A case study of the strategic nature of DaimlerChrysler South Africa's corporate social investment programmes in the local communities of the Border-Kei region in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mak'ochieng, Alice Atieno
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: DaimlerChrysler , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1165 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002781 , DaimlerChrysler , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Corporate social responsibility has become the business issue of the 21st century. Heightened expectations of the business sector, globalisation and increased media attention on the role of business in society are casting an intense spotlight on this issue. As a result, pressure has built on business to play a larger role in bringing about socio-economic development to many local communities where they operate. While for a long time companies have been involved in the community on a philanthropy basis, many companies today are reassessing the manner in which they conduct their corporate social responsibility programmes. Many companies are including corporate social responsibility issues into their strategic planning process and overall corporate strategy. Emphasis is given to certain strategic indicators that must be present in order for a company to be said to have taken a strategic approach to corporate social responsibility. This study adopted a critical-realist approach using a case study method to evaluate DaimlerChrysler South Africa’s corporate social investment programmes in the local community of the Border-Kei region against these strategic indicators. This new form of engagement is even challenging for a multinational corporation, which may feel that it is only obliged to assist the local community where its corporate headquarters is located. But as companies derive an everlarger share of revenue and profits from international operations, multinational companies are being called upon to redefine “community”, by looking beyond local, domestic and geographical communities to include those in regions where they have factories or factories operated by key suppliers. This study found that DCSA was strategically involved and had a good relationship with its local community. However, the company needs to be more connected with the rural communities to make local projects more successful especially after handover.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Mak'ochieng, Alice Atieno
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: DaimlerChrysler , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1165 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002781 , DaimlerChrysler , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industries -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Corporate social responsibility has become the business issue of the 21st century. Heightened expectations of the business sector, globalisation and increased media attention on the role of business in society are casting an intense spotlight on this issue. As a result, pressure has built on business to play a larger role in bringing about socio-economic development to many local communities where they operate. While for a long time companies have been involved in the community on a philanthropy basis, many companies today are reassessing the manner in which they conduct their corporate social responsibility programmes. Many companies are including corporate social responsibility issues into their strategic planning process and overall corporate strategy. Emphasis is given to certain strategic indicators that must be present in order for a company to be said to have taken a strategic approach to corporate social responsibility. This study adopted a critical-realist approach using a case study method to evaluate DaimlerChrysler South Africa’s corporate social investment programmes in the local community of the Border-Kei region against these strategic indicators. This new form of engagement is even challenging for a multinational corporation, which may feel that it is only obliged to assist the local community where its corporate headquarters is located. But as companies derive an everlarger share of revenue and profits from international operations, multinational companies are being called upon to redefine “community”, by looking beyond local, domestic and geographical communities to include those in regions where they have factories or factories operated by key suppliers. This study found that DCSA was strategically involved and had a good relationship with its local community. However, the company needs to be more connected with the rural communities to make local projects more successful especially after handover.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
An assessment of the extent to which community based planning is effectively used to identify viable and sustainable local economic development projects as part of municipal integrated development planning in Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Ngamlana, Mncedi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22857 , vital:30111
- Description: The aim of this study is to investigate public participation mechanisms employed by Buffalo City Municipality and the extent to which these mechanisms influence municipal planning. The study highlights the extent to which the municipality’s development processes and programs are informed by the views of its citizens. This study also provides some useful insights into the extent to which the municipality is complying with legislative requirements for public participation in community-related projects. The approach was designed to respond to two major challenges that were identified at the time, namely: An analysis of the institutional challenges in attempts to promote sustainable livelihoods; and a realisation that decentralisation has concentrated on local government itself and has limited impact on citizens. The research methodology used is both qualitative and quantitative. Furthermore, face-to-face interviews were conducted in order to provide an accurate presentation of information (Leavitt and Bahrami, 1998),. The study revealed that a lack of an integrated approach to planning and program implementation between different departments within BCM even though these should essentially be planning and implementing in one accord. Community based planning (CBP) is one way in which municipalities encourage ward communities to participate in planning with an intended intention that the ward-based plans will feed into bigger strategies of the municipality. What had been uncovered through this study is that in BCM, CBP is not done, and therefore does not influence the development of the IDP and the LED strategy. This means that there is little meaningful community participation in BCM in the development of the IDP and the LED strategy, and therefore the municipality has no guarantee that its development initiatives are targeted towards the real needs of its citizens. Also, the study revealed that ward communities in BCM have no direct influence or control over their own development and over development priorities that are budgeted for by the municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ngamlana, Mncedi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22857 , vital:30111
- Description: The aim of this study is to investigate public participation mechanisms employed by Buffalo City Municipality and the extent to which these mechanisms influence municipal planning. The study highlights the extent to which the municipality’s development processes and programs are informed by the views of its citizens. This study also provides some useful insights into the extent to which the municipality is complying with legislative requirements for public participation in community-related projects. The approach was designed to respond to two major challenges that were identified at the time, namely: An analysis of the institutional challenges in attempts to promote sustainable livelihoods; and a realisation that decentralisation has concentrated on local government itself and has limited impact on citizens. The research methodology used is both qualitative and quantitative. Furthermore, face-to-face interviews were conducted in order to provide an accurate presentation of information (Leavitt and Bahrami, 1998),. The study revealed that a lack of an integrated approach to planning and program implementation between different departments within BCM even though these should essentially be planning and implementing in one accord. Community based planning (CBP) is one way in which municipalities encourage ward communities to participate in planning with an intended intention that the ward-based plans will feed into bigger strategies of the municipality. What had been uncovered through this study is that in BCM, CBP is not done, and therefore does not influence the development of the IDP and the LED strategy. This means that there is little meaningful community participation in BCM in the development of the IDP and the LED strategy, and therefore the municipality has no guarantee that its development initiatives are targeted towards the real needs of its citizens. Also, the study revealed that ward communities in BCM have no direct influence or control over their own development and over development priorities that are budgeted for by the municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An assessment of the impact of local economic development on urban poverty alleviation: a case of the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Mbeba, Roland D
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11424 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/548 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Local Economic Development has in recent years, gained wide spread acceptance, as a locality-based response to economic challenges. It is now firmly on the agenda of many national and local government and key international agencies. Adopting a desk study approach, reviewing extensive literature on LED, the study sought to establish the impact of LED strategy employed by Buffalo City Municipality, and assess the extent to which it has alleviated poverty. The study shows that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) LED strategy has limited impact on poverty alleviation due to a myriad of factors, which reinforce and interact with each other thereby limiting development and trapping residents in poverty. The thesis argues that there is significant room for a paradigm shift from predominantly pro-growth to pro-poor LED, and the need to adopt a comprehensive LED strategy that seeks to include of both pro-growth and pro-poor strategies. Both cannot operate without the other in the bid to promote development in Buffalo City, mainly with Agriculture, Tourism, and SMME having significant potential to bring about local economic development. Moreover, the promotion of Private-Public Partnerships play an integral role in the socio-economic development of Buffalo City, and more so the participation of local people is even more fundamental, which will give them the opportunity to take charge of their own development. Therefore, the study suggests a new LED agenda, which is pro-poor, holistic, and moves away from ‘piecemeal’ project based LED activities, and adopts comprehensive economic programmes so that LED has significant impact on poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mbeba, Roland D
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11424 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/548 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Local Economic Development has in recent years, gained wide spread acceptance, as a locality-based response to economic challenges. It is now firmly on the agenda of many national and local government and key international agencies. Adopting a desk study approach, reviewing extensive literature on LED, the study sought to establish the impact of LED strategy employed by Buffalo City Municipality, and assess the extent to which it has alleviated poverty. The study shows that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) LED strategy has limited impact on poverty alleviation due to a myriad of factors, which reinforce and interact with each other thereby limiting development and trapping residents in poverty. The thesis argues that there is significant room for a paradigm shift from predominantly pro-growth to pro-poor LED, and the need to adopt a comprehensive LED strategy that seeks to include of both pro-growth and pro-poor strategies. Both cannot operate without the other in the bid to promote development in Buffalo City, mainly with Agriculture, Tourism, and SMME having significant potential to bring about local economic development. Moreover, the promotion of Private-Public Partnerships play an integral role in the socio-economic development of Buffalo City, and more so the participation of local people is even more fundamental, which will give them the opportunity to take charge of their own development. Therefore, the study suggests a new LED agenda, which is pro-poor, holistic, and moves away from ‘piecemeal’ project based LED activities, and adopts comprehensive economic programmes so that LED has significant impact on poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
