A strategic framework for managing and implementation of the intergovernmental relations policy in selected Eastern Cape municipalities
- Authors: Shasha, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- South Africa Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8353 , vital:32310
- Description: It is of paramount importance to highlight that the South African government is established in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Whilst the government of South Africa is one, it consists of three spheres namely; national, provincial and local. These spheres of government are naturally distinctive, interdependent and interrelated. This is expressed in terms of section 41(1) of the Constitution, which requires that there should be co-operation, mutual trust and good faith amongst these three spheres of government. This form of a relationship compels different spheres to inform and consult one another on matters of common interest, co-ordinate their legislation, and adhere to agreed procedures in accordance with the provisions of the constitution which is the supreme law of the Republic. The study sort to find a strategic framework for managing and implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Policy in Selected Eastern Cape Municipalities. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify the sample elements. The sample was composed of 160 participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather information pertaining the research problem. A mixed research method was used to analyse the data gathered. The sampled respondents were municipal and government employees from various departments who have knowledge of the IGR policy. The study findings pointed out that the current framework on intergovernmental relations was ineffective in the Eastern Cape municipalities that were surveyed. Respondents pointed to a number of shortfalls in the implementation of the intergovernmental relations, which made it ineffective in improving how these municipalities operated and rendered service delivery. A number of factors inhibiting the effectiveness of the intergovernmental relations included lack of communication, poor coordination, lack of clear strategy, poor budgets amongst other factors. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher developed a strategic framework that could be adopted by municipalities in the Eastern Cape. The functionality of this framework would be influenced by the corrective measures taken by the municipalities in addressing the underlying problems of the current intergovernmental relations, as identified by the respondents.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
A Critical analysis of trade facilitation practices of Zimbabwe customs administration
- Authors: Ntuli, Ferdinand Everest
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Trade blocs International economic integration Border stations -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD(Public Administration)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10636 , vital:35648
- Description: Trade facilitation practices are an attempt to eradicate non-tariff barriers. Barriers to trade may be encountered before goods reach the border, at the border or after goods reach the border. This study is concerned with processes that occur at the border. This suggests that trade facilitation is viewed within the context of customs procedures and operations at the border posts that have been identified. This study undertakes an analysis of trade facilitation practices in the Zimbabwe customs administration. The study endeavours to identify bottlenecks in the movement of goods across borders. The study tries to establish the extent to which trade facilitation practices in Zimbabwe conform to international best practice. The study also attempts to establish opportunities and threats for trade facilitation in the current arrangements. The researcher establishes that the following areas require improvement through further study; simplicity of procedures, transparency of processes, cooperation of stakeholders, standardisation of processes harmonisation of processes and predictability of processes .The research problem lies in the delays and increased trade transaction costs that have been reported by traders. This ultimately leads to traders who are not competitive on the international scene. It also makes it difficult for small to medium enterprises since they are affected more by high trade transaction costs due to lower profits and turnover. The Zimbabwean economy is dominated by small to medium enterprises which contribute significantly to the economy. The assumption of the study is that if trade facilitation practices are implemented trade volumes will increase leading to a vibrant national economy. The research problem is examined through an assessment of the perception of traders, clearing agents and customs officials on the effectiveness of trade facilitation practices that are currently in place. A mixture of qualitative and quantitative methodologies was used. The major tool used was a self-administered questionnaire issued to traders. Focus group discussions and secondary data from documents were important, especially for qualitative data. The conclusions of the research are premised on the responses by the respondents. The study takes a particular interest in trade facilitation measures prescribed by regional, multilateral and plurilateral organisations. The study examines the extent of conformity to trade facilitation measures prescribed by international organisations. The recommendations presented in the study are derived from the input and responses provided by the participants. Recommendations presented are aimed at bringing about solutions to the shortcomings in trade facilitation practices. The study has identified areas that need to be addressed so as to ensure facilitation of trade. However there are still some areas that require further studies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An evaluation of the implementation of phase 1 of the National Health Insurance Policy in South Africa
- Authors: Ntlangula, Margaret Nokuzola
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: National health insurance -- South Africa Medical policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Development Studies
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8714 , vital:33439
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate how Phase 1 of the National Health Insurance Policy in South Africa was implemented. This evaluation focused on evaluation of reengineering of the primary health care system which is listed as one of the areas that was highlighted by the Department as needing attention during the implementation of Phase 1 of NHI. Reengineering of Primary Health Care was pronounced as the heart-beat of NHI. This is the approach that South Africa chose to implement to strengthen the current health care system. Specific measures that were selected to strengthen the current health system would be prioritized in Phase 1. Re-engineering of Primary Health Care is trusted with making a contribution to creation of a unified health care system. These areas would assist to close gaps which are a result of the current fragmented health care system. Inherited from the apartheid government of South Africa the current health care system has two fragments. One fragment is a highly resourced private health sector which provides quality health care for only 16 percent of the population while leaving 84percent of South Africans to access health care from the under-resourced public health sector. Fragmentation has contributed to inefficiencies in provision of health care. Post 