The effect of the integration of design, procurement, and construction relative to health and safety
- Authors: Deacon, Claire Helen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Management Building -- Safety measures , Industrial safety
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15038 , vital:28115
- Description: The rates of fatalities, injuries and diseases from work, has been a longstanding challenge for centuries. The challenge is validated by the fact that there is not a paper, or publication, that appears to have been written worldwide, without discussion regarding the extent of the problem in the construction industry. Despite there being prescriptive statutory requirements applicable to the sector, all attempts to reduce the reduce the accident rates in South Africa appear to have been largely unsuccessful. The review of literature indicates that most research has focused on design, designers, roles of stakeholders, inter alia that relate to construction health and safety. Given the situation noted, the research investigated design, various aspects of the construction process and stakeholders, and the inclusion of procurement as a major component of the construction process. A triangulated, or mixed methods research methodology was utilised for the thesis. The qualitative methodology utilised in Action Research (AR) and a total of three FGs’ sought to develop a theoretical model that would identify multi-stakeholder policies, practice and education requirements. An extensive international, African and South African literature review was conducted as part of the secondary research and the grounding for the mixed methodology of research. The information sought to contextualise the South African paradigm and practices. Two quantitative, multi-stakeholders’ studies were conducted during the development of the research. The quantitative aspect considers the perceptions of those practicing or involved in H&S, the interface regarding the stakeholders and ‘issues’ experienced in the challenges relating to daily work. Themes were developed, inter alia: a general; workers; management (including supervision, responsibilities and pricing); a stakeholders’ theme (including project managers; design and designers, and client), and the construction H&S theme (including the CHSA, construction H&S Manager (CHSM), construction H&S Officer (CHSO)). A total of 22 hypotheses were tested. The hypotheses considered all the stakeholders, within the framework of the research. Only 1 hypothesis was not supported, and hypothesis was partially supported. Three AR FGs’ were held in the Sarah Baartman District (a building focus) and at the Bhisho offices (a civil engineering focus) of the ECDRPW. The research considered the procurement processes that underpins a project, with some elements relative to the interface of H&S, design, the stages of work, and the current legislative framework. A validated theoretical model, the ‘Deacon Procurement, Design and Health and Safety Model’ emerged from the qualitative aspect of the research. The salient findings indicate a tendency in the industry to operate in silos, adhere to minimum levels of compliance, and not determining other aspects that could possibly reduce project and financial risk. Therefore, stakeholders need to work together, across the stages of work. Level of confidence is low among clients and built environment groups regarding H&S across the project life cycle, resulting in the non-compliance, and increased project risk. Clients such as the National Treasury do not identify H&S risks during project planning, resulting in the lack of adequate resources for projects, with supply chain management and procurement not ensuring compliance and technical expertise. Due to lack of knowledge CHSAs’, CHSMs’, and CHSOs,’ are not appointed timeously, resulting in noncompliance, and increased project risk. The construction H&S practitioners level of confidence is affected by lack of experience, not knowledge, in contrast to the lack of H&S knowledge of built environment professionals. A range of recommendations are provided that include, inter alia: development of policy, guidelines and practice notes regarding H&S, supply chain management and procurement; education and training, continuing professional development, training and workshops, and further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The effect of the integration of design, procurement, and construction relative to health and safety
- Authors: Deacon, Claire Helen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Management Building -- Safety measures , Industrial safety
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15038 , vital:28115
- Description: The rates of fatalities, injuries and diseases from work, has been a longstanding challenge for centuries. The challenge is validated by the fact that there is not a paper, or publication, that appears to have been written worldwide, without discussion regarding the extent of the problem in the construction industry. Despite there being prescriptive statutory requirements applicable to the sector, all attempts to reduce the reduce the accident rates in South Africa appear to have been largely unsuccessful. The review of literature indicates that most research has focused on design, designers, roles of stakeholders, inter alia that relate to construction health and safety. Given the situation noted, the research investigated design, various aspects of the construction process and stakeholders, and the inclusion of procurement as a major component of the construction process. A triangulated, or mixed methods research methodology was utilised for the thesis. The qualitative methodology utilised in Action Research (AR) and a total of three FGs’ sought to develop a theoretical model that would identify multi-stakeholder policies, practice and education requirements. An extensive international, African and South African