Managing Information Confidentiality Using the Chinese Wall Model to Reduce Fraud in Government Tenders
- Authors: Rama, Sobhana
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Chinese walls (Communication barriers) -- South Africa , Business logistics -- South Africa , Confidential communications -- South Africa , Conflict of interests -- South Africa , Fraud -- South Africa , Information services -- Government policy -- South Africa , Communication policy -- South Africa , Communication planning -- South Africa , Chinese Wall Model , Information confidentiality , Conflict of Interest , Government tender fraud
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11136 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006956 , Chinese walls (Communication barriers) -- South Africa , Business logistics -- South Africa , Confidential communications -- South Africa , Conflict of interests -- South Africa , Fraud -- South Africa , Information services -- Government policy -- South Africa , Communication policy -- South Africa , Communication planning -- South Africa , Chinese Wall Model , Information confidentiality , Conflict of Interest , Government tender fraud
- Description: Instances of fraudulent acts are often headline news in the popular press in South Africa. Increasingly, these press reports point to the government tender process as being the main enabler used by the perpetrators committing the fraud. The cause of the tender fraud problem is confidentiality breach of information. This is accomplished, in part, by compromising the tender information contained in the government information system. This results in the biased award of a tender. Typically, the information in the tender process should be used to make decisions about a tender’s specifications, solicitation, evaluation and adjudication. The sharing of said information to unauthorised persons can be used to manipulate and corrupt the process. This in turn corrupts the tender process by awarding a tender to an unworthy recipient. This research studies the generic steps in the tender process to understand how information is used to corrupt the tender process. It proposes that conflict of interest, together with a lack of information confidentiality in the information system, paves the way for possible tender fraud. Thereafter, a system of internal controls is examined within the South African government as well as in foreign countries to investigate measures taken to reduce the breach of confidential information in the tender process. By referring to the Common Criteria Security Model, various critical security areas within the tender process are identified. This measure is assisted with the ISO/IEC 27002 (2005) standard which has guiding principles for the management of confidential information. Thereafter, an information security policy,the Chinese Wall Model will be discussed as a means of reducing instances where conflict of interest may occur. Finally, an adapted Chinese Wall Model, which includes elements of the tender process, is presented as a way of reducing fraud in the government tender process. Finally, the research objective of this study is presented in the form of Critical Success Factors that aid in reducing the breach of confidential information in the tender process. As a consequence, tender fraud is reduced. These success factors have a direct and serious impact on the effectiveness of the Chinese Wall Model to secure the confidentiality of tender information. The proposed Critical Success Factors include: the Sanitisation Policy Document, an Electronic Document Management System, the Tender Evaluation Ethics Document, the Audit Trail Log and the Chinese Wall Model Prosecution Register.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Rama, Sobhana
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Chinese walls (Communication barriers) -- South Africa , Business logistics -- South Africa , Confidential communications -- South Africa , Conflict of interests -- South Africa , Fraud -- South Africa , Information services -- Government policy -- South Africa , Communication policy -- South Africa , Communication planning -- South Africa , Chinese Wall Model , Information confidentiality , Conflict of Interest , Government tender fraud
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11136 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006956 , Chinese walls (Communication barriers) -- South Africa , Business logistics -- South Africa , Confidential communications -- South Africa , Conflict of interests -- South Africa , Fraud -- South Africa , Information services -- Government policy -- South Africa , Communication policy -- South Africa , Communication planning -- South Africa , Chinese Wall Model , Information confidentiality , Conflict of Interest , Government tender fraud
- Description: Instances of fraudulent acts are often headline news in the popular press in South Africa. Increasingly, these press reports point to the government tender process as being the main enabler used by the perpetrators committing the fraud. The cause of the tender fraud problem is confidentiality breach of information. This is accomplished, in part, by compromising the tender information contained in the government information system. This results in the biased award of a tender. Typically, the information in the tender process should be used to make decisions about a tender’s specifications, solicitation, evaluation and adjudication. The sharing of said information to unauthorised persons can be used to manipulate and corrupt the process. This in turn corrupts the tender process by awarding a tender to an unworthy recipient. This research studies the generic steps in the tender process to understand how information is used to corrupt the tender process. It proposes that conflict of interest, together with a lack of information confidentiality in the information system, paves the way for possible tender fraud. Thereafter, a system of internal controls is examined within the South African government as well as in foreign countries to investigate measures taken to reduce the breach of confidential information in the tender process. By referring to the Common Criteria Security Model, various critical security areas within the tender process are identified. This measure is assisted with the ISO/IEC 27002 (2005) standard which has guiding principles for the management of confidential information. Thereafter, an information security policy,the Chinese Wall Model will be discussed as a means of reducing instances where conflict of interest may occur. Finally, an adapted Chinese Wall Model, which includes elements of the tender process, is presented as a way of reducing fraud in the government tender process. Finally, the research objective of this study is presented in the form of Critical Success Factors that aid in reducing the breach of confidential information in the tender process. As a consequence, tender fraud is reduced. These success factors have a direct and serious impact on the effectiveness of the Chinese Wall Model to secure the confidentiality of tender information. The proposed Critical Success Factors include: the Sanitisation Policy Document, an Electronic Document Management System, the Tender Evaluation Ethics Document, the Audit Trail Log and the Chinese Wall Model Prosecution Register.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Participatory development (PD): NGOs and developmental practice in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Hwati, Lucky
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11446 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015315
- Description: The rising to prominence of Non- Governmental Organizations (NGOs) as essential partners to development was as a result of a shift in development authority into decentralized governance. Prior to this, the state was the central player in development. At liberation from political colonial control, most African governments adopted a centralized governance system. This meant that even in their drive to eco-socio development the state was the sole and most important driver. As explained by Allen (1995), in order to keep their grip on power, African leaders invented different solutions. Among them was an amplified centralization of its administrative device, or the creation of a centralized bureaucratic organization. Indeed, from 1960, the majority of African leaders banned political competition and instituted one-party regimes under which an ever-expanding bureaucracy was used to distribute resources to political allies, often under the form of membership in administrative positions (Allen, 1995). It was this need to keep a firm grip on power which saw most governments spearheading their own development, with NGOs playing a peripheral role. In the second instance, the state was instrumental in leading development. Throughout Africa, numerous government boards and ministries were created, each with a specific role to play in development (Willis, 2011; Allen, 1995). In the same way, most governments instituted policies and plans, with specific time frames, where certain development targets were supposed to be met. This system was adopted and became more pronounced in countries such as Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Hwati, Lucky
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11446 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015315
- Description: The rising to prominence of Non- Governmental Organizations (NGOs) as essential partners to development was as a result of a shift in development authority into decentralized governance. Prior to this, the state was the central player in development. At liberation from political colonial control, most African governments adopted a centralized governance system. This meant that even in their drive to eco-socio development the state was the sole and most important driver. As explained by Allen (1995), in order to keep their grip on power, African leaders invented different solutions. Among them was an amplified centralization of its administrative device, or the creation of a centralized bureaucratic organization. Indeed, from 1960, the majority of African leaders banned political competition and instituted one-party regimes under which an ever-expanding bureaucracy was used to distribute resources to political allies, often under the form of membership in administrative positions (Allen, 1995). It was this need to keep a firm grip on power which saw most governments spearheading their own development, with NGOs playing a peripheral role. In the second instance, the state was instrumental in leading development. Throughout Africa, numerous government boards and ministries were created, each with a specific role to play in development (Willis, 2011; Allen, 1995). In the same way, most governments instituted policies and plans, with specific time frames, where certain development targets were supposed to be met. This system was adopted and became more pronounced in countries such as Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Performance monitoring and evaluation for sustainable low-cost housing delivery: the case of Lukhanji and Malahleni local Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province South Africa
