Constraining the role of carbonate assimilation on spinel stability in oxide ores of the Flatreef, Bushveld Complex, South Africa
- Authors: Dyan, Siyasanga
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Oxide minerals -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Transvaal Supergroup (South Africa) , Magmas -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Petrogenesis -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Spinel group – South Africa -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Dolomite -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174578 , vital:42490
- Description: The northern limb of the Bushveld Complex shows significant evidence for footwall rock- magma interaction, as a result of the emplacement of magmas onto the Transvaal Supergroup sediments. The Platreef of the northern limb is known to have involved extensive contamination of the magma. The lateral extension of the Platreef, the Flatreef, is less contaminated and comprises PGE-mineralization and thick chromitite layers. This enables successful stratigraphic correlation to the Upper Critical Zone of the eastern and western limbs of the Bushveld Complex. This study aims at addressing the influence of dolomitic floor rock contamination on the formation of spinels of the Flatreef and how they may differ to their occurrences in the Bushveld Complex elsewhere. Three main drill cores (UMT-345, UMT-335, and UMT-094) from the deep drilling program by Ivanhoe Mine, north of Turfspruit, were logged and sampled. The drill cores contained rocks contaminated by dolomite in varying degrees, depending on the proportion of carbonate xenoliths present. A total of sixty-two samples were obtained from the UG-2- equivalent chromitite seam, down into the hybrid contaminated units (Footwall Assimilation Zone; FAZ). Petrographic examination of the drill cores revealed that the feldspathic pyroxenite and chromitite layers are the most pristine lithologies in the Flatreef. The chromitite layers occur as a semi-massive to massive ores. The FAZ rocks are mainly dominated by the abundance of Al-rich Cr-spinels (Mg#30-80), clinopyroxenes with a high Ca-Tschermak component (up to 35 mol.%), olivines (Fo72-84), and plagioclase (An31-78). Geochemical characteristics of the feldspathic pyroxenite and chromitite seams include low CaO/Al2O3 and Ca/SiO2 ratios, the low abundance of REE and HFSE. In contrast, the FAZ samples display high CaO/Al2O3 and CaO/SiO2 ratios, suggesting mobilization of CaO-rich fluids derived from the associated dolomite xenoliths. Observations from lithostratigraphic element profiles indicate spikes in CaO within FAZ units relative to the feldspathic pyroxene, indicating a secondary source of CaO linked to proximity to carbonate xenoliths intersected in the core. The assimilation-fractional crystallization model performed with the Upper Critical Zone parental melt and dolomite produced assemblages dominated by spinel, olivine, clinopyroxene, and plagioclase, relating to those of the most contaminated rocks of footwall assimilation zones. The model also showed that large quantities of CO2 were produced during assimilation. High amounts of CO2-fluids mobilized in the melt would have interacted with the melt and increased the overall oxidation conditions. Oxygen fugacity (ƒO2) values were constrained from the spinels in the FAZ and chromites in chromitite seams. Spinels within the most contaminated rocks of the FAZ recorded relatively high ƒO2 values ranging between NNO-0.2 and NNO+1.8 (relative to the Nickel-Nickel-Oxide buffer. High ƒO2 values in spinels from the FAZ suggest that the melt interacted with greater amounts of oxidative CO2-fluids during decarbonation reactions. Such high redox conditions could have triggered the saturation and crystallization of spinels. Comparison of mineral compositions and ƒO2 of UG-2 chromites from the Flatreef with UG-2 from the eastern limb, western limb, chromitites from the Platreef and Uitkomst Complex reveal that Flatreef chromites are of most similar to those of the Platreef Uitkosmt Complex. The northern limb and Uitkomst Complex chromites have high ƒO2 values (NNO+0.3 to NNO+1.2), indicating their apparent link to the Malmani dolomite. Interaction of magma with the Malmani dolomite would have produced high quantities of CO2, triggering an increase in oxidizing conditions. Such an effect is most prominent in the Flatreef chromitites that are in contact with the FAZ. The chromites are characterised by high ƒO2 (NNO+1.2) and distinct compositions (low Cr2O3, high Fe3+/Fetotal, and TiO2). Thus, it is proposed that carbonate assimilation in the Flatreef triggered the precipitation of these distinctive chromites proximal to FAZ, due to liberation of substantial amounts of CO2-rich fluids with a highly oxidative capacity. Carbonate assimilation in layered intrusions can be used as a monitor potential precipitation of chromites. , Thesis (MSc)--Rhodes University, Faculty of Science, Department of Geology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Dyan, Siyasanga
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Oxide minerals -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Transvaal Supergroup (South Africa) , Magmas -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Petrogenesis -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Spinel group – South Africa -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex , Dolomite -- South Africa -- Bushveld Complex
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174578 , vital:42490
- Description: The northern limb of the Bushveld Complex shows significant evidence for footwall rock- magma interaction, as a result of the emplacement of magmas onto the Transvaal Supergroup sediments. The Platreef of the northern limb is known to have involved extensive contamination of the magma. The lateral extension of the Platreef, the Flatreef, is less contaminated and comprises PGE-mineralization and thick chromitite layers. This enables successful stratigraphic correlation to the Upper Critical Zone of the eastern and western limbs of the Bushveld Complex. This study aims at addressing the influence of dolomitic floor rock contamination on the formation of spinels of the Flatreef and how they may differ to their occurrences in the Bushveld Complex elsewhere. Three main drill cores (UMT-345, UMT-335, and UMT-094) from the deep drilling program by Ivanhoe Mine, north of Turfspruit, were logged and sampled. The drill cores contained rocks contaminated by dolomite in varying degrees, depending on the proportion of carbonate xenoliths present. A total of sixty-two samples were obtained from the UG-2- equivalent chromitite seam, down into the hybrid contaminated units (Footwall Assimilation Zone; FAZ). Petrographic examination of the drill cores revealed that the feldspathic pyroxenite and chromitite layers are the most pristine lithologies in the Flatreef. The chromitite layers occur as a semi-massive to massive ores. The FAZ rocks are mainly dominated by the abundance of Al-rich Cr-spinels (Mg#30-80), clinopyroxenes with a high Ca-Tschermak component (up to 35 mol.%), olivines (Fo72-84), and plagioclase (An31-78). Geochemical characteristics of the feldspathic pyroxenite and chromitite seams include low CaO/Al2O3 and Ca/SiO2 ratios, the low abundance of REE and HFSE. In contrast, the FAZ samples display high CaO/Al2O3 and CaO/SiO2 ratios, suggesting mobilization of CaO-rich fluids derived from the associated dolomite xenoliths. Observations from lithostratigraphic element profiles indicate spikes in CaO within FAZ units relative to the feldspathic pyroxene, indicating a secondary source of CaO linked to proximity to carbonate xenoliths intersected in the core. The assimilation-fractional crystallization model performed with the Upper Critical Zone parental melt and dolomite produced assemblages dominated by spinel, olivine, clinopyroxene, and plagioclase, relating to those of the most contaminated rocks of footwall assimilation zones. The model also showed that large quantities of CO2 were produced during assimilation. High amounts of CO2-fluids mobilized in the melt would have interacted with the melt and increased the overall oxidation conditions. Oxygen fugacity (ƒO2) values were constrained from the spinels in the FAZ and chromites in chromitite seams. Spinels within the most contaminated rocks of the FAZ recorded relatively high ƒO2 values ranging between NNO-0.2 and NNO+1.8 (relative to the Nickel-Nickel-Oxide buffer. High ƒO2 values in spinels from the FAZ suggest that the melt interacted with greater amounts of oxidative CO2-fluids during decarbonation reactions. Such high redox conditions could have triggered the saturation and crystallization of spinels. Comparison of mineral compositions and ƒO2 of UG-2 chromites from the Flatreef with UG-2 from the eastern limb, western limb, chromitites from the Platreef and Uitkomst Complex reveal that Flatreef chromites are of most similar to those of the Platreef Uitkosmt Complex. The northern limb and Uitkomst Complex chromites have high ƒO2 values (NNO+0.3 to NNO+1.2), indicating their apparent link to the Malmani dolomite. Interaction of magma with the Malmani dolomite would have produced high quantities of CO2, triggering an increase in oxidizing conditions. Such an effect is most prominent in the Flatreef chromitites that are in contact with the FAZ. The chromites are characterised by high ƒO2 (NNO+1.2) and distinct compositions (low Cr2O3, high Fe3+/Fetotal, and TiO2). Thus, it is proposed that carbonate assimilation in the Flatreef triggered the precipitation of these distinctive chromites proximal to FAZ, due to liberation of substantial amounts of CO2-rich fluids with a highly oxidative capacity. Carbonate assimilation in layered intrusions can be used as a monitor potential precipitation of chromites. , Thesis (MSc)--Rhodes University, Faculty of Science, Department of Geology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Contract compliance in procuring and disposing entities (PDES) in state departments in Uganda: subtitle if needed. If no subtitle follow instructions in manual
- Authors: Babirye, Hamidah
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Communication , Records -- Management , Public contracts -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50933 , vital:43173
