The influence of customer value On behavioural intention in the LGBT tourism sector
- Authors: Madinga, Nkosivile Welcome
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: LGBT community centers , Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57737 , vital:58228
- Description: The potential economic implications of the LGBT tourism sector have received the attention of scholars, marketing practitioners and tourism destinations, highlighting the LGBT community as a lucrative sector, while also signifying their distinctive needs of the LGBT community. LGBT tourists spent approximately $218 billion on travel in 2018 and they account for approximately 6% of the global tourism market. The LGBT tourism sector is fast growing in South Africa, and it was predicted that by 2030, South Africa will attract approximately 21 million tourists. Within South Africa, Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg have earned a reputation as LGBT friendly destinations, with LGBT tourists expected to contribute approximately R1.8 billion to the Cape Town economy annually. Furthermore, between 10% and 12% of tourists in Cape Town identified themselves as members of the LGBT community. As a result, South Africa – and notably Cape Town – has been named one of the world’s top destinations for LGBT travellers. A well-known characteristic of the LGBT community is that it is comprised of highincome individuals who travel more frequently compared with their heterosexual counterparts. As a result, it is critical for the tourism sector to gain a thorough understanding of this market to effectively target it. Although travel and tourism are critical aspects of the modern LGBT culture, and LGBT tourism represents a developing and lucrative industry (especially in South Africa), there is limited scholarly research that can assist marketers in better understanding the LGBT tourists and their needs. In addition, no research has been conducted on the relationship between customer value and behavioural intentions in the LGBT tourism sector in South Africa. A major challenge for the tourism sector is the ability to offer value to LGBT tourists; therefore, destinations targeting the LGBT market should ensure that they understand how to create value for their customers. v LGBT tourism is considered unique in that the LGBT tourist views value differently than other markets. It is important to understand the dimensions of value to the LGBT market, as LGBT tourists are likely to be discouraged from visiting destinations that do not provide value, which has a significant impact on behavioural intentions. This study, therefore, investigated the dimensions of customer value and their influence on the behavioural intentions of tourists in the South African LGBT tourism sector. A self-administered electronic questionnaire was used to collect data, and 406 usable questionnaires was received. SPSS version 27.0 and Analysis of Movement Structures (AMOS) version 27.0 statistical packages were used to analyse the collected data and test the relationships between the variables examined in this study. The empirical results of this study showed a positive correlation between most dimensions of customer value and behavioural intention while a negative correlation coefficient was observed between cognitive dissonance and dimensions of customer value. The results confirm a positive significant relationship between the independent variables - functional value, emotional value, reputational value, epistemic value, social value - and the dependent variable - customer value. These relationships imply that if functional value, emotional value, reputational value, epistemic value and/or social value, customer value would improve. Interestingly, the findings show a significant positive relationship between monetary and non-monetary sacrifice, and customer value dimensions. These relationships imply that if monetary sacrifice and non-monetary sacrifice increase, customer value would increase. The findings also reveal that customer value has an influence on behavioural intention. Lastly, customer value was not found to be a mediating factor between customer value dimensions and behavioural vi intentions outcomes, namely revisit intention, tourist loyalty, willingness to pay a premium price and word of mouth. Findings from this study could aid destination marketers to ensure that they provide functional, emotional, reputational, epistemic and social value to tourists to gain competitive advantage. LGBT tourists need a safe haven where they can relax and enjoy themselves without fear of societal discrimination, and destinations should do their best to make this happen. This might be accomplished by creating a space where travellers who identify as LGBT can gather and mingle freely. In addition, to improve revisit intention, positive word of mouth and loyalty, tourist destinations should provide unique experiences. Destination marketers should engage in a number of marketing initiatives, including promoting South African LGBT tourism destinations at tourism expos, LGBT music festivals and prides. Lastly, limitations of the study and future research directions are presented. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Madinga, Nkosivile Welcome
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: LGBT community centers , Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57737 , vital:58228