- Authors: Gomomo, Mzwakhe Gugu
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (in Public Administration)
- Identifier: vital:11747 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018529
- Description: One of the serious problems facing South Africa is that of the provision of adequate low-cost housing for the poorest of poor. Only about 56% lived in fully-owned formal dwellings in 2009. (Stats SA: 2009). The problem is not only about the inability of the government to decrease backlogs in the provision of adequate low-cost houses. These contributory factors include the standard of construction, land as well as continuous urbanisation. International commitments such as the UN’s Millennium Goals put further pressure on government to permanently resolve the issue. Adequate housing is recognised globally as a basic human right. This includes access to running water and sanitation and electricity. The aim of the study is not to investigate construction techniques or methods, specific choices of location or any other planning-related issues, but to find an approach that is more appealing to the challenge of the provision of housing as per the afore-mentioned challenges combined with, amongst others, the provision of the necessary resources and relevant political processes as well as monitoring and evaluation. The provision of low-cost housing is unique in nature as it can never be fully resolved. To assist the process because of its nature, future studies suggest systems theory as a best recognised and more successful way to address wicked problems. By investigating low-cost housing programmes in Chile and Australia, identifying the elements of systems theory used, it was possible to find pointers to help formulate a set of steps (or actions) to use to address South Africa’s low-cost housing challenge. This research report proposes that, while the challenge of housing provision in a country like South Africa will most probably always be present, it can be alleviated by applying systems thinking to the problem. The study therefore puts forth Participatory Housing Delivery Monitoring Model (PHDMM). The model will assist in providing the beneficiaries of low-cost houses space to participate in the housing process and projects. It will also necessitate accountability by various participants in housing development. Capacity building will also be part of the package.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gomomo, Mzwakhe Gugu
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (in Public Administration)
- Identifier: vital:11747 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018529
- Description: One of the serious problems facing South Africa is that of the provision of adequate low-cost housing for the poorest of poor. Only about 56% lived in fully-owned formal dwellings in 2009. (Stats SA: 2009). The problem is not only about the inability of the government to decrease backlogs in the provision of adequate low-cost houses. These contributory factors include the standard of construction, land as well as continuous urbanisation. International commitments such as the UN’s Millennium Goals put further pressure on government to permanently resolve the issue. Adequate housing is recognised globally as a basic human right. This includes access to running water and sanitation and electricity. The aim of the study is not to investigate construction techniques or methods, specific choices of location or any other planning-related issues, but to find an approach that is more appealing to the challenge of the provision of housing as per the afore-mentioned challenges combined with, amongst others, the provision of the necessary resources and relevant political processes as well as monitoring and evaluation. The provision of low-cost housing is unique in nature as it can never be fully resolved. To assist the process because of its nature, future studies suggest systems theory as a best recognised and more successful way to address wicked problems. By investigating low-cost housing programmes in Chile and Australia, identifying the elements of systems theory used, it was possible to find pointers to help formulate a set of steps (or actions) to use to address South Africa’s low-cost housing challenge. This research report proposes that, while the challenge of housing provision in a country like South Africa will most probably always be present, it can be alleviated by applying systems thinking to the problem. The study therefore puts forth Participatory Housing Delivery Monitoring Model (PHDMM). The model will assist in providing the beneficiaries of low-cost houses space to participate in the housing process and projects. It will also necessitate accountability by various participants in housing development. Capacity building will also be part of the package.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Public financial accountability in the ministry of finance and economic planning: South Sudan, Juba
- Authors: Leek, Deng Manyang
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Ministerial responsibility -- South Sudan , Judicial power -- South Sudan , Civil service -- South Sudan , Finance, Public -- South Sudan , Government accountability -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Economic policy , South Sudan -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11665 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007108 , Ministerial responsibility -- South Sudan , Judicial power -- South Sudan , Civil service -- South Sudan , Finance, Public -- South Sudan , Government accountability -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Economic policy , South Sudan -- Economic conditions
- Description: This research project mainly focuses on the public financial accountability in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning for South Sudan. According to the Public Service Regulations, the government has a duty and responsibility to deliver services to its entire people. In other words, the government exists primarily for the welfare of the people, by creating public institutions to render services delivery and developmental programmes for the communities. There are no government institutions that can function without the provision of finance resources (money). The management of the finances is one of the most important and critical tasks of the government, which requires public financial accountability from the political role-players and public officials, concerned with the use of public money (to be accountable). However the level of service delivery that citizens have to expect depends mostly on standardized public financial accountability of public money (revenue income) by the role players, and public officials in the institutions as integral part of public financial management. Any organization that manages and reports on its finances mitigates the risk of finances, builds good quality and openness into its financial and non financial analyses, monitors the sustainability of benefits and reflects sound financial accountability. Public financial accountability is a specific field that intended to as a tool use for the economy, efficient and effective administration of public money for render of service delivery to the citizens and the developmental programmes for the better live condition or general welfare of the communities. The study was motivated by the issue of public financial accountability in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning for both, during the interim period of six years and after independence in, 2011 for the government of South Sudan which has influenced socio- economic concern, as a result many communities in South Sudan have no access to basic services delivery. Research instruments which solicited quantitative and qualitative data were used to collect information from a sample of management officials and administrative staffs within the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning The research sought to identify the challenges faced and their causes and the ways of improving efficiency and effectiveness of public financial accountability in the ministry of finance and economic planning. The focus of public financial accountability is ranging from the stages of revenue collection, keeping/saving, treasury regulations, money transfer and budget expenditure, etc that can be achieved by transparency, financial reporting statements, control, and audit, as well as good ethical behavior for good performance in the public institutions, this is because maladministration practices of public finance have an impact in rendering of service delivery’s performance. This research focuses on the level of preparedness for accountability and financial accountability with regard to public financial management in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning. Particularly, it explored the laws, policies, procedures, rules and regulations governing implementation of public money, systems in place to oversee this process as well as the capacity of the role-players and public officials in this respective ministry. It further examined how finances have been used for the rendering of service delivery to the communities. In order to accomplish the objectives of this study, a literature study as well as empirical research was undertaken. For the empirical research, questionnaires as well as various types of interviews were used. For proportionate representation efficiency as well as cost effectiveness, the research used a sample of 26 respondents. These included 6 Financial Management Officers, 4 Directors General, 14 finance administrative Staffs, 1 Auditor-General, 1 Chair Person of Anti-Corruption Commission Exploratory statistics and methods were utilized to analyze the data collected so as to measure the reaction to the research questions and objectives under scrutiny. The research disclosed that the public financial accountability in the Ministry of Finance and Economic planning is a new approach that facilitates changes and growth by improving the ways of control public money. The study also found that the standardized laws, policies rules and regulations, and procedures for implementation for public financial accountability have been developed, but not implemented to achieve the stated goals. Also some other important documents are not yet developed. The findings attested to recommendations that, this research will help the policy makers to reformulate the policy; help the implementers or administrators the planners or the managers of the programmes to modify or adjust the programme; to help professionals or academician including those who may research in the area or field; it will help in filling gap in that particular academic dimension or field. The study made recommendations that, the public financial accountability must be improved in the ministry of finance and economic planning, through standardized policies and structures, procedures, transparent and accountable, financial reporting statements and control pertaining to public money. There is a great need for further research in this area of public financial management. This may not be restricted to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning only but to all other state ministries where the utilization of public money has already been established.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Leek, Deng Manyang
