Challenges of electronic surveillance in combating crime and addressing developmental issues in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Dyasi, Alutha Vusisizwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronics in criminal investigation --South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49823 , vital:41805
- Description: Crime has been prevalent in South Africa, particularly in Port Elizabeth where violent crimes such as attempted murder, murder, sexual offences, robbery and hijacking have been reported to the South African Police Service. These violent crimes are mostly prevalent in police precincts such as Gelvandale, Bethelsdorp, Kwazakhele, New Brighton and Walmer. As a result, development in these police precincts has been affected negatively. This is highlighted by how developmental issues such as poverty and unemployment have been ubiquitous due to the manner with which crime has an effect on development. ICT companies are continuously providing solutions to crime-related challenges. The emergence of new technologies, such as CCTV surveillance cameras, drones and facial recognition software have been proven to be a solution to combating crime in some developing countries in Africa. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the challenges of electronic surveillance in combating crime and addressing developmental issues in Port Elizabeth. The study found out that the developmental issues faced by communities in Port Elizabeth include unemployment, poverty, a high crime rate, substance abuse, and a lack of resources. In addition, the study concluded that, the lack of education and skills development, gangsterism, unemployment and poverty were amongst the main causes of crime in Port Elizabeth. The study also revealed that, the SAPS does not have enough electronic surveillance devices such as CCTV cameras installed in high crime areas, thus, recommendations were made on how electronic surveillance can be used to combat crime and address developmental issues
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Dyasi, Alutha Vusisizwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronics in criminal investigation --South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49823 , vital:41805
- Description: Crime has been prevalent in South Africa, particularly in Port Elizabeth where violent crimes such as attempted murder, murder, sexual offences, robbery and hijacking have been reported to the South African Police Service. These violent crimes are mostly prevalent in police precincts such as Gelvandale, Bethelsdorp, Kwazakhele, New Brighton and Walmer. As a result, development in these police precincts has been affected negatively. This is highlighted by how developmental issues such as poverty and unemployment have been ubiquitous due to the manner with which crime has an effect on development. ICT companies are continuously providing solutions to crime-related challenges. The emergence of new technologies, such as CCTV surveillance cameras, drones and facial recognition software have been proven to be a solution to combating crime in some developing countries in Africa. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the challenges of electronic surveillance in combating crime and addressing developmental issues in Port Elizabeth. The study found out that the developmental issues faced by communities in Port Elizabeth include unemployment, poverty, a high crime rate, substance abuse, and a lack of resources. In addition, the study concluded that, the lack of education and skills development, gangsterism, unemployment and poverty were amongst the main causes of crime in Port Elizabeth. The study also revealed that, the SAPS does not have enough electronic surveillance devices such as CCTV cameras installed in high crime areas, thus, recommendations were made on how electronic surveillance can be used to combat crime and address developmental issues
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Cloud computing for competitive advantage: A case of rural SMEs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Mpongwana , Mbongo Mhlanga
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cloud computing -- Economic aspects , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50415 , vital:42166
- Description: The emergence of new ICTs over the past decades has had a substantial impact on commerce and to societies in general. However, the high costs and the relevant skills and expertise that are associated with the implementation and maintenance of the latest ICTs impedes SMEs from taking full advantage of their use. The introduction and adoption of cloud computing has addressed some of these challenges for SMEs. Despite this, SMEs in rural South Africa have not fully adopted or realized the advantages of cloud computing, which could be owing to a number of factors.The aim of this study was to explore how rural SMEs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa can leverage on the capabilities of cloud computing for competitive advantage. The study adopted an interpretivist, quantitative approach to identifying the enablers and barriers of cloud computing adoption. The research population was defined as all the SMEs that operate outside of Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipalities. Convenience and snowball sampling techniques were used as non-probability sampling methods. Data was collected from the participants using a structured self-administered online questionnaire. The Technology-Organization-Environment framework was used as a basis in formulating the research theoretical framework, focusing on technological, organizational and environmental elements that could potentially influence adoption of cloud computing by rural SMEs. Microsoft Power BI was used to present demographic information as well as descriptive statistics for the factors included in the proposed research model. IBM SPSS 22 was used for correlation and linear regression analysis. The review of related literature revealed that access to markets, access to finance, inadequate public infrastructure and lack of skilled resources are some of the major challenges that rural SMEs face. This study found seven of the statistically examined factors to be significant predictors of cloud adoption by rural Eastern Cape SMEs. These are market demand, use of online-based marketing, having formal business plans, reliable electricity, awareness of SaaS, use of basic Internet-based services such as email and websites as well as Internet costs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mpongwana , Mbongo Mhlanga
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cloud computing -- Economic aspects , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50415 , vital:42166
- Description: The emergence of new ICTs over the past decades has had a substantial impact on commerce and to societies in general. However, the high costs and the relevant skills and expertise that are associated with the implementation and maintenance of the latest ICTs impedes SMEs from taking full advantage of their use. The introduction and adoption of cloud computing has addressed some of these challenges for SMEs. Despite this, SMEs in rural South Africa have not fully adopted or realized the advantages of cloud computing, which could be owing to a number of factors.The aim of this study was to explore how rural SMEs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa can leverage on the capabilities of cloud computing for competitive advantage. The study adopted an interpretivist, quantitative approach to identifying the enablers and barriers of cloud computing adoption. The research population was defined as all the SMEs that operate outside of Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipalities. Convenience and snowball sampling techniques were used as non-probability sampling methods. Data was collected from the participants using a structured self-administered online questionnaire. The Technology-Organization-Environment framework was used as a basis in formulating the research theoretical framework, focusing on technological, organizational and environmental elements that could potentially influence adoption of cloud computing by rural SMEs. Microsoft Power BI was used to present demographic information as well as descriptive statistics for the factors included in the proposed research model. IBM SPSS 22 was used for correlation and linear regression analysis. The review of related literature revealed that access to markets, access to finance, inadequate public infrastructure and lack of skilled resources are some of the major challenges that rural SMEs face. This study found seven of the statistically examined factors to be significant predictors of cloud adoption by rural Eastern Cape SMEs. These are market demand, use of online-based marketing, having formal business plans, reliable electricity, awareness of SaaS, use of basic Internet-based services such as email and websites as well as Internet costs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Commercial maritime higher education needs in South Africa
- Authors: Allison, Lee-Ann
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Marine resources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47496 , vital:40117
- Description: Seaborne cargo trade accounts for over 80% of the physical volume of global trade. Maritime transport thus fulfills an integral function in the economy of the world. South Africa generates approximately 3.5% of the world’s seaborne trade by value and 1.61% by tonnage, but the business of shipping all that cargo is undertaken by foreign firms. Operation Phakisa, the Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy, and the South African Maritime Road Map, in pursuance of the National Development Plan, aim to revive the commercial maritime sector. In order to meet the demand for the skills and innovative abilities sought at executive and managerial levels in the commercial maritime sector, higher education in the knowledge of maritime business is increasingly becoming a prerequisite. Investment in higher education of quality and relevance in the maritime field would contribute to achieving the goals of the government for harnessing the potential of South Africa’s blue economy. The literature is researched in order to establish an authoritative view that the knowledge and the inspiration for entrepreneurial activity in the maritime sector can be imparted through higher education; and for example, that a viable shipping sector can contribute to the growth of a country’s economy. The South African maritime sector is then described. The commercial maritime higher education available at universities and other institutions of higher learning in South Africa, as well as in other African countries and elsewhere in the world, is examined, in order to be able to identify the degree and diploma courses available. Maritime courses imply not only the content of the educational material, but also the method whereby the knowledge is instilled in learners, and which extends well beyond the classroom. A survey, by way of the personal interviews of leaders in maritime business, maritime government affairs, and academics teaching maritime topics, is then undertaken to ascertain their views on the education required to promote the maritime sector in South Africa, using the list of subjects available for study worldwide, to assist their choice. The literature research and the interview survey by design also enable the secondary aims of the study to be achieved. Those aims include determining how awareness of the maritime domain could be raised and how co-operation between academia, business, and government, known as the triple helix could be organized, to promote the growth of the maritime sector. The results of the survey are analyzed and tabulated, in order to illustrate the extent of the agreement between those interviewed and the conclusions reached. These conclusions establish: (i) that the commercial maritime education currently available in South Africa, is inadequate to meet the aim of the government to the sector; (ii) that a post-graduate degree iv in the specified maritime studies incorporating a period of internship, and following on the first degree in business subjects, is required; (iii) that a triple helix of co-operation between academia, business, and the government is essential to grow the commercial maritime sector in which South African entrepreneurs educated in such business will have the advantage; (iv) that greater awareness of the maritime domain is essential in South Africa if entrepreneurship in maritime business is to be cultivated; and (v)that such awareness can be cultivated in various ways; but it should start by including more maritime topics in the current school curricula.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Allison, Lee-Ann