literature review was conducted as part of the secondary research and the grounding for the mixed methodology of research. The information sought to contextualise the South African paradigm and practices. Two quantitative, multi-stakeholders’ studies were conducted during the development of the research. The quantitative aspect considers the perceptions of those practicing or involved in H&S, the interface regarding the stakeholders and ‘issues’ experienced in the challenges relating to daily work. Themes were developed, inter alia: a general; workers; management (including supervision, responsibilities and pricing); a stakeholders’ theme (including project managers; design and designers, and client), and the construction H&S theme (including the CHSA, construction H&S Manager (CHSM), construction H&S Officer (CHSO)). A total of 22 hypotheses were tested. The hypotheses considered all the stakeholders, within the framework of the research. Only 1 hypothesis was not supported, and hypothesis was partially supported. Three AR FGs’ were held in the Sarah Baartman District (a building focus) and at the Bhisho offices (a civil engineering focus) of the ECDRPW. The research considered the procurement processes that underpins a project, with some elements relative to the interface of H&S, design, the stages of work, and the current legislative framework. A validated theoretical model, the ‘Deacon Procurement, Design and Health and Safety Model’ emerged from the qualitative aspect of the research. The salient findings indicate a tendency in the industry to operate in silos, adhere to minimum levels of compliance, and not determining other aspects that could possibly reduce project and financial risk. Therefore, stakeholders need to work together, across the stages of work. Level of confidence is low among clients and built environment groups regarding H&S across the project life cycle, resulting in the non-compliance, and increased project risk. Clients such as the National Treasury do not identify H&S risks during project planning, resulting in the lack of adequate resources for projects, with supply chain management and procurement not ensuring compliance and technical expertise. Due to lack of knowledge CHSAs’, CHSMs’, and CHSOs,’ are not appointed timeously, resulting in noncompliance, and increased project risk. The construction H&S practitioners level of confidence is affected by lack of experience, not knowledge, in contrast to the lack of H&S knowledge of built environment professionals. A range of recommendations are provided that include, inter alia: development of policy, guidelines and practice notes regarding H&S, supply chain management and procurement; education and training, continuing professional development, training and workshops, and further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The effects of municipal demarcation board decisions on health care services in the Eastern Cape: a case of Alfed Nzo District Municipality
- Authors: Makali, Andile Ernest
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Health-care services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13546 , vital:39678
- Description: The study sought to assess the effects of municipal demarcation board decisions on health care services. Since the democratic elections, the South African government was faced with the task of eliminating the racially based municipal system that segregated certain groups of people in service delivery. To deal with the determination and re-determination of municipal boundaries the Municipal Demarcation Board (MBD) was established in 1998. The study used secondary data to achieve its objectives. A number of official documents and sources that were used for this study. These included government documents, municipal documents, NGO documents, private sector documents. Results showed that municipal revenue is negatively affected by demarcations. Alfred Nzo District Municipality is no exception to this. Furthermore, demarcation processes have implications for health human resources and other municipal health processes. Human resources such as nurses and doctors are sometimes shifted from one municipality to another. Other negative consequences (especially in the transition period) may result from issues related to the supply chain, long-term contracts, municipal plans and policies, financial and other systems, information and databases, asset registers and asset maintenance, and repairs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Makali, Andile Ernest
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Health-care services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13546 , vital:39678
- Description: The study sought to assess the effects of municipal demarcation board decisions on health care services. Since the democratic elections, the South African government was faced with the task of eliminating the racially based municipal system that segregated certain groups of people in service delivery. To deal with the determination and re-determination of municipal boundaries the Municipal Demarcation Board (MBD) was established in 1998. The study used secondary data to achieve its objectives. A number of official documents and sources that were used for this study. These included government documents, municipal documents, NGO documents, private sector documents. Results showed that municipal revenue is negatively affected by demarcations. Alfred Nzo District Municipality is no exception to this. Furthermore, demarcation processes have implications for health human resources and other municipal health processes. Human resources such as nurses and doctors are sometimes shifted from one municipality to another. Other negative consequences (especially in the transition period) may result from issues related to the supply chain, long-term contracts, municipal plans and policies, financial and other systems, information and databases, asset registers and asset maintenance, and repairs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The identification of key vulnerability components within Solomon Islands coastal communities