- Description: The potential economic implications of the LGBT tourism sector have received the attention of scholars, marketing practitioners and tourism destinations, highlighting the LGBT community as a lucrative sector, while also signifying their distinctive needs of the LGBT community. LGBT tourists spent approximately $218 billion on travel in 2018 and they account for approximately 6% of the global tourism market. The LGBT tourism sector is fast growing in South Africa, and it was predicted that by 2030, South Africa will attract approximately 21 million tourists. Within South Africa, Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg have earned a reputation as LGBT friendly destinations, with LGBT tourists expected to contribute approximately R1.8 billion to the Cape Town economy annually. Furthermore, between 10% and 12% of tourists in Cape Town identified themselves as members of the LGBT community. As a result, South Africa – and notably Cape Town – has been named one of the world’s top destinations for LGBT travellers. A well-known characteristic of the LGBT community is that it is comprised of highincome individuals who travel more frequently compared with their heterosexual counterparts. As a result, it is critical for the tourism sector to gain a thorough understanding of this market to effectively target it. Although travel and tourism are critical aspects of the modern LGBT culture, and LGBT tourism represents a developing and lucrative industry (especially in South Africa), there is limited scholarly research that can assist marketers in better understanding the LGBT tourists and their needs. In addition, no research has been conducted on the relationship between customer value and behavioural intentions in the LGBT tourism sector in South Africa. A major challenge for the tourism sector is the ability to offer value to LGBT tourists; therefore, destinations targeting the LGBT market should ensure that they understand how to create value for their customers. v LGBT tourism is considered unique in that the LGBT tourist views value differently than other markets. It is important to understand the dimensions of value to the LGBT market, as LGBT tourists are likely to be discouraged from visiting destinations that do not provide value, which has a significant impact on behavioural intentions. This study, therefore, investigated the dimensions of customer value and their influence on the behavioural intentions of tourists in the South African LGBT tourism sector. A self-administered electronic questionnaire was used to collect data, and 406 usable questionnaires was received. SPSS version 27.0 and Analysis of Movement Structures (AMOS) version 27.0 statistical packages were used to analyse the collected data and test the relationships between the variables examined in this study. The empirical results of this study showed a positive correlation between most dimensions of customer value and behavioural intention while a negative correlation coefficient was observed between cognitive dissonance and dimensions of customer value. The results confirm a positive significant relationship between the independent variables - functional value, emotional value, reputational value, epistemic value, social value - and the dependent variable - customer value. These relationships imply that if functional value, emotional value, reputational value, epistemic value and/or social value, customer value would improve. Interestingly, the findings show a significant positive relationship between monetary and non-monetary sacrifice, and customer value dimensions. These relationships imply that if monetary sacrifice and non-monetary sacrifice increase, customer value would increase. The findings also reveal that customer value has an influence on behavioural intention. Lastly, customer value was not found to be a mediating factor between customer value dimensions and behavioural vi intentions outcomes, namely revisit intention, tourist loyalty, willingness to pay a premium price and word of mouth. Findings from this study could aid destination marketers to ensure that they provide functional, emotional, reputational, epistemic and social value to tourists to gain competitive advantage. LGBT tourists need a safe haven where they can relax and enjoy themselves without fear of societal discrimination, and destinations should do their best to make this happen. This might be accomplished by creating a space where travellers who identify as LGBT can gather and mingle freely. In addition, to improve revisit intention, positive word of mouth and loyalty, tourist destinations should provide unique experiences. Destination marketers should engage in a number of marketing initiatives, including promoting South African LGBT tourism destinations at tourism expos, LGBT music festivals and prides. Lastly, limitations of the study and future research directions are presented. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The integration of sustainable development goals into business strategies: evidence from the Johannesburg stock exchange top 100
- Authors: Sibango, Lukhanyo Wilfred
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Sustainable development , stock exchange -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58179 , vital:58662