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Ministerial responsibility -- South Sudan , Judicial power -- South Sudan , Civil service -- South Sudan , Finance, Public -- South Sudan , Government accountability -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Economic policy , South Sudan -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11665 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007108 , Ministerial responsibility -- South Sudan , Judicial power -- South Sudan , Civil service -- South Sudan , Finance, Public -- South Sudan , Government accountability -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Economic policy , South Sudan -- Economic conditions
- Description: This research project mainly focuses on the public financial accountability in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning for South Sudan. According to the Public Service Regulations, the government has a duty and responsibility to deliver services to its entire people. In other words, the government exists primarily for the welfare of the people, by creating public institutions to render services delivery and developmental programmes for the communities. There are no government institutions that can function without the provision of finance resources (money). The management of the finances is one of the most important and critical tasks of the government, which requires public financial accountability from the political role-players and public officials, concerned with the use of public money (to be accountable). However the level of service delivery that citizens have to expect depends mostly on standardized public financial accountability of public money (revenue income) by the role players, and public officials in the institutions as integral part of public financial management. Any organization that manages and reports on its finances mitigates the risk of finances, builds good quality and openness into its financial and non financial analyses, monitors the sustainability of benefits and reflects sound financial accountability. Public financial accountability is a specific field that intended to as a tool use for the economy, efficient and effective administration of public money for render of service delivery to the citizens and the developmental programmes for the better live condition or general welfare of the communities. The study was motivated by the issue of public financial accountability in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning for both, during the interim period of six years and after independence in, 2011 for the government of South Sudan which has influenced socio- economic concern, as a result many communities in South Sudan have no access to basic services delivery. Research instruments which solicited quantitative and qualitative data were used to collect information from a sample of management officials and administrative staffs within the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning The research sought to identify the challenges faced and their causes and the ways of improving efficiency and effectiveness of public financial accountability in the ministry of finance and economic planning. The focus of public financial accountability is ranging from the stages of revenue collection, keeping/saving, treasury regulations, money transfer and budget expenditure, etc that can be achieved by transparency, financial reporting statements, control, and audit, as well as good ethical behavior for good performance in the public institutions, this is because maladministration practices of public finance have an impact in rendering of service delivery’s performance. This research focuses on the level of preparedness for accountability and financial accountability with regard to public financial management in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning. Particularly, it explored the laws, policies, procedures, rules and regulations governing implementation of public money, systems in place to oversee this process as well as the capacity of the role-players and public officials in this respective ministry. It further examined how finances have been used for the rendering of service delivery to the communities. In order to accomplish the objectives of this study, a literature study as well as empirical research was undertaken. For the empirical research, questionnaires as well as various types of interviews were used. For proportionate representation efficiency as well as cost effectiveness, the research used a sample of 26 respondents. These included 6 Financial Management Officers, 4 Directors General, 14 finance administrative Staffs, 1 Auditor-General, 1 Chair Person of Anti-Corruption Commission Exploratory statistics and methods were utilized to analyze the data collected so as to measure the reaction to the research questions and objectives under scrutiny. The research disclosed that the public financial accountability in the Ministry of Finance and Economic planning is a new approach that facilitates changes and growth by improving the ways of control public money. The study also found that the standardized laws, policies rules and regulations, and procedures for implementation for public financial accountability have been developed, but not implemented to achieve the stated goals. Also some other important documents are not yet developed. The findings attested to recommendations that, this research will help the policy makers to reformulate the policy; help the implementers or administrators the planners or the managers of the programmes to modify or adjust the programme; to help professionals or academician including those who may research in the area or field; it will help in filling gap in that particular academic dimension or field. The study made recommendations that, the public financial accountability must be improved in the ministry of finance and economic planning, through standardized policies and structures, procedures, transparent and accountable, financial reporting statements and control pertaining to public money. There is a great need for further research in this area of public financial management. This may not be restricted to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning only but to all other state ministries where the utilization of public money has already been established.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Sustainable community development programmes and rural poverty eradication in the Eastern Cape: the case study of Buffalo Municipality
- Authors: Muleya, Emmison
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/844 , vital:26502
- Description: Community development programmes as livelihoods strategies have been central to rural poverty eradication, development thinking and practice in the past decade. But where do such perspectives come from, what are their conceptual roots, and what influences have shaped the way they have emerged? This study offers a historical review of key moments in debates about sustainable community development programmes and rural poverty reduction, identifying the tensions, ambiguities and challenges of such approaches. A number of core challenges are identified in this study, centred on the need to inject a more thorough-going analysis into the centre of livelihoods perspectives. The study was done as a first step to identify, at a local level, evidence of the contribution of such programmes designated to tackle poverty in rural areas in Buffalo Municipality and to establish the challenges faced in providing sustainable livelihood outcomes. This will enhance the capacity of livelihoods perspectives to address key gaps in recent discussions, including questions of knowledge, politics, scale and dynamics. It is of utmost importance to note that funds per see cannot bring the rural poor out of their situation, rather as the study posits, continued support, empowering locals with ongoing training on marketing and how to run business, a culture of savings as well as the development of participatory monitoring and evaluation mechanisms can bring about reduction in poverty through sustainable community development programmes and eventually leading to eradication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Muleya, Emmison
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/844 , vital:26502
- Description: Community development programmes as livelihoods strategies have been central to rural poverty eradication, development thinking and practice in the past decade. But where do such perspectives come from, what are their conceptual roots, and what influences have shaped the way they have emerged? This study offers a historical review of key moments in debates about sustainable community development programmes and rural poverty reduction, identifying the tensions, ambiguities and challenges of such approaches. A number of core challenges are identified in this study, centred on the need to inject a more thorough-going analysis into the centre of livelihoods perspectives. The study was done as a first step to identify, at a local level, evidence of the contribution of such programmes designated to tackle poverty in rural areas in Buffalo Municipality and to establish the challenges faced in providing sustainable livelihood outcomes. This will enhance the capacity of livelihoods perspectives to address key gaps in recent discussions, including questions of knowledge, politics, scale and dynamics. It is of utmost importance to note that funds per see cannot bring the rural poor out of their situation, rather as the study posits, continued support, empowering locals with ongoing training on marketing and how to run business, a culture of savings as well as the development of participatory monitoring and evaluation mechanisms can bring about reduction in poverty through sustainable community development programmes and eventually leading to eradication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Testing random walk hypothesis in the stock market prices: evidence from South Africa's stock exchange (2000- 2011)