- Authors: Malherbe, Willem Stefanus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Solomon Islands -- Environmental conditions , Coastal ecology -- Solomon Islands , Island ecology -- Solomon Islands , Climatic changes -- Solomon Islands , Sociology, Urban -- Solomon Islands , Sociology, Rural -- Solomon Islands
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:21184 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6827
- Description: The impacts of climate change are disproportionally felt across the planet, with small island developing states some of the countries most at risk. Furthermore, climate change may compound existing problems such as over harvested resources, leading to knock-on effects on national economies. Both direct and indirect stressors may impact communities differently based on their level of exposure to stressors, their intrinsic sensitivity to these stressors, and their ability to adapt to stressors. This study aims to answer the primary research question: Why are some communities more vulnerable than others? A vulnerability assessment is used to identify both vulnerable and non-vulnerable attributes of Solomon Islands’ communities. Surveys comprised a comprehensive questionnaire to draw inference on each vulnerability category; sensitivity, exposure and adaptive capacity, along with their various components and subcomponents. An analysis of household and community livelihood strategies was conducted to compliment vulnerability scores and provide a deeper understanding of livelihood practises. As is expected of small island states, exposure presents the biggest threat to coastal communities. Within this category, environmental changes and personal exposure from shoreline erosion and safety at sea provide evidence of high vulnerability. Within the sensitivity category, the cultural importance of fishing, as well as attachment to place and fishing, renders communities more vulnerable. Simultaneously, local ecological knowledge and economic dependence on resources other than fishing proved to be resilient attributes by decreasing vulnerability. Low vulnerability scores for the adaptive capacity category were achieved by communities where physical capital, such as community infrastructure, was evident. A lack of both institutional support and bridging of social capital were attributes which contributed to community vulnerability. This study has identified key attributes that have both positive and negative effects on the vulnerability of Solomon Islands communities. Having done this, I have also attempted to determine the drivers that render some attributes more vulnerable than others. It is acknowledged that the drivers of all key attributes of vulnerability is required to determine areas where adaptation plans will be most effective. Importantly, drivers of high vulnerability should not be considered as the primary focus of adaptation planning, but also the drivers of low vulnerability, such as community cohesion, which provide resilience within communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Malherbe, Willem Stefanus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Solomon Islands -- Environmental conditions , Coastal ecology -- Solomon Islands , Island ecology -- Solomon Islands , Climatic changes -- Solomon Islands , Sociology, Urban -- Solomon Islands , Sociology, Rural -- Solomon Islands
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:21184 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6827
- Description: The impacts of climate change are disproportionally felt across the planet, with small island developing states some of the countries most at risk. Furthermore, climate change may compound existing problems such as over harvested resources, leading to knock-on effects on national economies. Both direct and indirect stressors may impact communities differently based on their level of exposure to stressors, their intrinsic sensitivity to these stressors, and their ability to adapt to stressors. This study aims to answer the primary research question: Why are some communities more vulnerable than others? A vulnerability assessment is used to identify both vulnerable and non-vulnerable attributes of Solomon Islands’ communities. Surveys comprised a comprehensive questionnaire to draw inference on each vulnerability category; sensitivity, exposure and adaptive capacity, along with their various components and subcomponents. An analysis of household and community livelihood strategies was conducted to compliment vulnerability scores and provide a deeper understanding of livelihood practises. As is expected of small island states, exposure presents the biggest threat to coastal communities. Within this category, environmental changes and personal exposure from shoreline erosion and safety at sea provide evidence of high vulnerability. Within the sensitivity category, the cultural importance of fishing, as well as attachment to place and fishing, renders communities more vulnerable. Simultaneously, local ecological knowledge and economic dependence on resources other than fishing proved to be resilient attributes by decreasing vulnerability. Low vulnerability scores for the adaptive capacity category were achieved by communities where physical capital, such as community infrastructure, was evident. A lack of both institutional support and bridging of social capital were attributes which contributed to community vulnerability. This study has identified key attributes that have both positive and negative effects on the vulnerability of Solomon Islands communities. Having done this, I have also attempted to determine the drivers that render some attributes more vulnerable than others. It is acknowledged that the drivers of all key attributes of vulnerability is required to determine areas where adaptation plans will be most effective. Importantly, drivers of high vulnerability should not be considered as the primary focus of adaptation planning, but also the drivers of low vulnerability, such as community cohesion, which provide resilience within communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The impact of rangeland degradation on vegetation cover and soil quality in semi-arid communal rangelands of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Maziko, Yonela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Land degradation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Vegetation management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15056 , vital:40159