1994 the Constitution outlawed discrimination based on economic and socioeconomic status which paved a way for progressive provision of universal coverage. To operationalize provisions of the Constitution of South Africa, the democratic government is implementing NHI which is a United Nations programme. To achieve a sustainable NHI, Phase 1 implementation also focused on strengthening the current health system. Through phased NHI implementation health financing reforms will become a reality. South Africa is implementing National Health Insurance policy to strategically redress health care financing which has resulted into an unequally fragmented health system. The end of a fragmented health system will give way to the birth of an ideal unified health system and universal coverage. The aim of this study was to evaluate how Phase 1 of National Health Insurance was implemented. Document method was used to collect documents, select and analyze data. This evaluation complements other studies which have contributed to the body of knowledge about implementation of programmes which will bring about realization of universal coverage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Disasters and development nexus : theory and practice - a case of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chatora, Gift
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Disaster relief Human beings -- Effect of environment on Political ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11525 , vital:39080
- Description: This study is premised on the notion that disasters and development have a nexus, both theoretically and practically although the two fields have been traditionally viewed as antagonistic at face value. The principal objective was to analyze the existing theoretical and practical gaps between disasters and development in Zimbabwe. Furthermore, factors that affect achievement of disaster mitigation and development linkages in Zimbabwe were critically examined. The study conceptualizes disasters and development from multiple angles. The nested relationship between disasters and development are reinforced with the use of multiple disaster risk reduction strategies to mitigate vulnerability in both rural and urban areas. Hence, this study opted for the mixed methods approach from conceptualization throughout the research process so as to capitalize on the strengths entrenched in both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Drawing on a mixed methodology approach, this study approached the variables from multiple dimensions since disasters and development are intertwined. Evidently, the study demonstrates that disasters and development have a strong nexus, theoretically and practically. This confirms the study hypothesis that disasters and development are correlated, as disasters can both destroy development initiatives and create development opportunities, and that development schemes can both increase and decrease vulnerability. The study also found that policy practice in Zimbabwe is heavily fragmented, thereby leading to incoherent policy implementation. This results in increased vulnerability and huge disaster impacts that erode development gains therefore compromising achievement of sustainable development goals. Hence, the study recommended for the adoption of a Disaster Risk Reduction theoretical framework in cementing the disasters and development linkages theoretically and pragmatically. DRR enhances community’s resilience capacity in curtailing the progression of vulnerability and mitigate the accelerated incubation of disasters that impact on development strides.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An Information Security Policy Compliance Reinforcement and Assessment Framework
- Authors: Gundu, Tapiwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Computer security Information technology -- Security measures Business -- Data processing -- Security measures Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9556 , vital:34445
- Description: The majority of SMEs have adopted the use of information communication and technology (ICT) services. However, this has exposed their systems to new internal and external security vulnerabilities. These SMEs seem more concerned with external threat related vulnerabilities rather than those from internal threats, although researchers and industry are suggesting a substantial proportion of security incidents to be originating from insiders. Internal threat is often addressed by, firstly, a security policy in order to direct activities and, secondly, organisational information security training and awareness programmes. These two approaches aim to ensure that employees are proficient in their roles and that they know how to carry out their responsibilities securely. There has been a significant amount of research conducted to ensure that information security programmes communicate the information security policy effectively and reinforce sound security practice. However, an assessment of the genuine effectiveness of such programmes is seldom carried out. The purposes of this research study were, firstly, to highlight the flaws in assessing behavioural intentions and equating such behavioural intentions with actual behaviours in information security; secondly, to present an information security policy compliance reinforcement and assessment framework which assists in promoting the conversion of intentions into actual behaviours and in assessing the behavioural change. The approach used was based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour, knowledge, attitude and behaviour theory and Deterrence Theory. Expert review and action research methods were used to validate and refine the framework. The action research was rigorously conducted in four iterations at an SME in South Africa and involved 30 participating employees. The main findings of the study revealed that even though employees may have been well trained and are aware of information security good practice, they may be either unable or unwilling to comply with such practice. The findings of the study also revealed that awareness drives which lead to secure behavioural intents are merely a first step in information security compliance. The study found that not all behavioural intentions converted to actual secure behaviours and only 64% converted. However, deterrence using rewards for good behaviour and punishment for undesirable behaviour was able to increase the conversion by 21%.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Psychological capital and emotional intelligence as moderators of the relationship between occupational stress and organisational citizenship behaviour among graduate employees in Nigeria
- Authors: Aderibigbe, John Kolawole
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Psychology, Industrial Emotional intelligence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8642 , vital:33250