- Chitenderu, Tafadzwa Thelmah
- Authors: Chitenderu, Tafadzwa Thelmah
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Stock exchanges -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Random walks (Mathematics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11461 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006931 , Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Stock exchanges -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Random walks (Mathematics)
- Description: The Johannesburg Stock Exchange market was tested for the existence of the random walk hypothesis using All Share Index (ALSI) and time series data for the period between 2000 and 2011. The traditionally used methods, the unit root tests and autocorrelation test were employed first and they all confirmed that during the period under consideration, the JSE price index followed the random walk process. In addition, the ARIMA model was built and it was found that the ARIMA ( 1, 1, 1) was the model that best fitted the data in question. Furthermore, residual tests to help determine whether the residuals of the estimated equation show random walk process in the series were done. It was found that the ALSI resembles series that follow random walk hypothesis with strong evidence of RWH indicated in the conducted forecasting tests which showed vast variance between forecasted values and actual indicating little or no forecasting strength in the series. To further validate the findings in this research, the variance ratio test was conducted under heteroscedasticity and it also strongly corroborated that the existence of a random walk process cannot be rejected in the JSE. It was concluded that since the returns follow the random walk hypothesis, it can be said that JSE is efficient in the weak form level of the EMH and therefore opportunities of making excess returns based on out- performing the market is ruled out and is merely a game of chance. In other words, it will be of no use to choose stocks based on information about recent trends in stock prices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Chitenderu, Tafadzwa Thelmah
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Stock exchanges -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Random walks (Mathematics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11461 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006931 , Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Stock exchanges -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Random walks (Mathematics)
- Description: The Johannesburg Stock Exchange market was tested for the existence of the random walk hypothesis using All Share Index (ALSI) and time series data for the period between 2000 and 2011. The traditionally used methods, the unit root tests and autocorrelation test were employed first and they all confirmed that during the period under consideration, the JSE price index followed the random walk process. In addition, the ARIMA model was built and it was found that the ARIMA ( 1, 1, 1) was the model that best fitted the data in question. Furthermore, residual tests to help determine whether the residuals of the estimated equation show random walk process in the series were done. It was found that the ALSI resembles series that follow random walk hypothesis with strong evidence of RWH indicated in the conducted forecasting tests which showed vast variance between forecasted values and actual indicating little or no forecasting strength in the series. To further validate the findings in this research, the variance ratio test was conducted under heteroscedasticity and it also strongly corroborated that the existence of a random walk process cannot be rejected in the JSE. It was concluded that since the returns follow the random walk hypothesis, it can be said that JSE is efficient in the weak form level of the EMH and therefore opportunities of making excess returns based on out- performing the market is ruled out and is merely a game of chance. In other words, it will be of no use to choose stocks based on information about recent trends in stock prices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The determinants of corporate entrepreneurship for firms in adventure tourism sector in the Eastern Cape Province: South Africa
- Authors: Chigamba, Cleopas
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Management , Entrepreneurship , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11326 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015312 , Organizational change -- Management , Entrepreneurship , Industrial management
- Description: Tourism has been acknowledged for the past decade as one of the leading driving forces for economic development in post-apartheid South Africa (Nel & Binns, 2002:189). The objective of this study was to investigate the determinants of corporate entrepreneurship for firms in adventure tourism sector in the Eastern Cape Province; South Africa. The population for the study were firms registered with the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism Portal (NMBT) and the Dirty Boot Adventure South Africa. Convenience sampling method was used. Data was collected through the use of a self-administered questionnaire. For the purpose of data collection, one hundred and fourteen questions were identified through a thorough review of the literature. Principal component analysis was used to reduce the one hundred and fourteen questions to twelve factors namely: flat organisational structure, management support for intrapreneurship, vision and strategic intent, rewards / reinforcement and sponsorship, innovativeness and creativity, multi-disciplined teamwork and diversity, entrepreneurial leadership, resources and time, strong customer orientation, continuous cross-functional learning, tolerance of risk, mistakes and failure and work discretion and discretionary time. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, T-test and ANOVA. Cohen`s (d-value) was used to measure the effect size of differences for t-statistics. The Cronbach’s alpha was used to test the reliability of the scales. The results showed significant positive relationships between the twelve factors and corporate entrepreneurship. Recommendations included an integrated framework that could assist adventure tour operator to establish and sustain corporate entrepreneurship within this sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Chigamba, Cleopas
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Management , Entrepreneurship , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11326 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015312 , Organizational change -- Management , Entrepreneurship , Industrial management
- Description: Tourism has been acknowledged for the past decade as one of the leading driving forces for economic development in post-apartheid South Africa (Nel & Binns, 2002:189). The objective of this study was to investigate the determinants of corporate entrepreneurship for firms in adventure tourism sector in the Eastern Cape Province; South Africa. The population for the study were firms registered with the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism Portal (NMBT) and the Dirty Boot Adventure South Africa. Convenience sampling method was used. Data was collected through the use of a self-administered questionnaire. For the purpose of data collection, one hundred and fourteen questions were identified through a thorough review of the literature. Principal component analysis was used to reduce the one hundred and fourteen questions to twelve factors namely: flat organisational structure, management support for intrapreneurship, vision and strategic intent, rewards / reinforcement and sponsorship, innovativeness and creativity, multi-disciplined teamwork and diversity, entrepreneurial leadership, resources and time, strong customer orientation, continuous cross-functional learning, tolerance of risk, mistakes and failure and work discretion and discretionary time. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, T-test and ANOVA. Cohen`s (d-value) was used to measure the effect size of differences for t-statistics. The Cronbach’s alpha was used to test the reliability of the scales. The results showed significant positive relationships between the twelve factors and corporate entrepreneurship. Recommendations included an integrated framework that could assist adventure tour operator to establish and sustain corporate entrepreneurship within this sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The effect of perceived organisational support and organisational commitment on turnover intention among academic staff at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Xabiso Ngabase
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employee assistance programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee competitive behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11555 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007110 , Employee assistance programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee competitive behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Perceived organisational support and organisational commitment plays a vital role in determining turnover intention. When employees feel that their organisation supports them levels of commitment can increase. Thus, employees feel more obligated because of favourable benefits such as organisational effectiveness and reduced turnover. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect perceived organisational support and organisational commitment have on turnover intention. The study followed a descriptive survey method. A questionnaire, measured on a Likert Scale was used to collect data from respondents. The sample comprised 98 academic staff at the University of Fort Hare and the response rate was 56.6 percent. The results indicated that perceived organisational support and organisational commitment are negatively and significantly related to turnover intention. The study also revealed perceived organisational support and organisational commitment on turnover intention did not account for a higher variance when put together, however moderate variance was found. Perceived organisational support in this study was identified as the most effective predictor of turnover intention. In addition to managerial implications and limitations of the study, direction for future research is also suggested at the end of this study. The findings of this study will help in terms of understanding the state of organisational commitment of academics and its relationship with their intentions to leave.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Xabiso Ngabase