An assessment of the role of agricultural projetcs in poverty alleviation at Ngqushwa Local Municipality
- Authors: Guzana, Andile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8328 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020351
- Description: This study assessed the role of agricultural projects in poverty alleviation at Ngqushwa local municipality. These projects are very important for poverty alleviation and to fight the growing levels of unemployment in the Eastern Cape. Despite the advantages of these projects, there are challenges that impact negatively on the implementation of these projects such as conflict, lack of resources, market failure and these projects are too disconnected. Consequently, the projects do not achieve their intended objectives and there are high levels of dissatisfaction among project members. The study was conducted in two wards of Ngqushwa local municipality, and two projects were selected from each ward and ten members were selected from each project and the total number of a sample for the study was forty project members. The research utilized both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected through questionnaires, document analysis and observations. The sampling method that was used to select respondents or participants was purposive. The findings of the study indicated that agricultural projects in this area did not bring about any significant reduction in poverty, and they did not bring about any significant economic development. The study also revealed that there was lack of community participation in matters pertaining to community development and lack of support by all relevant stakeholders which resulted in failure at the implementation phase. The researcher also discovered that the poverty alleviation approach was mainly focused on one type of project, other than looking at other avenues to ensure that those who do not have interest in food gardens are given alternative opportunities like cattle farming. In view of these findings, the study recognises a need for empowerment in terms of knowledge and skills, understanding and resource management of agricultural projects. The study thus recommended that community members should be actively involved in community development projects. Additionally, the study recommended for the establishment or formulation of new policies or amendments of the existing policies in order to boost agriculture in rural areas so as to be able to alleviate poverty effectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Guzana, Andile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8328 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020351
- Description: This study assessed the role of agricultural projects in poverty alleviation at Ngqushwa local municipality. These projects are very important for poverty alleviation and to fight the growing levels of unemployment in the Eastern Cape. Despite the advantages of these projects, there are challenges that impact negatively on the implementation of these projects such as conflict, lack of resources, market failure and these projects are too disconnected. Consequently, the projects do not achieve their intended objectives and there are high levels of dissatisfaction among project members. The study was conducted in two wards of Ngqushwa local municipality, and two projects were selected from each ward and ten members were selected from each project and the total number of a sample for the study was forty project members. The research utilized both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected through questionnaires, document analysis and observations. The sampling method that was used to select respondents or participants was purposive. The findings of the study indicated that agricultural projects in this area did not bring about any significant reduction in poverty, and they did not bring about any significant economic development. The study also revealed that there was lack of community participation in matters pertaining to community development and lack of support by all relevant stakeholders which resulted in failure at the implementation phase. The researcher also discovered that the poverty alleviation approach was mainly focused on one type of project, other than looking at other avenues to ensure that those who do not have interest in food gardens are given alternative opportunities like cattle farming. In view of these findings, the study recognises a need for empowerment in terms of knowledge and skills, understanding and resource management of agricultural projects. The study thus recommended that community members should be actively involved in community development projects. Additionally, the study recommended for the establishment or formulation of new policies or amendments of the existing policies in order to boost agriculture in rural areas so as to be able to alleviate poverty effectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An evaluation of a poverty alleviation programme : a case study of Ndakana village, district of Nqamakwe
- Authors: Mavuso, Fezile Theophilus
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8287 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018560
- Description: The study sought to evaluate the extent to which poverty alleviation programmes of the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) addressed the agricultural needs of the Ndakana community. The emphasis had been on the effectiveness with which these programmes were implemented. Ndakana Village is situated in the Nqamakwe District. The village consists of Hili-hili, Mathafeni, Ncora and Diphini locations which are approximately twenty kilometres from the rural town of Nqamakwe in Amathole District. In the Eastern Cape, several poverty alleviation programmes are implemented which should, inter alia, alleviate the phenomenon of poverty in the rural areas. Despite these programmes it, however, appears that there is very little, if any, improvement in the poverty situation. Against this background it is essential that the progress in the alleviation of poverty be evaluated and if necessary, steps be taken to ensure that the envisaged objectives be achieved. On the importance of evaluating the program, Monette et al. (2011:5) write that in the past few decades, many large, ambitious expensive programmes intended to cope with social problems and to provide services to individuals have been developed. Along with the growth of these programs has emerged an increasing concern over their results: Do they achieve their intended goals? These programs are costly, and some evaluation is needed to assess whether resources are, indeed, being used effectively. Equally important, a program that fails to achieve its goals leave a problem unresolved or a service undelivered. Monette et al. (2011:6) further regard evaluation as a use of scientific research techniques to assess the result of a program and evaluate whether the program, as currently designed, achieve its stated goals In accordance with the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) (1994:20), a national land reform programme is the central driving force of rural development. Such a programme aims to effectively address the injustices of the forced removals and the historical denial of access to land. The RDP aims to ensure security of tenure for rural dwellers in implementing the national land reform programme, and through the provision of support services, the South African government intends to build the economy by generating large-scale employment, increasing rural income and endeavours to eliminate overcrowding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mavuso, Fezile Theophilus
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8287 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018560
- Description: The study sought to evaluate the extent to which poverty alleviation programmes of the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) addressed the agricultural needs of the Ndakana community. The emphasis had been on the effectiveness with which these programmes were implemented. Ndakana Village is situated in the Nqamakwe District. The village consists of Hili-hili, Mathafeni, Ncora and Diphini locations which are approximately twenty kilometres from the rural town of Nqamakwe in Amathole District. In the Eastern Cape, several poverty alleviation programmes are implemented which should, inter alia, alleviate the phenomenon of poverty in the rural areas. Despite these programmes it, however, appears that there is very little, if any, improvement in the poverty situation. Against this background it is essential that the progress in the alleviation of poverty be evaluated and if necessary, steps be taken to ensure that the envisaged objectives be achieved. On the importance of evaluating the program, Monette et al. (2011:5) write that in the past few decades, many large, ambitious expensive programmes intended to cope with social problems and to provide services to individuals have been developed. Along with the growth of these programs has emerged an increasing concern over their results: Do they achieve their intended goals? These programs are costly, and some evaluation is needed to assess whether resources are, indeed, being used effectively. Equally important, a program that fails to achieve its goals leave a problem unresolved or a service undelivered. Monette et al. (2011:6) further regard evaluation as a use of scientific research techniques to assess the result of a program and evaluate whether the program, as currently designed, achieve its stated goals In accordance with the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) (1994:20), a national land reform programme is the central driving force of rural development. Such a programme aims to effectively address the injustices of the forced removals and the historical denial of access to land. The RDP aims to ensure security of tenure for rural dwellers in implementing the national land reform programme, and through the provision of support services, the South African government intends to build the economy by generating large-scale employment, increasing rural income and endeavours to eliminate overcrowding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An evaluation of two poverty alleviation projects in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Sojola, Vuyisile Theophilus
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9215 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020801
- Description: The researcher is disturbed by the high rising levels of poverty and unemployment in the Eastern Cape whilst there are poverty alleviation programmes that have been established since the ushering in of the Democratic Government in 1994. The sole purpose of the research is to investigate two poverty alleviation projects in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality under Amatole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape. The study will focus on the following aspects: project management, capacity building, support, coaching, monitoring and evaluation, the market and the views community members have on poverty alleviation projects. The research sought to find out what challenges have been encountered by Tshabo Bakery Project and Ilitha Poultry Project which might impact negatively to the project. The researcher will use interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, direct observation and document analysis to collect information for the study. Findings and recommendations for this study will also be presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Sojola, Vuyisile Theophilus
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9215 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020801
- Description: The researcher is disturbed by the high rising levels of poverty and unemployment in the Eastern Cape whilst there are poverty alleviation programmes that have been established since the ushering in of the Democratic Government in 1994. The sole purpose of the research is to investigate two poverty alleviation projects in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality under Amatole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape. The study will focus on the following aspects: project management, capacity building, support, coaching, monitoring and evaluation, the market and the views community members have on poverty alleviation projects. The research sought to find out what challenges have been encountered by Tshabo Bakery Project and Ilitha Poultry Project which might impact negatively to the project. The researcher will use interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, direct observation and document analysis to collect information for the study. Findings and recommendations for this study will also be presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Assessing farmers’ aspirations and goals to expand irrigation crop production from homestead gardens to irrigation plots in Mhlontlo Local Municipality
- Authors: Finiza, Tabisa Nomava