- Description: This study was conducted to investigate the influence of degradation on vegetation and soil quality in two semi-arid rangelands in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was undertaken in Kwezana and Esigingqini communal areas that showed signs id degradation. The assessment incorporated the soil and grass layer in different degradation levels, namely nondegraded, slightly degraded, moderately and severely degraded. The non-degraded has a sufficient amount of vegetation cover and species composition. The slightly degraded site consists of a few visible bare patches. The moderately degraded areas showed signs of active sheet erosion such as pedestals and a higher percentage of bare areas and the severely degraded area is characterized by dongas and gullies, with vast areas that have no ground cover or top fertile soil layer. Using a step point method, herbaceous species composition was determined within three transects from three plots 100 m x 40 m in each degradation level. The aboveground phytomass production was determined by harvesting herbaceous species within four randomly placed 0.25 m2 quadrats in each transect. Bare ground was determined by counting and recording the distance between tufts within each quadrat. Litter cover was determined by visual observation and rated on a scale of 1 to 5. A number of physical and chemical soil properties were used to quantify the effects of degradation on soil quality. To determine soil chemical properties, three soil samples were collected at a depth of 20 cm, in each plot and analyzed for pH, soil macro (N, C, K, P, Ca, Mg) and micro (Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu) nutrients. Soil compaction was determined using a soil pocket penetrometer. Readings were taken at 5 mm from 30 points placed at 1 m intervals and distributed in a randomly established straight line in each plot. Soil loss was determined using a rainfall simulator. Splash cups were filled with soil and placed under the rainfall simulator for 8 minutes per rainstorm at 360 mm-1 intensity. Results showed that at Esigingqini a total of 20 herbaceous species were identified, 17 of which were grasses. About 60percent of the identified grasses were Increaser II species, 15percent were Increaser II and 25percent Decreasers. In terms of palatability, 50percent of the grass species had poor palatability and the remaining had either average or high palatability. At Kwezana, 18 herbaceous species were identified of which 28percent were Decreasers and 61percent were Increaser II species. Half of the species had low palatability and only 28percent had high palatability. In both communal areas, litter cover was highest (P < 0.05) in the non-degraded areas followed by the slightly degraded sites and this was to be expected. Similarly, in both communal areas, there was a shift in species composition of decreasers and perennial grasses being replaced by annual species of poor quality and low palatability as the degradation levels increased. Results on soil chemical properties showed that the non-degraded areas had higher (P < 0.05) pH levels (8.5) than the severely degraded soils (5). A similar trend following a degradation gradient was observed for some soil nutrients such as N, P or Mg. Both the macro and micro nutrient concentrations were relatively higher (P < 0.05) in summer than in winter in both communal areas. Results on physical properties showed that soil loss and compaction were relatively lower (P <0.05) in the slightly degraded and non-degraded sites and increased with severity of degradation. In both communal areas, the severely degraded areas lost soil up to 1.1 t ha-1 due to degradation and the non-degraded areas had a soil loss of less than 0.8 t ha-1. The rate of soil loss between the severely and non-degraded areas is significantly different. The differences may be attributed to the differences in the vegetation cover which influences the rate of erosion on the various degradation gradients. These results suggest that both the grass layer and soil quality is negatively affected by degradation. Therefore, there is a need for land use practices that promote the sustainable use of rangeland resources. Such practices may include rotational grazing, reseeding, veld resting and fire. Measures to control the consequences of degradation and rehabilitate these deteriorated rangelands must be a priority.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Maziko, Yonela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Land degradation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Vegetation management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15056 , vital:40159