- Description: Contract compliance has continuously played a vital role in the development of nations globally. It is important, because it enhances the efficiency and success of projects; ensures value for money; mitigates risks and saves a considerable amount of time and resources. Despite its importance, projects continue to fail due to poor communication, untimely deliveries, poor quality deliveries and the lack of a suitable compliance environment. This study helped to address the aforementioned challenges by creating an enabling environment for contract compliance in procuring and disposing entities (PDEs) in state departments in Uganda. The purpose of this study was to determine the enabling factors necessary for contract compliance and how it can be effectively used to assist PDEs in the Ugandan context. This purpose was achieved through a qualitative research approach that provided insights into the need for contract compliance among PDEs and the perceptions thereof; the contract compliance processes; challenges associated with contract compliance and the factors to be considered when creating an enabling environment for contract compliance. Data was gathered from telephonic interviews with twenty one participants and focus group discussions via the Zoom online platform with eight participants, bringing the total number of participants to twenty nine. Participants included auditors, accounting officers, heads of finance departments, heads of procurement departments and procurement officers. Data was collected using an interview guide and analysed by means of content and thematic analyses. A conceptual framework for creating a suitable environment for contract compliance in PDEs was developed. Findings indicate that the critical factors for creating an enabling environment include: communication; reporting; records management; institutional structure; compliance checks; enforcement; a legal and regulatory framework; and evaluation. Other factors include: stakeholder involvement; contract management; funding; openness; ethical orientation; and capacity building. The proposed conceptual framework serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, especially those involved in public procurement. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Babirye, Hamidah
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Communication , Records -- Management , Public contracts -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50933 , vital:43173
- Description: Contract compliance has continuously played a vital role in the development of nations globally. It is important, because it enhances the efficiency and success of projects; ensures value for money; mitigates risks and saves a considerable amount of time and resources. Despite its importance, projects continue to fail due to poor communication, untimely deliveries, poor quality deliveries and the lack of a suitable compliance environment. This study helped to address the aforementioned challenges by creating an enabling environment for contract compliance in procuring and disposing entities (PDEs) in state departments in Uganda. The purpose of this study was to determine the enabling factors necessary for contract compliance and how it can be effectively used to assist PDEs in the Ugandan context. This purpose was achieved through a qualitative research approach that provided insights into the need for contract compliance among PDEs and the perceptions thereof; the contract compliance processes; challenges associated with contract compliance and the factors to be considered when creating an enabling environment for contract compliance. Data was gathered from telephonic interviews with twenty one participants and focus group discussions via the Zoom online platform with eight participants, bringing the total number of participants to twenty nine. Participants included auditors, accounting officers, heads of finance departments, heads of procurement departments and procurement officers. Data was collected using an interview guide and analysed by means of content and thematic analyses. A conceptual framework for creating a suitable environment for contract compliance in PDEs was developed. Findings indicate that the critical factors for creating an enabling environment include: communication; reporting; records management; institutional structure; compliance checks; enforcement; a legal and regulatory framework; and evaluation. Other factors include: stakeholder involvement; contract management; funding; openness; ethical orientation; and capacity building. The proposed conceptual framework serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, especially those involved in public procurement. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Creating shared value through innovating business models: a case study of the Mapela Water Project
- Authors: Moyo, Bonnie
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Business planning -- South Africa , Strategic planning -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa , Mineral industries -- South Africa , Mapela Water Project , Hourglass Model
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177135 , vital:42793
- Description: Shared value creation is a contemporary concept that aims to address the strained relationship between business and society through business models that expand the competitive advantage of business while addressing societal challenges in the business environment. Being a novel concept, studies on how value is created and shared are limited, especially where the unit of analysis is a specific project. This paper investigates how value is created and shared among stakeholders using a water project case study reported as a shared value initiative. The investigation is considered under the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund, Massa, Bocken, Brent and Musango, 2016) as a guiding framework. This sustainable business model is suggested as a business model that creates shared value. The study uses a qualitative research approach to investigate the inputs into the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) in the form of capitals, briefly considers the business models of specific stakeholders and then analyses the value created, missed and destroyed for each stakeholder through their value creation mechanisms. In the findings, six different capitals are identified from the participating stakeholders, and the value created, destroyed, and missed is discussed in the context of shared value principles. The findings show that capitals are used as inputs into the Hourglass Model and are consumed, created, and regenerated. There is also the realisation from the findings that different stakeholders required different and varying amounts of the six capitals identified. The interconnectedness of the capitals is shown in the study, and the findings show that the context of the environment within which a project operates contributes to the creation of shared value. As with the six capitals, the findings show that multiple stakeholders create shared value confirming stakeholder theory's guiding principles regarding stakeholder salience, which are relevant for creating shared value. Some stakeholders are identified as being more important to creating shared value in the project than others. Trade-offs are then required for value creation from a finite pool of capitals and stakeholders to consider the capitals and stakeholders' long and short-term impacts. Identifying stakeholders and the capitals allowed the researcher to consider the value created, destroyed and missed in the project. This assessment of shared value generated forms part of the findings on business models' outcomes for shared value, summarised for the project. Based on these areas where the outcomes are missing or destroying value, recommendations are made to address these opportunities, and an area of further research is identified. Drawing on these outcomes, developing clusters as per the value creation avenues of shared value would be the most appropriate avenue for this project. The study adds to the shared value body of knowledge by operationalising the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) and illustrating how the Model can be used to consider shared value creation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Moyo, Bonnie
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Business planning -- South Africa , Strategic planning -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa , Mineral industries -- South Africa , Mapela Water Project , Hourglass Model
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177135 , vital:42793
- Description: Shared value creation is a contemporary concept that aims to address the strained relationship between business and society through business models that expand the competitive advantage of business while addressing societal challenges in the business environment. Being a novel concept, studies on how value is created and shared are limited, especially where the unit of analysis is a specific project. This paper investigates how value is created and shared among stakeholders using a water project case study reported as a shared value initiative. The investigation is considered under the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund, Massa, Bocken, Brent and Musango, 2016) as a guiding framework. This sustainable business model is suggested as a business model that creates shared value. The study uses a qualitative research approach to investigate the inputs into the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) in the form of capitals, briefly considers the business models of specific stakeholders and then analyses the value created, missed and destroyed for each stakeholder through their value creation mechanisms. In the findings, six different capitals are identified from the participating stakeholders, and the value created, destroyed, and missed is discussed in the context of shared value principles. The findings show that capitals are used as inputs into the Hourglass Model and are consumed, created, and regenerated. There is also the realisation from the findings that different stakeholders required different and varying amounts of the six capitals identified. The interconnectedness of the capitals is shown in the study, and the findings show that the context of the environment within which a project operates contributes to the creation of shared value. As with the six capitals, the findings show that multiple stakeholders create shared value confirming stakeholder theory's guiding principles regarding stakeholder salience, which are relevant for creating shared value. Some stakeholders are identified as being more important to creating shared value in the project than others. Trade-offs are then required for value creation from a finite pool of capitals and stakeholders to consider the capitals and stakeholders' long and short-term impacts. Identifying stakeholders and the capitals allowed the researcher to consider the value created, destroyed and missed in the project. This assessment of shared value generated forms part of the findings on business models' outcomes for shared value, summarised for the project. Based on these areas where the outcomes are missing or destroying value, recommendations are made to address these opportunities, and an area of further research is identified. Drawing on these outcomes, developing clusters as per the value creation avenues of shared value would be the most appropriate avenue for this project. The study adds to the shared value body of knowledge by operationalising the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) and illustrating how the Model can be used to consider shared value creation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Customer experience in the grocery retail sector in South Africa
- Authors: Leander, Donovan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Customer services -- Management , Consumer satisfaction , Grocery trade-Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51743 , vital:43368