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Crops irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11209 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016173 , Crops irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Most land is still state owned and is granted to users through traditional authorities. Even though the government has undertaken some programmes to reduce rural poverty and has initiated land reform programmes, improved service delivery and formed new water rights legislation in rural areas, the problem of low crop production still persists among South African farmers. The study was undertaken to identify different farmers’ aspirations and goals for expanding their crop production from homestead gardening to irrigation plots in Mhlontlo Local Municipality, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The central problem is that smallholder farmers are not expanding their scale of crop production even though they have access to natural capital which includes land and water. The broad objective of the study was to determine the aspirations and goals of farmers to expand irrigation crop production from homestead gardens to irrigation plots. The specific objectives of the study were to assess factors that addressed smallholder farmers’ aspirations and goals to expand crop production, to identify challenges that smallholder farmers encountered in expanding from homestead gardens to irrigation plots and to determine the current state of homestead gardens and irrigation plots. A list of 20 goals were identified from the field survey with 54 homestead food gardeners and 50 smallholder irrigation farmers in the different villages of the Mhlontlo Local Municipality. Random sampling was used to select the farmers who were asked to score the identified farm enterprise goals in terms of their relative importance. The goals were categorised into five factors using Gasson goal ranking methods which ranked goals on the basis of intrinsic, expressive, instrumental, and social criteria. The next step was to determine the standard deviations and means of the ranked goals. Descriptive statistics was then used to profile the farmers according to such factors as age, gender, years of farm experience, types of plot, the availability of water and land for crop production, the income farmers generate from the sale of crops produced and these are cross-tabulated with their goal rankings. The Logit model was used to estimate the probability that farmers would belong to a particular goal ranking and performance category. The logit model was also used to identify the factors that influence the expansion of the cropped area. The results revealed that maize production and land size where significant at 1%. Age and type of irrigation used were also positively significant at 1%. The results also revealed that the adoption of agricultural technology by smallholder irrigation farmers and homestead food gardens contributed to better quality produce.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Finiza, Tabisa Nomava
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Crops irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11209 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016173 , Crops irrigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Most land is still state owned and is granted to users through traditional authorities. Even though the government has undertaken some programmes to reduce rural poverty and has initiated land reform programmes, improved service delivery and formed new water rights legislation in rural areas, the problem of low crop production still persists among South African farmers. The study was undertaken to identify different farmers’ aspirations and goals for expanding their crop production from homestead gardening to irrigation plots in Mhlontlo Local Municipality, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The central problem is that smallholder farmers are not expanding their scale of crop production even though they have access to natural capital which includes land and water. The broad objective of the study was to determine the aspirations and goals of farmers to expand irrigation crop production from homestead gardens to irrigation plots. The specific objectives of the study were to assess factors that addressed smallholder farmers’ aspirations and goals to expand crop production, to identify challenges that smallholder farmers encountered in expanding from homestead gardens to irrigation plots and to determine the current state of homestead gardens and irrigation plots. A list of 20 goals were identified from the field survey with 54 homestead food gardeners and 50 smallholder irrigation farmers in the different villages of the Mhlontlo Local Municipality. Random sampling was used to select the farmers who were asked to score the identified farm enterprise goals in terms of their relative importance. The goals were categorised into five factors using Gasson goal ranking methods which ranked goals on the basis of intrinsic, expressive, instrumental, and social criteria. The next step was to determine the standard deviations and means of the ranked goals. Descriptive statistics was then used to profile the farmers according to such factors as age, gender, years of farm experience, types of plot, the availability of water and land for crop production, the income farmers generate from the sale of crops produced and these are cross-tabulated with their goal rankings. The Logit model was used to estimate the probability that farmers would belong to a particular goal ranking and performance category. The logit model was also used to identify the factors that influence the expansion of the cropped area. The results revealed that maize production and land size where significant at 1%. Age and type of irrigation used were also positively significant at 1%. The results also revealed that the adoption of agricultural technology by smallholder irrigation farmers and homestead food gardens contributed to better quality produce.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Assessing the impact of the income generating projects funded by the department of social development in Uitenhage, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Charles, Phatheka Patience
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic assistance, Domestic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37947 , vital:34267
- Description: Income-generating projects represent one strategy adopted by the Department of Social Development to alleviate poverty. This study assessed the impact of income-generating projects funded by the department of social development in Uitenhage, Eastern Cape. The study is based on five specific objectives which sought to: assess the effectiveness of income-generating projects in Uitenhage; evaluate the formulation, implementation and overall management of income-generating projects by the Department of Social Development; 3)determine the involvement of the beneficiaries in improving their welfare; assess the roleplayed by the Department of Social Development in capacitating the project; and examine the possible challenges that the projects face that hinder them from achieving the alleviation of poverty. A sample of 22 people was selected to represent the income-generating projects members population. Non-probability sampling techniques were used in choosing the sample. Specifically, purposive sampling was one of the non-probability techniques used to ensure that all the projects were included in the research. Data were collected using questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed by using the documentation method. The result from this study showed that there are different income-generating activities and that all have need for regular monitoring and evaluation visits from officials from the Department. Project members also need training in financial management so that they do not mismanage their project finances. The research findings further indicated, clearly, that strategies currently used by the Department are not effective enough to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Charles, Phatheka Patience
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic assistance, Domestic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37947 , vital:34267
- Description: Income-generating projects represent one strategy adopted by the Department of Social Development to alleviate poverty. This study assessed the impact of income-generating projects funded by the department of social development in Uitenhage, Eastern Cape. The study is based on five specific objectives which sought to: assess the effectiveness of income-generating projects in Uitenhage; evaluate the formulation, implementation and overall management of income-generating projects by the Department of Social Development; 3)determine the involvement of the beneficiaries in improving their welfare; assess the roleplayed by the Department of Social Development in capacitating the project; and examine the possible challenges that the projects face that hinder them from achieving the alleviation of poverty. A sample of 22 people was selected to represent the income-generating projects members population. Non-probability sampling techniques were used in choosing the sample. Specifically, purposive sampling was one of the non-probability techniques used to ensure that all the projects were included in the research. Data were collected using questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed by using the documentation method. The result from this study showed that there are different income-generating activities and that all have need for regular monitoring and evaluation visits from officials from the Department. Project members also need training in financial management so that they do not mismanage their project finances. The research findings further indicated, clearly, that strategies currently used by the Department are not effective enough to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Assessment of local economic development in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality: agriculture and food production
- Nongogo, Mbuyiselo Theophilus
- Authors: Nongogo, Mbuyiselo Theophilus
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- O.R. Tambo District Municipality , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020761
- Description: Local economic development (LED) is a government policy tool that seeks to build the economic capacity of a local area to improve its economic future and the quality of life for all. Partnerships between the public sector and the private sector are considered to be an important foundation for successful LED planning and implementation. The aim of the study was to assess whether the LED interventions, with specific emphasis on agriculture and food production programmes, are improving the livelihoods of the poor communities within the OR Tambo District Municipality. The researcher used the qualitative and quantitative research methods to collect the data through interviews and questionnaires respectively. Probability and non-probability sampling techniques were employed to identify the research sample from the target population. The researcher sampled the OR Tambo District Municipality as well as all the local municipalities therein. The target population consisted of LED directors, LED and IDP managers as well as LED councillors as respondents. Furthermore, the researcher also sampled other stakeholders that are crucial in LED, namely the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs, the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform and Transformation, the Eastern Cape Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, the Department of Social Development and Special Programmes as well as the Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency. Budgetary constraints and agricultural infrastructure backlogs were identified as the main challenges facing the district. These challenges hinder the effectiveness of implementing sound LED programmes. Consequently, LED benefits are minimal. It is recommended that the municipality develop strategies for income generation to boost its financial viability in order to strengthen its financial capacity, embark on vigorous infrastructure rollout which will have a positive economic impact and open employment opportunities for the local communities. This can be achieved by the strengthening of partnerships and the attraction of private investors in order for the municipality to implement the LED programmes effectively and change the lives of the people in the local area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nongogo, Mbuyiselo Theophilus
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- O.R. Tambo District Municipality , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020761