- Description: The study investigated psychological capital and emotional intelligence as moderators of the relationship between occupational stress and organisational citizenship behaviour among graduate employees in Nigeria, using the explanatory cross-sectional (survey) research design and three sampling techniques (The Two-stage Cluster Sampling Method, The Convenience Sampling Method and The Purposive Sampling Technique) to sample 1532 male and female graduate employees in Nigeria. A structured validated questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. Six hypotheses were stated and tested in the study towards propounding a model, using Pearson Correlation Analysis, Multiple Regression Analysis and Structural Equation Modelling. The results show that there is a weak positive relationship between occupational stress and organisational citizenship behaviour, r = 0.070, p<0.01; there is a significant positive relationship between psychological capital and organisational citizenship behaviour, r = 0.588, p<0.01; there is a significant positive relationship between emotional intelligence and organisational citizenship behaviour, r = 0.473, p<0.01; psychological capital is a significant moderator of the relationship between occupational stress and organisational citizenship behaviour, F (2,1529) = 8.514; R2= 0.011; p <.05; emotional intelligence is a significant moderator of the relationship between occupational stress and organisational citizenship behaviour, F (2,1529) = 5.945; R2= 0.008; p <.05; psychological capital and emotional intelligence are significant joint moderators of the relationship between occupational stress and organisational citizenship behaviour, F (1,1530) = 221.240; R2= 0.186; p <.05; psychological capital has a direct and significant positive effect on organisational citizenship behaviour, R= 0.657, p<.001; emotional intelligence has a direct and significant positive effect on organisational citizenship behaviour, R= 0.183, p<.001; psychological capital has a direct and significant positive effect on occupational stress, R= 0.100, p<.001; emotional intelligence has a direct and significant positive effect on psychological capital, R= 0.547, p<.001. Based on the results, the study concludes that psychological capital and emotional intelligence are significant joint moderators of the relationship between occupational stress and organisational citizenship behaviour. The proposed model was, therefore, empirically confirmed. The researcher recommends that the empirical model of effective management of occupational stress and organisational citizenship behaviour, which has been propounded in the study, should be adopted and applied by teachers, lecturers, seminar facilitators, workshop trainers, supervisors and managers during their coaching or training sessions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The impact of emotional intelligence on the work and carrer performance of early career academics at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Marembo, Mathew
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Career development Emotional intelligence Personnel management -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8541 , vital:33091
- Description: Orientation – Early Career Academics (ECAs) in their quest to make significant strides in their academic career are faced with a changing academic context, limited support from employers and circumstances emanating from globalization. All these may arouse emotions, fears, anxieties and uncertainties. Many authorities have exhibited emotional intelligence (EI) to be important in terms of self-management, coping and adaptation. In this regard EI may be influential in the career performance of ECAs. Research Purpose – The main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of EI on the career and work performance of ECAs at the University of Fort Hare. Motivation of the Study – EI is criticized for not being easily measurable and also for not being a sufficient predicting factor to individual performance. Little research exists on EI as a predictor to ECAs career progression. Research Approach, Design and Method – The study utilized quantitative data measurement scales. The Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale was used to measure EI whilst career performance was measured using the Perceived Career Success Scale. The principles of structural equation modelling were applied in formulating the research hypotheses and in data analysis. Main Findings - Exploratory factor analysis extracted four factors from the SEIS, which were named expression of emotion, perception of emotion, use of emotion and regulation of emotion. Expression, perception and regulation of emotions were found to significantly influence job success, interpersonal success, non-organisational success and hierarchical success. The overall EI was not significant to explain change in ECAs career performance. The researcher also found no significant differences in the EI scores on the basis of ECAs age, gender and work experience. Practical/Managerial Implications - The findings to this study may be useful for career counselling and personal development such that an individual may be able to maximize performance and achievement of career goals. The study recommends that EI may be incorporated in learning programs so that ECAs and other professionals may improve their EI. Future research is encouraged on both ECAs and their senior counterparts in the same context of EI. Contribution or value-add – The study contributes to the debate on the predictive power of EI which is criticised by some authorities in the field.
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- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the need for a monitoring model for public service training facilitators :|bthe case of a training agency at an Eastern Cape university
- Authors: Masha, Anthony Kambi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employees -- Training of Group facilitation Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13138 , vital:39468
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the needs of a mentoring model for public service Training Facilitators. The study followed a qualitative interpretive research design whereby semi-structured interviews were used to gain answers from the three constructs addressing the research questions. The results of an assessment that was conducted by the researcher in this study indicate that there is a lack of a mentoring programme for FHS Training Facilitators and that the development of competencies and skills for Training Facilitators through mentoring is non-existent. It was through the findings that the need of mentoring was envisaged, leading to the creation of a comprehensive mentoring model for Leadership Development training. Findings relating to questions regarding the purpose of mentoring, knowledge of presenting training programmes on Leadership Development and requisite competencies and professionalism of Training Facilitators indicate that there is need for a mentoring programme for Leadership Development training at FHS. This study is therefore significant in that a mentoring model has been developed. The study is a new line of inquiry and will make an original contribution to literature on mentoring, proactive training methods and Leadership Development. There is little known on proactive training methods for Millenials on Leadership Development both in South Africa and internationally. This study had a bias towards the qualitative approach. It was conducted in the Eastern Cape Province. For this research, respondents were only Training Facilitators at FHS. The empirical study was limited to male or female Training Facilitators working for FHS and Training Facilitators who have worked for FHS for at least more than a year. The Management of FHS and administration staff members were excluded from the study since the study included only Training Facilitators from the Human Capital Training and Development Unit at FHS. The main focus of the study is mentoring, and does not include related aspects, such as career coaching, executive coaching, action learning and learnerships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Mineral governance and human development : the case of Western Ghana
- Authors: Danso, Felix
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resources -- Ghana Mining law -- Ghana Mineral industries -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8725 , vital:33472