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employee assistance programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee competitive behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11555 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007110 , Employee assistance programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee competitive behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Perceived organisational support and organisational commitment plays a vital role in determining turnover intention. When employees feel that their organisation supports them levels of commitment can increase. Thus, employees feel more obligated because of favourable benefits such as organisational effectiveness and reduced turnover. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect perceived organisational support and organisational commitment have on turnover intention. The study followed a descriptive survey method. A questionnaire, measured on a Likert Scale was used to collect data from respondents. The sample comprised 98 academic staff at the University of Fort Hare and the response rate was 56.6 percent. The results indicated that perceived organisational support and organisational commitment are negatively and significantly related to turnover intention. The study also revealed perceived organisational support and organisational commitment on turnover intention did not account for a higher variance when put together, however moderate variance was found. Perceived organisational support in this study was identified as the most effective predictor of turnover intention. In addition to managerial implications and limitations of the study, direction for future research is also suggested at the end of this study. The findings of this study will help in terms of understanding the state of organisational commitment of academics and its relationship with their intentions to leave.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The efficacy of coordinating role of the state ministry of cabinet affairs: a case study - Jonglei State, South Sudan
- Authors: Nathan, Alice Tiyo
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11651 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006973
- Description: The research attempts to investigate the effectiveness of coordination in the State Ministry of Cabinet Affairs (SMCA), Jonglei State government, South Sudan. The objectives of the study were to identify coordination functions of the state Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, challenges and its role in promoting ethics and good governance in service delivery in Jonglei State. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected from a sample of twenty one respondents which included the State Deputy Governor, Directors of SMCA and Secretariat through questionnaires and interviews. This explored the functions; roles; and its organizational hierarchy which promotes ethical delivery of services and good governance. The study further discusses the levels of the implementation processes and the possible challenges facing SMCA. The results of the study reveal that the SMCA lacks qualified staff, unclear job descriptions and as a result it impinges on coordination and implementation of strategic plans and service delivery within the directorates. The study therefore recommends that for effective and efficient service delivery in promoting ethics and good governance, training of the human resource, recruitment of competent staff, clear job descriptions, regular performance appraisal and effective communication among others are paramount. The study further recommends that gender equality and equity should be addressed in order to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nathan, Alice Tiyo
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11651 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006973
- Description: The research attempts to investigate the effectiveness of coordination in the State Ministry of Cabinet Affairs (SMCA), Jonglei State government, South Sudan. The objectives of the study were to identify coordination functions of the state Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, challenges and its role in promoting ethics and good governance in service delivery in Jonglei State. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected from a sample of twenty one respondents which included the State Deputy Governor, Directors of SMCA and Secretariat through questionnaires and interviews. This explored the functions; roles; and its organizational hierarchy which promotes ethical delivery of services and good governance. The study further discusses the levels of the implementation processes and the possible challenges facing SMCA. The results of the study reveal that the SMCA lacks qualified staff, unclear job descriptions and as a result it impinges on coordination and implementation of strategic plans and service delivery within the directorates. The study therefore recommends that for effective and efficient service delivery in promoting ethics and good governance, training of the human resource, recruitment of competent staff, clear job descriptions, regular performance appraisal and effective communication among others are paramount. The study further recommends that gender equality and equity should be addressed in order to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of a budget deficit on transport infrastructure investment in South Africa
- Authors: Nanto, Aphiwe
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Budget deficits -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Transportation -- South Africa , Debts, Public -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11478 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015245 , Budget deficits -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Transportation -- South Africa , Debts, Public -- South Africa
- Description: Persistent government budget deficits and government debt have become major concerns in both developed and developing countries. This study investigates the impact of a budget deficit on transport infrastructure investment in South Africa. Quarterly time series data, covering the period 1990q1- 2009q4, was used in this project. The study tests for stationarity using the Augmented Dickey- Fuller and Phillips Perron; it tests for cointegration using the Johansen (1991, 1995) methodology. A vector error correction model is used as an estimation technique. The results of this study show that a budget deficit has a negative impact on transport infrastructure investment in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nanto, Aphiwe
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Budget deficits -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Transportation -- South Africa , Debts, Public -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11478 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015245 , Budget deficits -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Transportation -- South Africa , Debts, Public -- South Africa
- Description: Persistent government budget deficits and government debt have become major concerns in both developed and developing countries. This study investigates the impact of a budget deficit on transport infrastructure investment in South Africa. Quarterly time series data, covering the period 1990q1- 2009q4, was used in this project. The study tests for stationarity using the Augmented Dickey- Fuller and Phillips Perron; it tests for cointegration using the Johansen (1991, 1995) methodology. A vector error correction model is used as an estimation technique. The results of this study show that a budget deficit has a negative impact on transport infrastructure investment in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of budget deficits on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Mrwebo, Luzuko T
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11481 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015284
- Description: The study examines the impact of budget deficits on economic growth in South Africa. The review of the results from theoretical and empirical studies has shown that budget deficits in the most have a negative impact on GDP growth. The Johansen cointegration test has shown evidence that there is cointegration between the GDP growth and its determinants. The tests indicated the presence of cointegration which led to the estimation of VECM. The measure for the long run relationship was between GDP growth and its determinants such as, budget deficits, domestic activities, government debt, and trade openness. The co-integration and vector error correction modelling techniques were applied to South African data between 1990 to 2012 period. This study at hand indicated that government budget deficits have a long run negative effect on economic growth, but the impact shown from the results of this study is very low.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mrwebo, Luzuko T
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11481 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015284