- Description: Local economic development (LED) is a government policy tool that seeks to build the economic capacity of a local area to improve its economic future and the quality of life for all. Partnerships between the public sector and the private sector are considered to be an important foundation for successful LED planning and implementation. The aim of the study was to assess whether the LED interventions, with specific emphasis on agriculture and food production programmes, are improving the livelihoods of the poor communities within the OR Tambo District Municipality. The researcher used the qualitative and quantitative research methods to collect the data through interviews and questionnaires respectively. Probability and non-probability sampling techniques were employed to identify the research sample from the target population. The researcher sampled the OR Tambo District Municipality as well as all the local municipalities therein. The target population consisted of LED directors, LED and IDP managers as well as LED councillors as respondents. Furthermore, the researcher also sampled other stakeholders that are crucial in LED, namely the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs, the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform and Transformation, the Eastern Cape Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, the Department of Social Development and Special Programmes as well as the Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency. Budgetary constraints and agricultural infrastructure backlogs were identified as the main challenges facing the district. These challenges hinder the effectiveness of implementing sound LED programmes. Consequently, LED benefits are minimal. It is recommended that the municipality develop strategies for income generation to boost its financial viability in order to strengthen its financial capacity, embark on vigorous infrastructure rollout which will have a positive economic impact and open employment opportunities for the local communities. This can be achieved by the strengthening of partnerships and the attraction of private investors in order for the municipality to implement the LED programmes effectively and change the lives of the people in the local area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Community development projects and food security: the case of Zanyokwe Irrigation Project Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Ndlovu, Sikhanyiso
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11438 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007226 , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Although food insecurity is said to have decreased in South Africa in the past years particularly at the national level, however, at household level a substantial proportion of households remains at risk of food insecurity and are experiencing hunger particularly in the Eastern Cape Province were poverty is rife. Food insecurity in the Eastern Cape Province is attributed to the fact that agriculture, the mainstay of the rural economy is no longer given the value that it should carry, does not help the situation. Despite much research on food (in) security in South Africa, the link between poverty and household food security is not at all clear. This study seeks to fill this gap specifically by looking at the linkages in the main between food security and poverty especially in the community level. Amidst the various programmes and initiatives that are in place in South Africa, there is continual prevalence of food insecurity facing the majority of South African households. The major aim of this study was therefore to examine the impact of one of these programmes, the Zanyokwe irrigation scheme in enhancing food security not only for the farmers but also for the surrounding communities. This study adopted a qualitative approach to research. The study unearthed that even though Zanyokwe irrigation scheme has played an indispensable role in enhancing food security for the smallholder farmers and the community at large challenges such as market challenges, road infrastructural issues, land tenure issues, lack of proper coordination amongst the farmers as well as farmer empowerment are a major limitation to the growth of the irrigation scheme and the farmers. Thus, the study recommended that farmer support services, training, agriculture subsidies, improved infrastructure as well as addressing market related challenges will go a long way in reducing the plight of the Zanyokwe farmers as well as enhancing food security
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ndlovu, Sikhanyiso
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11438 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007226 , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Although food insecurity is said to have decreased in South Africa in the past years particularly at the national level, however, at household level a substantial proportion of households remains at risk of food insecurity and are experiencing hunger particularly in the Eastern Cape Province were poverty is rife. Food insecurity in the Eastern Cape Province is attributed to the fact that agriculture, the mainstay of the rural economy is no longer given the value that it should carry, does not help the situation. Despite much research on food (in) security in South Africa, the link between poverty and household food security is not at all clear. This study seeks to fill this gap specifically by looking at the linkages in the main between food security and poverty especially in the community level. Amidst the various programmes and initiatives that are in place in South Africa, there is continual prevalence of food insecurity facing the majority of South African households. The major aim of this study was therefore to examine the impact of one of these programmes, the Zanyokwe irrigation scheme in enhancing food security not only for the farmers but also for the surrounding communities. This study adopted a qualitative approach to research. The study unearthed that even though Zanyokwe irrigation scheme has played an indispensable role in enhancing food security for the smallholder farmers and the community at large challenges such as market challenges, road infrastructural issues, land tenure issues, lack of proper coordination amongst the farmers as well as farmer empowerment are a major limitation to the growth of the irrigation scheme and the farmers. Thus, the study recommended that farmer support services, training, agriculture subsidies, improved infrastructure as well as addressing market related challenges will go a long way in reducing the plight of the Zanyokwe farmers as well as enhancing food security
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Contribution of an income-generating project: the case of Ngwanya village in Mbhashe Municipality
- Authors: Nyengule, Sivuyile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5274 , vital:20834
- Description: Income generating projects represent one strategy adopted by the Department of Economic Development to alleviate poverty. The purpose of this study is to investigate the contribution of an income-generation project in Ngwanya Village, Dutywa in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A sample of fifteen respondents was drawn from one income-generating project funded by the Department of Economic Development. The sampling method used for this study was purposive sampling. Data for analysis and interpretation was gathered through semi-structured interviews. Relevant literature that focuses on income-generating projects for poverty alleviation has been reviewed. Following analysis of the data gathered and interpretation of the study, conclusions are arrived at and various recommendations made. The research findings indicate clearly that the strategies being used by the Department of Economic Development were not sufficiently effective to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Nyengule, Sivuyile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5274 , vital:20834
- Description: Income generating projects represent one strategy adopted by the Department of Economic Development to alleviate poverty. The purpose of this study is to investigate the contribution of an income-generation project in Ngwanya Village, Dutywa in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A sample of fifteen respondents was drawn from one income-generating project funded by the Department of Economic Development. The sampling method used for this study was purposive sampling. Data for analysis and interpretation was gathered through semi-structured interviews. Relevant literature that focuses on income-generating projects for poverty alleviation has been reviewed. Following analysis of the data gathered and interpretation of the study, conclusions are arrived at and various recommendations made. The research findings indicate clearly that the strategies being used by the Department of Economic Development were not sufficiently effective to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Cultural clusters as a local economic development strategy in rural, small town areas: the Sarah Baartman District in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Drummond, Fiona Jane
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cultural industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Creative ability -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Arts -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Culture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/71568 , vital:29879
- Description: It is increasingly recognized that the cultural and creative industries (CCIs) can play an important role in economic growth and development. Governments around the world, including South Africa, are implementing culture‐led economic growth and development strategies on national and regional scales. CCIs tend to cluster around large cities because of existing hard and soft infrastructure such as networking advantages and access to skilled labour, however, much less is known about the potential of the CCIs to drive rural development. This thesis thus investigates the potential of the CCIs to cluster in small towns and rural areas. Moreover, it examines the relationship between the CCIs and socio‐economic development. The CCIs have been touted as a catalyst for economic growth and development and so have often been used in urban regeneration schemes. The Sarah Baartman District (SBD) of South Africa’s Eastern Cape has identified culture as a potential new economic driver. Establishing a new development path is necessary as the former economic mainstay, agriculture, has declined in the region, creating poverty and unemployment problems. However, the SBD has only small towns which, according to the literature, are not suited to CCI clustering. Despite this, there is evidence of cultural clustering in some of the SBD’s small towns like Nieu Bethesda and Bathurst. This research therefore conducted an audit of the CCIs in the district and used geographic information systems (GIS) to map their locations by UNESCO Framework of Cultural Statistics (FCS) domains in order to determine the extent to which clustering has occurred in a small town setting. The audit identified 1 048 CCIs operating in the district and determined that clustering is possible within some small towns, depending on their demographic, economic, social, geographic and historic characteristics. For small towns where clusters exist or the potential for cluster formation is present, the domains in which the town holds a comparative advantage, based on domain proportions and location quotients, should be pursued for local economic development (LED). In this case, Visual Arts and Crafts and Cultural Heritage were prominent throughout the district while Design and Creative Services and Performance and Celebration had small regional concentrations. Theory suggests that the presence of CCIs is linked to higher levels of economic development as the creative class is more likely to be attracted to more highly developed areas, usually large cities. Furthermore, spillover effects from cultural activity promotes further development under the virtuous cycle. To investigate the relationship between CCI clusters and socio‐economic development, the locational data of municipal level CCI numbers is overlaid with a regional development indicator, a socio‐economic status index, which is based on census data and includes economic and social components. Results show that there is a general positive trend of CCIs locating in larger numbers (clustering) in areas with higher socio‐economic development performances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Drummond, Fiona Jane
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cultural industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Creative ability -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Arts -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Culture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/71568 , vital:29879