- Description: Customer Experience (CX) is the measurement of interaction between a customer and an organisation over a long time. Customer Experience is a strategic marketing effort that aims to improve the customer journey and touchpoints with the organisations’ product and services. It involves the complete customer journey – starting with the search process, purchase and after-sale processes of the experience. Google Trends identified that online users from all over the world search the key words “Customer Experience” more, often than not. This study considered a reliable measure for Customer Experience. This study endeavours to explore Customer Experience in the grocery retail sector in South Africa to put customer needs at the centre of their business. Extensive research on Customer Experience exist, however Customer Experience in the grocery retail sector in South Africa has not been measured using Professor Phillip Klaus’s new scale in CX. A broad literature review was conducted and Factors influencing Customer Experience in the grocery retail sector were identified and explored. The academic literature selected for the study is founded in the academic theories of Experienced Utility and Service-Dominant (S-D) Logic. The literature formed the foundation for the conceptual model that included the proposed Brand Experience (BE), Service Experience (SE) and Post-purchase / Consumption Experience (PE) independent factors. This treatise formed part of a bigger study of Customer Experience undertaken, using a questionnaire distributed via email, which 858 respondents completed. The study was quantitative. Data analysis included the use of descriptive and inferential statistics, Exploratory Factor Analysis, Reliability and Validity of Measurement, One-Sample T-Tests and the measurement of relationship between the factors. There is a need for companies to explore and understand CX in order to differentiate themselves strategically and to improve the bottom line. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by using academic literature and theories to explore Customer Experience in the grocery retail sector in South Africa. BE involves the customers’ perception of the brand and influence the customer’s experience. Customers look for clues to help inform their SE and expect companies to know their product and basic service promise. The findings of the study identified that BE and SE had a positive and significant influence on each other. Customers will show signs of commitment to an organisation during a positive PE. Similarly, the findings concluded that PE and CX had a statistical and practical significant positive correlation. PE was highlighted as a key determinant of CX. A positive CX will lead to a repeat purchases. Marketing managers need to take into account these factors when formulating CX strategies to influence the bottom line of the organisation. This study concludes with managerial recommendations that the grocery retail sector can implement to influence CX. Some of the recommendations include the appointment of a professional to manage all social media content; training and development opportunities for employees to enhance customer and shopping experience; and the use of customer data from loyalty programmes to promote personalised offers. In summary, a continuous review of CX with the emphasis on PE is recommended, to understand the changing needs of customers in the grocery retail sector. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Leander, Donovan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Customer services -- Management , Consumer satisfaction , Grocery trade-Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51743 , vital:43368
- Description: Customer Experience (CX) is the measurement of interaction between a customer and an organisation over a long time. Customer Experience is a strategic marketing effort that aims to improve the customer journey and touchpoints with the organisations’ product and services. It involves the complete customer journey – starting with the search process, purchase and after-sale processes of the experience. Google Trends identified that online users from all over the world search the key words “Customer Experience” more, often than not. This study considered a reliable measure for Customer Experience. This study endeavours to explore Customer Experience in the grocery retail sector in South Africa to put customer needs at the centre of their business. Extensive research on Customer Experience exist, however Customer Experience in the grocery retail sector in South Africa has not been measured using Professor Phillip Klaus’s new scale in CX. A broad literature review was conducted and Factors influencing Customer Experience in the grocery retail sector were identified and explored. The academic literature selected for the study is founded in the academic theories of Experienced Utility and Service-Dominant (S-D) Logic. The literature formed the foundation for the conceptual model that included the proposed Brand Experience (BE), Service Experience (SE) and Post-purchase / Consumption Experience (PE) independent factors. This treatise formed part of a bigger study of Customer Experience undertaken, using a questionnaire distributed via email, which 858 respondents completed. The study was quantitative. Data analysis included the use of descriptive and inferential statistics, Exploratory Factor Analysis, Reliability and Validity of Measurement, One-Sample T-Tests and the measurement of relationship between the factors. There is a need for companies to explore and understand CX in order to differentiate themselves strategically and to improve the bottom line. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by using academic literature and theories to explore Customer Experience in the grocery retail sector in South Africa. BE involves the customers’ perception of the brand and influence the customer’s experience. Customers look for clues to help inform their SE and expect companies to know their product and basic service promise. The findings of the study identified that BE and SE had a positive and significant influence on each other. Customers will show signs of commitment to an organisation during a positive PE. Similarly, the findings concluded that PE and CX had a statistical and practical significant positive correlation. PE was highlighted as a key determinant of CX. A positive CX will lead to a repeat purchases. Marketing managers need to take into account these factors when formulating CX strategies to influence the bottom line of the organisation. This study concludes with managerial recommendations that the grocery retail sector can implement to influence CX. Some of the recommendations include the appointment of a professional to manage all social media content; training and development opportunities for employees to enhance customer and shopping experience; and the use of customer data from loyalty programmes to promote personalised offers. In summary, a continuous review of CX with the emphasis on PE is recommended, to understand the changing needs of customers in the grocery retail sector. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Customer experience in the South African retail banking industry
- Authors: Mtyu, Noluchumo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53037 , vital:44874
- Description: This treatise explores customer experience in the South African banking industry and its importance for the success of retail banks. Customer experience leaves a memory that has critical effects on future spending of not only direct customers, but others around them. The main issues addressed by this study are how customer experience is a differentiator in the South African banking industry. The banking industry is a highly competitive industry and the importance of customer service in the banking industry is essential for business if they wish to stay relevant and have sustained continuity and growth. In today’s fast-evolving business life, customer experience has become the new battleground for businesses and banks can no longer rely on products or prices to be competitive. Retail banks now need to compete by providing exceptional customer experiences, which cannot be imitated by their competitors. Services provided by South African banks are very similar and banks need to use superior customer experiences to gain competitive advantage over rivals. Understanding customer experience in achieving customer satisfaction is essential to ensure that banks have satisfied customers who encourage others to join or stay with the bank. Once understood, customer experience will assist bank managers to provide inimitable and superior experiences, resulting in business success. The study aims to assist South African banks to improve customer experiences by investigating customer experience and factors that influence it. Definitions and theories are discussed as well as the importance of customer experience in the South African retail banking industry. This study specifically explored the role of the customer experience through factors brand experience, service experience and post-purchase experience. Each factor is statistically explored and its importance highlighted. An empirical study, using a questionnaire, was conducted amongst 858 respondents. The purpose of this was to determine the satisfaction levels of South African retail banking customers, by using data analyses and descriptive and inferential statistics to test the factors identified in the conceptual model. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mtyu, Noluchumo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53037 , vital:44874
- Description: This treatise explores customer experience in the South African banking industry and its importance for the success of retail banks. Customer experience leaves a memory that has critical effects on future spending of not only direct customers, but others around them. The main issues addressed by this study are how customer experience is a differentiator in the South African banking industry. The banking industry is a highly competitive industry and the importance of customer service in the banking industry is essential for business if they wish to stay relevant and have sustained continuity and growth. In today’s fast-evolving business life, customer experience has become the new battleground for businesses and banks can no longer rely on products or prices to be competitive. Retail banks now need to compete by providing exceptional customer experiences, which cannot be imitated by their competitors. Services provided by South African banks are very similar and banks need to use superior customer experiences to gain competitive advantage over rivals. Understanding customer experience in achieving customer satisfaction is essential to ensure that banks have satisfied customers who encourage others to join or stay with the bank. Once understood, customer experience will assist bank managers to provide inimitable and superior experiences, resulting in business success. The study aims to assist South African banks to improve customer experiences by investigating customer experience and factors that influence it. Definitions and theories are discussed as well as the importance of customer experience in the South African retail banking industry. This study specifically explored the role of the customer experience through factors brand experience, service experience and post-purchase experience. Each factor is statistically explored and its importance highlighted. An empirical study, using a questionnaire, was conducted amongst 858 respondents. The purpose of this was to determine the satisfaction levels of South African retail banking customers, by using data analyses and descriptive and inferential statistics to test the factors identified in the conceptual model. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Customer experience: a comparative analysis between the banking and grocery retail sectors