- Description: The main of objective of this study was to identify factors influencing the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into core business strategies and activities of the top 100 companies listed on the JSE for the period of 2018 to 2019. The study used one dependent variable (SDG integration) and five independent variables (company size, profitability, financial leverage, board size and mission/vision). To measure SDG integration, a dichotomous scale ranging from 0 and 1 was applied. A scale of 1 was allocated if SDGs are integrated into company strategies and business activities and 0 if there is no integration mentioned. The influence of company size, profitability, financial leverage, board size and mission statements on the integration of SDGs into strategies was investigated using random effect regression model. The findings showed that company size, board size and mentioning of sustainability in mission statements has a positive influence of SDG integration. Financial leverage and profitability were found not to have any significant influence on SDG reporting. The results of this study provided several important implications. Regulators, policy makers and sustainability advocates may gain further understanding into some of the factors that motivate firms to integrate SDGs into strategies. For various stakeholders, the findings suggested that stakeholders should seek ways to exert greater pressure on firms to not only disclose SDGs, but to integrate them in business strategies The study had some limitations, as it relied on a limited sample of only the top 100 firms listed on the JSE. The study period was only limited to 2018 and 2019 financial years. Due to these limitations, the researchers cannot claim that the results of the study are generalisable to all contexts. The study suggested future research to further explore how the board characteristics such as age, gender, education, and nationality influence the level of SDG integration. Furthermore, qualitative research was suggested to investigate the reasons that companies give for integrating SDGs into strategies, and the obstacles they face which could result in non-integration. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Sibango, Lukhanyo Wilfred
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Sustainable development , stock exchange -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58179 , vital:58662
- Description: The main of objective of this study was to identify factors influencing the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into core business strategies and activities of the top 100 companies listed on the JSE for the period of 2018 to 2019. The study used one dependent variable (SDG integration) and five independent variables (company size, profitability, financial leverage, board size and mission/vision). To measure SDG integration, a dichotomous scale ranging from 0 and 1 was applied. A scale of 1 was allocated if SDGs are integrated into company strategies and business activities and 0 if there is no integration mentioned. The influence of company size, profitability, financial leverage, board size and mission statements on the integration of SDGs into strategies was investigated using random effect regression model. The findings showed that company size, board size and mentioning of sustainability in mission statements has a positive influence of SDG integration. Financial leverage and profitability were found not to have any significant influence on SDG reporting. The results of this study provided several important implications. Regulators, policy makers and sustainability advocates may gain further understanding into some of the factors that motivate firms to integrate SDGs into strategies. For various stakeholders, the findings suggested that stakeholders should seek ways to exert greater pressure on firms to not only disclose SDGs, but to integrate them in business strategies The study had some limitations, as it relied on a limited sample of only the top 100 firms listed on the JSE. The study period was only limited to 2018 and 2019 financial years. Due to these limitations, the researchers cannot claim that the results of the study are generalisable to all contexts. The study suggested future research to further explore how the board characteristics such as age, gender, education, and nationality influence the level of SDG integration. Furthermore, qualitative research was suggested to investigate the reasons that companies give for integrating SDGs into strategies, and the obstacles they face which could result in non-integration. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The moderating role of decent work on the relationship between employee motivation and job peformance within the public sector
- Authors: Tungata, Nokwanda
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Public service employment , Performance standards
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58234 , vital:58772
- Description: Orientation: Organisational success is influenced by its ability to employ, develop, sustain and retain skilled employees. Retaining a strongly committed workforce has become a top priority for most organisations. Uncovering and addressing components which influence job insecurity helps retain employees. This is key to improving employee job performance. Research purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the moderating effects of decent work on the relationship between employee motivation and job performance using a sample of public service employees in the Eastern Cape Administration. The study aimed at determining the importance of individual-level performance when diagnosing performance issues in the public sector by focusing on the moderating role of decent work on the relationship between employee motivation and job performance. Motivation for the study: The South African public service is noted to undergoing challenges. Notably, affected are aspects related not only to employee motivation but also job performance. Needed are strategies that address these important organisational realities. Calls in the literature advocate the need to pay attention to the potential role of decent work. Research approach/design and method: A quantitative survey was employed using self-administered