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Marine resources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47496 , vital:40117
- Description: Seaborne cargo trade accounts for over 80% of the physical volume of global trade. Maritime transport thus fulfills an integral function in the economy of the world. South Africa generates approximately 3.5% of the world’s seaborne trade by value and 1.61% by tonnage, but the business of shipping all that cargo is undertaken by foreign firms. Operation Phakisa, the Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy, and the South African Maritime Road Map, in pursuance of the National Development Plan, aim to revive the commercial maritime sector. In order to meet the demand for the skills and innovative abilities sought at executive and managerial levels in the commercial maritime sector, higher education in the knowledge of maritime business is increasingly becoming a prerequisite. Investment in higher education of quality and relevance in the maritime field would contribute to achieving the goals of the government for harnessing the potential of South Africa’s blue economy. The literature is researched in order to establish an authoritative view that the knowledge and the inspiration for entrepreneurial activity in the maritime sector can be imparted through higher education; and for example, that a viable shipping sector can contribute to the growth of a country’s economy. The South African maritime sector is then described. The commercial maritime higher education available at universities and other institutions of higher learning in South Africa, as well as in other African countries and elsewhere in the world, is examined, in order to be able to identify the degree and diploma courses available. Maritime courses imply not only the content of the educational material, but also the method whereby the knowledge is instilled in learners, and which extends well beyond the classroom. A survey, by way of the personal interviews of leaders in maritime business, maritime government affairs, and academics teaching maritime topics, is then undertaken to ascertain their views on the education required to promote the maritime sector in South Africa, using the list of subjects available for study worldwide, to assist their choice. The literature research and the interview survey by design also enable the secondary aims of the study to be achieved. Those aims include determining how awareness of the maritime domain could be raised and how co-operation between academia, business, and government, known as the triple helix could be organized, to promote the growth of the maritime sector. The results of the survey are analyzed and tabulated, in order to illustrate the extent of the agreement between those interviewed and the conclusions reached. These conclusions establish: (i) that the commercial maritime education currently available in South Africa, is inadequate to meet the aim of the government to the sector; (ii) that a post-graduate degree iv in the specified maritime studies incorporating a period of internship, and following on the first degree in business subjects, is required; (iii) that a triple helix of co-operation between academia, business, and the government is essential to grow the commercial maritime sector in which South African entrepreneurs educated in such business will have the advantage; (iv) that greater awareness of the maritime domain is essential in South Africa if entrepreneurship in maritime business is to be cultivated; and (v)that such awareness can be cultivated in various ways; but it should start by including more maritime topics in the current school curricula.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Commercial maritime higher education needs in South Africa
- Authors: Allison, Lee-Anne
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- Curricula , Education, Higher -- Research Merchant marine Shipping -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50350 , vital:42111
- Description: Seaborne cargo trade accounts for over 80% of the physical volume of global trade. Maritime transport thus fulfils an integral function in the economy of the world. South Africa generates approximately 3.5% of the world’s seaborne trade by value and 1.61% by tonnage; but the business of shipping all that cargo is undertaken by foreign firms. Operation Phakisa, the Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy and the South African Maritime Road Map, in pursuance of the National Development Plan, aim to revive the commercial maritime sector. In order to meet the demand for the skills and innovative abilities sought at executive and managerial levels in the commercial maritime sector, higher education in the knowledge of maritime business is increasingly becoming a prerequisite. Investment in higher education of quality and relevance in the maritime field would contribute to achieving the goals of the government for harnessing the potential of South Africa’s blue economy. The literature is researched in order to establish an authoritative view that the knowledge and the inspiration for entrepreneurial activity in the maritime sector can be imparted through higher education; and for example, that a viable shipping sector can contribute to the growth of a country’s economy. The South African maritime sector is then described. The commercial maritime higher education available at universities and other institutions of higher learning in South Africa, as well as in other African countries and elsewhere in the world, is examined, in order to be able to identify the degree and diploma courses available. Maritime courses imply not only the content of the educational material, but also the method whereby the knowledge is instilled in learners, and which extends well beyond the classroom. A survey, by way of the personal interviews of leaders in maritime business, maritime government affairs, and academics teaching maritime topics, is then undertaken to ascertain their views on the education required to promote the maritime sector in South Africa, using the list of subjects available for study worldwide, to assist their choice. The literature research and the interview survey by design also enable the secondary aims of the study to be achieved. Those aims include determining how awareness of the maritime domain could be raised and how co-operation between academia, business and government, known as the triple helix could be organised, to promote the growth of the maritime sector. The results of the survey are analysed and tabulated, in order to illustrate the extent of the agreement between those interviewed and the conclusions reached. These conclusions establish: that the commercial maritime education currently available in South Africa, is inadequate to meet the aim of the government to the sector; that a post-graduate degree in the specified maritime studies incorporating a period of internship, and following on a first degree in business subjects, is required; that a triple helix of co-operation between academia, business and the government is essential to grow the commercial maritime sector in which South African entrepreneurs educated in such business will have the advantage; that greater awareness of the maritime domain is essential in South Africa if entrepreneurship in maritime business is to be cultivated; and that such awareness can be cultivated in various ways; but it should start by including more maritime topics in the current school curricula.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Allison, Lee-Anne
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- Curricula , Education, Higher -- Research Merchant marine Shipping -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50350 , vital:42111
- Description: Seaborne cargo trade accounts for over 80% of the physical volume of global trade. Maritime transport thus fulfils an integral function in the economy of the world. South Africa generates approximately 3.5% of the world’s seaborne trade by value and 1.61% by tonnage; but the business of shipping all that cargo is undertaken by foreign firms. Operation Phakisa, the Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy and the South African Maritime Road Map, in pursuance of the National Development Plan, aim to revive the commercial maritime sector. In order to meet the demand for the skills and innovative abilities sought at executive and managerial levels in the commercial maritime sector, higher education in the knowledge of maritime business is increasingly becoming a prerequisite. Investment in higher education of quality and relevance in the maritime field would contribute to achieving the goals of the government for harnessing the potential of South Africa’s blue economy. The literature is researched in order to establish an authoritative view that the knowledge and the inspiration for entrepreneurial activity in the maritime sector can be imparted through higher education; and for example, that a viable shipping sector can contribute to the growth of a country’s economy. The South African maritime sector is then described. The commercial maritime higher education available at universities and other institutions of higher learning in South Africa, as well as in other African countries and elsewhere in the world, is examined, in order to be able to identify the degree and diploma courses available. Maritime courses imply not only the content of the educational material, but also the method whereby the knowledge is instilled in learners, and which extends well beyond the classroom. A survey, by way of the personal interviews of leaders in maritime business, maritime government affairs, and academics teaching maritime topics, is then undertaken to ascertain their views on the education required to promote the maritime sector in South Africa, using the list of subjects available for study worldwide, to assist their choice. The literature research and the interview survey by design also enable the secondary aims of the study to be achieved. Those aims include determining how awareness of the maritime domain could be raised and how co-operation between academia, business and government, known as the triple helix could be organised, to promote the growth of the maritime sector. The results of the survey are analysed and tabulated, in order to illustrate the extent of the agreement between those interviewed and the conclusions reached. These conclusions establish: that the commercial maritime education currently available in South Africa, is inadequate to meet the aim of the government to the sector; that a post-graduate degree in the specified maritime studies incorporating a period of internship, and following on a first degree in business subjects, is required; that a triple helix of co-operation between academia, business and the government is essential to grow the commercial maritime sector in which South African entrepreneurs educated in such business will have the advantage; that greater awareness of the maritime domain is essential in South Africa if entrepreneurship in maritime business is to be cultivated; and that such awareness can be cultivated in various ways; but it should start by including more maritime topics in the current school curricula.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Community-driven solid waste management initiatives in Missionvale