- Authors: Pillay, Deneesha
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53007 , vital:44891
- Description: The notion of customer experience has gained prominence in the field of marketing over the last three decades. It has become a strategic imperative for firms in order to ensure sustained business growth. A positive customer experience not only has the ability to promote customer loyalty but can also assist firms in encouraging brand advocacy. While customer experience has been explored in several contexts, regions and industries, customer experience in South Africa’s banking and grocery retail sectors has not yet been adequately explored. Therefore, this study attempts to provide a comparative analysis of these two sectors and in turn present a model for improving customer experience as a marketing tool. The execution of this study requires a literature review to investigate the field of customer experience. This literature review assisted in developing a conceptual model for customer experience in the attempt of improving customer experience quality. Furthermore, this Treatise pursues a positivistic research approach using quantitative methods of analysis. Factor analysis was conducted using data gathered from an online questionnaire disseminated via e-mail. The sample of this study was selected at random using convenience and snowball sampling. A sample size of n = 858 is used in this study. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis were conducted on the data. The primary contribution of this study was the presentation and statistical assessment of an exploratory factor analysis of factors influencing customer experience in South Africa’s grocery retail and banking sectors. This study found that the independent factors of Brand Experience, Service Experience and Post-purchase Experience were all found to have a positive effect on the overall customer experience. In the grocery-retail sector, Post-purchase Experience was found to have a strong positive correlation with customer experience. Brand Experience and Service Experience were strongly correlated with each other as independent factors, but did not demonstrate any practical or statistical significance in relation to the dependent factor, Customer Experience. However, in the banking sector, all of these factors demonstrate positive correlations with Customer Experience that are statistically and practically significant. The model presented in this study identifies the determinants of Customer Experience within both sectors. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Pillay, Deneesha
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53007 , vital:44891
- Description: The notion of customer experience has gained prominence in the field of marketing over the last three decades. It has become a strategic imperative for firms in order to ensure sustained business growth. A positive customer experience not only has the ability to promote customer loyalty but can also assist firms in encouraging brand advocacy. While customer experience has been explored in several contexts, regions and industries, customer experience in South Africa’s banking and grocery retail sectors has not yet been adequately explored. Therefore, this study attempts to provide a comparative analysis of these two sectors and in turn present a model for improving customer experience as a marketing tool. The execution of this study requires a literature review to investigate the field of customer experience. This literature review assisted in developing a conceptual model for customer experience in the attempt of improving customer experience quality. Furthermore, this Treatise pursues a positivistic research approach using quantitative methods of analysis. Factor analysis was conducted using data gathered from an online questionnaire disseminated via e-mail. The sample of this study was selected at random using convenience and snowball sampling. A sample size of n = 858 is used in this study. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis were conducted on the data. The primary contribution of this study was the presentation and statistical assessment of an exploratory factor analysis of factors influencing customer experience in South Africa’s grocery retail and banking sectors. This study found that the independent factors of Brand Experience, Service Experience and Post-purchase Experience were all found to have a positive effect on the overall customer experience. In the grocery-retail sector, Post-purchase Experience was found to have a strong positive correlation with customer experience. Brand Experience and Service Experience were strongly correlated with each other as independent factors, but did not demonstrate any practical or statistical significance in relation to the dependent factor, Customer Experience. However, in the banking sector, all of these factors demonstrate positive correlations with Customer Experience that are statistically and practically significant. The model presented in this study identifies the determinants of Customer Experience within both sectors. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Customer perceptions on Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and its possible influence on Revenue Management (RM) at a selected water board in South Africa
- Authors: Manyonganise, Joshua Anesu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Revenue management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Amatola Water (Utility) , South Africa. National Water Act, 1998
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177214 , vital:42800
- Description: The primary activity of water boards is to provide water services (bulk portable, and bulk wastewater) to other water services institutions within its respective service areas. They may perform other activities under conditions set out in the Water Services Act of 1997. Water boards’ revenues come from the municipalities they deliver services to. Not all municipalities have been paying for the services delivered to them, which led to the aim of this study being to gauge the perceptions of Water Board X and Water Board X’s customers of selected Customer Relationship Management (CRM) factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) that may possibly influence Revenue Management (RM). This could possibly assist Water Board X in the future to improve its revenue and debt collection. This thesis employed an interpretivist qualitative research methodology to explore its research aims and objectives. Open-ended semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen participants from Water Board X and four municipalities which Water Board X provides services. The data collected from the interviews were analysed manually through thematic analysis. The outcome of the interviews noted that an organisation that delivered high levels of service quality to its customers, could possibly improve its RM as the customers are of the opinion that their needs and requirements have been met and would be willing to pay for the services rendered. It was furthermore found that an organisation that involves its customers could possibly improve its RM as the organisation constantly communicates with its customers during, for example, the different stages of a project to ensure that the organisation does not deliver a project that does not meet the customers’ requirements at the end of the project life cycle. In addition the use of information technology played a pivotal in an organisation as the use of information technology assisted to develop effective methods in customer relationship management such as, data management, improving communication within the organisation, and with the customers, and the decision making. Furthermore, this study suggested the importance for an organisation to add value to the services that they deliver and for an organisation’s management to be committed to ensure that their customers’ expectations and requirements are met. The findings of the study suggest that CRM factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) could influence RM, and it is suggested that Water Board X adopts CRM strategies accordingly to improve its RM. Some of these strategies include adopting a coherent and sustainable revenue strategy through the use of appropriate tariff structures that are simple, equitable, affordable, financially sustainable, and transparent for all; showing commitment by prioritising water loss management and by properly auditing water supplies and water treatment revenue while increasing efficiency in supply and revenue recovery as this allowed Water Board X to better serve its customers, improve its financial standing, and allocate funding for water infrastructure upgrades and to adopt technologies that are on the market as these technologies can detect leakages, manage payments, control water flow and transmit data. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Department of Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Manyonganise, Joshua Anesu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Revenue management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Amatola Water (Utility) , South Africa. National Water Act, 1998
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177214 , vital:42800
- Description: The primary activity of water boards is to provide water services (bulk portable, and bulk wastewater) to other water services institutions within its respective service areas. They may perform other activities under conditions set out in the Water Services Act of 1997. Water boards’ revenues come from the municipalities they deliver services to. Not all municipalities have been paying for the services delivered to them, which led to the aim of this study being to gauge the perceptions of Water Board X and Water Board X’s customers of selected Customer Relationship Management (CRM) factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) that may possibly influence Revenue Management (RM). This could possibly assist Water Board X in the future to improve its revenue and debt collection. This thesis employed an interpretivist qualitative research methodology to explore its research aims and objectives. Open-ended semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen participants from Water Board X and four municipalities which Water Board X provides services. The data collected from the interviews were analysed manually through thematic analysis. The outcome of the interviews noted that an organisation that delivered high levels of service quality to its customers, could possibly improve its RM as the customers are of the opinion that their needs and requirements have been met and would be willing to pay for the services rendered. It was furthermore found that an organisation that involves its customers could possibly improve its RM as the organisation constantly communicates with its customers during, for example, the different stages of a project to ensure that the organisation does not deliver a project that does not meet the customers’ requirements at the end of the project life cycle. In addition the use of information technology played a pivotal in an organisation as the use of information technology assisted to develop effective methods in customer relationship management such as, data management, improving communication within the organisation, and with the customers, and the decision making. Furthermore, this study suggested the importance for an organisation to add value to the services that they deliver and for an organisation’s management to be committed to ensure that their customers’ expectations and requirements are met. The findings of the study suggest that CRM factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) could influence RM, and it is suggested that Water Board X adopts CRM strategies accordingly to improve its RM. Some of these strategies include adopting a coherent and sustainable revenue strategy through the use of appropriate tariff structures that are simple, equitable, affordable, financially sustainable, and transparent for all; showing commitment by prioritising water loss management and by properly auditing water supplies and water treatment revenue while increasing efficiency in supply and revenue recovery as this allowed Water Board X to better serve its customers, improve its financial standing, and allocate funding for water infrastructure upgrades and to adopt technologies that are on the market as these technologies can detect leakages, manage payments, control water flow and transmit data. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Department of Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Deep neural networks for robot vision in evolutionary robotics