questionnaires. A total of 250 surveys were distributed. After data cleaning, a total of 188 surveys were deemed usable. Main findings: The overall findings highlighted in this study are that decent work and employee motivation have a positive relationship with job performance. They also have a significant positive influence on job performance. Additionally the research concludes that the three constructs of decent work that include free time and rest, access to health care and safe working conditions have a significant moderating effect on the relationship between employee motivation and job performance. Practical/managerial implications: This implies that there is need to find ways to keep employees motivated so that their job performance can also improve. Policy makers v should come up with effective work place policies which insure that conditions for employee motivation are ensured at work place as well as decent working conditions. This is important because it results in increased productivity and performance by public service employees. Contribution/value add: The findings provide preliminary insights that contribute to the body of knowledge concerned with decent work and employee job performance in the field of human resource in the South African context. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Tungata, Nokwanda
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Public service employment , Performance standards
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58234 , vital:58772
- Description: Orientation: Organisational success is influenced by its ability to employ, develop, sustain and retain skilled employees. Retaining a strongly committed workforce has become a top priority for most organisations. Uncovering and addressing components which influence job insecurity helps retain employees. This is key to improving employee job performance. Research purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the moderating effects of decent work on the relationship between employee motivation and job performance using a sample of public service employees in the Eastern Cape Administration. The study aimed at determining the importance of individual-level performance when diagnosing performance issues in the public sector by focusing on the moderating role of decent work on the relationship between employee motivation and job performance. Motivation for the study: The South African public service is noted to undergoing challenges. Notably, affected are aspects related not only to employee motivation but also job performance. Needed are strategies that address these important organisational realities. Calls in the literature advocate the need to pay attention to the potential role of decent work. Research approach/design and method: A quantitative survey was employed using self-administered questionnaires. A total of 250 surveys were distributed. After data cleaning, a total of 188 surveys were deemed usable. Main findings: The overall findings highlighted in this study are that decent work and employee motivation have a positive relationship with job performance. They also have a significant positive influence on job performance. Additionally the research concludes that the three constructs of decent work that include free time and rest, access to health care and safe working conditions have a significant moderating effect on the relationship between employee motivation and job performance. Practical/managerial implications: This implies that there is need to find ways to keep employees motivated so that their job performance can also improve. Policy makers v should come up with effective work place policies which insure that conditions for employee motivation are ensured at work place as well as decent working conditions. This is important because it results in increased productivity and performance by public service employees. Contribution/value add: The findings provide preliminary insights that contribute to the body of knowledge concerned with decent work and employee job performance in the field of human resource in the South African context. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The role of circular economy principles in solid waste management: a study of Walmer township
- Authors: Ndarane, Nomonde
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Circular economy , Recycling (Waste, etc.)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58048 , vital:58509
- Description: The maximisation of circular economy strategies brings hope to challenges of solid waste management and poverty alleviation. The purpose of the study was to explore the role of circular economy in solid waste management. A related goal was to enhance an understanding of how Walmer Township community’s use of circular economy principles can serve as a solid waste management strategy. The study holds the practical implication that circular economy contributes significantly to managing solid waste and to sustainable development. An empirical inquiry using a qualitative method was conducted and data was gathered through semi-structured interviews. Four different target groups were selected for this study- waste pickers, key informants (ward councillor and municipal officials), recycling businesses and NGO managers. It was brought to light that circular economy is utilised as both an economic and a solid waste management strategy. The findings show that implementing strategies of circular economy presents opportunities both for businesses and for poverty alleviation. Based on the findings, recommendations are made regarding making circular economy a lucrative business while upholding principles of environmentally friendly waste management strategies. Circular economy has crucial benefits, but it is practiced by few individuals within the community. More research needs to be conducted on how to make circular economy more attractive, especially to the youth. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Ndarane, Nomonde