- Description: This thesis focuses on mineral governance and how it can contribute to ameliorating human development challenges in Ghana. The study adopted the human centered mineral resource governance approach to assess the mineral governance structure in Ghana and identified that, the current system is a colonial legacy and does not promote human development in Ghana. The study, whilst recognizing the legacies of colonialism, argues that in order for mineral resources to be managed responsibly to promote human development, there should be a paradigm shift to focus on how mineral resources are governed. As a result, the study, relying on the human centered development approach investigates how mineral resources can be governed to promote development in Ghana, with specific focus on the mineral wealth Western Region of the country. Due to the finite nature of mineral resources, the human centered development approach argues that revenues from mineral resources should be invested in human capacity building and medical care delivery. Further, the mining sector should be integrated with other non-mining sectors of the economy to create jobs and provide alternative livelihoods which will go a long way to assist in the general expansion and growth of the country‟s economy. Although this thesis is a case study of mineral governance in Ghana, it can serve as a springboard to appreciate the role mineral governance can play in promoting people centered development in other sub – Saharan mineral wealth countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A data governance maturity evaluation model to enhance data management in Eastern Cape government departments
- Authors: Olaitan, Olutoyin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Electronic government information Data protection Public administration -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7989 , vital:31448
- Description: The governance of data assets has become a topical issue in the public sector. Government departments are faced with increasingly complex data and information arising from multiple projects, different departments, divisions and several stakeholders seeking data for divergent end uses. However, an exploratory study of the literature regarding data governance in government departments of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa suggest that there are no clear data governance processes in place within the departments. The research question “How can a data governance maturity evaluation model enhance data governance processes in the Eastern Cape government departments” was derived as a result of a perceived need for government departments of the province to manage their critical data assets in a manner which promotes accurate, verifiable and relevant fiscal and strategic planning. Following the review of current literature in the data governance domain, a conceptual data governance evaluation maturity model was developed and produced. The conceptual model was influenced by the IBM data governance maturity model (2007) and it was aimed at addressing the gaps in the reference model to suit the context of the Eastern Cape government departments and the governance of their data assets. A qualitative phase of empirical data collection was conducted to test the components of the conceptual model. A quantitative instrument, derived from the findings of the qualitative study, as well as the components of the refined model was administered to 50 participants in the same departments where qualitative data was collected, with additional participants being drawn from three other departments. Pragmatism was the guiding philosophy for the research. The Contingency and Institutional theories form the theoretical grounding for the study. Design Science guidelines by Hevner et al (2004), Peffers et al’s (2008) Six Steps in Design Science and Drechsler & Hevner’s (2016) Fourth Cycle of Design Science were employed to construct, improve, validate and evaluate the final artefact. Findings confirmed the literature that data governance is lacking in government departments. It is asserted that the implementation of this model will improve the way data assets are recorded, used, archived and disposed in government departments of the Eastern Cape. The outcome of this research was the development and production of a data governance maturity evaluation model as well as a process document which gives a roadmap of how to move from one maturity level to another.
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- Date Issued: 2017
Energy services and energy poverty for sustainable development in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mupindu, Chipo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8408 , vital:32743
- Description: This study examines the effects of energy poverty on sustainable development in Zimbabwe. The principal objective of this study was to analyse Zimbabwe energy poverty as a contributing factor impacting on sustainable development. Access to energy was viewed as a human right in this study and attributes of ecological modernization and energy ladder theories were incorporated in the study so as to foster sustainable development. The study developed a symbiosis between energy poverty and human development in Zimbabwe. The power shortages have caused a lot of energy poverty and load shedding in the country and this has had adverse consequences on the transformation of the economy as well as the general human capacity development in the country. The supply shortage was as a result of many factors which include the lack of investment in the power sector by government for expanded generation capacity, ageing equipment, incorrect pricing, bad debts, droughts, internal conflicts, skills flight, and government energy sector regulation, vandalisation of equipment and under supply of coal to thermal power stations. The country needs to commit itself towards improving the current situation by revising the energy policy to include alternative sources, the integration of regional power systems and construction of more power stations, and by putting research monitoring and evaluation mechanisms in place so as to improve power generation capacity which meets the demand of the country. The evidence from the findings gathered in this study led to the conclusion that the Zimbabwe energy and power sector lacks the capacity to provide adequate reliable clean energy to the nation and this has affected the development of the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exhaustible resources and the hotelling rule : an empirical test of the hotelling rule's significance to gold production in South Africa
- Authors: Mlambo, Courage
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Natural resources -- Mathematical models Econometrics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4738 , vital:28507