- Description: This study was conducted to investigate the influence of degradation on vegetation and soil quality in two semi-arid rangelands in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was undertaken in Kwezana and Esigingqini communal areas that showed signs id degradation. The assessment incorporated the soil and grass layer in different degradation levels, namely nondegraded, slightly degraded, moderately and severely degraded. The non-degraded has a sufficient amount of vegetation cover and species composition. The slightly degraded site consists of a few visible bare patches. The moderately degraded areas showed signs of active sheet erosion such as pedestals and a higher percentage of bare areas and the severely degraded area is characterized by dongas and gullies, with vast areas that have no ground cover or top fertile soil layer. Using a step point method, herbaceous species composition was determined within three transects from three plots 100 m x 40 m in each degradation level. The aboveground phytomass production was determined by harvesting herbaceous species within four randomly placed 0.25 m2 quadrats in each transect. Bare ground was determined by counting and recording the distance between tufts within each quadrat. Litter cover was determined by visual observation and rated on a scale of 1 to 5. A number of physical and chemical soil properties were used to quantify the effects of degradation on soil quality. To determine soil chemical properties, three soil samples were collected at a depth of 20 cm, in each plot and analyzed for pH, soil macro (N, C, K, P, Ca, Mg) and micro (Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu) nutrients. Soil compaction was determined using a soil pocket penetrometer. Readings were taken at 5 mm from 30 points placed at 1 m intervals and distributed in a randomly established straight line in each plot. Soil loss was determined using a rainfall simulator. Splash cups were filled with soil and placed under the rainfall simulator for 8 minutes per rainstorm at 360 mm-1 intensity. Results showed that at Esigingqini a total of 20 herbaceous species were identified, 17 of which were grasses. About 60percent of the identified grasses were Increaser II species, 15percent were Increaser II and 25percent Decreasers. In terms of palatability, 50percent of the grass species had poor palatability and the remaining had either average or high palatability. At Kwezana, 18 herbaceous species were identified of which 28percent were Decreasers and 61percent were Increaser II species. Half of the species had low palatability and only 28percent had high palatability. In both communal areas, litter cover was highest (P < 0.05) in the non-degraded areas followed by the slightly degraded sites and this was to be expected. Similarly, in both communal areas, there was a shift in species composition of decreasers and perennial grasses being replaced by annual species of poor quality and low palatability as the degradation levels increased. Results on soil chemical properties showed that the non-degraded areas had higher (P < 0.05) pH levels (8.5) than the severely degraded soils (5). A similar trend following a degradation gradient was observed for some soil nutrients such as N, P or Mg. Both the macro and micro nutrient concentrations were relatively higher (P < 0.05) in summer than in winter in both communal areas. Results on physical properties showed that soil loss and compaction were relatively lower (P <0.05) in the slightly degraded and non-degraded sites and increased with severity of degradation. In both communal areas, the severely degraded areas lost soil up to 1.1 t ha-1 due to degradation and the non-degraded areas had a soil loss of less than 0.8 t ha-1. The rate of soil loss between the severely and non-degraded areas is significantly different. The differences may be attributed to the differences in the vegetation cover which influences the rate of erosion on the various degradation gradients. These results suggest that both the grass layer and soil quality is negatively affected by degradation. Therefore, there is a need for land use practices that promote the sustainable use of rangeland resources. Such practices may include rotational grazing, reseeding, veld resting and fire. Measures to control the consequences of degradation and rehabilitate these deteriorated rangelands must be a priority.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The impact of trade liberalisation on Cote d’Ivoire
- Authors: Guei, Kore Marc Antoine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Trade regulation -- Côte d'Ivoire Free trade -- Côte d'Ivoire , Developing countries -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17514 , vital:28373
- Description: The process of trade liberalisation and market-oriented economic reforms was initiated in many developing countries in early 1980s; and it intensified in 1990s. In 1994, Cote d’Ivoire was assisted by the IMF to implement trade-policy reforms under Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP). After adopting SAP, the country witnessed soaring balance-of-payment problems, contraction of output, unemployment and the loss of government revenue. Several factors, which were at play resulted in dismal economic performance under SAP. In order to consolidate gains in competitiveness, and achieve high and sustainable growth, the Ivorian authorities coordinated efforts to establish and intra-regional custom tariffs among the member of the West African and Monetary Union (WAEMU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), World Trade Organisation (WTO), Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and bilateral agreements. It is against this background that this study is undertaken, in order to evaluate the impact of different trade-policy regimes on trade, welfare and revenue in Cote d’Ivoire. This study used one model: World Integrated Trade Solutions/Software for Market Analysis and Restrictions on Trade (WITS/SMART). The WITS/SMART model was used because of its ability in analysing the tariff effect of a single market on disaggregated product lines. The model also has the capability to analyse the effects of trade-policy reforms in the presence of imperfect substitutes. Using the WITS/SMART model, the study considered seven trade-liberalisation frameworks for Cote d’Ivoire: full implementation of the ECOWAS free trade agreement (FTA), ECOWAS common