- Authors: Watt,Nathan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Evolutionary robotics -- South Africa , Neural networks
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61601 , vital:71473
- Description: Description Advances in electronics manufacturing have made robots and their sensors cheaper and more accessible. Robots can have a variety of sensors, such as touch sensors, distance sensors and cameras. A robot’s controller is the software which interprets its sensors and determines how the robot will behave. The difficulty in programming robot controllers increases with complex robots and complicated tasks, forming a barrier to deploying robots for real-world applications. Robot controllers can be automatically created with Evolutionary Robotics (ER). ER makes use of an Evolutionary Algorithm (EA) to evolve controllers to complete a particular task. Instead of manually programming controllers, an EA can evolve controllers when provided with the robot’s task. ER has been used to evolve controllers for many different kinds of robots with a variety of sensors, however the use of robots with on-board camera sensors has been limited. The nature of EAs makes evolving a controller for a camera-equipped robot particularly difficult. There are two main challenges which complicate the evolution of vision-based controllers. First, every image from a camera contains a large amount of information, and a controller needs many parameters to receive that information, however it is difficult to evolve controllers with such a large number of parameters using EAs. Second, during the process of evolution, it is necessary to evaluate the fitness of many candidate controllers. This is typically done in simulation, however creating a simulator for a camera sensor is a tedious and timeconsuming task, as building a photo-realistic simulated environment requires handcrafted 3-dimensional models, textures and lighting. Two techniques have been used in previous experiments to overcome the challenges associated with evolving vision-based controllers. Either the controller was provided with extremely low-resolution images, or a task-specific algorithm was used to preprocess the images, only providing the necessary information to the controller. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Watt,Nathan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Evolutionary robotics -- South Africa , Neural networks
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61601 , vital:71473
- Description: Description Advances in electronics manufacturing have made robots and their sensors cheaper and more accessible. Robots can have a variety of sensors, such as touch sensors, distance sensors and cameras. A robot’s controller is the software which interprets its sensors and determines how the robot will behave. The difficulty in programming robot controllers increases with complex robots and complicated tasks, forming a barrier to deploying robots for real-world applications. Robot controllers can be automatically created with Evolutionary Robotics (ER). ER makes use of an Evolutionary Algorithm (EA) to evolve controllers to complete a particular task. Instead of manually programming controllers, an EA can evolve controllers when provided with the robot’s task. ER has been used to evolve controllers for many different kinds of robots with a variety of sensors, however the use of robots with on-board camera sensors has been limited. The nature of EAs makes evolving a controller for a camera-equipped robot particularly difficult. There are two main challenges which complicate the evolution of vision-based controllers. First, every image from a camera contains a large amount of information, and a controller needs many parameters to receive that information, however it is difficult to evolve controllers with such a large number of parameters using EAs. Second, during the process of evolution, it is necessary to evaluate the fitness of many candidate controllers. This is typically done in simulation, however creating a simulator for a camera sensor is a tedious and timeconsuming task, as building a photo-realistic simulated environment requires handcrafted 3-dimensional models, textures and lighting. Two techniques have been used in previous experiments to overcome the challenges associated with evolving vision-based controllers. Either the controller was provided with extremely low-resolution images, or a task-specific algorithm was used to preprocess the images, only providing the necessary information to the controller. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Descriptive analysis of organic farming systems and factors affecting adoption and disadoption in Zambia : a case study
- Authors: Munthali, Robert
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Organic farming -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52111 , vital:43434
- Description: The last 30 years since the early 1990s has seen the heightened promotion of organic farming as a sustainable farming option in Zambia. The main objectives of this research study were to carry out an analysis of organic farming systems in order to understand factors affecting adoption, as well as reasons why some organic farmers discontinue using the approach. The study involved four districts in Zambia: Mazabuka, Chikankata, Lusaka and Chongwe. Specifically, the research investigated challenges and limitations of organic agronomic practices, and analysed factors that influence adopters and disadopters of organic agriculture. Primary data were collected through interviews and by administering semi-structured questionnaires. The research population comprised approximately 250 farmers adopters and disadopters, with the sample size being 50 farmers chosen across four districts using systematic random sampling methods. Additionally, five observation research field trials were conducted in order to gather practical data on individual farmer’s crop management practices. Farmers adopting and maintaining organic methods reported several reasons for embracing the system, some of which are: organic farming is regenerative; it is environmentally responsible; it uses manure, believed to help build healthy soils rich in organic matter with better nutrient and moisture holding capacity; pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are not used, reducing the levels of toxic residues in organic products which ultimately promotes health. Labour constraints, pest and disease challenges and weed problems were some of the reasons for disadoption. Data showed that disadopters had lower education (48% had primary education), were older and with slightly more children. Although there were more women adopting organic agriculture compared to men, the difference was small 56% and 44% women and men respectively. Among disadopters there were more women (67%) compared to men (33%). Overall, the study results suggest that promotion of organic agriculture should be encouraged through liaison with government departments such as the Zambian Department of Agriculture to include organic agriculture when developing policies. In general, organic farmers have positive opinions concerning the benefits resulting from organic agriculture. Organic farmers should enjoy equal opportunities to conventional agriculture in the provision of extension services, input support, infrastructural development, access to financial resources to procure farm machinery, and equipment and most important of all, they should get fair prices for their organic produce and products. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Munthali, Robert
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Organic farming -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52111 , vital:43434
- Description: The last 30 years since the early 1990s has seen the heightened promotion of organic farming as a sustainable farming option in Zambia. The main objectives of this research study were to carry out an analysis of organic farming systems in order to understand factors affecting adoption, as well as reasons why some organic farmers discontinue using the approach. The study involved four districts in Zambia: Mazabuka, Chikankata, Lusaka and Chongwe. Specifically, the research investigated challenges and limitations of organic agronomic practices, and analysed factors that influence adopters and disadopters of organic agriculture. Primary data were collected through interviews and by administering semi-structured questionnaires. The research population comprised approximately 250 farmers adopters and disadopters, with the sample size being 50 farmers chosen across four districts using systematic random sampling methods. Additionally, five observation research field trials were conducted in order to gather practical data on individual farmer’s crop management practices. Farmers adopting and maintaining organic methods reported several reasons for embracing the system, some of which are: organic farming is regenerative; it is environmentally responsible; it uses manure, believed to help build healthy soils rich in organic matter with better nutrient and moisture holding capacity; pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are not used, reducing the levels of toxic residues in organic products which ultimately promotes health. Labour constraints, pest and disease challenges and weed problems were some of the reasons for disadoption. Data showed that disadopters had lower education (48% had primary education), were older and with slightly more children. Although there were more women adopting organic agriculture compared to men, the difference was small 56% and 44% women and men respectively. Among disadopters there were more women (67%) compared to men (33%). Overall, the study results suggest that promotion of organic agriculture should be encouraged through liaison with government departments such as the Zambian Department of Agriculture to include organic agriculture when developing policies. In general, organic farmers have positive opinions concerning the benefits resulting from organic agriculture. Organic farmers should enjoy equal opportunities to conventional agriculture in the provision of extension services, input support, infrastructural development, access to financial resources to procure farm machinery, and equipment and most important of all, they should get fair prices for their organic produce and products. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Detection and effects of selected pharmaceutical compounds from selected water bodies in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Setshedi, Koketso Josinah