- Authors: Kwava, Eunice
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Factory and trade waste
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MDS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48709 , vital:41064
- Description: Solid waste management is particularly challenging in poor communities where socio-economic issues take precedence over keeping a clean environment. This study explores the effectiveness of community-driven waste management strategies that are implemented in Missionvale, a poverty-stricken township that forms part of the Nelson Mandela Metropole, located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the sustainability of the community-driven waste management practices in the township. This was premised on the understanding that having the community at the centre of waste management is important and community initiatives coupled with support from key stakeholders, yields the desired outcome: sustainable waste management. The objectives of the study were: (i) to understand what happens to the solid waste generated in Missionvale; (ii) to assess the effects of the waste and its disposal (or lack thereof) in Missionvale; (iii) to identify the challenges faced by the public in implementing waste management initiatives for sustainable development; and (iv) to establish the waste management practices in Missionvale and their effectiveness. The study found that whilst waste management is a secondary, less important issue to community respondents who are struggling with more pressing socio-economic hurdles, there are nevertheless efforts from informal waste pickers, local businesses, non-governmental entities and some individual community members to keep their environment clean. This occurs against the backdrop of the municipality’s failure in its task to provide consistent waste collection and disposal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kwava, Eunice
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Factory and trade waste
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MDS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48709 , vital:41064
- Description: Solid waste management is particularly challenging in poor communities where socio-economic issues take precedence over keeping a clean environment. This study explores the effectiveness of community-driven waste management strategies that are implemented in Missionvale, a poverty-stricken township that forms part of the Nelson Mandela Metropole, located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the sustainability of the community-driven waste management practices in the township. This was premised on the understanding that having the community at the centre of waste management is important and community initiatives coupled with support from key stakeholders, yields the desired outcome: sustainable waste management. The objectives of the study were: (i) to understand what happens to the solid waste generated in Missionvale; (ii) to assess the effects of the waste and its disposal (or lack thereof) in Missionvale; (iii) to identify the challenges faced by the public in implementing waste management initiatives for sustainable development; and (iv) to establish the waste management practices in Missionvale and their effectiveness. The study found that whilst waste management is a secondary, less important issue to community respondents who are struggling with more pressing socio-economic hurdles, there are nevertheless efforts from informal waste pickers, local businesses, non-governmental entities and some individual community members to keep their environment clean. This occurs against the backdrop of the municipality’s failure in its task to provide consistent waste collection and disposal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Consumer behaviour regarding stock market participation in South Africa
- Authors: Mbewe, Wise
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Financial Literacy -- South Africa , Stock ownership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50328 , vital:42107
- Description: South Africa (SA) has a highly sophisticated financial services sector that contributes significantly to the economy. A stock market forms a significant component of the financial sector of any economy. While the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) has managed to arouse interest of many South Africans, there appears to be apathy and inertia when it comes to actual participation in the stock market by South African consumers. Stock market non-participation is considered a “puzzle” in microeconomics and finance literature because it is not easy to explain the reason why many consumers, in spite of high stock returns, do not own listed shares. Thus, the primary objective of this study was to investigate consumer behaviour regarding stock market participation in SA by considering the antecedents and outcomes of stock market participation in SA.The study presented a theoretical literature review on the factors influencing stock market participation in SA. From the literature review, three sets of variables classified as independent variables, an intervening variable and dependent variables were identified. The independent variables (Demographic characteristics; Financial literacy; Investment risk tolerance; Communication; and Consumer trust) were identified as possibly influencing the intervening variable (Stock market participation) and ultimately the dependent variables (Client satisfaction and loyalty, Financial sustainability and Repurchase intentions). These variables were used to construct a hypothesised model and research hypotheses. The study further presented the research methodology (following a positivistic paradigm and quantitative research method), and the results of this study. In order to establish the influence of the independent variables on stock market participation, as well as ultimate influences on the dependent variables, an empirical investigation was conducted. Since it was not possible to reach all members of the target population, the population of this study was South African consumers located in four of the nine provinces, namely, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Gauteng. A sample of 510 respondents participated in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mbewe, Wise
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Financial Literacy -- South Africa , Stock ownership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50328 , vital:42107
- Description: South Africa (SA) has a highly sophisticated financial services sector that contributes significantly to the economy. A stock market forms a significant component of the financial sector of any economy. While the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) has managed to arouse interest of many South Africans, there appears to be apathy and inertia when it comes to actual participation in the stock market by South African consumers. Stock market non-participation is considered a “puzzle” in microeconomics and finance literature because it is not easy to explain the reason why many consumers, in spite of high stock returns, do not own listed shares. Thus, the primary objective of this study was to investigate consumer behaviour regarding stock market participation in SA by considering the antecedents and outcomes of stock market participation in SA.The study presented a theoretical literature review on the factors influencing stock market participation in SA. From the literature review, three sets of variables classified as independent variables, an intervening variable and dependent variables were identified. The independent variables (Demographic characteristics; Financial literacy; Investment risk tolerance; Communication; and Consumer trust) were identified as possibly influencing the intervening variable (Stock market participation) and ultimately the dependent variables (Client satisfaction and loyalty, Financial sustainability and Repurchase intentions). These variables were used to construct a hypothesised model and research hypotheses. The study further presented the research methodology (following a positivistic paradigm and quantitative research method), and the results of this study. In order to establish the influence of the independent variables on stock market participation, as well as ultimate influences on the dependent variables, an empirical investigation was conducted. Since it was not possible to reach all members of the target population, the population of this study was South African consumers located in four of the nine provinces, namely, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Gauteng. A sample of 510 respondents participated in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Consumer use of Mobile Payments as a mode of remittance for e-Commerce in a developing economy
- Authors: Liwani, Samkelo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mobile commerce -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48731 , vital:41066
- Description: E-commerce is penetrating emerging economies in sub-Saharan Africa as customers seek convenient shopping experiences that offer high quality products. This has led to the emergence of e-commerce, a borderless channel, which both regionally local and international retailers have exploited. The low income market segment of e-commerce customers has been found to be apprehensive of e-commerce due to trust concerns over card-mandating payment solutions, living a large unbanked market in developing economies excluded from the e-commerce experience due to a lack of inclusive electronic payment systems. Mobile payment systems offer a source of distinctive value for both merchants and consumers, thereby increasing the e-commerce market. Due to their high level of adoption, mobile payments are capable of providing a mode for reaching new market segments and opening opportunities to bring value propositions to segments that had been unreachable in the past. This study sought to uncover the perception of consumers in an emerging economy about the use of mobile payments as a mode of remittance in e-commerce transactions. This was done by describing the factors that influence the intention to use mobile payments on internet stores. The study also investigated the effect of demographic profile on intention and use in the South African context. An online questionnaire was developed and distributed to a convenience sample of retail consumers on social media platforms, and the collected data was analysed using the SPSS statistical package. The results confirmed that compatibility, personal innovativeness, perceived trust, perceived regulatory support, and promotional benefit have a direct influence to intention to use mobile payments as a mode of remittance for e-commerce transactions. Furthermore, social influence does not have a direct influence on intention to use mobile payments in the South African context. The results also revealed that, in South Africa, the largest population group, male and female gender groups do not differ in their opinion around mobile payments. The study findings illustrate the importance of context when considering technology innovation introduction to a new market. Despite social influence not being found to be a factor for intention to use mobile payments in the South African context, the same conclusion should not be generalised as it is contextual. Recommendations and conclusions were drawn from the discussion of the findings of this research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Liwani, Samkelo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mobile commerce -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48731 , vital:41066