- Description: The study examines the impact of budget deficits on economic growth in South Africa. The review of the results from theoretical and empirical studies has shown that budget deficits in the most have a negative impact on GDP growth. The Johansen cointegration test has shown evidence that there is cointegration between the GDP growth and its determinants. The tests indicated the presence of cointegration which led to the estimation of VECM. The measure for the long run relationship was between GDP growth and its determinants such as, budget deficits, domestic activities, government debt, and trade openness. The co-integration and vector error correction modelling techniques were applied to South African data between 1990 to 2012 period. This study at hand indicated that government budget deficits have a long run negative effect on economic growth, but the impact shown from the results of this study is very low.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of economic growth on unemployment in South Africa: 1994 -2012
- Authors: Handson, Banda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/884 , vital:26506
- Description: One of the most pressing problems facing the South African economy is unemployment, which has been erratic over the past few years. This study examined the impact of economic growth on unemployment, using quarterly time series data for South Africa for the period 1994 to 2012. Johansen Co-integration reflected that there is stable and one significant long run relationship between unemployment and the explanatory variables that is economic growth (GDP), budget deficit (BUG), real effective exchange rate (REER) and labour productivity (LP). The study utilized Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) to determine the effects of macroeconomic variables thus REER, LP, GDP and BUG on unemployment in South Africa. The results of VECM indicated that LP has a negative long run impact on unemployment whilst GDP, BUG and REER have positive impact. The study resulted in the following policy recommendation: South African government should re-direct its spending towards activities that directly and indirectly promote creation of employment and decent jobs; a conducive environment and flexible labour market policies or legislations without impediments to employment creation should be created; and lastly government should prioritise industries that promote labour intensive. All this will help in absorbing large pools of the unemployed population thereby reducing unemployment in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Handson, Banda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/884 , vital:26506
- Description: One of the most pressing problems facing the South African economy is unemployment, which has been erratic over the past few years. This study examined the impact of economic growth on unemployment, using quarterly time series data for South Africa for the period 1994 to 2012. Johansen Co-integration reflected that there is stable and one significant long run relationship between unemployment and the explanatory variables that is economic growth (GDP), budget deficit (BUG), real effective exchange rate (REER) and labour productivity (LP). The study utilized Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) to determine the effects of macroeconomic variables thus REER, LP, GDP and BUG on unemployment in South Africa. The results of VECM indicated that LP has a negative long run impact on unemployment whilst GDP, BUG and REER have positive impact. The study resulted in the following policy recommendation: South African government should re-direct its spending towards activities that directly and indirectly promote creation of employment and decent jobs; a conducive environment and flexible labour market policies or legislations without impediments to employment creation should be created; and lastly government should prioritise industries that promote labour intensive. All this will help in absorbing large pools of the unemployed population thereby reducing unemployment in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of fatal road accidents on the South African economy (1997-2011)
- Authors: Siswana, Babalwa
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11475 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013591
- Description: The purpose of the study is to examine the impact of fatal road accidents on the South African economy. The study used quarterly time series data for the period 1997 to 2011. A Johansen cointegration and vector error correction model (VCEM) was used to determine the impact of fatal road accidents on the South African economy. The explanatory variables in this study are labour productivity, real interest rates, unemployment and real exchange rates. Results from this study revealed that fatal road accidents have negatively impacted on the economic growth in South Africa while labour productivity, real interest rates, unemployment and real exchange rates have a positive long-run impact on economic growth in South Africa. This study recommends that road safety measures must be intensified in South Africa in order to maximize the benefits of economic growth. Keywords: Economic growth, fatal road accidents, South Africa
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Siswana, Babalwa
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11475 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013591
- Description: The purpose of the study is to examine the impact of fatal road accidents on the South African economy. The study used quarterly time series data for the period 1997 to 2011. A Johansen cointegration and vector error correction model (VCEM) was used to determine the impact of fatal road accidents on the South African economy. The explanatory variables in this study are labour productivity, real interest rates, unemployment and real exchange rates. Results from this study revealed that fatal road accidents have negatively impacted on the economic growth in South Africa while labour productivity, real interest rates, unemployment and real exchange rates have a positive long-run impact on economic growth in South Africa. This study recommends that road safety measures must be intensified in South Africa in order to maximize the benefits of economic growth. Keywords: Economic growth, fatal road accidents, South Africa
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of foreign debt on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Shayanewako, V B
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Debts, External -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Government spending policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11477 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015140 , Debts, External -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Government spending policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Description: This study analyses the economic impact between foreign debt and economic growth in South Africa. By fitting a production function model to annual data for the period 1980-2011, the study examines the dynamic effect of debt service, capital stock and labour force on the economic growth of the country. By following Cunningham (1993), it has identified the long-run and short-run causal relationships among the included variables. The results indicate that the debt servicing burden has a negative effect on the productivity of labour and capital, and thereby affect economic growth adversely. The results also illustrate that the debt service ratio tends to negatively affect GDP and the rate of economic growth in the long-run, which, in turn, reduces the ability of the country to service its debt. Similarly, the estimated error correction term shows the existence of a significant long-run causal relationship among the specified variables. Overall, the results suggest the existence of short-run and long-run causal relationships running from debt service to GDP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Shayanewako, V B
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Debts, External -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Government spending policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11477 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015140 , Debts, External -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Government spending policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Description: This study analyses the economic impact between foreign debt and economic growth in South Africa. By fitting a production function model to annual data for the period 1980-2011, the study examines the dynamic effect of debt service, capital stock and labour force on the economic growth of the country. By following Cunningham (1993), it has identified the long-run and short-run causal relationships among the included variables. The results indicate that the debt servicing burden has a negative effect on the productivity of labour and capital, and thereby affect economic growth adversely. The results also illustrate that the debt service ratio tends to negatively affect GDP and the rate of economic growth in the long-run, which, in turn, reduces the ability of the country to service its debt. Similarly, the estimated error correction term shows the existence of a significant long-run causal relationship among the specified variables. Overall, the results suggest the existence of short-run and long-run causal relationships running from debt service to GDP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of oil price volatility on economic growth in South Africa: a cointegration approach
- Authors: Matekenya, Weliswa
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/876 , vital:26505
- Description: Oil is an essential commodity in the South African economy and a source of energy that is used for electricity generation, heating, and cooking. It is vital for the transportation system on which the very livelihood of the economy depends. 14% of South African primary energy needs are met by oil while 95% of crude oil is imported, primarily, from Saudi Arabia and Iran. This study investigates the impact of oil price volatility on economic growth in South Africa from 1994Q1-2010Q4. The study employs the VECM and shows that there exists both a long run and short run relationship between the following variables: crude oil price, GDP, gross fixed investment, real interest rate and real exchange rate. In a long-run analysis there is a positive relationship between oil price and GDP while there is negative relationship in the short-run. The study also shows that, as an oil importing country, South Africa‟s economic growth depends on imported oil which makes the country vulnerable to oil price shocks. Based on the findings of this study it is recommended that policy interventions should include both monetary and fiscal policies. It is in this regard that promoting a regional integration in order to reduce oil dependence, by optimizing electricity supplies across the region, is essential. This will improve efficiency and, owing to economies of scale, lower generation costs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Matekenya, Weliswa