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Circular economy , Recycling (Waste, etc.)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58048 , vital:58509
- Description: The maximisation of circular economy strategies brings hope to challenges of solid waste management and poverty alleviation. The purpose of the study was to explore the role of circular economy in solid waste management. A related goal was to enhance an understanding of how Walmer Township community’s use of circular economy principles can serve as a solid waste management strategy. The study holds the practical implication that circular economy contributes significantly to managing solid waste and to sustainable development. An empirical inquiry using a qualitative method was conducted and data was gathered through semi-structured interviews. Four different target groups were selected for this study- waste pickers, key informants (ward councillor and municipal officials), recycling businesses and NGO managers. It was brought to light that circular economy is utilised as both an economic and a solid waste management strategy. The findings show that implementing strategies of circular economy presents opportunities both for businesses and for poverty alleviation. Based on the findings, recommendations are made regarding making circular economy a lucrative business while upholding principles of environmentally friendly waste management strategies. Circular economy has crucial benefits, but it is practiced by few individuals within the community. More research needs to be conducted on how to make circular economy more attractive, especially to the youth. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The school nutrition programme in mount fletcher and Matatiele, Eastern cape
- Authors: Majikijela, Mandiseli
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program , School children--Food , Feeding service
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57783 , vital:58254
- Description: The Primary School Nutrition Programme (PSNP) in South Africa was established in May 1994 as part of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP). A major goal of the PSNP was to provide 30% of the student’s daily nutrition and improve school attendance in quintiles 1-3 primary schools. The aims of the PSNP were to develop the learning abilities of school-going children, alleviate poverty and hunger, and promote women empowerment. This study determines the influence that the implementation of the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) has on active learning in specific schools and did so by focusing on schools located in Mount Fletcher and Matatiele, in the Eastern Cape. The schools under study are divided into semi-rural and deep-rural schools. The study used a quantitative research design in which 80 learners and 60 teachers were sampled from grades 4 to 6 and used a questionnaire to determine recipients’ perceptions of the quality of the food served to learners and the level of active learning taking place after food breaks. A review of literature demonstrated there are different views as to whether NSNP is implemented correctly and is achieving its intended objectives. It was also found that learners felt that the quality of food lacks nutriti onal content and that teachers didn’t comply in terms of the required feeding times. About 45% of the teacher respondents indicated that feeding in some schools in Mount Fletcher continued beyond 10h00. This was largely due to a lack of monitoring by depar tment officials. However, 71% of teachers stated that active learning did take place after feeding. The study led to the conclusion that a connection exists between nutrient content and active learning. Therefore, for effective implementation of the NSNP, regular monitoring by teachers, the NSNP committee, and district officials should be undertaken. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Majikijela, Mandiseli
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program , School children--Food , Feeding service
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57783 , vital:58254
- Description: The Primary School Nutrition Programme (PSNP) in South Africa was established in May 1994 as part of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP). A major goal of the PSNP was to provide 30% of the student’s daily nutrition and improve school attendance in quintiles 1-3 primary schools. The aims of the PSNP were to develop the learning abilities of school-going children, alleviate poverty and hunger, and promote women empowerment. This study determines the influence that the implementation of the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) has on active learning in specific schools and did so by focusing on schools located in Mount Fletcher and Matatiele, in the Eastern Cape. The schools under study are divided into semi-rural and deep-rural schools. The study used a quantitative research design in which 80 learners and 60 teachers were sampled from grades 4 to 6 and used a questionnaire to determine recipients’ perceptions of the quality of the food served to learners and the level of active learning taking place after food breaks. A review of literature demonstrated there are different views as to whether NSNP is implemented correctly and is achieving its intended objectives. It was also found that learners felt that the quality of food lacks nutriti onal content and that teachers didn’t comply in terms of the required feeding times. About 45% of the teacher respondents indicated that feeding in some schools in Mount Fletcher continued beyond 10h00. This was largely due to a lack of monitoring by depar tment officials. However, 71% of teachers stated that active learning did take place after feeding. The study led to the conclusion that a connection exists between nutrient content and active learning. Therefore, for effective implementation of the NSNP, regular monitoring by teachers, the NSNP committee, and district officials should be undertaken. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Transformation in the South African Banking Industry