- Description: E-commerce is penetrating emerging economies in sub-Saharan Africa as customers seek convenient shopping experiences that offer high quality products. This has led to the emergence of e-commerce, a borderless channel, which both regionally local and international retailers have exploited. The low income market segment of e-commerce customers has been found to be apprehensive of e-commerce due to trust concerns over card-mandating payment solutions, living a large unbanked market in developing economies excluded from the e-commerce experience due to a lack of inclusive electronic payment systems. Mobile payment systems offer a source of distinctive value for both merchants and consumers, thereby increasing the e-commerce market. Due to their high level of adoption, mobile payments are capable of providing a mode for reaching new market segments and opening opportunities to bring value propositions to segments that had been unreachable in the past. This study sought to uncover the perception of consumers in an emerging economy about the use of mobile payments as a mode of remittance in e-commerce transactions. This was done by describing the factors that influence the intention to use mobile payments on internet stores. The study also investigated the effect of demographic profile on intention and use in the South African context. An online questionnaire was developed and distributed to a convenience sample of retail consumers on social media platforms, and the collected data was analysed using the SPSS statistical package. The results confirmed that compatibility, personal innovativeness, perceived trust, perceived regulatory support, and promotional benefit have a direct influence to intention to use mobile payments as a mode of remittance for e-commerce transactions. Furthermore, social influence does not have a direct influence on intention to use mobile payments in the South African context. The results also revealed that, in South Africa, the largest population group, male and female gender groups do not differ in their opinion around mobile payments. The study findings illustrate the importance of context when considering technology innovation introduction to a new market. Despite social influence not being found to be a factor for intention to use mobile payments in the South African context, the same conclusion should not be generalised as it is contextual. Recommendations and conclusions were drawn from the discussion of the findings of this research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Convergence effects of African GDP with the rest of the world: Analysis the African continental free trade agreement
- Matonana, Phumelela Ntombiyesibini
- Authors: Matonana, Phumelela Ntombiyesibini
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Gross domestic product -- Africa -- Statistics , Economic development -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50306 , vital:42102
- Description: This study is an investigation of the convergence hypothesis in African countries motivated by the increasing interest to measure disparities in the establishment of an economic union. The objective of this study is to provide an analysis of convergence in Africa by looking at the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) against 6 of its top trading partner groups. This study seeks to establish whether Africa and African countries who belong to the AfCFTA catchup to the growth rates of their more developed trading partners. The data sample spans from 1971- 2018. The method of analysis employed in this study is a unit root testing procedure using the linear ADF and nonlinear KSS unit root tests, the HEGY and Canova and Hansen seasonal unit root tests, the Lee and Strazicich structural break test, and the Flexible Fourier Function (FFF) and Fractional Frequency Flexible Fourier Function (FFFFF) unit root tests to account for smooth structural breaks. This study is, as we have reviewed, the first to investigate convergence in the newly established economic union and the first employ the above-mentioned series of unit root tests. The empirical outcomes in this study point towards weak evidence of convergence between Africa and international trade groups when considering the more robust Fourier-based unit root tests. Therefore, we conclude that Africa does not necessarily exhibit catch up effects with a majority of its trading partners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Matonana, Phumelela Ntombiyesibini
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Gross domestic product -- Africa -- Statistics , Economic development -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50306 , vital:42102
- Description: This study is an investigation of the convergence hypothesis in African countries motivated by the increasing interest to measure disparities in the establishment of an economic union. The objective of this study is to provide an analysis of convergence in Africa by looking at the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) against 6 of its top trading partner groups. This study seeks to establish whether Africa and African countries who belong to the AfCFTA catchup to the growth rates of their more developed trading partners. The data sample spans from 1971- 2018. The method of analysis employed in this study is a unit root testing procedure using the linear ADF and nonlinear KSS unit root tests, the HEGY and Canova and Hansen seasonal unit root tests, the Lee and Strazicich structural break test, and the Flexible Fourier Function (FFF) and Fractional Frequency Flexible Fourier Function (FFFFF) unit root tests to account for smooth structural breaks. This study is, as we have reviewed, the first to investigate convergence in the newly established economic union and the first employ the above-mentioned series of unit root tests. The empirical outcomes in this study point towards weak evidence of convergence between Africa and international trade groups when considering the more robust Fourier-based unit root tests. Therefore, we conclude that Africa does not necessarily exhibit catch up effects with a majority of its trading partners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Cryptocurrencies in the future of money and monetary policy
- Authors: Brown, Henry Brandon
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cryptocurrencies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47495 , vital:40122
- Description: The idiosyncratic allure of cryptocurrencies, in particular Bitcoin, has attracted widespread, if reticent, attention in the financial markets. Since Bitcoin’s introduction in 2008 there has been a growing interest in digital assets possibly supplanting traditional payment methods. Two conceptual questions raised regarding cryptocurrencies are firstly, whether cryptocurrencies meet the traditional functions of money; secondly, what is the future of cryptocurrencies? This dissertation seeks to examine the future of cryptocurrency by reference to money and monetary policy. The further question, whether cryptocurrencies meet the traditional functions of money, is tested via a combination of theoretical and empirical analysis. The study explores both statistical and empirical models, in illustrative comparative detail, provided by analysis which included ADF and KPSS test models, alongside an ARMA(p,q)-GARCH(1,1) model. Cryptocurrencies present both significant benefits, alongside immense shortcomings. They provide the novel ability to conduct anonymous international transactions on a decentralised platform with lower transaction fees. However, the very nature of that anonymity could provide their downfall as much as they open a market for illicit activities. In addition, cryptocurrency’s significant energy consumption through the mining of cryptocurrencies is of concern to environmentalists. The empirical section of the dissertation consists of a comparative analysis between Bitcoin/USD time series to the Rand/USD time series, with specific attention devoted to the level of volatility of each time series. This was important in determining whether cryptocurrencies fulfil the store of value function of money. The dissertation concluded that Bitcoin/USD time series exhibited identifiable adverse characteristics of autocorrelation and ARCH effects, thus suggesting that Bitcoin/USD is strongly associated with volatility. The Rand/USD signified the same effects although of significantly lesser order than that of Bitcoin/USD. Consequently, cryptocurrencies are seen to act more as an asset than a currency. Nonetheless, cryptocurrencies seem likely to grow as a medium of exchange as more and more businesses gain knowledge of the innovation and seek to adopt innovative ways to become more efficient and follow technology trends. Currently, fiat currencies remain superior in the financial market, simply because cryptocurrencies are perceived not to fulfil the traditional functions of money. However in the future, the market share of cryptocurrencies is likely to increase, and so the future of the financial markets will surely include a coexistence of both fiat and cryptocurrencies, as people’s preferences determine where they feel safe to hold their money.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Brown, Henry Brandon
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cryptocurrencies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47495 , vital:40122
- Description: The idiosyncratic allure of cryptocurrencies, in particular Bitcoin, has attracted widespread, if reticent, attention in the financial markets. Since Bitcoin’s introduction in 2008 there has been a growing interest in digital assets possibly supplanting traditional payment methods. Two conceptual questions raised regarding cryptocurrencies are firstly, whether cryptocurrencies meet the traditional functions of money; secondly, what is the future of cryptocurrencies? This dissertation seeks to examine the future of cryptocurrency by reference to money and monetary policy. The further question, whether cryptocurrencies meet the traditional functions of money, is tested via a combination of theoretical and empirical analysis. The study explores both statistical and empirical models, in illustrative comparative detail, provided by analysis which included ADF and KPSS test models, alongside an ARMA(p,q)-GARCH(1,1) model. Cryptocurrencies present both significant benefits, alongside immense shortcomings. They provide the novel ability to conduct anonymous international transactions on a decentralised platform with lower transaction fees. However, the very nature of that anonymity could provide their downfall as much as they open a market for illicit activities. In addition, cryptocurrency’s significant energy consumption through the mining of cryptocurrencies is of concern to environmentalists. The empirical section of the dissertation consists of a comparative analysis between Bitcoin/USD time series to the Rand/USD time series, with specific attention devoted to the level of volatility of each time series. This was important in determining whether cryptocurrencies fulfil the store of value function of money. The dissertation concluded that Bitcoin/USD time series exhibited identifiable adverse characteristics of autocorrelation and ARCH effects, thus suggesting that Bitcoin/USD is strongly associated with volatility. The Rand/USD signified the same effects although of significantly lesser order than that of Bitcoin/USD. Consequently, cryptocurrencies are seen to act more as an asset than a currency. Nonetheless, cryptocurrencies seem likely to grow as a medium of exchange as more and more businesses gain knowledge of the innovation and seek to adopt innovative ways to become more efficient and follow technology trends. Currently, fiat currencies remain superior in the financial market, simply because cryptocurrencies are perceived not to fulfil the traditional functions of money. However in the future, the market share of cryptocurrencies is likely to increase, and so the future of the financial markets will surely include a coexistence of both fiat and cryptocurrencies, as people’s preferences determine where they feel safe to hold their money.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Customer loyalty programmes in the South African banking sector