- Description: It is increasingly recognized that the cultural and creative industries (CCIs) can play an important role in economic growth and development. Governments around the world, including South Africa, are implementing culture‐led economic growth and development strategies on national and regional scales. CCIs tend to cluster around large cities because of existing hard and soft infrastructure such as networking advantages and access to skilled labour, however, much less is known about the potential of the CCIs to drive rural development. This thesis thus investigates the potential of the CCIs to cluster in small towns and rural areas. Moreover, it examines the relationship between the CCIs and socio‐economic development. The CCIs have been touted as a catalyst for economic growth and development and so have often been used in urban regeneration schemes. The Sarah Baartman District (SBD) of South Africa’s Eastern Cape has identified culture as a potential new economic driver. Establishing a new development path is necessary as the former economic mainstay, agriculture, has declined in the region, creating poverty and unemployment problems. However, the SBD has only small towns which, according to the literature, are not suited to CCI clustering. Despite this, there is evidence of cultural clustering in some of the SBD’s small towns like Nieu Bethesda and Bathurst. This research therefore conducted an audit of the CCIs in the district and used geographic information systems (GIS) to map their locations by UNESCO Framework of Cultural Statistics (FCS) domains in order to determine the extent to which clustering has occurred in a small town setting. The audit identified 1 048 CCIs operating in the district and determined that clustering is possible within some small towns, depending on their demographic, economic, social, geographic and historic characteristics. For small towns where clusters exist or the potential for cluster formation is present, the domains in which the town holds a comparative advantage, based on domain proportions and location quotients, should be pursued for local economic development (LED). In this case, Visual Arts and Crafts and Cultural Heritage were prominent throughout the district while Design and Creative Services and Performance and Celebration had small regional concentrations. Theory suggests that the presence of CCIs is linked to higher levels of economic development as the creative class is more likely to be attracted to more highly developed areas, usually large cities. Furthermore, spillover effects from cultural activity promotes further development under the virtuous cycle. To investigate the relationship between CCI clusters and socio‐economic development, the locational data of municipal level CCI numbers is overlaid with a regional development indicator, a socio‐economic status index, which is based on census data and includes economic and social components. Results show that there is a general positive trend of CCIs locating in larger numbers (clustering) in areas with higher socio‐economic development performances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Determinants of rural households’ diversification of livelihood strategies: a case of Intsika Yethu farmers of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Munhenga, Daniel
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farm management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11220 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019818 , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farm management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Despite the continuing perceived economic centrality of agriculture in Intsika Yethu local municipality, rural households engage and pursue diverse non-farm livelihood activities to cope with diverse challenges and risks such as drought. This study assessed the importance of existing livelihood strategies adopted by the different rural households in Intsika Yethu; the link between households’ ownership and access to different ‘assets’; factors determining households’ ability to adopt certain livelihood strategies in the area. A survey of 120 households in six administrative areas and informal discussions with key informants were used to collect demographic data, data on socio-economic activities and factors determining the choice of livelihood strategies of the households in Intsika Yethu. The research findings indicated that only about 10% of the interviewed households relied solely on on-farm livelihood strategy only. Credit, remittances, market distance, affiliating to cooperatives, education and household size have a potential of influencing households to shift from on-farm livelihood strategy to other livelihood strategies. The government may need to promote programs and awareness on how households can diversify their livelihood strategies as a way of coping with economic constraints in the area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Munhenga, Daniel
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farm management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11220 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019818 , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farm management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Despite the continuing perceived economic centrality of agriculture in Intsika Yethu local municipality, rural households engage and pursue diverse non-farm livelihood activities to cope with diverse challenges and risks such as drought. This study assessed the importance of existing livelihood strategies adopted by the different rural households in Intsika Yethu; the link between households’ ownership and access to different ‘assets’; factors determining households’ ability to adopt certain livelihood strategies in the area. A survey of 120 households in six administrative areas and informal discussions with key informants were used to collect demographic data, data on socio-economic activities and factors determining the choice of livelihood strategies of the households in Intsika Yethu. The research findings indicated that only about 10% of the interviewed households relied solely on on-farm livelihood strategy only. Credit, remittances, market distance, affiliating to cooperatives, education and household size have a potential of influencing households to shift from on-farm livelihood strategy to other livelihood strategies. The government may need to promote programs and awareness on how households can diversify their livelihood strategies as a way of coping with economic constraints in the area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Developing assessment criteria for successful poverty alleviation with special reference to the Nomzamo Special Care Centre
- Authors: Gidi, Banele Anthony
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9050 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1601 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: While this study is partly theoretical it includes an exploratory case study in which theoretical insights are applied. In the theoretical part of this study, criteria for a successful poverty alleviation project were developed, guided by sustainability theory and complexity theory. It was proposed that researchers could assess existing projects according to these criteria to show where they were successful and where they could improve. The second part of this research consists of a case study, where an actual poverty alleviation project (The Nomzamo Special Care Centre, Peddie, Eastern Cape) was assessed according to the criteria developed in the first part. For this exploratory case study a non-random sample of 9 participants was drawn from the Nomzamo Special Care Centre and other stakeholders in the Ngqushwa Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Data was collected using questionnaires, observation and interviews. The results obtained from analysis indicate that project members particularly experience challenges pertaining to financial resources, infrastructure and maintenance. It is recommended that project members receive assistance from the government departments in order for the project to remain sustainable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Gidi, Banele Anthony
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9050 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1601 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: While this study is partly theoretical it includes an exploratory case study in which theoretical insights are applied. In the theoretical part of this study, criteria for a successful poverty alleviation project were developed, guided by sustainability theory and complexity theory. It was proposed that researchers could assess existing projects according to these criteria to show where they were successful and where they could improve. The second part of this research consists of a case study, where an actual poverty alleviation project (The Nomzamo Special Care Centre, Peddie, Eastern Cape) was assessed according to the criteria developed in the first part. For this exploratory case study a non-random sample of 9 participants was drawn from the Nomzamo Special Care Centre and other stakeholders in the Ngqushwa Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Data was collected using questionnaires, observation and interviews. The results obtained from analysis indicate that project members particularly experience challenges pertaining to financial resources, infrastructure and maintenance. It is recommended that project members receive assistance from the government departments in order for the project to remain sustainable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Evaluation of income generating projects
- Authors: Hlazo, Tandiswa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic assistance, Domestic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8988 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008457 , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic assistance, Domestic
- Description: The study is conducted in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in Lukhanji Local Municipality. Eastern Cape has a population of 1 676 470. Source: Demarcation Board (www.demarcation.org.za),03 April 2009. The Province is made up of seven district municipalities which includes the following; Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Cacadu, Amathole, Chris Hani, Ukhahlamba, OR Tambo, Alfred Ndzo. It is comprised of seven local municipalities which are King Sabata Dalindyebo, Nyandeni, Qaukeni, Mbizana, Mhlontlo, Port St John’s, and Ntabankulu. Eastern Cape, according to Bradshaw Debbie et al (2000;4) has the second highest poverty levels in South Africa (47percent of households below the poverty line, which is based on imputed monthly expenditure of R800 or less) (SSA, 2000b), combined with the highest provincial unemployment rate (55 percent) in the country (SSA, 2003). This province is characterised by inequitable growth and development. As mentioned above, it has a high level of poverty. For this reason, strategies like Income generating projects (IGPs) have been formulated to address the need for improved livelihoods, better skills and self employment opportunities. Income generating project as a concept is a convincing strategy when looked at a distance however there is a need to evaluate the impact of Income generating projects (IGPs) through a scientific study to determine the evidence of speculations that Income generating projects are claimed to improve and sustain livelihoods of our people. In the light of the aforesaid, the researcher has endeavoured and undertaken a study on the evaluation of income generating projects. This was done to determine the extent to which income generating projects (IGPs) as a mechanism to alleviate poverty address this problem of poverty. Due to the broadness of the concept of the problem and the extensive nature of the geographical area of the Eastern Cape, the study was exclusively focused on the agricultural projects of Ilinge and Machibini Project in Lukhanji Local Municipality. For the purpose of this study, a combined method approach was used. In other words, the study applied both quantitative and qualitative research design in an attempt to gain an indepth understanding of the problem investigated. Both questionnaire and interviews were employed during gathering of data of the study and participants were project members, project leader and key informants as contributing builders and mangers of the projects. Findings revealed that there is lack of sustainability on income generating projects as the projects studied lost a high number of project members with a common complaint of lack of income to sustain project members during their membership on the income generating projects (IGPs). Lack of skills is considered to be a crucial contributing factor as one other project complained of total lack of training of project members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Hlazo, Tandiswa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic assistance, Domestic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8988 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008457 , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic assistance, Domestic