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/876 , vital:26505
- Description: Oil is an essential commodity in the South African economy and a source of energy that is used for electricity generation, heating, and cooking. It is vital for the transportation system on which the very livelihood of the economy depends. 14% of South African primary energy needs are met by oil while 95% of crude oil is imported, primarily, from Saudi Arabia and Iran. This study investigates the impact of oil price volatility on economic growth in South Africa from 1994Q1-2010Q4. The study employs the VECM and shows that there exists both a long run and short run relationship between the following variables: crude oil price, GDP, gross fixed investment, real interest rate and real exchange rate. In a long-run analysis there is a positive relationship between oil price and GDP while there is negative relationship in the short-run. The study also shows that, as an oil importing country, South Africa‟s economic growth depends on imported oil which makes the country vulnerable to oil price shocks. Based on the findings of this study it is recommended that policy interventions should include both monetary and fiscal policies. It is in this regard that promoting a regional integration in order to reduce oil dependence, by optimizing electricity supplies across the region, is essential. This will improve efficiency and, owing to economies of scale, lower generation costs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of stock market development on economic growth: evidence from South Africa
- Authors: Vacu, Nomfundo Portia
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Stocks -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Stock market development , Economic growth , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11655 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006983 , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Stocks -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Stock market development , Economic growth , South Africa
- Description: The main objective of this study is to examine the long run relationship between stock market development and economic growth in the case of South Africa. The study used quarterly data covering the period from 1990Q1 to 2010Q4. To empirically test the link between the two variables, the study used the Johnson’s cointegration approach and Granger causality so as to test the direction of the relationship. The Vector Error Correction Model was also employed to capture both short run and long run dynamics. Generally, the results reveal that a long run relationship exists between the two variables and the causality flows from economic growth to stock market development. Also, the extent to which of stock market development impacts on growth is statistically weak.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Vacu, Nomfundo Portia
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Stocks -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Stock market development , Economic growth , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11655 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006983 , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Stocks -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Stock market development , Economic growth , South Africa
- Description: The main objective of this study is to examine the long run relationship between stock market development and economic growth in the case of South Africa. The study used quarterly data covering the period from 1990Q1 to 2010Q4. To empirically test the link between the two variables, the study used the Johnson’s cointegration approach and Granger causality so as to test the direction of the relationship. The Vector Error Correction Model was also employed to capture both short run and long run dynamics. Generally, the results reveal that a long run relationship exists between the two variables and the causality flows from economic growth to stock market development. Also, the extent to which of stock market development impacts on growth is statistically weak.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The nature of China’s role in development of Africa: the case of Zambia and Zimbabwe
- Authors: Hogwe, Fortune
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11445 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015048
- Description: China’s economic involvement in Africa has increased rapidly over the past decade. China’s involvement in Africa has become one of the controversial topics in the development literature. The background of the study is that Sino-African relations can be grouped into two phases thus: past relations and contemporary relations. The study notes that past relations are different from contemporary relations because while the former are mainly characterised by solidarity, the latter are mainly categorized by economic relations. The study is a historical narrative of China’s economic involvement and the impact in Africa over the past decade. The study draws its arguments from the myths which label Chinese resurgence into Africa as neo-colonialism and that China’s reinvigorated interest in Africa is entirely based upon its own economic pursuits since it has developed into an economic powerhouse over the past decade. Additionally, it has been reported that China disregard good governance in Africa by engaging African governments which are corrupt and which possess poor track human rights. In order to determine if China is pushed into Africa by its economic pursuits and whether China disregards good governance, the study uses two case studies thus: Zimbabwe and Zambia. Zimbabwe one the one hand represents a pariah state, which is viewed as corrupt and a nation which has a poor record of human rights while Zambia, on the other hand represents illiberal regimes and democratic regimes with commodity based economies. The research discovered that China’s economic involvement in Africa presents both opportunities and challenges for African countries. In some instances, China has aided GDP growth in some African countries while in some instances, it has increased unemployment. In conclusion, the study also discovered that China does not involve itself in African domestic affairs hence it has been criticised for encouraging corruption and abusing of human rights.However, the study notes that these issues are mainly domestic hence Africans are entirely to be blamed for such practices, not China.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Hogwe, Fortune
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11445 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015048
- Description: China’s economic involvement in Africa has increased rapidly over the past decade. China’s involvement in Africa has become one of the controversial topics in the development literature. The background of the study is that Sino-African relations can be grouped into two phases thus: past relations and contemporary relations. The study notes that past relations are different from contemporary relations because while the former are mainly characterised by solidarity, the latter are mainly categorized by economic relations. The study is a historical narrative of China’s economic involvement and the impact in Africa over the past decade. The study draws its arguments from the myths which label Chinese resurgence into Africa as neo-colonialism and that China’s reinvigorated interest in Africa is entirely based upon its own economic pursuits since it has developed into an economic powerhouse over the past decade. Additionally, it has been reported that China disregard good governance in Africa by engaging African governments which are corrupt and which possess poor track human rights. In order to determine if China is pushed into Africa by its economic pursuits and whether China disregards good governance, the study uses two case studies thus: Zimbabwe and Zambia. Zimbabwe one the one hand represents a pariah state, which is viewed as corrupt and a nation which has a poor record of human rights while Zambia, on the other hand represents illiberal regimes and democratic regimes with commodity based economies. The research discovered that China’s economic involvement in Africa presents both opportunities and challenges for African countries. In some instances, China has aided GDP growth in some African countries while in some instances, it has increased unemployment. In conclusion, the study also discovered that China does not involve itself in African domestic affairs hence it has been criticised for encouraging corruption and abusing of human rights.However, the study notes that these issues are mainly domestic hence Africans are entirely to be blamed for such practices, not China.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The role of public participation in building a people centered public service: the case of the King Sabatha Dalindyebo Municipality (KSDM) integrated development planning process (Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Ngcukayitobi, Lulama
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Civil service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Economic policy , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Social conditions , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11674 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007123 , Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Civil service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Economic policy , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Social conditions , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Description: This chapter focuses on the literature relevant to the study and more significantly on the issues that are pertinent to the critical questions and the objectives of this research. The chapter will provide definitions of community participation and their intricate relationship with the Integrated Development Planning as a strategic framework for development within the King Sabatha Dalindyebo Municipality. In this context the chapter presents a review of literature dealing with the theoretical arguments surrounding public participation. Hart (1998:13) views literature review as the selection of available documents - both published and unpublished - on the topic, which contains information, ideas, data and evidence written from a particular standpoint to fulfill certain aims This chapter is divided into two main review sections. The first section reviews the relevant policy, legislation and guidelines in which public participation and the IDP process is located in South Africa. The second section focuses on the literature and theories of public participation and the IDP process as it is applied in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ngcukayitobi, Lulama