- Authors: Mashau, Mulanga Lawrence
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa , Customer loyalty programs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48883 , vital:41167
- Description: This treatise explores factors that drive customer participation in banking loyalty programmes in South Africa. The literature review conducted revealed research is required in this area. The lack of research in this field led to the formulation of the problem statement for the study, which focuses on critical factors that drive customer participation in banking loyalty programmes in South Africa. There have been numerous studies conducted on customer loyalty as a concept. There is, however, a lack of studies on customer loyalty in banking loyalty programmes. The literature review explored definitions of customer loyalty, how they pertain to loyalty programmes, with attitudes and behaviours identified as customer loyalty intermediate factors. This study has approached the assessment of customer loyalty in the banking loyalty programmes by exploring the factors that influence or drive customer participation in loyalty programmes in South Africa. The study was conducted using exploratory factor analysis of loyalty programme measurement items that evaluated attitudes and behaviours related to customer loyalty. The factor analysis was undertaken using data gathered from a self-administered online questionnaire. This treatise is part of a bigger study of loyalty programmes and customer loyalty in different sectors. The sample for this study was randomly selected using snowball and convenience sampling. A sample size of n=613 was used in this study. As part of the data analysis, descriptive statistics were used to compress and organise the sample data. Inferential statistics were used to project the findings of the sample data to the full population. The study concluded that flexibility in the context of rewards not expiring was the most important factor that consumers considered when deciding to participate in a banking loyalty programme. This was followed by reward type. The study revealed that banking loyalty programme customers prefer monetary rewards over all reward types for participation in banking loyalty programmes and thus reward type is deemed as a critical factor in customers’ decisions to participate in banking loyalty programmes. The study also found that banking loyalty programme customers do not perceive reward programme communication methods as an important factor influencing their decision to participate in a banking loyalty programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mashau, Mulanga Lawrence
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa , Customer loyalty programs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48883 , vital:41167
- Description: This treatise explores factors that drive customer participation in banking loyalty programmes in South Africa. The literature review conducted revealed research is required in this area. The lack of research in this field led to the formulation of the problem statement for the study, which focuses on critical factors that drive customer participation in banking loyalty programmes in South Africa. There have been numerous studies conducted on customer loyalty as a concept. There is, however, a lack of studies on customer loyalty in banking loyalty programmes. The literature review explored definitions of customer loyalty, how they pertain to loyalty programmes, with attitudes and behaviours identified as customer loyalty intermediate factors. This study has approached the assessment of customer loyalty in the banking loyalty programmes by exploring the factors that influence or drive customer participation in loyalty programmes in South Africa. The study was conducted using exploratory factor analysis of loyalty programme measurement items that evaluated attitudes and behaviours related to customer loyalty. The factor analysis was undertaken using data gathered from a self-administered online questionnaire. This treatise is part of a bigger study of loyalty programmes and customer loyalty in different sectors. The sample for this study was randomly selected using snowball and convenience sampling. A sample size of n=613 was used in this study. As part of the data analysis, descriptive statistics were used to compress and organise the sample data. Inferential statistics were used to project the findings of the sample data to the full population. The study concluded that flexibility in the context of rewards not expiring was the most important factor that consumers considered when deciding to participate in a banking loyalty programme. This was followed by reward type. The study revealed that banking loyalty programme customers prefer monetary rewards over all reward types for participation in banking loyalty programmes and thus reward type is deemed as a critical factor in customers’ decisions to participate in banking loyalty programmes. The study also found that banking loyalty programme customers do not perceive reward programme communication methods as an important factor influencing their decision to participate in a banking loyalty programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Customer’s perception of e-banking services of South African banks: An analysis of selected South African banks in Gauteng
- Authors: Kgosieng, Kamogelo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South Africa -- Banking institutions , Electronic funds transfer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49862 , vital:41810
- Description: The South African banking industry has changed from the traditional brick and mortar banks to online banking. The primary objective of the study examines the customers’ perception of the banks’ e-banking services. This study focuses on Gauteng banking customers who bank with the top five banks, namely: FNB, Standard Bank, ABSA, Nedbank and Capitec, and the digital banking platforms offered by the respective banks. A conceptual model based on the SERVQUAL model, including demographic factors and independent variables such as convenience, risk management, customer awareness, reliability and information search, was derived to assist in measuring the relationship of these factors with the overall perception of digitisation in banking. The Statistica package was used to analyse the items and obtain the results of the study. The results revealed that significant relationships exist between all the variables and the perception of e-banking services, with convenience showing up as the highest contributor to customers’ perception of e-banking service channels, followed by reliability. The results of the study indicate that banks should place priority on ensuring the convenient use of their e-banking systems as well ensuring that the systems are reliable and deliver what is expected by the customer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kgosieng, Kamogelo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South Africa -- Banking institutions , Electronic funds transfer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49862 , vital:41810
- Description: The South African banking industry has changed from the traditional brick and mortar banks to online banking. The primary objective of the study examines the customers’ perception of the banks’ e-banking services. This study focuses on Gauteng banking customers who bank with the top five banks, namely: FNB, Standard Bank, ABSA, Nedbank and Capitec, and the digital banking platforms offered by the respective banks. A conceptual model based on the SERVQUAL model, including demographic factors and independent variables such as convenience, risk management, customer awareness, reliability and information search, was derived to assist in measuring the relationship of these factors with the overall perception of digitisation in banking. The Statistica package was used to analyse the items and obtain the results of the study. The results revealed that significant relationships exist between all the variables and the perception of e-banking services, with convenience showing up as the highest contributor to customers’ perception of e-banking service channels, followed by reliability. The results of the study indicate that banks should place priority on ensuring the convenient use of their e-banking systems as well ensuring that the systems are reliable and deliver what is expected by the customer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Developing a service model for a successful freight forwarding organisation in South Africa
- Authors: Kildase, Unathi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Physical distribution of goods -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48664 , vital:41057
- Description: The Freight Logistics Industry underpins the efficient movement of freight goods globally and supports the South African economy by accounting for 80% of the movement of goods. While South Africa’s formal trade with the rest of the continent and the world has increased steadily over the years, the country is yet to make significant inroads in some of its larger and fast-growing economies. This is despite having a substantially more diversified economic base and relatively higher levels of technological advance-ment (Department of Research and Information, 2018). Complex challenges relating to transport infrastructure (roads, customs processes, sea- and airports, amongst others), determine the efficiency with which business can be done and therefore has a direct impact on the growth of the Freight Logistics Pro-vider (FLP) industry (Belfreight, 2016). Changes in the global business environment have also led FLP’s to diversity strate-gies, incorporating asset ownership on a small to large scale in order to cope with the ever-changing demands of customers. However, at its core, the FLP industry exists to manage the freight transport process. This study investigated, through interviews and surveys involving senior industry pro-fessionals; whether a service model for a successful FLP could be developed; one that did not require asset ownership. The empirical evidence gathered yielded a list of the top FLP services currently being used in business; together with the support structures and enablers for these services in the form of transport modes. A model was then developed based on these param-eters that would best suit a small to medium sized FLP for success. Success in this study proved to be non-tangible due to the limited information available in company and industry figures, however, indication of an optimal market by product was included in the developed model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kildase, Unathi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Physical distribution of goods -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48664 , vital:41057