- Description: The study is conducted in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa in Lukhanji Local Municipality. Eastern Cape has a population of 1 676 470. Source: Demarcation Board (www.demarcation.org.za),03 April 2009. The Province is made up of seven district municipalities which includes the following; Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Cacadu, Amathole, Chris Hani, Ukhahlamba, OR Tambo, Alfred Ndzo. It is comprised of seven local municipalities which are King Sabata Dalindyebo, Nyandeni, Qaukeni, Mbizana, Mhlontlo, Port St John’s, and Ntabankulu. Eastern Cape, according to Bradshaw Debbie et al (2000;4) has the second highest poverty levels in South Africa (47percent of households below the poverty line, which is based on imputed monthly expenditure of R800 or less) (SSA, 2000b), combined with the highest provincial unemployment rate (55 percent) in the country (SSA, 2003). This province is characterised by inequitable growth and development. As mentioned above, it has a high level of poverty. For this reason, strategies like Income generating projects (IGPs) have been formulated to address the need for improved livelihoods, better skills and self employment opportunities. Income generating project as a concept is a convincing strategy when looked at a distance however there is a need to evaluate the impact of Income generating projects (IGPs) through a scientific study to determine the evidence of speculations that Income generating projects are claimed to improve and sustain livelihoods of our people. In the light of the aforesaid, the researcher has endeavoured and undertaken a study on the evaluation of income generating projects. This was done to determine the extent to which income generating projects (IGPs) as a mechanism to alleviate poverty address this problem of poverty. Due to the broadness of the concept of the problem and the extensive nature of the geographical area of the Eastern Cape, the study was exclusively focused on the agricultural projects of Ilinge and Machibini Project in Lukhanji Local Municipality. For the purpose of this study, a combined method approach was used. In other words, the study applied both quantitative and qualitative research design in an attempt to gain an indepth understanding of the problem investigated. Both questionnaire and interviews were employed during gathering of data of the study and participants were project members, project leader and key informants as contributing builders and mangers of the projects. Findings revealed that there is lack of sustainability on income generating projects as the projects studied lost a high number of project members with a common complaint of lack of income to sustain project members during their membership on the income generating projects (IGPs). Lack of skills is considered to be a crucial contributing factor as one other project complained of total lack of training of project members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Exploring the suitability of the evaluation criteria used in the MPT projects, by looking at hard and soft components of development programmes
- Authors: Ncapai, Wandile
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3397 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018255
- Description: The study explores the suitability of the evaluation criteria used in Microprojects Programme Trust (MPT), by looking at hard and soft components of the development programme. In this sense hard components of development refer to those components of projects that are tangible and can be physically observed and can bring material changes to the life of the community. Soft components of development refer to those components of projects that bring qualitative transformation to the life of the community, i.e. increased levels of awareness, human well-being and the empowerment process that addresses the community's abstract needs, these are not tangible and often cannot be physically observed. Midway through its contract periods MPT evaluate all projects. The purpose of these mid term evaluations is to make recommendations to MPT on future approaches and methodology for community development and operations. The mid-term evaluation also influences the distribution and allocation of resources and funding. It was therefore vital that the criteria used are subject to tests and critical analysis so as to assess their validity. The assessment of the mid-term evaluation criteria used in MPT projects has been to further determine the appropriateness or suitability of the evaluation criteria as an instrument to measure and guide the MPT community development approach in the Eastern Cape. The method used was to conduct focus group discussions so as to get an insight into the local community situation as well as to assess non-tangible improvements and changes that have occurred in the life of the community as a result of the project. The information generated was used to compare what the community believe they achieved with what the official mid-term evaluation reports indicate was assessed and achieved and that was contrasted with what the literature recommends should have been assessed. The study found that the mid-term evaluations conducted on MPT projects have no social context in which the evaluations themselves were conducted. The terms of reference and criteria were based on the programme design which was formulated and compiled by the European Union without the participation of the local South African community. The findings also indicated that projects become unsuccessful or partly successful if the "soft" components which have a bearing on social and economic realities are neglected. The thesis ends with recommendations on how the mid-term evaluations as well as MPT programme can be developed to be more responsive to the needs as identified by the communities themselves. It is strongly believed that this study will provide a valuable contribution towards increasing the ability of MPT programme to bring about both material and qualitative transformation to the I ives of the disadvantaged community of the Eastern Cape whilst ensuring that the mid-term evaluations are developed and shaped to become an appropriate instrument to measure and guide MPT programme approach to community development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Ncapai, Wandile
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3397 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018255
- Description: The study explores the suitability of the evaluation criteria used in Microprojects Programme Trust (MPT), by looking at hard and soft components of the development programme. In this sense hard components of development refer to those components of projects that are tangible and can be physically observed and can bring material changes to the life of the community. Soft components of development refer to those components of projects that bring qualitative transformation to the life of the community, i.e. increased levels of awareness, human well-being and the empowerment process that addresses the community's abstract needs, these are not tangible and often cannot be physically observed. Midway through its contract periods MPT evaluate all projects. The purpose of these mid term evaluations is to make recommendations to MPT on future approaches and methodology for community development and operations. The mid-term evaluation also influences the distribution and allocation of resources and funding. It was therefore vital that the criteria used are subject to tests and critical analysis so as to assess their validity. The assessment of the mid-term evaluation criteria used in MPT projects has been to further determine the appropriateness or suitability of the evaluation criteria as an instrument to measure and guide the MPT community development approach in the Eastern Cape. The method used was to conduct focus group discussions so as to get an insight into the local community situation as well as to assess non-tangible improvements and changes that have occurred in the life of the community as a result of the project. The information generated was used to compare what the community believe they achieved with what the official mid-term evaluation reports indicate was assessed and achieved and that was contrasted with what the literature recommends should have been assessed. The study found that the mid-term evaluations conducted on MPT projects have no social context in which the evaluations themselves were conducted. The terms of reference and criteria were based on the programme design which was formulated and compiled by the European Union without the participation of the local South African community. The findings also indicated that projects become unsuccessful or partly successful if the "soft" components which have a bearing on social and economic realities are neglected. The thesis ends with recommendations on how the mid-term evaluations as well as MPT programme can be developed to be more responsive to the needs as identified by the communities themselves. It is strongly believed that this study will provide a valuable contribution towards increasing the ability of MPT programme to bring about both material and qualitative transformation to the I ives of the disadvantaged community of the Eastern Cape whilst ensuring that the mid-term evaluations are developed and shaped to become an appropriate instrument to measure and guide MPT programme approach to community development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Factors affecting rural farming households’ willingness to participate in a proposed irrigation scheme: a situation analysis of Guquka in Nkonkobe District Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Ngwenya, Kwanele
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11198 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007145 , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Previous studies conducted in the study area recommended an irrigation scheme as a much desired intervention in order to reduce poverty levels, reduce unemployment, provide a livelihood for the households and trigger development. The Land Bank of South Africa has shown keen interest to provide funds to set up an irrigation scheme in Guquka. Absence of peoples’ involvement and farmer participation has been identified as one of the causes of poor performance of smallholder irrigation schemes in South Africa. The poor performance of smallholder irrigation projects in South Africa provided a good basis for exploring factors that could possibly affect farmer participation and the success of the proposed irrigation scheme. This knowledge would be useful to providers of extension services, capital providers, policy makers and the recipients of the proposed irrigation scheme. The main objective of this study was to investigate the factors affecting the willingness of farming households to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. This investigation helped to analyse demographic; socio economic situation; farming practices; economic activities; water sources, uses and management in the study area. The major tool of enquiry in this study was the questionnaire which was used to collect data from the households. Household and farm characteristics were collected using structured questionnaires with the help of locally recruited and trained enumerators. The data used for the empirical analysis was obtained from a survey of 50 farming households in Guquka, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The following variables were selected to determine the scope of their influence on farmer willingness to participate in the proposed scheme: age; membership in local group; investment in agriculture, educational level of the farmers, knowledge, household size, labour and gender. A logit model was used to determine the extent to which these selected characteristics influence the willingness of farmers to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. The results showed that willingness to participate in the scheme was significantly influenced by the afore mentioned variables as well as knowledge about the planned irrigation scheme which is mainly provided by extension agents; and total household income. Age was found to decrease the willingness of farmers to participate in irrigation. A positive association existed between participation and the following variables; membership in local group, investment in agriculture, educational level of the farmers and knowledge. On the other hand, household size, labour and gender were not significant variables affecting willingness to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. Based on the results from the logit regression model, it can be concluded that membership in a local group, investment in agriculture, education, knowledge and total household income are responsible for increasing the probability of participation. The negative relationship on age and participation indicates that the older the person is, the lesser the chances of participation. It is recommended that stakeholders should improve access to education and farmer training programmes. Support systems to disseminate information, training and knowledge should be enhanced. Improving institutional support and access to financial services should be prioritised by the stakeholders in the study area. Further studies on building institutional capacity and a cost benefit analysis of irrigation options in the study area are recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ngwenya, Kwanele