external tariff (CET), WAEMU CET, WAEMU FTA, EPAs, BFTAs and WTO FTA. The WITS/SMART model reveals that all trade liberalisation scenarios may cause welfare gains – due to the plummeting of prices. However, in all trade liberalisation scenarios, welfare gains were found to be is insignificant. In all cases, welfare gains fell far short of compensating for revenue loss. The impact of trade liberalisation on exports and imports was met with mixed reactions. For the WAEMU customs union and the ECOWAS customs union, and WTO FTA, trade reforms are likely to face serious balance-of-payment problems, as imports exceeded exports by significant margins. With respect to revenue loss, of all trading arrangements, the WTO FTA presents a serious challenge for Cote d’Ivoire revenue followed by BFTAs, ECOWAS FTA, EPAs, ECOWAS CET, WAEMU CET, and WAEMU FTA with anticipated revenue losses. Another challenge for Cote d’Ivoire is the presence of trade creation effects, which were observed in all trade reform scenarios. From this study, it appeared that WAEMU CET poses serious threats of trade creation followed by WTO FTA, BFTA, SADC FTA, COMESA CET, SADC CET, EPAs and WAEMU FTA. Specifically, the study highlighted that Cote d’Ivoire, on balance loses out on trade liberalisation, mainly from revenue loss and possible de-industrialisation from trade-creation effects. The study has also revealed that Cote d’Ivoire offers excessive tax exemptions, which worsens the fiscal position of the country in the face of trade liberalisation. Hence, based on the findings, this study recommends that Cote d’Ivoire needs to call for the design of a financial facility aimed at assisting industries affected by trade-creation effects. The country needs to consider improving the collection of revenue from alternative sources, such as VAT, excise duties, personal and company taxes and excise duty, in order to cushion itself against the revenue loss impact of trade reforms. Government could also consider widening the tax base, by taxing the informal sector, which has been growing rapidly in the past years. In addition, policies aimed at exports promotion, such as export subsidies, trade finance and the strengthening of trade-promotion organisations should be considered. The outcome of this study provides a wake-up call to developing countries engaged in the WTO negotiations and other regional trading arrangements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Guei, Kore Marc Antoine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Trade regulation -- Côte d'Ivoire Free trade -- Côte d'Ivoire , Developing countries -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17514 , vital:28373
- Description: The process of trade liberalisation and market-oriented economic reforms was initiated in many developing countries in early 1980s; and it intensified in 1990s. In 1994, Cote d’Ivoire was assisted by the IMF to implement trade-policy reforms under Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP). After adopting SAP, the country witnessed soaring balance-of-payment problems, contraction of output, unemployment and the loss of government revenue. Several factors, which were at play resulted in dismal economic performance under SAP. In order to consolidate gains in competitiveness, and achieve high and sustainable growth, the Ivorian authorities coordinated efforts to establish and intra-regional custom tariffs among the member of the West African and Monetary Union (WAEMU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), World Trade Organisation (WTO), Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and bilateral agreements. It is against this background that this study is undertaken, in order to evaluate the impact of different trade-policy regimes on trade, welfare and revenue in Cote d’Ivoire. This study used one model: World Integrated Trade Solutions/Software for Market Analysis and Restrictions on Trade (WITS/SMART). The WITS/SMART model was used because of its ability in analysing the tariff effect of a single market on disaggregated product lines. The model also has the capability to analyse the effects of trade-policy reforms in the presence of imperfect substitutes. Using the WITS/SMART model, the study considered seven trade-liberalisation frameworks for Cote d’Ivoire: full implementation of the ECOWAS free trade agreement (FTA), ECOWAS common external tariff (CET), WAEMU CET, WAEMU FTA, EPAs, BFTAs and WTO FTA. The WITS/SMART model reveals that all trade liberalisation scenarios may cause welfare gains – due to the plummeting of prices. However, in all trade liberalisation scenarios, welfare gains were found to be is insignificant. In all cases, welfare gains fell far short of compensating for revenue loss. The impact of trade liberalisation on exports and imports was met with mixed reactions. For the WAEMU customs union and the ECOWAS customs union, and WTO FTA, trade reforms are likely to face serious balance-of-payment problems, as imports exceeded exports by significant margins. With respect to revenue loss, of all trading arrangements, the WTO FTA presents a serious challenge for Cote d’Ivoire revenue followed by BFTAs, ECOWAS FTA, EPAs, ECOWAS CET, WAEMU CET, and WAEMU FTA with anticipated revenue losses. Another challenge for Cote d’Ivoire is the presence of trade creation effects, which were observed in all trade reform scenarios. From this study, it appeared that WAEMU CET poses serious threats of trade creation followed by WTO FTA, BFTA, SADC FTA, COMESA CET, SADC CET, EPAs and WAEMU FTA. Specifically, the study highlighted that Cote d’Ivoire, on balance loses out on trade liberalisation, mainly from revenue loss and possible de-industrialisation from trade-creation effects. The study has also revealed that Cote d’Ivoire offers excessive tax exemptions, which worsens the fiscal position of the country in the face of trade liberalisation. Hence, based on the findings, this study