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Civil service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Economic policy , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Social conditions , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11674 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007123 , Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Civil service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Economic policy , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Social conditions , Eastern Cape -- South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Description: This chapter focuses on the literature relevant to the study and more significantly on the issues that are pertinent to the critical questions and the objectives of this research. The chapter will provide definitions of community participation and their intricate relationship with the Integrated Development Planning as a strategic framework for development within the King Sabatha Dalindyebo Municipality. In this context the chapter presents a review of literature dealing with the theoretical arguments surrounding public participation. Hart (1998:13) views literature review as the selection of available documents - both published and unpublished - on the topic, which contains information, ideas, data and evidence written from a particular standpoint to fulfill certain aims This chapter is divided into two main review sections. The first section reviews the relevant policy, legislation and guidelines in which public participation and the IDP process is located in South Africa. The second section focuses on the literature and theories of public participation and the IDP process as it is applied in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Towards an information security awareness process for engineering SMEs in emerging economies
- Authors: Gundu, Tapiwa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Computer security -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Computer networks -- Security measures -- South Africa , Information resources management -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa , Engineering firms -- South Africa , Confidential communications -- South Africa , Information Security Awareness , Information Security Behaviour , Information Security Training
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11138 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007179 , Computer security -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Computer networks -- Security measures -- South Africa , Information resources management -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa , Engineering firms -- South Africa , Confidential communications -- South Africa , Information Security Awareness , Information Security Behaviour , Information Security Training
- Description: With most employees in Engineering Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) now having access to their own personal workstations, the need for information security management to safeguard against loss/alteration or theft of the firms’ important information has increased. These Engineering SMEs tend to be more concerned with vulnerabilities from external threats, although industry research suggests that a substantial proportion of security incidents originate from insiders within the firm. Hence, technical preventative measures such as antivirus software and firewalls are proving to solve only part of the problem as the employees controlling them lack adequate information security knowledge. This tends to expose a firm to risk and costly mistakes made by naïve/uninformed employees. This dissertation presents an information security awareness process that seeks to cultivate positive security behaviours using a behavioural intention model based on the Theory of Reasoned Action, Protection Motivation Theory and the Behaviourism Theory. The process and model have been refined and verified using expert review and tested through action research at an Engineering SME in South Africa. The main finding was information security levels of employees within the firm were low, but the proposed information security awareness process increased their knowledge thereby positively altering their behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gundu, Tapiwa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Computer security -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Computer networks -- Security measures -- South Africa , Information resources management -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa , Engineering firms -- South Africa , Confidential communications -- South Africa , Information Security Awareness , Information Security Behaviour , Information Security Training
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11138 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007179 , Computer security -- South Africa , Information technology -- South Africa , Computer networks -- Security measures -- South Africa , Information resources management -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa , Engineering firms -- South Africa , Confidential communications -- South Africa , Information Security Awareness , Information Security Behaviour , Information Security Training
- Description: With most employees in Engineering Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) now having access to their own personal workstations, the need for information security management to safeguard against loss/alteration or theft of the firms’ important information has increased. These Engineering SMEs tend to be more concerned with vulnerabilities from external threats, although industry research suggests that a substantial proportion of security incidents originate from insiders within the firm. Hence, technical preventative measures such as antivirus software and firewalls are proving to solve only part of the problem as the employees controlling them lack adequate information security knowledge. This tends to expose a firm to risk and costly mistakes made by naïve/uninformed employees. This dissertation presents an information security awareness process that seeks to cultivate positive security behaviours using a behavioural intention model based on the Theory of Reasoned Action, Protection Motivation Theory and the Behaviourism Theory. The process and model have been refined and verified using expert review and tested through action research at an Engineering SME in South Africa. The main finding was information security levels of employees within the firm were low, but the proposed information security awareness process increased their knowledge thereby positively altering their behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Trade liberalisation and poverty alleviation in South Africa
- Authors: Gundu, Tafadzwa Amanda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11480 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015283
- Description: The study attempts to address, from amongst the key issues in the current debate on economic development: the effect of trade liberalization on poverty. The relationship between trade liberalization and poverty levels is investigated in both the long run and the short run for South Africa. To measure trade liberalization, trade openness is used as the standard index. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) measures financial openness while taxation is a measure of public intervention in the country. Consumption per capita is a proxy for poverty and Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP) controlled for economic growth. Applying the Johansen Co-integration Techniques and Error Correction Method, empirical results suggest that trade liberalization has a cumulative effect on poverty reduction in the long-run. Lower poverty level is associated with low taxation and high foreign direct investment, particularly in the short run, in South Africa. Therefore, it is recommended that the government needs to design and pursue active development strategies to benefit from openness. There is also a need to enhance the tax revenues of the state through better collection of revenues, and administrative reforms rather than expenditure cut backs, which can reduce the effectiveness of the public sector. The government needs to strengthen allocation of funds to social sectors so as to bring the issue of poverty reduction to the central stage of economic policy making.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gundu, Tafadzwa Amanda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11480 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015283
- Description: The study attempts to address, from amongst the key issues in the current debate on economic development: the effect of trade liberalization on poverty. The relationship between trade liberalization and poverty levels is investigated in both the long run and the short run for South Africa. To measure trade liberalization, trade openness is used as the standard index. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) measures financial openness while taxation is a measure of public intervention in the country. Consumption per capita is a proxy for poverty and Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP) controlled for economic growth. Applying the Johansen Co-integration Techniques and Error Correction Method, empirical results suggest that trade liberalization has a cumulative effect on poverty reduction in the long-run. Lower poverty level is associated with low taxation and high foreign direct investment, particularly in the short run, in South Africa. Therefore, it is recommended that the government needs to design and pursue active development strategies to benefit from openness. There is also a need to enhance the tax revenues of the state through better collection of revenues, and administrative reforms rather than expenditure cut backs, which can reduce the effectiveness of the public sector. The government needs to strengthen allocation of funds to social sectors so as to bring the issue of poverty reduction to the central stage of economic policy making.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013