- Description: The Freight Logistics Industry underpins the efficient movement of freight goods globally and supports the South African economy by accounting for 80% of the movement of goods. While South Africa’s formal trade with the rest of the continent and the world has increased steadily over the years, the country is yet to make significant inroads in some of its larger and fast-growing economies. This is despite having a substantially more diversified economic base and relatively higher levels of technological advance-ment (Department of Research and Information, 2018). Complex challenges relating to transport infrastructure (roads, customs processes, sea- and airports, amongst others), determine the efficiency with which business can be done and therefore has a direct impact on the growth of the Freight Logistics Pro-vider (FLP) industry (Belfreight, 2016). Changes in the global business environment have also led FLP’s to diversity strate-gies, incorporating asset ownership on a small to large scale in order to cope with the ever-changing demands of customers. However, at its core, the FLP industry exists to manage the freight transport process. This study investigated, through interviews and surveys involving senior industry pro-fessionals; whether a service model for a successful FLP could be developed; one that did not require asset ownership. The empirical evidence gathered yielded a list of the top FLP services currently being used in business; together with the support structures and enablers for these services in the form of transport modes. A model was then developed based on these param-eters that would best suit a small to medium sized FLP for success. Success in this study proved to be non-tangible due to the limited information available in company and industry figures, however, indication of an optimal market by product was included in the developed model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Development finance institutions and sustainable economic development : a case of the idc South Africa
- Authors: Mare, Timothy
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48872 , vital:41166
- Description: The purpose of this research study is to assess the extent that the Industrial Development Cooperation (IDC) of South Africa a Development Finance Institution (DFI), has contributed to the sustainable economic development of South Africa. The objective is to quantify the impact that is attributed to the IDC’s activities in South Africa in terms of socio-economic development contributing to sustainable economic development. Social development is fundamentally important in contributing to the economic development of any country. The research constituted the collection and quantitative analysis of data using reports from the IDC. The social output index modelling developed by the World Bank was used to analyse the data and make conclusive arguments regarding the impact that the IDC was having on economic development. The findings indicate that the IDC significantly lends less comparatively to lower income groups thus resulting in a negative contribution in terms of social developmental goals. Further the analysis through social output index model suggests that the IDC in as far as socio-development is concerned did not contributing positively to sustainable economic development between 2014 and 2018 reporting periods. The following recommendations are suggested: Increase awareness about the real impact of each investment across the IDC group, this will ensure that all proposals for investment are assessed with a component focusing on a socio-developmental perspective; reduce the number of mandates that the IDC currently has and establish broader frameworks for DFIs regardless of which government is in power or control.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mare, Timothy
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48872 , vital:41166
- Description: The purpose of this research study is to assess the extent that the Industrial Development Cooperation (IDC) of South Africa a Development Finance Institution (DFI), has contributed to the sustainable economic development of South Africa. The objective is to quantify the impact that is attributed to the IDC’s activities in South Africa in terms of socio-economic development contributing to sustainable economic development. Social development is fundamentally important in contributing to the economic development of any country. The research constituted the collection and quantitative analysis of data using reports from the IDC. The social output index modelling developed by the World Bank was used to analyse the data and make conclusive arguments regarding the impact that the IDC was having on economic development. The findings indicate that the IDC significantly lends less comparatively to lower income groups thus resulting in a negative contribution in terms of social developmental goals. Further the analysis through social output index model suggests that the IDC in as far as socio-development is concerned did not contributing positively to sustainable economic development between 2014 and 2018 reporting periods. The following recommendations are suggested: Increase awareness about the real impact of each investment across the IDC group, this will ensure that all proposals for investment are assessed with a component focusing on a socio-developmental perspective; reduce the number of mandates that the IDC currently has and establish broader frameworks for DFIs regardless of which government is in power or control.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Economic convergence among the SADC members
- Authors: Mbangezeli, Sinawo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Convergence (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48927 , vital:41171
- Description: This study utilized beta convergence to investigate the catch-up process among the Southern African Development Community (SADC) for the period 1971 to 2017. The theoretical underpinning of this study was that of neoclassical economists, such as Solow (1956) and Barro and Sala-I-Martin (1990, 1991). Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rates and per capita growth rates were used to test for the convergence hypothesis. This study employed conventional unit root test which include the Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test, Phillips Perron (PP) test and the Kwiatkowski Phillips Schmidt Shin (KPSS) test. As well the Dickey Fuller-GLS and NG-Perron modified unit root tests. In addition, the Lee-Strazicich (LS) and Zivot- Andrew (ZA) unit root tests were used to allow for structural breaks. The conventional and modified unit root tests showed that most countries show evidence of GDP growth convergence, the exception being on the KPSS unit root test. Furthermore, most countries showed evidence of convergence when classified according to income levels. Meanwhile, when the structural breaks unit root tests when performed there was a strong evidence of both GDP growth and GDP per capita growth rates. Except in a few cases of the Lee-Strazicich tests. Lastly, the Flexible Fourier Form (FFF) unit root test was performed following the Enders and Lee (2012) methodology. The t-statistics under the FFF test reveal that all members besides Congo and Zimbabwe converge towards the SADC average growth rates. Similarly, all lower-middle economies catch up to the upper-middle- and high-income level economies and upper-middle economies converge to Seychelles’ GDP growth rates. Whereas only Congo and Tanzania among the lower income economies converge toward the average GDP growth rates of the other countries. In addition, all members show evidence of per capita GDP convergence except when the test is performed in panel A. Based on the reported results, the paper recommends that measures should be put in place to aid non-converging member states, adoption of growth promoting policies and that there should be harsh consequences for countries that do not improve their growth rates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mbangezeli, Sinawo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Convergence (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48927 , vital:41171
- Description: This study utilized beta convergence to investigate the catch-up process among the Southern African Development Community (SADC) for the period 1971 to 2017. The theoretical underpinning of this study was that of neoclassical economists, such as Solow (1956) and Barro and Sala-I-Martin (1990, 1991). Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rates and per capita growth rates were used to test for the convergence hypothesis. This study employed conventional unit root test which include the Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test, Phillips Perron (PP) test and the Kwiatkowski Phillips Schmidt Shin (KPSS) test. As well the Dickey Fuller-GLS and NG-Perron modified unit root tests. In addition, the Lee-Strazicich (LS) and Zivot- Andrew (ZA) unit root tests were used to allow for structural breaks. The conventional and modified unit root tests showed that most countries show evidence of GDP growth convergence, the exception being on the KPSS unit root test. Furthermore, most countries showed evidence of convergence when classified according to income levels. Meanwhile, when the structural breaks unit root tests when performed there was a strong evidence of both GDP growth and GDP per capita growth rates. Except in a few cases of the Lee-Strazicich tests. Lastly, the Flexible Fourier Form (FFF) unit root test was performed following the Enders and Lee (2012) methodology. The t-statistics under the FFF test reveal that all members besides Congo and Zimbabwe converge towards the SADC average growth rates. Similarly, all lower-middle economies catch up to the upper-middle- and high-income level economies and upper-middle economies converge to Seychelles’ GDP growth rates. Whereas only Congo and Tanzania among the lower income economies converge toward the average GDP growth rates of the other countries. In addition, all members show evidence of per capita GDP convergence except when the test is performed in panel A. Based on the reported results, the paper recommends that measures should be put in place to aid non-converging member states, adoption of growth promoting policies and that there should be harsh consequences for countries that do not improve their growth rates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Economic growth and carbon emissions in BICS countries
- Authors: Mapapu, Babalwa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development Atmospheric carbon dioxide -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48861 , vital:41165
- Description: Of recent carbon emissions have become an increasing concern for economies worldwide. The study investigates the relationship between carbon emissions and economic growth for the BICS (Brazil, India, China and South Africa), one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide worldwide. ARDL methodology is employed which is applied to annual data covering a period of 1970 to 2017. The empirical results indicate there is a long run negative relationship between carbon emissions and economic growth. Overall results thus encourage policymakers to continue to embark on energy efficiency programmes which specifically target lower levels of carbon pollution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mapapu, Babalwa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development Atmospheric carbon dioxide -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48861 , vital:41165