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11198 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007145 , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Previous studies conducted in the study area recommended an irrigation scheme as a much desired intervention in order to reduce poverty levels, reduce unemployment, provide a livelihood for the households and trigger development. The Land Bank of South Africa has shown keen interest to provide funds to set up an irrigation scheme in Guquka. Absence of peoples’ involvement and farmer participation has been identified as one of the causes of poor performance of smallholder irrigation schemes in South Africa. The poor performance of smallholder irrigation projects in South Africa provided a good basis for exploring factors that could possibly affect farmer participation and the success of the proposed irrigation scheme. This knowledge would be useful to providers of extension services, capital providers, policy makers and the recipients of the proposed irrigation scheme. The main objective of this study was to investigate the factors affecting the willingness of farming households to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. This investigation helped to analyse demographic; socio economic situation; farming practices; economic activities; water sources, uses and management in the study area. The major tool of enquiry in this study was the questionnaire which was used to collect data from the households. Household and farm characteristics were collected using structured questionnaires with the help of locally recruited and trained enumerators. The data used for the empirical analysis was obtained from a survey of 50 farming households in Guquka, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The following variables were selected to determine the scope of their influence on farmer willingness to participate in the proposed scheme: age; membership in local group; investment in agriculture, educational level of the farmers, knowledge, household size, labour and gender. A logit model was used to determine the extent to which these selected characteristics influence the willingness of farmers to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. The results showed that willingness to participate in the scheme was significantly influenced by the afore mentioned variables as well as knowledge about the planned irrigation scheme which is mainly provided by extension agents; and total household income. Age was found to decrease the willingness of farmers to participate in irrigation. A positive association existed between participation and the following variables; membership in local group, investment in agriculture, educational level of the farmers and knowledge. On the other hand, household size, labour and gender were not significant variables affecting willingness to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. Based on the results from the logit regression model, it can be concluded that membership in a local group, investment in agriculture, education, knowledge and total household income are responsible for increasing the probability of participation. The negative relationship on age and participation indicates that the older the person is, the lesser the chances of participation. It is recommended that stakeholders should improve access to education and farmer training programmes. Support systems to disseminate information, training and knowledge should be enhanced. Improving institutional support and access to financial services should be prioritised by the stakeholders in the study area. Further studies on building institutional capacity and a cost benefit analysis of irrigation options in the study area are recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Factors that influence the sustainability of rural crop production community projects in the Umzimvubu District
- Authors: Majiki, Fezeka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8089 , vital:24991
- Description: Maize production is the main cropping activity in the Umzimvubu district. This cereal crop is the staple food for the Eastern Cape’s rural communities and accounts for nearly 95 per cent of the crops cultivated in dry-land cropping programmes. Food security in rural areas has been a major concern for the South African government. In attempts to mitigate hunger and poverty, the government has initiated rural development maize production projects. The primary objectives of the projects were to achieve sustainable livelihoods and rural development for the poor. The projects were expected to improve the quality of rural life and provide basic nutritional requirements of the community. Historically the rural poor have had to fend for themselves through subsistence farming in adverse environments. Input costs for farming have become increasingly expensive; this resulted in major challenges for subsistence farming. The crop production projects initiated in the Umzimvubu district have not been sustainable and have fallen short of addressing the needs of the various communities. The study aims to identify the factors that influence the sustainability of the crop production projects in the Umzimvubu district. A triangulation research method was used to provide multiple viewpoints to examine the data; this allows for greater accuracy of the research. The mixed method approach in which the researcher collects and analyses data integrates the findings and draws inferences using both qualitative and quantitative methodology. The quantitative research methodology provided the demographics and biographical data on the participants. The qualitative research methodology concentrated on the focus group discussions that gave an insight into the participants' views, perceptions and concerns. Focus groups were used to examine the factors influencing the sustain-ability of the projects and to explore how these projects are perceived and under-stood by the community and people working on the projects. The research interest is not only in what the project beneficiaries think, but also in why they think as they do. The main data collection was obtained from the focus groups and individual face-to-face interviews with the beneficiaries of the crop projects in the Umzimvubu district. It was found that the farming areas required rehabilitation, were susceptible to erosion and degradation, and lacked adequate land use practices. The beneficiaries of the cropping programmes had small amounts of other crops growing in their individual household gardens for household use in conjunction with the maize received from the maize programmes. The income made from selling maize from the programmes was insignificant and did not contribute substantially to the household needs, as the communities in these projects were still failing to secure adequate food requirements. The maize yields do not substantiate the monetary investment from the beneficiaries. Furthermore, the findings indicated that the beneficiaries do not receive consistent income from the programmes. The participants consisted of large households comprising mainly elderly people who depended on social grants as a regular source of income. These elderly were burdened with taking care of their grandchildren, whose parents were employed in either urban areas or unemployed and formed part of the household. The unemployed young adults also depended on child support grants for income. The maize harvested had to be shared between a large number of community members and the livestock. The findings also suggested that there was dependency on outside contractors for cultivation and other practices. The study found that most of the beneficiaries felt disempowered, as they had not been involved in the decision-making process. Furthermore, policy-makers failed to acknowledge existing indigenous knowledge and practices of the rural communities (i.e. inter-cropping and green mealie harvesting). Indigenous practices should be included into the programmes instead of compelling beneficiaries to adhere to new forms of cultivation. The communities introduction to new large-scale and challenging, highly technological methods resulted in most of the communities being fully dependent on government support and guidance. Training and the empowerment of beneficiaries are imperative. Rural people should be included in development of strategies and the role of the women should be given more recognition. It should be acknowledged that rural households are diverse and that the model cannot apply to each village or community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Majiki, Fezeka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8089 , vital:24991
- Description: Maize production is the main cropping activity in the Umzimvubu district. This cereal crop is the staple food for the Eastern Cape’s rural communities and accounts for nearly 95 per cent of the crops cultivated in dry-land cropping programmes. Food security in rural areas has been a major concern for the South African government. In attempts to mitigate hunger and poverty, the government has initiated rural development maize production projects. The primary objectives of the projects were to achieve sustainable livelihoods and rural development for the poor. The projects were expected to improve the quality of rural life and provide basic nutritional requirements of the community. Historically the rural poor have had to fend for themselves through subsistence farming in adverse environments. Input costs for farming have become increasingly expensive; this resulted in major challenges for subsistence farming. The crop production projects initiated in the Umzimvubu district have not been sustainable and have fallen short of addressing the needs of the various communities. The study aims to identify the factors that influence the sustainability of the crop production projects in the Umzimvubu district. A triangulation research method was used to provide multiple viewpoints to examine the data; this allows for greater accuracy of the research. The mixed method approach in which the researcher collects and analyses data integrates the findings and draws inferences using both qualitative and quantitative methodology. The quantitative research methodology provided the demographics and biographical data on the participants. The qualitative research methodology concentrated on the focus group discussions that gave an insight into the participants' views, perceptions and concerns. Focus groups were used to examine the factors influencing the sustain-ability of the projects and to explore how these projects are perceived and under-stood by the community and people working on the projects. The research interest is not only in what the project beneficiaries think, but also in why they think as they do. The main data collection was obtained from the focus groups and individual face-to-face interviews with the beneficiaries of the crop projects in the Umzimvubu district. It was found that the farming areas required rehabilitation, were susceptible to erosion and degradation, and lacked adequate land use practices. The beneficiaries of the cropping programmes had small amounts of other crops growing in their individual household gardens for household use in conjunction with the maize received from the maize programmes. The income made from selling maize from the programmes was insignificant and did not contribute substantially to the household needs, as the communities in these projects were still failing to secure adequate food requirements. The maize yields do not substantiate the monetary investment from the beneficiaries. Furthermore, the findings indicated that the beneficiaries do not receive consistent income from the programmes. The participants consisted of large households comprising mainly elderly people who depended on social grants as a regular source of income. These elderly were burdened with taking care of their grandchildren, whose parents were employed in either urban areas or unemployed and formed part of the household. The unemployed young adults also depended on child support grants for income. The maize harvested had to be shared between a large number of community members and the livestock. The findings also suggested that there was dependency on outside contractors for cultivation and other practices. The study found that most of the beneficiaries felt disempowered, as they had not been involved in the decision-making process. Furthermore, policy-makers failed to acknowledge existing indigenous knowledge and practices of the rural communities (i.e. inter-cropping and green mealie harvesting). Indigenous practices should be included into the programmes instead of compelling beneficiaries to adhere to new forms of cultivation. The communities introduction to new large-scale and challenging, highly technological methods resulted in most of the communities being fully dependent on government support and guidance. Training and the empowerment of beneficiaries are imperative. Rural people should be included in development of strategies and the role of the women should be given more recognition. It should be acknowledged that rural households are diverse and that the model cannot apply to each village or community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Government-sponsored community development projects as poverty alleviation tools: evidence from Mdantsane, East London
- Authors: Gedze, Ntombebhongo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape -- South Africa , Poverty alleviation , Community participation , Mdantsane Township
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005995 , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape -- South Africa , Poverty alleviation , Community participation , Mdantsane Township