- Authors: Nokanda, Abongile
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58091 , vital:58550
- Description: Transformation is a deliberate plan of action to change historical racial and gender disadvantages. Transformation is also a fundamental necessity in South Africa as it seeks to address the injustices of apartheid while enhancing economic inclusiveness and promoting diversity in the working environment. The progress of transformation remains slow in South Africa, particularly in management and leadership positions in companies within the South African Banking Sector Therefore, it is quite clear that inequality, discrimination and a lack of transformation in South Africa need to be addressed, as the inequality gap has remained the same, even after the abolition of apartheid. However, the Western Cape is a province that is considered to practice and protect apartheid policies that perpetuate racial, gender and spatial disparities. This study, therefore, sought to investigate the transformation of banks in the Western Cape. The study followed a deductive approach and used an online survey as a data collection tool. At the time of study, the population of the study were employees of banks in the Western Cape and who were permanently employed. Additionally, the aim of this research was to investigate the influence of the Employment Equity Act, Skills Gap, Leadership Accountability and Human Resource Development in driving transformation in the banking sector of the Western Cape region in South Africa. The empirical results of the study were obtained from 105 bank employees located in the Western Cape. The Employment Equity Act, Leadership Accountability and Human Resource Development were the strongest independent variables. The Employee Development was an independent variable that emerged from the respondents. The findings of the study indicated that Employment Equity Act, Leadership Accountability, Employee Development and Human Resource Development had a significant, positive relationship with Transformation. The study also revealed the Skills Gap as the only independent variable that had an insignificant impact on Transformation. The recommendations were made to the Western Cape Banks to implement and continue to: drive the implementation of the EE Act; for leaders to be held accountable when it comes to driving transformation; banks to establish and facilitate employee development programs and for human resource to identify, retain and promote talented employees. This will therefore lead to a better performing and transformed banking sector. , Thesis (MA) -- Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Nokanda, Abongile
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58091 , vital:58550
- Description: Transformation is a deliberate plan of action to change historical racial and gender disadvantages. Transformation is also a fundamental necessity in South Africa as it seeks to address the injustices of apartheid while enhancing economic inclusiveness and promoting diversity in the working environment. The progress of transformation remains slow in South Africa, particularly in management and leadership positions in companies within the South African Banking Sector Therefore, it is quite clear that inequality, discrimination and a lack of transformation in South Africa need to be addressed, as the inequality gap has remained the same, even after the abolition of apartheid. However, the Western Cape is a province that is considered to practice and protect apartheid policies that perpetuate racial, gender and spatial disparities. This study, therefore, sought to investigate the transformation of banks in the Western Cape. The study followed a deductive approach and used an online survey as a data collection tool. At the time of study, the population of the study were employees of banks in the Western Cape and who were permanently employed. Additionally, the aim of this research was to investigate the influence of the Employment Equity Act, Skills Gap, Leadership Accountability and Human Resource Development in driving transformation in the banking sector of the Western Cape region in South Africa. The empirical results of the study were obtained from 105 bank employees located in the Western Cape. The Employment Equity Act, Leadership Accountability and Human Resource Development were the strongest independent variables. The Employee Development was an independent variable that emerged from the respondents. The findings of the study indicated that Employment Equity Act, Leadership Accountability, Employee Development and Human Resource Development had a significant, positive relationship with Transformation. The study also revealed the Skills Gap as the only independent variable that had an insignificant impact on Transformation. The recommendations were made to the Western Cape Banks to implement and continue to: drive the implementation of the EE Act; for leaders to be held accountable when it comes to driving transformation; banks to establish and facilitate employee development programs and for human resource to identify, retain and promote talented employees. This will therefore lead to a better performing and transformed banking sector. , Thesis (MA) -- Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Foreign direct investment, trade openness and economic growth linkages: the role of exchange rate regime choice in South Africa