- Description: The study sought to test the applicability of the Hotelling rule in South Africa. In environmental economics, the Hotelling rule has come to be a pillar of the exhaustible resources framework and in addition to this, it has presented essential insights into the consumption and extraction of non-renewable resources. Hotelling sought to address one important question which had been unanswered regarding the depletion of exhaustible resources: How much of the natural resource in question should be consumed presently and how much of it should be stocked up for future generations? The focus was to find a solution for those involved in the exploitation of natural resources to choose between the current value of the natural resource if extracted and sold and the future increased value of the asset if left unexploited. According to the Hotelling rule, the extraction path in competitive market economies will, under certain circumstances, be socially optimal. An extraction path that is not socially optimal compromises the welfare of future generations. The welfare of South Africa’s present population and more especially in the future will be greatly determined by the stock of natural resources available and the quality of the environment. Currently, the production processes deplete natural resources. Concern with the supposed increasing scarcity of gold in South Africa, and the possibility of running out of gold, has become a source of concern. South Africa’s gold reserves (gold in the ground that can be extracted profitably) are becoming depleted at an alarming rate. Most reserves are already exhausted; and the costs involved in mining lower-grade ore, and deposits located very deep in the ground, are becoming excessive. In light of this, this study sought to test the applicability of the Hotelling rule in South Africa. In order to empirically test the Hotelling rule, the study was guided by previous literature that had sought to test it. In this regard, the study used both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study has three data analysis chapters. The first two presented and examined the time series properties of gold prices, gold production and gold consumption. The third data analysis chapter examined the relationship between gold price and interest rates. In the first two data analysis chapters, visual inspection, growth rates, variance ratio tests and advanced unit root tests were used to examine the time series properties of gold prices, gold production and gold consumption. Results showed that the behaviour of the gold price series and gold production series in South Africa have a behaviour that is socially optimal. This is in line with the Hotelling rule. The rule predicts exponentially increasing resource prices and this result in mineral resources following the path of the positive trend. The positive trend is prompted by the increasing price reflecting the increasing scarcity of the resource. However, consumption trends were seen to be violating the Hotelling rule. The Hotelling rule predicts that the price increases until it eventually reaches the choke price, where the quantity demanded decreases to zero. However, in contrast to this, results showed that the demand for gold has been increasing instead of decreasing. This is not in line with the Hotelling rule. Furthermore the relationship between interest rate and gold price was negative and this suggested that the price of gold was not rising at the rate of the interest rate. The results of the study suggested that gold production is not following a social optimally path. The study recommended that the government come up with measures that prolong the lifespan of the gold reserves. These included research and development to promote technological innovations in the mining sector. This may make it possible for firms to access lower-grade ores. The study also recommended that since the Hotelling rule partly applied in the gold sector, there is a need to adopt some other theoretical measures that can ensure that the proceeds from the gold taxes are used in the most effective way.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The impact of intra- and inter- regional integration on trade flows in Africa
- Authors: Taylor, Nina-Mari
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: International trade Trade blocs Regionalism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12408 , vital:39260
- Description: Regional integration is regarded as a formation which would allow African countries to improve their trade performance and economic growth. By subscribing to such a regional integration grouping, successful regional trade integration could assist African countries in achieving economies of scale, expand respective domestic markets, reduce marginalisation as well as the collective utilisation and exploitation of resources. Such achievements could, gradually, raise the competitiveness of African countries in respect of the global market. By collaborating in regional integration agreements, groups of countries are sought to increase their collective bargaining power and co-operation amongst the member countries. Regional integration can, therefore, be regarded as a necessary means by which economic development, growth and trade can be enhanced amongst African countries. The associated advantages and benefits of regional integration could improve the productive capacity of African counties and strengthen both their individual and continental position in the process of globalisation and integration into the world economy. This study endeavours to examine the impact of intra-regional integration and inter-regional integration on trade flows among and between: SADC, COMESA, ECOWAS and the EAC. The relevant theoretical and empirical literature regarding regional integration is considered as well as the challenges faced by regional economic communities in Africa. The study is based on an Augmented Gravity Model and it employs Panel Data Estimation Techniques and Panel Unit Root Tests. The Hausman test results proved the Fixed Effects Model to be the most applicable to the study. The empirical findings revealed that both intra-regional integration and inter-regional integration had a positive bearing on trade flows and between: SADC, COMESA, ECOWAS and the EAC. Hence, regional integration is concluded as having a prominent role in promoting trade flows in Africa and the study recommends that African countries and regional economic communities should pursue deeper economic integration and continental integration.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the Millennium Development Goal's poverty reduction target in Ogun State, Nigeria
- Authors: Durokifa, Anuoluwapo Abosede
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Millennium Development Goals Economic development projects -- Nigeria Sustainable development -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4649 , vital:28483
- Description: Nigeria, like many nations of the world, is confronted with a high level of poverty. Over the years the country has taken several initiatives to reduce the incidence of poverty. Nigeria was one of the earliest countries to adopt the Millennium Development Goals [MDGs] as a strategy in reducing poverty and promoting development across the vast nation. The federating states have also rolled out a number of poverty reduction programmes tailored along the millennium development goals. This study, therefore, evaluates the achievement of the millennium development poverty reduction target in Ogun State, South west Nigeria. The study seeks to ascertain whether the state was able to significantly reduce poverty with the introduction of the MDGs. The study also attempts to establish difference or similarity (if any) between past poverty reduction policies in the state and the MDGs poverty reduction strategies. In carrying out this study, related literature on poverty, development and poverty reduction efforts (strategies and programmes) implemented in the state were extensively reviewed and relevant information retrieved for the study. This study employed the mixed method research, comprising both the quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data through the administration of a questionnaire was obtained from 232 respondents. While in-depth interview with seven participants provided the qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using Descriptive statistics, and chi-square statistical technique was