recommends that Cote d’Ivoire needs to call for the design of a financial facility aimed at assisting industries affected by trade-creation effects. The country needs to consider improving the collection of revenue from alternative sources, such as VAT, excise duties, personal and company taxes and excise duty, in order to cushion itself against the revenue loss impact of trade reforms. Government could also consider widening the tax base, by taxing the informal sector, which has been growing rapidly in the past years. In addition, policies aimed at exports promotion, such as export subsidies, trade finance and the strengthening of trade-promotion organisations should be considered. The outcome of this study provides a wake-up call to developing countries engaged in the WTO negotiations and other regional trading arrangements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The impact of trade liberalisation on Kenya
- Authors: Simiyu, Edwin Jairus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Trade regulation -- Kenya Free trade -- Kenya , Foreign trade regulation -- Kenya Developing countries -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20244 , vital:29163
- Description: This study examined the impact of trade liberalisation on Kenya. It analysed the influence of trade liberalisation on trade creation, trade diversion, exports, imports, revenue effects and welfare effects. The developments in trade liberalisation and free-trade economic arrangements were introduced in Kenya and many developing countries in the early 1980s and strengthened from 1990s onward. The short term effects of the structural-adjustment programs were characterised by poor balance of payment conditions, high levels of unemployment, contraction of the imports from other countries, and government revenue losses, among other social problems. Notwithstanding the dismal performance of the Kenyan Economy after liberalisation, the Kenyan government continued to liberalise its trade under various frameworks such as the Economic Partnership agreements (EPAs) with the European Union, the World Trade Organization (WTO) and various bilateral free-trade agreements (BFTA) with its largest trading partners. This study used the World Integrated Trade Solutions-Software for Market Analysis and Restrictions on Trade (WITS/SMART) using 2008 as the base year. This method was used mainly because of its strengths to analyse the tariff effects of a sole market on disaggregate product lines. In addition the WITS/SMART model is able to analyse the impact of trade liberalisation in scenarios of imperfect substitutes. Hence, this study used the WITS/SMART Model to examine the trade liberalisation framework for Kenya under comprehensive implementation of COMESA customs Union, COMESA FTA, WTOFTA and the EPAs. The comparative valuation of the trade-creation effects reveals that the WTOFTA expected the highest trade-creation effects of US$995.16 million. This was followed by the various bilateral free-trade agreements which had a trade-creation effect of US$333.04 million, then COMESACU which had a trade-creation effect of US$310.50 million followed by the EPAs with a value of US$129.45 million. COMESA FTA was expecting trade-creation effects valued at US$15.51 million. These trade-creation effects are expected to cause unemployment through de-industrialisation. This study has also noted that WTO FTA and COMESA CU had no evidence of trade diversion. However, BFTA, EPAs and COMESA FTA showed evidence of trade diversion of US$134.88 million, US$89.28 million and US$2.61 million respectively. This study also examined the possible revenue effect from the free-trade agreements and customs union. It was noted that most losses emanated from the WTOFTA, which was valued at US$817.15 million. This was followed by the COMESACU protocol, which is expected to register a loss amounting to US$327 million. The third free-trade agreement with the highest losses comprised the various BFTAs amounting to US$304 million. The forth probable losses were anticipated from EPAs amounting to US$142 million. The free-trade agreement with the least losses is COMESA FTA with an expected loss of US$7.88 million. The consumer welfare effect was done to assess if consumers benefitted from trade agreements. This study observed that the WTOFTA expected the highest consumer welfare effect of US$103.98 million. This was followed by the various COMESACU with an expected consumer welfare effect of US$56.27 million. The BFTA were the third with a consumer welfare effect of US$ 41.82 million. This was followed by the EPAs with a consumer welfare value of US$ 17.56 million. The trade protocol with the least-expected consumer-welfare effect was the COMESA FTA valued at US$ 1.60 million. Although welfare gains resulting from the anticipated trade agreements were an indication of potential benefits to Kenyans, they were insignificant. This study also analysed the export performance from five different trade agreements and their impact on Kenya. The BFTA expected an export value US$4.63 billion, followed by the EPAs with an expected export value of US$2.18 billion. The third largest export values was WTOFTA with an export value of US$12.12 billion, the fourth being COMESAFTA having an export value of US$ 434.28 million and finally COMESACU with an expected export value of US$394.14 million. The study showed that major exports were composed of minerals, tobacco and agricultural products dominating the export basket. The export destinations were expected to be the WTO members, which include Uganda, Congo, Egypt, Rwanda, Sudan and Zambia. Kenya expected an increase in imports mainly from the WTO amounting to 8.95 per cent. This was followed by the BFTA rated with an expected 3.2 per cent growth in imports. The third protocol expecting import growth was the COMESACU of 2.8 per cent import growth and the EPA with 1.16 per cent import growth, and finally, 0.07 per cent