- Description: The study investigates whether government-sponsored community development projects in the township of Mdantsane, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa, have achieved the intended goal of alleviating poverty among the beneficiaries. The specific outcomes of poverty alleviation are: improved income, acquisition of new skills, reduced dependence on welfare grants. Four urban farming projects were selected, namely: Buffalo City Organic Producers, Sakhisizwe Nursery, Lusindiso Farmer’s Trading Co-operative and Mbombela Co-operative. Focus group discussions and a mini survey were conducted with project beneficiaries, while relevant government officials were interviewed. Conceptual insights were drawn from community development theory. The findings showed that the broader context within which the projects occurred was characterised by a pro-poor social policy, relative availability of resources with which to translate it into action, and a measure of entrepreneurial potential amongst community members. However, while one of the projects showed some promise (in the sense that beneficiaries acquired new skills and had a generally positive attitude despite not enjoying any improved income status), all the others appeared doomed and trapped in dynamics such as: excessive government control of the management of the initiatives, ineffective project monitoring, and the mischaracterisation of the initiatives by both the government and the beneficiaries. A distorted sense of ownership and perverse community participation seemed to prevail, which in turn robbed the initiatives of their poverty alleviation potential. The study thus concluded that specific benefactor-beneficiary dynamics are crucial for the success of a given anti-poverty intervention. A robust pro-poor social policy, availability of resources with which to translate it into action, and local entrepreneurial potential do not in themselves bring about success; they must operate in a certain way and be undergirded by certain principles for them to become a powerful mechanism for alleviating poverty. It is against this background that the researcher offers some recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Gedze, Ntombebhongo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape -- South Africa , Poverty alleviation , Community participation , Mdantsane Township
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11948 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005995 , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape -- South Africa , Poverty alleviation , Community participation , Mdantsane Township
- Description: The study investigates whether government-sponsored community development projects in the township of Mdantsane, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa, have achieved the intended goal of alleviating poverty among the beneficiaries. The specific outcomes of poverty alleviation are: improved income, acquisition of new skills, reduced dependence on welfare grants. Four urban farming projects were selected, namely: Buffalo City Organic Producers, Sakhisizwe Nursery, Lusindiso Farmer’s Trading Co-operative and Mbombela Co-operative. Focus group discussions and a mini survey were conducted with project beneficiaries, while relevant government officials were interviewed. Conceptual insights were drawn from community development theory. The findings showed that the broader context within which the projects occurred was characterised by a pro-poor social policy, relative availability of resources with which to translate it into action, and a measure of entrepreneurial potential amongst community members. However, while one of the projects showed some promise (in the sense that beneficiaries acquired new skills and had a generally positive attitude despite not enjoying any improved income status), all the others appeared doomed and trapped in dynamics such as: excessive government control of the management of the initiatives, ineffective project monitoring, and the mischaracterisation of the initiatives by both the government and the beneficiaries. A distorted sense of ownership and perverse community participation seemed to prevail, which in turn robbed the initiatives of their poverty alleviation potential. The study thus concluded that specific benefactor-beneficiary dynamics are crucial for the success of a given anti-poverty intervention. A robust pro-poor social policy, availability of resources with which to translate it into action, and local entrepreneurial potential do not in themselves bring about success; they must operate in a certain way and be undergirded by certain principles for them to become a powerful mechanism for alleviating poverty. It is against this background that the researcher offers some recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Income generating projects and poverty alleviation: the Baviaans Arts and Crafts Project
- Authors: Mande, Zoleka
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community arts projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development corporations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6115 , vital:21039
- Description: South Africa has witnessed series of social unrest, many of which ended in violence by very poor communities who allege poor delivery of basic goods and services. The majority of South African citizens are poor and pervasive inequality exists between men and women and between black and white peoples of the country. The poverty alleviation strategies inequalities and the consequences of poverty amongst women in rural areas (Ozoemena, 2010). Cacadu District municipality has done a study analysis on poverty alleviation in 2009-2010 together with the Baviaans municipality to verify which areas was the most poorest in Baviaans municipality. The findings came as Vondeling and Riertbron which was the poorest area. The focus was on tourism side because Baviaans is the tourist area.Rietbron and Vondeling is part of Baviaans Arts and craft program that was previously funded by DEDEAT R500, 00 but only benefited after incorporated to Baviaans municipality as they were previously managed by Cacadu District Municipality before and the municipality decided to invest in this areas. The funding for DEDEAT was utilized for trainings, starting material and equipment’s and building of the Baviaanskoof Craft Shop for two projects which is Vondeling and Steytlerville and Rietbron did not benefit at that time. This study focuses on the income generating projects in Baviaans municipality with the view to describe the experiences of individuals who participate in these income generating projects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the contribution of income generating projects in addressing poverty alleviation. Steytlerville projects is using waste materials like old newspaper, raw material, broken cups to do jewellery .Vondeling and Rietbron project is an angel factory producing beaded wire angels by using materials locally produced merino wool, wire wool, beads and local products such as ostrich feathers .This study is based on a case study which gives a description of poverty and reflects an involvement process of beneficiaries or communities in an income generating project and how it is impacting on their livelihoods. Qualitative and quantitative methodology were used. According to Neuman (2000: 30), the quantitative data methods refer to the collection of data using numbers, counts and measures of things and qualitative research basically involves the use of words, pictures description and narratives”. Data was collected for interviews. In order to collect accurate information, an interview was conducted based on the author’s research questions. Research was conducted in different areas like Steytlerville, Vondeling and Rietbron. A questionnaire was used as a form of data collection for the three projects. These interviews were conducted formally in a focus group composed of the projects members. In Steytlerville they were 5 members, Vondeling 7 members and Rietbron10 members which make a sample of 22 members. These projects have two craft shop where they sell their product which is Willomore craft shop and Baviaanskloof craft shop. The craft shop has been established to create an outlet by which locally sustainably made craft can be displayed and sold. The craft shop has been developed in such a way that is a real life example of a green building and business .The craft shop is an example of how to be environmentally friendly and utilise nature in such a way that it is sustainable and does not destroy it. The research findings suggested that in certain instances, Baviaans Craft project has been successful in generating income for members. The market for these crafters is mainly tourists. From this research it came out clear that some of the project members were able to acquire skills which help them to find employment in well-established craft business. Despite the successful of Baviaans Craft project, the project members were somewhat constrained in managing and running the business. For example with response for special markets, they had to make use of external skills i.e. someone who made contacts with the export market and there after divide the profits amongst members. The project members were not adequately empowered in management skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mande, Zoleka
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community arts projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development corporations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6115 , vital:21039
- Description: South Africa has witnessed series of social unrest, many of which ended in violence by very poor communities who allege poor delivery of basic goods and services. The majority of South African citizens are poor and pervasive inequality exists between men and women and between black and white peoples of the country. The poverty alleviation strategies inequalities and the consequences of poverty amongst women in rural areas (Ozoemena, 2010). Cacadu District municipality has done a study analysis on poverty alleviation in 2009-2010 together with the Baviaans municipality to verify which areas was the most poorest in Baviaans municipality. The findings came as Vondeling and Riertbron which was the poorest area. The focus was on tourism side because Baviaans is the tourist area.Rietbron and Vondeling is part of Baviaans Arts and craft program that was previously funded by DEDEAT R500, 00 but only benefited after incorporated to Baviaans municipality as they were previously managed by Cacadu District Municipality before and the municipality decided to invest in this areas. The funding for DEDEAT was utilized for trainings, starting material and equipment’s and building of the Baviaanskoof Craft Shop for two projects which is Vondeling and Steytlerville and Rietbron did not benefit at that time. This study focuses on the income generating projects in Baviaans municipality with the view to describe the experiences of individuals who participate in these income generating projects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the contribution of income generating projects in addressing poverty alleviation. Steytlerville projects is using waste materials like old newspaper, raw material, broken cups to do jewellery .Vondeling and Rietbron project is an angel factory producing beaded wire angels by using materials locally produced merino wool, wire wool, beads and local products such as ostrich feathers .This study is based on a case study which gives a description of poverty and reflects an involvement process of beneficiaries or communities in an income generating project and how it is impacting on their livelihoods. Qualitative and quantitative methodology were used. According to Neuman (2000: 30), the quantitative data methods refer to the collection of data using numbers, counts and measures of things and qualitative research basically involves the use of words, pictures description and narratives”. Data was collected for interviews. In order to collect accurate information, an interview was conducted based on the author’s research questions. Research was conducted in different areas like Steytlerville, Vondeling and Rietbron. A questionnaire was used as a form of data collection for the three projects. These interviews were conducted formally in a focus group composed of the projects members. In Steytlerville they were 5 members, Vondeling 7 members and Rietbron10 members which make a sample of 22 members. These projects have two craft shop where they sell their product which is Willomore craft shop and Baviaanskloof craft shop. The craft shop has been established to create an outlet by which locally sustainably made craft can be displayed and sold. The craft shop has been developed in such a way that is a real life example of a green building and business .The craft shop is an example of how to be environmentally friendly and utilise nature in such a way that it is sustainable and does not destroy it. The research findings suggested that in certain instances, Baviaans Craft project has been successful in generating income for members. The market for these crafters is mainly tourists. From this research it came out clear that some of the project members were able to acquire skills which help them to find employment in well-established craft business. Despite the successful of Baviaans Craft project, the project members were somewhat constrained in managing and running the business. For example with response for special markets, they had to make use of external skills i.e. someone who made contacts with the export market and there after divide the profits amongst members. The project members were not adequately empowered in management skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015