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177074 , vital:42788
- Description: Theses embargoed. Release date March 2023. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Setshedi, Koketso Josinah
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177074 , vital:42788
- Description: Theses embargoed. Release date March 2023. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Determinants of domestic savings: why Africa is dissaving
- Authors: Ruiters, Caviner Glen
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52966 , vital:44888
- Description: The World Bank has emphasized the role of savings in financing domestic fixed capital formation, technology, education, employment and economic growth. Many African countries have experienced decreased savings and increased current account deficits worsened by the global financial crisis and capital outflows. This study seeks to explore the determinants of savings and determine the savings trend of African countries compared to that of the world. To this end, annual time series data for 20 representative countries from different economic groups were obtained from World Bank Indicators, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Penn World Tables and Integrated Network for Societal Conflict Research (INSCR) database over the period 2000 to 2018. The Panel ARDL/ Pooled Mean Group estimator was used to analyse the data. The main findings were that household variables, capital flow variables, human capital variables, institutional quality variables, financial and other social macroeconomic variables determine savings. Further, the speed of adjustment show causality from the explanatory variables to savings. The use of income and monetary policy dummy variables indicates that there is no difference in determinants of savings for countries with different income groups and monetary policies. It was recommended that African countries invest in education and ICT infrastructure, improve their financial systems and restructure policies on good governance and political stability as this has a significant effect on savings. The study was limited by a lack of time series data for all African countries, therefore, future research involving an increased sample size and variables were recommended. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Ruiters, Caviner Glen
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52966 , vital:44888
- Description: The World Bank has emphasized the role of savings in financing domestic fixed capital formation, technology, education, employment and economic growth. Many African countries have experienced decreased savings and increased current account deficits worsened by the global financial crisis and capital outflows. This study seeks to explore the determinants of savings and determine the savings trend of African countries compared to that of the world. To this end, annual time series data for 20 representative countries from different economic groups were obtained from World Bank Indicators, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Penn World Tables and Integrated Network for Societal Conflict Research (INSCR) database over the period 2000 to 2018. The Panel ARDL/ Pooled Mean Group estimator was used to analyse the data. The main findings were that household variables, capital flow variables, human capital variables, institutional quality variables, financial and other social macroeconomic variables determine savings. Further, the speed of adjustment show causality from the explanatory variables to savings. The use of income and monetary policy dummy variables indicates that there is no difference in determinants of savings for countries with different income groups and monetary policies. It was recommended that African countries invest in education and ICT infrastructure, improve their financial systems and restructure policies on good governance and political stability as this has a significant effect on savings. The study was limited by a lack of time series data for all African countries, therefore, future research involving an increased sample size and variables were recommended. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Development and assessment of rifampicin loaded self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems
- Authors: Mphaphuli, Mashudu Theodore
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178503 , vital:42945
- Description: Access restricted until April 2023. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mphaphuli, Mashudu Theodore
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178503 , vital:42945
- Description: Access restricted until April 2023. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Development and characterisation of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride solid lipid nanoparticles for ocular delivery
- Authors: Dhege, Clarence
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178446 , vital:42940
- Description: Access restricted until April 2023. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Dhege, Clarence
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178446 , vital:42940
- Description: Access restricted until April 2023. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Disruptive technology in the wool industry: an impact analysis with specific reference to sustainable wool brokers services In South Africa
- Van Niekerk, Christiaan Petrus Jamneck
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Christiaan Petrus Jamneck
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Disruptive technologies , Wool industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53013 , vital:44903
- Description: Significant research has been conducted on the sustainability, productivity, maintenance, improvement and the development of the agricultural sector. For this reason, there is increasingly more technology that is being adapted and used in the agricultural arena. New technology (Disruptive technology) in the wool value chain has the ability to significantly disrupt the typical business models of wool brokers in South Africa, and as a result, key uncertainties exist with regard to its future sustainability. This study investigated the importance of sustainable disruptive technology that is implementable at wool brokers in South Africa. This was done through secondary research, creating a proposed conceptual business framework that would make use of various disruptive technologies such as; digital wool auction, RFID and blockchain technology to enhance interventions that are needed to create sustainability amongst wool brokers in South Africa. The enhanced proposed sustainability is created through by creating socio efficiencies, environmental efficiencies and operational efficiencies in the form of safety, Traceability and Operational efficiencies as Intervening Variables. Questionnaire statements were developed by the researcher from the literature review that was conducted and consulting experts in the field of the agriculture fibre industry and also in the wider sphere of agriculture. The instrument used in this study was used to measure the hypothesised models based on the influence of independent variables of a disruptive nature on the interventions that would allow for the perceived sustainability for wool brokers in South Africa. From the data analysis of the feedback received, a Revised Proposed Framework to enhance the sustainability of Wool Brokers in South Africa using disruptive Technology was created. From the research it is evident that new technology, such as disruptive technology, in the wool value chain has the ability to significantly disrupt the typical business models of wool brokers in South Africa and, as a result, address the demands of the end consumer to ensure the future sustainability of wool brokers. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Nelson Mandela University Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Christiaan Petrus Jamneck
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Disruptive technologies , Wool industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53013 , vital:44903
- Description: Significant research has been conducted on the sustainability, productivity, maintenance, improvement and the development of the agricultural sector. For this reason, there is increasingly more technology that is being adapted and used in the agricultural arena. New technology (Disruptive technology) in the wool value chain has the ability to significantly disrupt the typical business models of wool brokers in South Africa, and as a result, key uncertainties exist with regard to its future sustainability. This study investigated the importance of sustainable disruptive technology that is implementable at wool brokers in South Africa. This was done through secondary research, creating a proposed conceptual business framework that would make use of various disruptive technologies such as; digital wool auction, RFID and blockchain technology to enhance interventions that are needed to create sustainability amongst wool brokers in South Africa. The enhanced proposed sustainability is created through by creating socio efficiencies, environmental efficiencies and operational efficiencies in the form of safety, Traceability and Operational efficiencies as Intervening Variables. Questionnaire statements were developed by the researcher from the literature review that was conducted and consulting experts in the field of the agriculture fibre industry and also in the wider sphere of agriculture. The instrument used in this study was used to measure the hypothesised models based on the influence of independent variables of a disruptive nature on the interventions that would allow for the perceived sustainability for wool brokers in South Africa. From the data analysis of the feedback received, a Revised Proposed Framework to enhance the sustainability of Wool Brokers in South Africa using disruptive Technology was created. From the research it is evident that new technology, such as disruptive technology, in the wool value chain has the ability to significantly disrupt the typical business models of wool brokers in South Africa and, as a result, address the demands of the end consumer to ensure the future sustainability of wool brokers. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Nelson Mandela University Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Does the Transkei population of Haliotis Midae at the eastern edge of its distributional range have a higher thermal tolerance than those in more temperate waters?
