an important contributor to success. Land is a significant asset, and it becomes more valuable and development-worthy if legal institutions are in place to manage the planning and development processes, for its full utilisation. In addition to this, the study provides a community-driven development framework with which potential development partners can interact to enhance revenue generating activities and strengthen the institutional environment through the formation of community-private-public-partnerships. The participatory research process that was undertaken made essential findings. The study validates the use of livelihoods-based approach to poverty alleviation. A bottom-up participatory process was effective in determining how best Enon-Bersheba communal land can be put into effective and efficient use. Likewise, an integrated approach to development planning was proven to be important. This study proved an extra-ordinary belief that the stability and changed value systems within a community often derive from complex social problems that are inherently dynamic. The involvement of the Independent Electoral Commission in the referendum process for Enon-Bersheba‟s legal entity that will manage the land suggests the credibility of the process. The existing information around potential development options of Enon-Bersheba was consolidated and verified by the community. The awareness of community abilities and resources served to enhance community mobilization for social action. The study provides a framework for development policy imperatives and a new vision for Enon-Bersheba.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An investigation into the Local Economic Development (LED) as a cross-cutting issue in the municipality's integrated development plan: a case of Inkwanca Local Municipality
- Authors: Douglas, Sibongile Claude
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal finance , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9002 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011664 , Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal finance , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Description: Though it can be argued that the new democratic government has made tremendous strides in its first decades of democracy, continuing poverty and inequality tends to undermine the gains. Faced by this development dilemma, the government has adopted various development endeavours in an attempt to address issues of social and economic development. The topic of Local Economic Development has received considerable attention from both government and scholars in recent years. At the heart of the concept of LED are enshrined the goals of creating employment and promoting the economic growth and development of a locality or local area. It is in this context that the main objective of the study was to investigate the implementation of Local Economic Development as a cross-cutting dimension in the Integrated Development Plan of the Inkwanca Municipality of in the Eastern Cape Province. The construction of a bridge in the town of Sterkstroom was used as a case study to assess the ability of the municipality to plan and implement a LED project in a coordinated and integrated manner. The study used the combination of both methods of data collection, namely the qualitative and quantitative methods. The tool used to collect data was an interview schedule which consisted of open and closed ended questions. Findings by this study revealed that LED planning and implementation within the municipality does not receive the priority it so deserves and therefore it can not be regarded as the panacea for the development challenges confronted by the community in the municipality. Since LED has failed to create sustainable jobs and grow the local economy, questions can be raised about the efficiency of the municipality in its implementation of LED as a cross–cutting dimension. There appears to have been little cooperation with the LED Unit on the implementation of the Sokoyi Bridge construction project. Neither was there a concerted effort on the part of the municipality to use the project to build skills among the workers that they could use in future initiatives. The study revealed that the line function departments within the municipality could not plan their activities and programmes in a coordinated and integrated manner. Planning is characterised by ‘silo-functioning’. Furthermore, intergovernmental coordination amongst the various spheres of government has been and remains a challenge. Intergovernmental coordination and collaboration needed to be strengthened. The Integrated Development Plan of the municipality which is supposed to be a strategic coordination and integration tool has failed to achieve its objective and as such planning happens in an ad hoc and fragmented fashion. A plan-led system is needed to bring focus and allow long term public interest to guide the development of places. The National Development Plan state that “it will take time to create this capability, drawing on fuller understanding of the limitations of current arrangements and incorporating the lessons of good international practise.” (NDP, 2011: 263). Having a policy in place does not guarantee that there will be developmental or pro-poor outcomes. This study indicated that there are real capacity constraints in local government to plan in an integrated and coordinated manner. The Inkwanca Municipality did not use the developmental opportunities presented by the bridge construction project to its fullest extent. A lack of coordination limited the ability of the municipality to move beyond short-term job creation through a more integrated programme that could have had a broader positive impact on the residents of the Inkwanca municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Douglas, Sibongile Claude
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal finance , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9002 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011664 , Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal finance , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Description: Though it can be argued that the new democratic government has made tremendous strides in its first decades of democracy, continuing poverty and inequality tends to undermine the gains. Faced by this development dilemma, the government has adopted various development endeavours in an attempt to address issues of social and economic development. The topic of Local Economic Development has received considerable attention from both government and scholars in recent years. At the heart of the concept of LED are enshrined the goals of creating employment and promoting the economic growth and development of a locality or local area. It is in this context that the main objective of the study was to investigate the implementation of Local Economic Development as a cross-cutting dimension in the Integrated Development Plan of the Inkwanca Municipality of in the Eastern Cape Province. The construction of a bridge in the town of Sterkstroom was used as a case study to assess the ability of the municipality to plan and implement a LED project in a coordinated and integrated manner. The study used the combination of both methods of data collection, namely the qualitative and quantitative methods. The tool used to collect data was an interview schedule which consisted of open and closed ended questions. Findings by this study revealed that LED planning and implementation within the municipality does not receive the priority it so deserves and therefore it can not be regarded as the panacea for the development challenges confronted by the community in the municipality. Since