used to analyze the quantitative data while qualitative data analysis was carried out using transcription and thematic clusters. The findings of the study, in general, revealed that the MDG poverty reduction strategy did not make any significant contribution in reducing poverty in the state. The MDG strategy was not any different from past poverty reduction strategies implemented in the state. The findings of the research also strongly indicated that there was low awareness regarding the MDGs poverty reduction strategies set up amongst the citizens of the state. The low awareness emerged as a major hindrance to the success of the MDG programme. Based on the findings of this study, a sustainable development poverty reduction model was developed. The model gives room for programme awareness; people’s consultation and participation. It emphasizes the need to consider the community setting or environment factors in the planning and execution of poverty reduction programme. This model contend that aligning strategies to the peculiar need of each environment is a critical component for the sustenance of any poverty reduction programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An information security policy compliance reinforcement and assessment framework
- Authors: Gundu, Tapiwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Computer security Information technology--Security measures Information resources management--Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Information Systems
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11554 , vital:39084
- Description: The majority of SMEs have adopted the use of information communication and technology (ICT) services. However, this has exposed their systems to new internal and external security vulnerabilities. These SMEs seem more concerned with external threat related vulnerabilities rather than those from internal threats, although researchers and industry are suggesting a substantial proportion of security incidents to be originating from insiders. Internal threat is often addressed by, firstly, a security policy in order to direct activities and, secondly, organisational information security training and awareness programmes. These two approaches aim to ensure that employees are proficient in their roles and that they know how to carry out their responsibilities securely. There has been a significant amount of research conducted to ensure that information security programmes communicate the information security policy effectively and reinforce sound security practice. However, an assessment of the genuine effectiveness of such programmes is seldom carried out. The purposes of this research study were, firstly, to highlight the flaws in assessing behavioural intentions and equating such behavioural intentions with actual behaviours in information security; secondly, to present an information security policy compliance reinforcement and assessment framework which assists in promoting the conversion of intentions into actual behaviours and in assessing the behavioural change. The approach used was based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour, knowledge, attitude and behaviour theory and Deterrence Theory. Expert review and action research methods were used to validate and refine the framework. The action research was rigorously conducted in four iterations at an SME in South Africa and involved 30 participating employees. The main findings of the study revealed that even though employees may have been well trained and are aware of information security good practice, they may be either unable or unwilling to comply with such practice. The findings of the study also revealed that awareness drives which lead to secure behavioural intents are merely a first step in information security compliance. The study found that not all behavioural intentions converted to actual secure behaviours and only 64percent converted. However, deterrence using rewards for good behaviour and punishment for undesirable behaviour was able to increase the conversion by 21percent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A bring your own device information security behavioural model
- Authors: Musarurwa, Alfred
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Data protection Computer security -- Management Privacy, Right of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8587 , vital:33166
- Description: The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) phenomenon has become prevalent in the modern-day workplace, including the banking industry. Employees who own devices have become the unintended administrators of the organisation’s information as their mobile devices often carry information belonging to the organisation. The unintended administrator is not necessarily schooled or aware of the information security risks and challenges that are associated with the BYOD. This inadvertently shifts the management of organisational information security from the information technology (IT) administrator to the unintended administrator. This shift leaves the organisation at risk of information security breaches that can permeate the organisation, which result from the behaviour that the unintended administrator displays when operating the mobile device. This study introduces the BYOD Information Security Behavioural (BISB) model. The model constructs are a combination of individual and organisational traits of the unintended administrator. The purpose of this study is to mitigate the risks posed by the unintended administrator in organisations through the implementation this model. The risk that the unintended administrator poses in relation to the BYOD phenomenon results in chief information officers (CIOs) being unable to totally control these mobile devices. Traditional endpoint information security management tools and methods can no longer secure devices in the BYOD the way they can in the traditional network where they are confined to the organisation’s IT administrator. This results in the organisation’s information security becoming the responsibility of the unintended administrator. This study was conducted in the banking sector in Zimbabwe. It is noteworthy that the BYOD phenomenon has become prevalent in the banking sector among other organisational sectors like education, health or even government departments. Information security is also an important component of the banks as such and a choice was made to conduct the study in the banking industry. The design science research paradigm was followed in this study and included a survey of 270 bank employees in Zimbabwe, which received 170 complete responses. A literature review on both employee behaviour and organisational culture was conducted, followed by a case study of a commercial bank in Zimbabwe. The literature review culminated in traits that were then classified as individual traits and organisational traits. Six constructs –, knowledge, attitude, habit, environment, governance and training – were identified from the literature and combined to form the BYOD information security behavioural (BISB) model. Statistical calculations were conducted on the survey results which informed the reliability, validity and rigour of the model constructs. An expert review including industry experts was conducted to evaluate the BISB model. This study concludes by recommending that organisations in Zimbabwe should make use of the BISB model to mitigate the information security risks that are posed by the unintended administrator. While there are technical solutions for managing the information security risks that come with the BYOD, this study points out that without harnessing the individual and organisational traits that make up the BYOD information security behavioural model for the unintended administrator, technical solutions alone will not be effective.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A framework for enhancing the effectiveness of strategic leadership in the Eastern Cape Education Department