- Authors: Mathebula, Surprise
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Haliotis midae -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Abalones -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Effect of temperature on -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Physiology -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Adaptation -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Growth -- South Africa -- Indian Coast
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177360 , vital:42814
- Description: The South African perlemoen abalone (Haliotis midae) may be vulnerable to rising temperatures on the East coast of South Africa due to climate change. H. midae is South Africa’s most valuable aquaculture species, and it is thus important to understand its physiological ability to adapt to the expected changes and to identify possible management measures to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures. This project aimed to understand thermal tolerance and growth rates of offspring from two H. midae populations originating from the warm-temperate Central region (Port Elizabeth) and warmer Eastern edge of the species’ distribution in the Transkei region. To determine the effects of temperature on the physiological performance of the two abalone populations, growth rates, oxygen consumption rates and critical thermal maxima (CTM) were compared. A laboratory growth trial was conducted at three controlled temperatures, visibly, the ‘optimal’ temperature for H. midae growth (18 - 20℃), ‘pejus’ (stressful) temperature (21 - 22℃) and ‘critical’ temperature (23 - 24℃). Oxygen consumption rates were recorded at optimum (20℃), pejus (22℃) and critical (24℃) temperature using a respirometer. In addition, a farm growth trial with simultaneously spawned cohorts of abalone from the two populations was conducted at ambient temperature (19.5 and 20.0℃). The laboratory growth trial revealed no significant differences in growth rate between the two populations at the three temperature treatments (ANOVA, P > 0.05; df = 2). However, mortalities were high and growth rates low, indicating that the rearing conditions were sub-optimal, possibly masking genetic differences. No significant differences were observed in oxygen consumption rates (ANOVA, P = 0.18; df = 2), and CTM (t-Test, P = 0.31; df = 3) between the two populations. The CTM for both populations was between 29 - 30℃. The farm trial yielded no significant differences in growth rate during the Nursery phase (t-Test, P = 0.25; df = 2), however significant differences in growth rate were observed during the grow out phase with the Central region abalone offspring growing faster than the Eastern edge population (t-Test, P = 0.04; df = 4) indicating the possibility of a genetic difference between the two populations. Further experiments will be required to determine whether the differences observed in the growth trial were genetically or environmentally induced. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mathebula, Surprise
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Haliotis midae -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Abalones -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Effect of temperature on -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Physiology -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Adaptation -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Growth -- South Africa -- Indian Coast
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177360 , vital:42814
- Description: The South African perlemoen abalone (Haliotis midae) may be vulnerable to rising temperatures on the East coast of South Africa due to climate change. H. midae is South Africa’s most valuable aquaculture species, and it is thus important to understand its physiological ability to adapt to the expected changes and to identify possible management measures to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures. This project aimed to understand thermal tolerance and growth rates of offspring from two H. midae populations originating from the warm-temperate Central region (Port Elizabeth) and warmer Eastern edge of the species’ distribution in the Transkei region. To determine the effects of temperature on the physiological performance of the two abalone populations, growth rates, oxygen consumption rates and critical thermal maxima (CTM) were compared. A laboratory growth trial was conducted at three controlled temperatures, visibly, the ‘optimal’ temperature for H. midae growth (18 - 20℃), ‘pejus’ (stressful) temperature (21 - 22℃) and ‘critical’ temperature (23 - 24℃). Oxygen consumption rates were recorded at optimum (20℃), pejus (22℃) and critical (24℃) temperature using a respirometer. In addition, a farm growth trial with simultaneously spawned cohorts of abalone from the two populations was conducted at ambient temperature (19.5 and 20.0℃). The laboratory growth trial revealed no significant differences in growth rate between the two populations at the three temperature treatments (ANOVA, P > 0.05; df = 2). However, mortalities were high and growth rates low, indicating that the rearing conditions were sub-optimal, possibly masking genetic differences. No significant differences were observed in oxygen consumption rates (ANOVA, P = 0.18; df = 2), and CTM (t-Test, P = 0.31; df = 3) between the two populations. The CTM for both populations was between 29 - 30℃. The farm trial yielded no significant differences in growth rate during the Nursery phase (t-Test, P = 0.25; df = 2), however significant differences in growth rate were observed during the grow out phase with the Central region abalone offspring growing faster than the Eastern edge population (t-Test, P = 0.04; df = 4) indicating the possibility of a genetic difference between the two populations. Further experiments will be required to determine whether the differences observed in the growth trial were genetically or environmentally induced. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Driving factors of mobile banking application in South Africa
- Authors: Peter, Unati
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52984 , vital:44885
- Description: There has been a gaping variance between the number of mobile phone users and landline users in South Africa (RSA). Results from an assessment in 2011 suggested that 29 million South Africans subscribed to mobile phones versus 5 million landline users (Balabanoff, 2014). The exponential growth of mobile applications has been precipitated by the increased growth of the mobile phone market. This growth is coupled with numerous advantages that mobile services bring to the user, such as better operability, productivity advances and entertainment (Balabanoff, 2014). Even though adoption strategies regarding mobile banking have been studied in various parts of the world, acceptance of mobile banking applications in South Africa has not been greatly researched. Hence, this study focused on exploring consumer behaviour and acceptance towards adopting mobile banking in South Africa, where mobile banking is at an elementary stage, but provides potential benefits to both users and business at large. A quantitative research style was followed by this research. An electronic quantitative questionnaire was distributed to South African civilians who are eligible to hold bank accounts in their own names. The research was then conducted on a sample size of 86 respondents. Due to limitations on time, this study utilised convenience sampling. Data gathered from the questionnaires was examined using statistical analysis to scrutinise the correlation between the variables used in the research model, this being Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The UTAUT is commonly used to predict and explain factors that influence the adoption of technology by users. These factors help decision-makers in formulating technology acceptance strategies. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Peter, Unati
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52984 , vital:44885
- Description: There has been a gaping variance between the number of mobile phone users and landline users in South Africa (RSA). Results from an assessment in 2011 suggested that 29 million South Africans subscribed to mobile phones versus 5 million landline users (Balabanoff, 2014). The exponential growth of mobile applications has been precipitated by the increased growth of the mobile phone market. This growth is coupled with numerous advantages that mobile services bring to the user, such as better operability, productivity advances and entertainment (Balabanoff, 2014). Even though adoption strategies regarding mobile banking have been studied in various parts of the world, acceptance of mobile banking applications in South Africa has not been greatly researched. Hence, this study focused on exploring consumer behaviour and acceptance towards adopting mobile banking in South Africa, where mobile banking is at an elementary stage, but provides potential benefits to both users and business at large. A quantitative research style was followed by this research. An electronic quantitative questionnaire was distributed to South African civilians who are eligible to hold bank accounts in their own names. The research was then conducted on a sample size of 86 respondents. Due to limitations on time, this study utilised convenience sampling. Data gathered from the questionnaires was examined using statistical analysis to scrutinise the correlation between the variables used in the research model, this being Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The UTAUT is commonly used to predict and explain factors that influence the adoption of technology by users. These factors help decision-makers in formulating technology acceptance strategies. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Economic impact of climate change on maize production in the Free State Province, South Africa
- Authors: Johnson, Richard Cowper
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Corn -- Climatic factors -- South Africa -- Free State , Climatic changes -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State , Climate change mitigation -- South Africa -- Free State , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174365 , vital:42471
- Description: Higher concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere is a major influence on climate change globally. Climate change is caused by greenhouse gases trapping too much heat from the sun in the atmosphere and thus, altering the climate through a rise in global surface temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. CO2 is the most prominent greenhouse gas found in the atmosphere and it is reported that by the turn of the century the CO2 concentration levels will have doubled if the current rate of emissions continues. However, the increase in atmospheric levels of the gas has been found to increase the capacity of maize plants and their water use efficiency to achieve higher yields through CO2 fertilisation. Simulation experiments conducted by the Rhodes University Botany Department found that the effect of elevated levels of CO2 of double the current concentration offsets the negative effects of drought on maize. A case study was conducted on commercial maize farmers in two regions of the Free State province in South Africa to estimate the economic impact of climate change on maize production. Although production is increasing in the province, adaptation to the changing climate is key to the sustainability of production. There is a trade-off between the negative effects of higher CO2 levels changing the climate and the positive effect of CO2 fertilisation. As predicted, the economic impact of climate change is the disruption of farming practices and the increase in costs of production as a result of adapting to climate change. Using a gross margin analysis, the study found that the larger maize farmers who benefit from economies of scale are able to adapt and grow their production whilst the smaller farmers are being pushed out of the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Johnson, Richard Cowper
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Corn -- Climatic factors -- South Africa -- Free State , Climatic changes -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State , Climate change mitigation -- South Africa -- Free State , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174365 , vital:42471