- Amoah, Edmund Vincent Nyarko
- Authors: Amoah, Edmund Vincent Nyarko
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Investment -- South Africa , Foreign Exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57523 , vital:58058
- Description: For a country to ensure economic stability, growth, development, and technological advancement, FDI and trade openness play a vital role in achieving such development. Economic growth leads to employment creation and poverty reduction. FDI inflows are important to countries, especially in developing countries, as they enhance domestic savings and capital inflows from abroad. It further accumulates the transfer of technology, speeds up competition and pushes for a more positive development of firms. On the other hand, trade openness involves the removal or relaxation of trade barriers that hinder the free flow of trade between countries. FDI and trade openness is viewed as a catalyst to economic growth. However, FDI, trade openness, and economic growth are largely influenced by the exchange rate regime choice of a country. South Africa’s economy is founded on the principles of trade openness and strives to attract FDI and ensure economic growth. The country has also transitioned from different exchange rate regime choices, and currently adopts the free-floating exchange rate regime choice. These policies are aimed to enhance growth and better the lives of the people. However, this is not the case as unemployment continues to rise. Economic growth has not appreciated to the level the country aims to reach. Economic growth has shown a downward trend over the past years. These indicators raise the question about the impact of FDI, trade openness, and economic growth, and the role of exchange rate regime policies implemented in the country for many decades. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the linkages between FDI, trade openness, economic growth, and the role of the exchange rate regime choice. Specific objectives of the study include: first, to establish whether there is a direct relationship between FDI, trade openness, and economic growth, or not and, second, to investigate the effect of exchange rate regime choice on foreign direct investment, trade openness and economic growth. To achieve these objectives, the study made use of secondary data and quantitative research design. Data was collected from different sources namely, the statistics South Africa data base, world development indicators, the international monetary fund, and the Reserve Bank of South Africa. Data was collected from 1995 to 2018. In the aspect of vi data analysis, Stata, a statistical computer software and time series was used to analyse the data for the current study. The study employed an estimation technique such as the ARDL. This was to ensure that variables are I (0) or I (1). The Zivot-Andrews test was employed to investigate all possible structural breaks. Due to its inability to deal with more than one structural break, CLEMAO, or IO routine, was introduced to close the gap and to allow for a possible two event of structural break in time series. The study performed a granger causality test to determine the causalities that arose among the variables under study. The results showed no granger causality between GDP and FDI. A uni-directional granger causality was found to flow from GDP to trade openness, FDI to trade openness and FDI to exchange rate. A bi-directional causality was established between GDP and exchange rate, and between trade openness and exchange rate. The study employed critical values because the sample size appeared to be small in nature. The F statistics from the ARDL appeared to be greater than the critical value, which symbolizes a long-run relationship of the variables currently under study. A Gregory-Hansen cointegration test was introduced to handle the concept of regime changes in the current study. Findings from the ARDL with known structural break for exchange rate regime choice revealed that, exchange rate had a positive significant impact on economic growth in the short-run, whereas it had a significant negative impact on economic growth in the long-run. This implies that, during the initial stages of an exchange rate policy, the South African rand appreciated, leading to a boost in economic growth. A change from managed float exchange rate regime to a free float exchange rate regime caused a 1.49 percent increase in economic growth. This was an indication that the free float exchange rate is a better choice compared to a managed float exchange rate. Based on these findings, the study recommended that South Africa should continue with free float exchange rate policy as it is found to promote economic growth. To attract FDI, the study recommended that economic restrictions on foreign investors should be minimised. However, the South African government should encourage foreign investors to provide training and skills to South Africans who are employed in their establishments. This will in the long-run contribute to technology and human capital transfer needed by vii the country to stimulate economic growth. Finally, the study recommended that South African government should curb the importation of certain goods and services which are locally produced. This will improve economic growth and enhance employment. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