- Description: Of recent carbon emissions have become an increasing concern for economies worldwide. The study investigates the relationship between carbon emissions and economic growth for the BICS (Brazil, India, China and South Africa), one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide worldwide. ARDL methodology is employed which is applied to annual data covering a period of 1970 to 2017. The empirical results indicate there is a long run negative relationship between carbon emissions and economic growth. Overall results thus encourage policymakers to continue to embark on energy efficiency programmes which specifically target lower levels of carbon pollution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Effects of economic growth on greenhouse emissions
- Mkunyana, Asebenzile Priscilla
- Authors: Mkunyana, Asebenzile Priscilla
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Greenhouse gases -- Environmental aspects -- Africa , Climate change mitigation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50404 , vital:42162
- Description: This study employs the panel cointegration and Pooled Mean Group technique to examine the effects of economic growth on greenhouse emissions using the panel data from the period of 1970 to 2014 for five Southern African Development Community group of countries. The increase in the combustion of burning fossil fuels has become the global threat in environmental quality. The Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis postulates that at the primary stages of industrial economies there is more extracting of natural resources and more agricultural activities taking place as a result the waste generation and resource depletion accelerate. However, as the economic development improves more, the curve reaches a threshold where it starts to decline due to the increase in economic growth and the change to information-based industries. Based on the empirical evidence, the variables of this study were found to be stationary at first difference and integrated of I(0) and I(1) using Im, Pesaran & Shin W-stat, Fisher ADF, and Levin, Lin & Chu panel unit root test. The existing long-run relationship between the variables were found in both the Pedroni and Kao cointegration test and were significant at 5% in finding the relationship between the variables. The Pooled Mean Group demonstrated mixed results in the study’s regressions, monotonic relationship was found between carbon dioxide and economic growth. The strong existence relationship between economic growth and energy consumption was found to be significant at the 1% level. These results are in line with the EKC hypothesis, which assumes that as the income level increases the society will start to be environmentally friendly and the technology advancement will decrease the emission of pollutants. In addition, in finding the causal relationship between variables, the researcher used the Granger causality test, with the results from this test revealing a unidirectional and bidirectional relationship between all the chosen variables. These results are important for policy makers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mkunyana, Asebenzile Priscilla
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Greenhouse gases -- Environmental aspects -- Africa , Climate change mitigation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50404 , vital:42162
- Description: This study employs the panel cointegration and Pooled Mean Group technique to examine the effects of economic growth on greenhouse emissions using the panel data from the period of 1970 to 2014 for five Southern African Development Community group of countries. The increase in the combustion of burning fossil fuels has become the global threat in environmental quality. The Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis postulates that at the primary stages of industrial economies there is more extracting of natural resources and more agricultural activities taking place as a result the waste generation and resource depletion accelerate. However, as the economic development improves more, the curve reaches a threshold where it starts to decline due to the increase in economic growth and the change to information-based industries. Based on the empirical evidence, the variables of this study were found to be stationary at first difference and integrated of I(0) and I(1) using Im, Pesaran & Shin W-stat, Fisher ADF, and Levin, Lin & Chu panel unit root test. The existing long-run relationship between the variables were found in both the Pedroni and Kao cointegration test and were significant at 5% in finding the relationship between the variables. The Pooled Mean Group demonstrated mixed results in the study’s regressions, monotonic relationship was found between carbon dioxide and economic growth. The strong existence relationship between economic growth and energy consumption was found to be significant at the 1% level. These results are in line with the EKC hypothesis, which assumes that as the income level increases the society will start to be environmentally friendly and the technology advancement will decrease the emission of pollutants. In addition, in finding the causal relationship between variables, the researcher used the Granger causality test, with the results from this test revealing a unidirectional and bidirectional relationship between all the chosen variables. These results are important for policy makers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Efficient market hypothesis : testing weak-form efficiency on the Johannesburg stock exchange
- Authors: Eaton, Bradley Hayes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Efficient market theory
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47895 , vital:40396
- Description: Understanding financial markets is paramount in acknowledging the flow of domestic and foreign funds over time. In this study, net market capitalisation price and simple return characteristics were investigated for the period from January 2009 to December 2017. An empirical, statistical approach was used to explore the possibility that, since the 2008 financial crisis, forward-looking, aggregate market and financial-oriented equity indices have conformed to the Efficient Market Hypothesis. Accordingly, monthly observations were made to ensure long-run traits were identified and scrutinised. Such revelations are important for portfolio diversification, risk, and expected return potentials with respect to South African equity markets. Based on the study, it was found that random walks were evident in both the price and return time-series as a result of significant stochastic price action, supported by evidence suggesting non-normality of price and return distributions. Unit root and stationarity modelling confirmed such traits. However, significant trending behaviours were evident in the auto-correlation figures with regards to prices, despite mean-reverting and stochastic influences. Therefore, it was concluded from the results of the study that the respective time-series were weak-form efficient. The empirical component was supplemented by a comprehensive investigation into the market determinants of financial market inefficiencies, including partial correlations, contagion effects, momentum, financial bubbles, and liquidity issues. Secondary objectives of the study included identifying the roles of security exchanges and the effect of international linkages, as a result of globalisation, on the financial markets. Increased macro-economic and systems integration has led to positive and negative connotations for business cycles. Spill-over effects into global equity markets are evident as can be seen through the co-integration of leading world exchanges, both in the developed and emerging market spheres. Fundamental to this study was the sensitivity of South African equity markets to recessionary pressures, as analysed through the efficiency of aggregated equity indices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Eaton, Bradley Hayes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Efficient market theory
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47895 , vital:40396
- Description: Understanding financial markets is paramount in acknowledging the flow of domestic and foreign funds over time. In this study, net market capitalisation price and simple return characteristics were investigated for the period from January 2009 to December 2017. An empirical, statistical approach was used to explore the possibility that, since the 2008 financial crisis, forward-looking, aggregate market and financial-oriented equity indices have conformed to the Efficient Market Hypothesis. Accordingly, monthly observations were made to ensure long-run traits were identified and scrutinised. Such revelations are important for portfolio diversification, risk, and expected return potentials with respect to South African equity markets. Based on the study, it was found that random walks were evident in both the price and return time-series as a result of significant stochastic price action, supported by evidence suggesting non-normality of price and return distributions. Unit root and stationarity modelling confirmed such traits. However, significant trending behaviours were evident in the auto-correlation figures with regards to prices, despite mean-reverting and stochastic influences. Therefore, it was concluded from the results of the study that the respective time-series were weak-form efficient. The empirical component was supplemented by a comprehensive investigation into the market determinants of financial market inefficiencies, including partial correlations, contagion effects, momentum, financial bubbles, and liquidity issues. Secondary objectives of the study included identifying the roles of security exchanges and the effect of international linkages, as a result of globalisation, on the financial markets. Increased macro-economic and systems integration has led to positive and negative connotations for business cycles. Spill-over effects into global equity markets are evident as can be seen through the co-integration of leading world exchanges, both in the developed and emerging market spheres. Fundamental to this study was the sensitivity of South African equity markets to recessionary pressures, as analysed through the efficiency of aggregated equity indices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Employee retention as a strategy for the sustainability of rehabilitation services within the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District
- Authors: Campbell, Teneille Dawn
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Employee retention--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47530 , vital:40124
- Description: Health care facilities in the South African public sector have, over time, become notorious for poor service delivery, peppered with issues of poor governance, weak administration capabilities, and ailing working conditions. Often, the consequence hereof is a loss of good talent to both the private sector and health sectors abroad, all the while placing more strain on institutional service delivery capabilities. To achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, the strengthening of health systems is critical. The purpose of this study is therefore to offer supportable solutions to improve and maintain a sustainable rehabilitation service in the Nelson Mandela Metro through successful retention of staff. The aim of this study then is to investigate the influence that Human Resources (HR) processes, working conditions and leadership have had on retention of staff. A review of the available literature was conducted on possible factors that contribute to the problem and the solutions thereof. The study population included all staff that worked in rehabilitation service departments in the public health institutions in the Nelson Mandela Metro, namely; physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and audiology. The sample constituted n=51 respondents. Data was collected via a questionnaire as the selected measurement tool. The data was analysed using the statistical data analysis software system, TIBCO Statistica (version 13), and selected methods for quantitative data. The results of the study showed that only HR processes were significantly and positively (r = 0.67, p < 0.05) related to retention. It means that satisfying the HR needs of this population is most likely to retain their employ and improve and maintain rehabilitation service delivery in the selected metro. Descriptive statistics of all the variables were also calculated and reported on. Lastly, the managerial implications of the study findings were reported on.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Campbell, Teneille Dawn