- Authors: Govender, Surendran Perumal
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Educational leadership Strategic planning Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8598 , vital:33180
- Description: In this study the analysis of the organisational practices in the South African public sector revealed that there is a practical limitation, anchored on the absence of a suitable framework for enhancing the effectiveness of strategic leadership. The research engaged with studies and theories that confirmed that the application of effective strategic leadership enhances the performance of public sector organisations. However, such an analysis revealed no well-defined strategic leadership framework that may be used for improving the successful implementation of programmes in the public sector as a whole and more especially, the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). The study therefore interpreted that a significant improvement in the performance of the ECDoE may be effected through the prioritisation of strategic leadership and thereby enhancing its effectiveness. Hence, the primary research objective for this study was to examine strategic leadership and to consider the variables impacting the application of strategic leadership in the ECDoE, so that a framework may be formulated to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in the ECDoE. The data analysis, research observations, findings and interpretations as well as the literature review enabled the researcher to determine the strategic leadership framework that may be postulated for application in the ECDoE. The research data in essence supports the indications in the literature that strategic leadership has a positive effect on enhancing organisational performance and success. The key findings and significant conclusions drawn from the study indicated a definite need to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in the ECDoE and that the associated leadership challenges in the sector have to be addressed to enable more efficient and effective service delivery, increase learner performance and improve organisational success. The researcher has therefore postulated the framework in figure 10 to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in ECDoE and presents it for consideration by the political and administrative leadership for adoption in the ECDoE. The development of this strategic leadership framework by the researcher was informed by the various leadership models, leadership theories, leadership styles and change management strategies examined in the literature review of this study and further directed by the research findings and conclusions that illuminated the challenges that confront ECDoE in the application of strategic leadership in the sector. The framework postulated has three distinct but inter-related steps and this study theorises that the effectiveness of strategic leadership is influenced by the extent to which the managers or leaders determine the specific context and apply the appropriate leadership style (Step 1), implement the selected leadership style in conjunction with the application of appropriate accompanying management strategies (Step 2), and monitor the resulting effects on enhancing the performance of the public sector organisations (Step 3). The researcher also adopted a systems-thinking approach and identified four pillars that transcend organisational service delivery and integrated them to constitute a proposed model for enhancing service delivery, improving implementation of plans and promoting organisational success in ECDoE. The model postulated by the researcher is based on “policies, procedures, systems and structures”, as illustrated in figure 11. The pillars of this proposed model for service delivery are inter-related, inter-locking and at times overlapping. Arising from the literature review and the case study of ECDoE, areas for further research have been identified such as: a more in-depth probing of the significance, role and impact of strategic leadership in all public sector institutions in South Africa; an examination of the Senior Management Services (SMS) mandates given by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) with regard to strategic leadership; an exploration of the implementation constraints of the National Development Plan (NDP) linked to the positioning of strategic leadership; and, an examination of the role and impact of the training and development programmes in strategic leadership, co-ordinated by the National School of Government (NSG) in South Africa.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A critical review of broad based Black Economic Empowerment policy implementation in the forest sector in Amahlathi Municipality
- Authors: Haruna, Suraj
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Blacks -- South Africa -- Economic conditions South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8736 , vital:33488
- Description: African countries have become synonymous with policy drafters and abortive policy implementers. After independence from long period colonialism, slavery and apartheid, African states policy administrators began putting in place policies to improve either the living conditions of citizens or the inequities emanating from the administration of colonial governments. However, these policies do little to naught to meet the aforementioned goals. The Free Education Systems in Nigeria and Ghana, and the Indigenization Policy in Zimbabwe are examples of policies that experienced miscarriage of policy implementation in the past. This study therefore, aspires to explore the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment policy implementation in the forest sector and specifically identify bottlenecks in the implementation processes in South Africa. Qualitative approach was used in order to meet the primary and secondary objectives of the study. Semi structured interview questions were administered to relevant companies, institutions and the municipality which were purposely sampled to capture the processes of the BBBEE implementation. The study revealed that measured entities are complying with the prescript of the policy but that finance and a continuous policy amendment presents a bottleneck in the implementation dynamics. Lastly, labour intensive measured entities find it impossible to meet the skills development element due to high cost of training. These results suggest that the value envisaged is not being met. The study also found that verification agencies are effectively providing their watchdog function in the implementation of the policy however the use of technology is non-existent in monitoring the process. Finally the study found that agencies are hired by measured entities to verify their BBBEE status which presents a huge inducement for both parties to collude. It also found that the policy is implemented in a top-down approach hence municipalities have been relegated from the implementation process. The study recommends decentralization of the policy in a strategy called Local Economic Equity for the Disadvantaged (LEED) which involves the expertise of white South Africans and permanent resident people in order to build truly inclusive society envisaged by the Constitution of South Africa. Additionally, it recommends the use of technology dubbed e-BBBEE to implement the policy.