- Authors: Amoah, Edmund Vincent Nyarko
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Investment -- South Africa , Foreign Exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57523 , vital:58058
- Description: For a country to ensure economic stability, growth, development, and technological advancement, FDI and trade openness play a vital role in achieving such development. Economic growth leads to employment creation and poverty reduction. FDI inflows are important to countries, especially in developing countries, as they enhance domestic savings and capital inflows from abroad. It further accumulates the transfer of technology, speeds up competition and pushes for a more positive development of firms. On the other hand, trade openness involves the removal or relaxation of trade barriers that hinder the free flow of trade between countries. FDI and trade openness is viewed as a catalyst to economic growth. However, FDI, trade openness, and economic growth are largely influenced by the exchange rate regime choice of a country. South Africa’s economy is founded on the principles of trade openness and strives to attract FDI and ensure economic growth. The country has also transitioned from different exchange rate regime choices, and currently adopts the free-floating exchange rate regime choice. These policies are aimed to enhance growth and better the lives of the people. However, this is not the case as unemployment continues to rise. Economic growth has not appreciated to the level the country aims to reach. Economic growth has shown a downward trend over the past years. These indicators raise the question about the impact of FDI, trade openness, and economic growth, and the role of exchange rate regime policies implemented in the country for many decades. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the linkages between FDI, trade openness, economic growth, and the role of the exchange rate regime choice. Specific objectives of the study include: first, to establish whether there is a direct relationship between FDI, trade openness, and economic growth, or not and, second, to investigate the effect of exchange rate regime choice on foreign direct investment, trade openness and economic growth. To achieve these objectives, the study made use of secondary data and quantitative research design. Data was collected from different sources namely, the statistics South Africa data base, world development indicators, the international monetary fund, and the Reserve Bank of South Africa. Data was collected from 1995 to 2018. In the aspect of vi data analysis, Stata, a statistical computer software and time series was used to analyse the data for the current study. The study employed an estimation technique such as the ARDL. This was to ensure that variables are I (0) or I (1). The Zivot-Andrews test was employed to investigate all possible structural breaks. Due to its inability to deal with more than one structural break, CLEMAO, or IO routine, was introduced to close the gap and to allow for a possible two event of structural break in time series. The study performed a granger causality test to determine the causalities that arose among the variables under study. The results showed no granger causality between GDP and FDI. A uni-directional granger causality was found to flow from GDP to trade openness, FDI to trade openness and FDI to exchange rate. A bi-directional causality was established between GDP and exchange rate, and between trade openness and exchange rate. The study employed critical values because the sample size appeared to be small in nature. The F statistics from the ARDL appeared to be greater than the critical value, which symbolizes a long-run relationship of the variables currently under study. A Gregory-Hansen cointegration test was introduced to handle the concept of regime changes in the current study. Findings from the ARDL with known structural break for exchange rate regime choice revealed that, exchange rate had a positive significant impact on economic growth in the short-run, whereas it had a significant negative impact on economic growth in the long-run. This implies that, during the initial stages of an exchange rate policy, the South African rand appreciated, leading to a boost in economic growth. A change from managed float exchange rate regime to a free float exchange rate regime caused a 1.49 percent increase in economic growth. This was an indication that the free float exchange rate is a better choice compared to a managed float exchange rate. Based on these findings, the study recommended that South Africa should continue with free float exchange rate policy as it is found to promote economic growth. To attract FDI, the study recommended that economic restrictions on foreign investors should be minimised. However, the South African government should encourage foreign investors to provide training and skills to South Africans who are employed in their establishments. This will in the long-run contribute to technology and human capital transfer needed by vii the country to stimulate economic growth. Finally, the study recommended that South African government should curb the importation of certain goods and services which are locally produced. This will improve economic growth and enhance employment. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, 2020
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- Date Issued: 2020-04