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Employee retention--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47530 , vital:40124
- Description: Health care facilities in the South African public sector have, over time, become notorious for poor service delivery, peppered with issues of poor governance, weak administration capabilities, and ailing working conditions. Often, the consequence hereof is a loss of good talent to both the private sector and health sectors abroad, all the while placing more strain on institutional service delivery capabilities. To achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, the strengthening of health systems is critical. The purpose of this study is therefore to offer supportable solutions to improve and maintain a sustainable rehabilitation service in the Nelson Mandela Metro through successful retention of staff. The aim of this study then is to investigate the influence that Human Resources (HR) processes, working conditions and leadership have had on retention of staff. A review of the available literature was conducted on possible factors that contribute to the problem and the solutions thereof. The study population included all staff that worked in rehabilitation service departments in the public health institutions in the Nelson Mandela Metro, namely; physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and audiology. The sample constituted n=51 respondents. Data was collected via a questionnaire as the selected measurement tool. The data was analysed using the statistical data analysis software system, TIBCO Statistica (version 13), and selected methods for quantitative data. The results of the study showed that only HR processes were significantly and positively (r = 0.67, p < 0.05) related to retention. It means that satisfying the HR needs of this population is most likely to retain their employ and improve and maintain rehabilitation service delivery in the selected metro. Descriptive statistics of all the variables were also calculated and reported on. Lastly, the managerial implications of the study findings were reported on.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Examining the effect of Diversity, Inclusion and Equity on Work Engagement and Innovation on South African Organisations
- Authors: Efalao, D M
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48202 , vital:40520
- Description: The biggest strengths of organisational success lie in its employees; therefore, employee engagement is a fundamental force that is linked to organisational effectiveness and success. The level of employee engagement in South Africa according to the polls remains very low. On the other front, innovative ideas prove to be a vital element of organisational innovativeness and progress. Today’s business environment is unstable and to remain relevant in the marketplace, it is imperative for organisations to embrace innovation and become responsive to changing customer needs. South Africa’s population is very diverse coming second in diversity after the United States. The diversity of South Africa as a national endowment could be investigated to see if it could be leveraged to improve organisational innovation and effectiveness through work engagement. Being mindful of the fact that being diverse is not equal to being inclusive, inclusion is also investigated to see its effect on work engagement and organisational innovation. The principle of fairness (equity) was also investigated with relation to engagement and innovation. The purpose of the study is to assist organisations to improve employee engagement and organisational innovation by taking advantage of the national factor endowment of diversity and inclusion. Equity is investigated as an important principle that could possibly have an effect on employee engagement or organisational innovation. The findings were that diversity and inclusion have a significant relationship with employee engagement and organisational innovativeness while equity has a significant relationship with organisational innovativeness. Recommendations were therefore made to leaders of the organisations to embrace workforce diversity, inclusion and fairness in organisational structures and practices in order to realise improved employee engagement and organisational innovativeness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Efalao, D M
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48202 , vital:40520
- Description: The biggest strengths of organisational success lie in its employees; therefore, employee engagement is a fundamental force that is linked to organisational effectiveness and success. The level of employee engagement in South Africa according to the polls remains very low. On the other front, innovative ideas prove to be a vital element of organisational innovativeness and progress. Today’s business environment is unstable and to remain relevant in the marketplace, it is imperative for organisations to embrace innovation and become responsive to changing customer needs. South Africa’s population is very diverse coming second in diversity after the United States. The diversity of South Africa as a national endowment could be investigated to see if it could be leveraged to improve organisational innovation and effectiveness through work engagement. Being mindful of the fact that being diverse is not equal to being inclusive, inclusion is also investigated to see its effect on work engagement and organisational innovation. The principle of fairness (equity) was also investigated with relation to engagement and innovation. The purpose of the study is to assist organisations to improve employee engagement and organisational innovation by taking advantage of the national factor endowment of diversity and inclusion. Equity is investigated as an important principle that could possibly have an effect on employee engagement or organisational innovation. The findings were that diversity and inclusion have a significant relationship with employee engagement and organisational innovativeness while equity has a significant relationship with organisational innovativeness. Recommendations were therefore made to leaders of the organisations to embrace workforce diversity, inclusion and fairness in organisational structures and practices in order to realise improved employee engagement and organisational innovativeness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Exploring the Employee-Supervisor relationship in the Credit Recovery Department of a Financial institution
- Authors: Ndamse, Asanda Vuyo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Financial institutions -- South Africa -- Leadership Collection agencies -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49975 , vital:41966
- Description: This study aimed to investigate and understand employee-supervisor relationship working in the credit recovery department of a large South African financial institution. The focus of the investigation, through qualitative research, was on numerous issues relating to their experiences working within a financial institution. The Credit Recovery Department which had nine separate divisions were particularly concerned about three main areas from survey results that they conduct yearly. The respondents to the survey were the call centre agents and team leaders. The employees surveyed felt that there was insufficient recognition for their contribution, the supervisor did not facilitate productive team engagements, and there was a lack of provision of formal and self-directed learning opportunities. These aspects were viewed as highly critical aspects of the employee-supervisor relationship and important to achieving set departmental objectives. Due to a lack of understanding of the cause of the perceptions captured by the survey, the main purpose of the study was to explore the employees’ attitudes, feelings, beliefs, experiences, reactions and concerns about the way their contributions were recognised, team engagements were facilitated, and the lack of formal and self-directed learning opportunities. From the ten questions that were asked, the three lowest scored questions were then put to the focus groups. The questions were tailored as open-ended, conversational questions with a specific focus on the three concerning areas. The first major theme that emerged from all focus groups is leadership and the style of leadership. Secondly, growth and development were a concern again for both call centre agents and team leaders, and issues were raised throughout the sessions, not only in response to the question on selfdirected learning. Further major themes that emerged were rewards and benefits, and lastly workload and systems. The findings from this study are anticipated to have important policy implications while meeting set standards for the employee-supervisor relationship status.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ndamse, Asanda Vuyo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Financial institutions -- South Africa -- Leadership Collection agencies -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49975 , vital:41966
- Description: This study aimed to investigate and understand employee-supervisor relationship working in the credit recovery department of a large South African financial institution. The focus of the investigation, through qualitative research, was on numerous issues relating to their experiences working within a financial institution. The Credit Recovery Department which had nine separate divisions were particularly concerned about three main areas from survey results that they conduct yearly. The respondents to the survey were the call centre agents and team leaders. The employees surveyed felt that there was insufficient recognition for their contribution, the supervisor did not facilitate productive team engagements, and there was a lack of provision of formal and self-directed learning opportunities. These aspects were viewed as highly critical aspects of the employee-supervisor relationship and important to achieving set departmental objectives. Due to a lack of understanding of the cause of the perceptions captured by the survey, the main purpose of the study was to explore the employees’ attitudes, feelings, beliefs, experiences, reactions and concerns about the way their contributions were recognised, team engagements were facilitated, and the lack of formal and self-directed learning opportunities. From the ten questions that were asked, the three lowest scored questions were then put to the focus groups. The questions were tailored as open-ended, conversational questions with a specific focus on the three concerning areas. The first major theme that emerged from all focus groups is leadership and the style of leadership. Secondly, growth and development were a concern again for both call centre agents and team leaders, and issues were raised throughout the sessions, not only in response to the question on selfdirected learning. Further major themes that emerged were rewards and benefits, and lastly workload and systems. The findings from this study are anticipated to have important policy implications while meeting set standards for the employee-supervisor relationship status.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020