- Description: Higher concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere is a major influence on climate change globally. Climate change is caused by greenhouse gases trapping too much heat from the sun in the atmosphere and thus, altering the climate through a rise in global surface temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. CO2 is the most prominent greenhouse gas found in the atmosphere and it is reported that by the turn of the century the CO2 concentration levels will have doubled if the current rate of emissions continues. However, the increase in atmospheric levels of the gas has been found to increase the capacity of maize plants and their water use efficiency to achieve higher yields through CO2 fertilisation. Simulation experiments conducted by the Rhodes University Botany Department found that the effect of elevated levels of CO2 of double the current concentration offsets the negative effects of drought on maize. A case study was conducted on commercial maize farmers in two regions of the Free State province in South Africa to estimate the economic impact of climate change on maize production. Although production is increasing in the province, adaptation to the changing climate is key to the sustainability of production. There is a trade-off between the negative effects of higher CO2 levels changing the climate and the positive effect of CO2 fertilisation. As predicted, the economic impact of climate change is the disruption of farming practices and the increase in costs of production as a result of adapting to climate change. Using a gross margin analysis, the study found that the larger maize farmers who benefit from economies of scale are able to adapt and grow their production whilst the smaller farmers are being pushed out of the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Ecosexual digital war machines: minoritarian environmental desires in the age of new media
- Authors: Weideman, Lisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54828 , vital:47915
- Description: Today the (Transnational) State Apparatuses of neoliberal capitalism, ranging from educational institutions to mass media and financial institutions, have effectively created and channelled desires towards consumerism, predicated on resource-extractive practices, within the context of what Gilles Deleuze calls societies of control. This control has also intensified in the digital era, particularly through Internet-based technologies which provide increasingly efficient platforms for the escalation of commodification – ironically, despite the reality of ecological crisis being precipitated by the related extractive practices to the point where it now threatens the continued existence of life on earth. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Weideman, Lisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54828 , vital:47915
- Description: Today the (Transnational) State Apparatuses of neoliberal capitalism, ranging from educational institutions to mass media and financial institutions, have effectively created and channelled desires towards consumerism, predicated on resource-extractive practices, within the context of what Gilles Deleuze calls societies of control. This control has also intensified in the digital era, particularly through Internet-based technologies which provide increasingly efficient platforms for the escalation of commodification – ironically, despite the reality of ecological crisis being precipitated by the related extractive practices to the point where it now threatens the continued existence of life on earth. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Effect of fire frequency on the recovery of soil invertebrate communities in semi-arid savanna biome of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Authors: Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Soil invertebrates , Fire ecology , Arid regions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22831 , vital:52946
- Description: Fires are common in South African savanna habitats, which can disrupt the dynamics of entire invertebrate populations, endangering biodiversity and the environment. The aim of this study was to look at how fire frequency affected invertebrate population dynamics and biodiversity in a 41-year-old fire experiment at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice. The experiment had six different levels of burning frequency: no-burn (K), annual burn (B1), biannual burn (B2), triennial burn (B3), quadrennial burn (B4), and sexennial burn (B6). The experimental plots were replicated two times in a randomized complete block design and have been continuously retained since 1980. A ground yellow mustard solution was used to collect earthworms, which were then identified by an earthworm taxonomist. Pitfall traps were used to collect ants and other insects, which were then identified under a microscope. In total, three soil samples were collected from each plot to assess selected soil nutrients, moisture, and pH. The Shannon diversity index, richness, and population of earthworms, ants, and other insects were calculated, and a one-way ANOVA analysis was done to check if the treatments differed significantly. A correlations study was used to look for any influence connected to soil parameters, including the Shannon diversity index, species richness, and density of soil invertebrates. According to our findings, the measured parameters did not show any significant differences in the measured parameters between the different frequency levels. All the plots had two species of earthworm , Proandricus timmianus and Proandricus beddardi except the biennial burn plot, which had all three, the afore mentioned species and one other unidentified species, Proandricus sp. The triennial burn treatment slightly enhanced the insect diversity, richness, and evenness of ant species difference while the diversity, evenness, and richness were lowest in the sexennial burn plot. However, there was no signif difference in population. After B4, the no burn plot had the second largest diversity and species richness, and the third highest species evenness and had a 100 percent species similarity index. The ants were evenly distributed in the no burn plot compared to the other plots, with K having a lower density than the other plots except for B4, K being slightly more diverse than B6, and B1 with a slightly lower diversity than the other plots, and it being the third species rich plot after B2 and B3, followed by the rest of the plots. This study implied that fire frequency has an insignificant impact on invertebrates’ communities in Savanna biomes words.icant , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Soil invertebrates , Fire ecology , Arid regions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22831 , vital:52946
- Description: Fires are common in South African savanna habitats, which can disrupt the dynamics of entire invertebrate populations, endangering biodiversity and the environment. The aim of this study was to look at how fire frequency affected invertebrate population dynamics and biodiversity in a 41-year-old fire experiment at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice. The experiment had six different levels of burning frequency: no-burn (K), annual burn (B1), biannual burn (B2), triennial burn (B3), quadrennial burn (B4), and sexennial burn (B6). The experimental plots were replicated two times in a randomized complete block design and have been continuously retained since 1980. A ground yellow mustard solution was used to collect earthworms, which were then identified by an earthworm taxonomist. Pitfall traps were used to collect ants and other insects, which were then identified under a microscope. In total, three soil samples were collected from each plot to assess selected soil nutrients, moisture, and pH. The Shannon diversity index, richness, and population of earthworms, ants, and other insects were calculated, and a one-way ANOVA analysis was done to check if the treatments differed significantly. A correlations study was used to look for any influence connected to soil parameters, including the Shannon diversity index, species richness, and density of soil invertebrates. According to our findings, the measured parameters did not show any significant differences in the measured parameters between the different frequency levels. All the plots had two species of earthworm , Proandricus timmianus and Proandricus beddardi except the biennial burn plot, which had all three, the afore mentioned species and one other unidentified species, Proandricus sp. The triennial burn treatment slightly enhanced the insect diversity, richness, and evenness of ant species difference while the diversity, evenness, and richness were lowest in the sexennial burn plot. However, there was no signif difference in population. After B4, the no burn plot had the second largest diversity and species richness, and the third highest species evenness and had a 100 percent species similarity index. The ants were evenly distributed in the no burn plot compared to the other plots, with K having a lower density than the other plots except for B4, K being slightly more diverse than B6, and B1 with a slightly lower diversity than the other plots, and it being the third species rich plot after B2 and B3, followed by the rest of the plots. This study implied that fire frequency has an insignificant impact on invertebrates’ communities in Savanna biomes words.icant , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Effectiveness of cost containment measures: the case of Harry Gwala District Municipality
- Authors: Lungwengwe, Neziswa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Activity-based costing , Cost accounting , Managerial accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51765 , vital:43370
- Description: The primary research objective of this case study was to understand the effectiveness of cost containment measures implemented by all departments at Harry Gwala District Municipality. The case study also explored factors that may have contributed to the implementation of cost containment measures to ensure that the municipality spends funds on essential items and avoids unauthorised expenditure. A case study with fourteen (14) participants was chosen in order to focus on a particular area that the researcher could easily monitor. The researcher mixed qualitative and quantitative research designs to maintain the strengths and improve the weaknesses in both designs. Audited Annual Financial Statements and approved budgets were analysed to assess the effectiveness of cost containment measures. The study found that while employees were aware of their roles and responsibilities, it is safe to say that they did not follow procedures to ensure that costs were maintained. The results of the study showed that the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) had no financial background. There was generally no change in the behaviour of employees as far as cost containment measures were concerned. The current repairs and maintenance budget was far below the norm of 8% of the carrying value of municipal assets and the municipality only budgeted between 2 – 3% per year for the assets with a carrying value of about R2.3 billion. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Lungwengwe, Neziswa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Activity-based costing , Cost accounting , Managerial accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51765 , vital:43370
- Description: The primary research objective of this case study was to understand the effectiveness of cost containment measures implemented by all departments at Harry Gwala District Municipality. The case study also explored factors that may have contributed to the implementation of cost containment measures to ensure that the municipality spends funds on essential items and avoids unauthorised expenditure. A case study with fourteen (14) participants was chosen in order to focus on a particular area that the researcher could easily monitor. The researcher mixed qualitative and quantitative research designs to maintain the strengths and improve the weaknesses in both designs. Audited Annual Financial Statements and approved budgets were analysed to assess the effectiveness of cost containment measures. The study found that while employees were aware of their roles and responsibilities, it is safe to say that they did not follow procedures to ensure that costs were maintained. The results of the study showed that the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) had no financial background. There was generally no change in the behaviour of employees as far as cost containment measures were concerned. The current repairs and maintenance budget was far below the norm of 8% of the carrying value of municipal assets and the municipality only budgeted between 2 – 3% per year for the assets with a carrying value of about R2.3 billion. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04