LED has failed to create sustainable jobs and grow the local economy, questions can be raised about the efficiency of the municipality in its implementation of LED as a cross–cutting dimension. There appears to have been little cooperation with the LED Unit on the implementation of the Sokoyi Bridge construction project. Neither was there a concerted effort on the part of the municipality to use the project to build skills among the workers that they could use in future initiatives. The study revealed that the line function departments within the municipality could not plan their activities and programmes in a coordinated and integrated manner. Planning is characterised by ‘silo-functioning’. Furthermore, intergovernmental coordination amongst the various spheres of government has been and remains a challenge. Intergovernmental coordination and collaboration needed to be strengthened. The Integrated Development Plan of the municipality which is supposed to be a strategic coordination and integration tool has failed to achieve its objective and as such planning happens in an ad hoc and fragmented fashion. A plan-led system is needed to bring focus and allow long term public interest to guide the development of places. The National Development Plan state that “it will take time to create this capability, drawing on fuller understanding of the limitations of current arrangements and incorporating the lessons of good international practise.” (NDP, 2011: 263). Having a policy in place does not guarantee that there will be developmental or pro-poor outcomes. This study indicated that there are real capacity constraints in local government to plan in an integrated and coordinated manner. The Inkwanca Municipality did not use the developmental opportunities presented by the bridge construction project to its fullest extent. A lack of coordination limited the ability of the municipality to move beyond short-term job creation through a more integrated programme that could have had a broader positive impact on the residents of the Inkwanca municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A study of the implementation of Employment Equity at the Engcobo Local Municipality
- Authors: Dweba, Thandeka
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9426 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008410 , Affirmative action programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Rationale: It cannot be denied that there has been improvement in demographic representation in South Africa since the implementation of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998. Whilst there may still be room for improvement, especially on employer attitudes towards the implementation of employment equity, improved representation of the Previously Disadvantaged Groups has evidently appreciated, however, marginally. Research purpose: This study sought to explore stakeholder perceptions as to why Engcobo Local Municipality had not successfully implemented the Employment Equity Act. Research design, approach and method: This exploratory study was conducted at Engcobo Local Municipality on Councillors, Managers, Key Employees and representatives of Organised Labour. Main findings: a) Engcobo Local Municipality was found not to have complied with various aspects of the Employment Equity Act; b) Respondents mainly believed that failure to implement the Employment Equity Act by Engcobo Local Municipality was due to lack of capacity on the part of the municipality‟s stakeholders; c) Different countries followed different models in the implementation of their Employment Equity, depending on the peculiarity of their circumstances; and d) The most appropriate change management model on which the implementation of the South African Employment Equity is modelled is Hayes‟ Generic Change Management Model. Managerial implications: Future research may be that the municipality can benefit from the recommendations made by the respondents with regard to what they believe needs to be done to remedy the situation. Some of the suggestions include the intensification of communication, establishment consultative structures to facilitate communication and the capacitation of stakeholders to ensure that they understand their responsibilities regarding the implementation of the Employment Equity Act. Contribution: The contribution of the research is supporting the current knowledge base of stakeholders towards the implementation of the Employment Equity Act. Proactive implementation measures should be taken to ensure that people who should benefit from the implementation of the Act are not disadvantaged by the municipality‟s failure to implement the Act. The introduction of the alignment with human resource management practices that complement the implementation of Employment Equity, could overcome the barriers currently being experienced in the effective implementation of the Employment Equity Act.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Dweba, Thandeka
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9426 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008410 , Affirmative action programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Rationale: It cannot be denied that there has been improvement in demographic representation in South Africa since the implementation of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998. Whilst there may still be room for improvement, especially on employer attitudes towards the implementation of employment equity, improved representation of the Previously Disadvantaged Groups has evidently appreciated, however, marginally. Research purpose: This study sought to explore stakeholder perceptions as to why Engcobo Local Municipality had not successfully implemented the Employment Equity Act. Research design, approach and method: This exploratory study was conducted at Engcobo Local Municipality on Councillors, Managers, Key Employees and representatives of Organised Labour. Main findings: a) Engcobo Local Municipality was found not to have complied with various aspects of the Employment Equity Act; b) Respondents mainly believed that failure to implement the Employment Equity Act by Engcobo Local Municipality was due to lack of capacity on the part of the municipality‟s stakeholders; c) Different countries followed different models in the implementation of their Employment Equity, depending on the peculiarity of their circumstances; and d) The most appropriate change management model on which the implementation of the South African Employment Equity is modelled is Hayes‟ Generic Change Management Model. Managerial implications: Future research may be that the municipality can benefit from the recommendations made by the respondents with regard to what they believe needs to be done to remedy the situation. Some of the suggestions include the intensification of communication, establishment consultative structures to facilitate communication and the capacitation of stakeholders to ensure that they understand their responsibilities regarding the implementation of the Employment Equity Act. Contribution: The contribution of the research is supporting the current knowledge base of stakeholders towards the implementation of the Employment Equity Act. Proactive implementation measures should be taken to ensure that people who should benefit from the implementation of the Act are not disadvantaged by the municipality‟s failure to implement the Act. The introduction of the alignment with human resource management practices that complement the implementation of Employment Equity, could overcome the barriers currently being experienced in the effective implementation of the Employment Equity Act.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012