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- Date Issued: 2017
A critical analysis of the dynamics of intergovernmental relations in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chakunda, Vincent
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- Zimbabwe International relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7979 , vital:31345
- Description: The field of intergovernmental relations (IGR), both from a conceptual and practical perspective presents a contested order in Zimbabwe’s political and public administration discourse, with a fairly long and complex historical and institutional context. The advent of colonialism in Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia) gave birth to a dualised form of government with a separatist development agenda. The dualistic model of government was anchored on a segregationist centralist ideology that advanced a white supremacist agenda while entrenching underdevelopment in native areas. This was attained through the use of draconic and ingrained racially discriminatory laws, ordinances and policy enactments, inter alia, the 1910 High Commissioner’s Proclamation, the Native Councils Act, the African Councils Act, and the District Councils Act which supported the overriding philosophy of colonialist hegemony. The direct rule policy was used and in practice, administrative, political, judicial and legislative powers were under the purview of the whites. Under this political dispensation, the nature of IGR was typically a master-servant relationship as African institutions had limited policy latitude under the tentacles of race-driven white control over the socio-economic and political space with an exploitative and subservient underpinning. The demise of colonialism and the birth of independent Zimbabwe in 1980 ushered a new political dispensation. The post-independence government embarked on a number of reforms aimed at dismantling the racist undertones of government. These reforms include the expanded decentralization frameworks supported by legislative instruments and policies such as the 1984 Prime Minister’s Directive and the 1996 thirteen principles of decentralization. Other key reforms are the 1996 Urban Councils Act, Chapter 29:15 and the 1988 Rural District Councils Act, Chapter 29:13. However, it is important to note that despite this plethora of legislation and reforms purportedly meant to dismantle racist backed institutional differentiation, the new national government did not depose its excessive control on sub-national governments. It is therefore an insoluble contradiction that the legislation and institutions created in post-independence Zimbabwe promoted the autonomy of sub-national governments while broadening democracy and citizen participation. This era rather presents an aporetic discourse epitomized by the national government’s perfection of colonial dominance approaches through creating legislation and institutions to retain wide and extensive control of sub-national governments. The Global Political Agreement of 2009 culminated into the promulgation of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Number 20 of 2013 with provisions for devolution of power, Provincial and Metropolitan Councils and the enshrinement of Local Government as a tier of government with constitutionally guaranteed autonomy. However, despite these reforms with far reaching implications on the configuration of IGR, the ZANUPF led national government is lethargic in implementing them. This has sparked controversy as these constitutional reforms and their potential to promote an integrated and efficient system of governance may turn out to be a pyrrhic victory. This is so because the necessary legislation anchoring the constitutional reforms may not be created in the foreseeable future as the current national government views devolution, for instance, as tantamount to surrendering political power to sub-national institutions. The purpose of the study was to critically examine the dynamics of intergovernmental relations in Zimbabwe. The overlapping authority model of IGR and the theory of networked governance underpinned the study. A comparative study of IGR was conducted focusing on two federal nations (United States of America) and Nigeria) and two unitary nations (United Kingdom and South Africa). A qualitative phenomenological methodology was used and the sample size was 20 respondents selected using the purposive sampling technique. Data was collected using in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis and critical discourse analysis. Key findings of the study reflected on the conception and relevance of IGR in unitary nations in contrast to classical perspectives that restricted the field as a discourse of federalism. The study established that the unitary system of Zimbabwe is anchored on a strong centralist ideology that suffocates the autonomy of sub-national institutions. In the same context, there is absence of political will on the part of the ZANUPF led government to implement crucial constitutional reforms that have a bearing on the configuration of IGR. The study also revealed that political party incongruence is a threat to intergovernmental coordination, integrated planning and collaborative development. Various recommendations were made from the study and these include that national government should expedite the implementation of the Constitution, codification of IGR by way of legislation and rationalization of fiscal transfers and intergovernmental fiscal equalization.
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- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the implementation of human resource planning and development and its effect on service delivery in the ministry of health and social welfare in Tanzania
- Authors: Rwiza, Edith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Personnel management--Tanzania Civil service--Tanzania Public health--Tanzania
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11861 , vital:39113
- Description: Public health is a major concern to a number of countries, due to its ripple impact in the economy. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors that contribute to the implementation of HRP and D in the Tanzanian health sector. To achieve this, 22 respondents from the Ministry Secretariat and Directors were interviewed, and 355 questionnaires were administered to beneficiaries of the HRP and D. A mixed method approach was utilised to analyse the data collected from the respondents. The findings of the study pointed that males dominated the sample, with the majority holding postgraduate qualification. In terms of the implementation of the HRP, 49 percent of the respondents stated that it was satisfactory. While, in terms of capacity, 67 percent were of the view that there is a shortage of skilled staff. The challenges identified include inequality in the allocation of staff, lack of skills, knowledge and experience, and oversupply of staff in certain regions. Strategies proposed for enhancing the application of HRP and D include an overhaul in the organisation structure, solving staff welfare issues, ethics and values improvement, and management of staff. The study recommends that the government should allocate adequate budget to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to implement Human Resource Planning and Human Resource Development in all levels of the sector as directed by President’s Office, and the Public Service Management (PO-PSM). The study also recommends on the improvement of the Human Capital Management Information System (HCMIS) to assess health workers movement. Lastly, the study recommends that there should be good coordination, cooperation, and clear lines of authority between stakeholders of health system in supervision and regulation in the implementation of HRP and HRD plans.
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- Date Issued: 2017