import growth from the COMESA FTA. The expected increase in imports is anticipated to create balance of payment problems for Kenya. The results of the study show that the welfare gains from trade liberalisation were not able to compensate for the revenue losses. The study also showed that Kenya was not able to make optimal use of trade liberalisation to expand its export destinations; as the COMESACU was expected to reduce exports. In light of these findings, the study recommends that measures aimed at boosting exports like strengthening of the Export Processing Zones, export subsidies, the establishing of supply-side facilities, trade financing plus strengthening of the export-supporting institutions. It is important to note that the findings of this study provide an opportunity for Kenya, and other developing countries, to implement measures to ensure that they achieve optimal benefits from the various regional trade agreements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Simiyu, Edwin Jairus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Trade regulation -- Kenya Free trade -- Kenya , Foreign trade regulation -- Kenya Developing countries -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20244 , vital:29163
- Description: This study examined the impact of trade liberalisation on Kenya. It analysed the influence of trade liberalisation on trade creation, trade diversion, exports, imports, revenue effects and welfare effects. The developments in trade liberalisation and free-trade economic arrangements were introduced in Kenya and many developing countries in the early 1980s and strengthened from 1990s onward. The short term effects of the structural-adjustment programs were characterised by poor balance of payment conditions, high levels of unemployment, contraction of the imports from other countries, and government revenue losses, among other social problems. Notwithstanding the dismal performance of the Kenyan Economy after liberalisation, the Kenyan government continued to liberalise its trade under various frameworks such as the Economic Partnership agreements (EPAs) with the European Union, the World Trade Organization (WTO) and various bilateral free-trade agreements (BFTA) with its largest trading partners. This study used the World Integrated Trade Solutions-Software for Market Analysis and Restrictions on Trade (WITS/SMART) using 2008 as the base year. This method was used mainly because of its strengths to analyse the tariff effects of a sole market on disaggregate product lines. In addition the WITS/SMART model is able to analyse the impact of trade liberalisation in scenarios of imperfect substitutes. Hence, this study used the WITS/SMART Model to examine the trade liberalisation framework for Kenya under comprehensive implementation of COMESA customs Union, COMESA FTA, WTOFTA and the EPAs. The comparative valuation of the trade-creation effects reveals that the WTOFTA expected the highest trade-creation effects of US$995.16 million. This was followed by the various bilateral free-trade agreements which had a trade-creation effect of US$333.04 million, then COMESACU which had a trade-creation effect of US$310.50 million followed by the EPAs with a value of US$129.45 million. COMESA FTA was expecting trade-creation effects valued at US$15.51 million. These trade-creation effects are expected to cause unemployment through de-industrialisation. This study has also noted that WTO FTA and COMESA CU had no evidence of trade diversion. However, BFTA, EPAs and COMESA FTA showed evidence of trade diversion of US$134.88 million, US$89.28 million and US$2.61 million respectively. This study also examined the possible revenue effect from the free-trade agreements and customs union. It was noted that most losses emanated from the WTOFTA, which was valued at US$817.15 million. This was followed by the COMESACU protocol, which is expected to register a loss amounting to US$327 million. The third free-trade agreement with the highest losses comprised the various BFTAs amounting to US$304 million. The forth probable losses were anticipated from EPAs amounting to US$142 million. The free-trade agreement with the least losses is COMESA FTA with an expected loss of US$7.88 million. The consumer welfare effect was done to assess if consumers benefitted from trade agreements. This study observed that the WTOFTA expected the highest consumer welfare effect of US$103.98 million. This was followed by the various COMESACU with an expected consumer welfare effect of US$56.27 million. The BFTA were the third with a consumer welfare effect of US$ 41.82 million. This was followed by the EPAs with a consumer welfare value of US$ 17.56 million. The trade protocol with the least-expected consumer-welfare effect was the COMESA FTA valued at US$ 1.60 million. Although welfare gains resulting from the anticipated trade agreements were an indication of potential benefits to Kenyans, they were insignificant. This study also analysed the export performance from five different trade agreements and their impact on Kenya. The BFTA expected an export value US$4.63 billion, followed by the EPAs with an expected export value of US$2.18 billion. The third largest export values was WTOFTA with an export value of US$12.12 billion, the fourth being COMESAFTA having an export value of US$ 434.28 million and finally COMESACU with an expected export value of US$394.14 million. The study showed that major exports were composed of minerals, tobacco and agricultural products dominating the export basket. The export destinations were expected to be the WTO members, which include Uganda, Congo, Egypt, Rwanda, Sudan and Zambia. Kenya expected an increase in imports mainly from the WTO amounting to 8.95 per cent. This was followed by the BFTA rated with an expected 3.2 per cent growth in imports. The third protocol expecting import growth was the COMESACU of 2.8 per cent import growth and the EPA with 1.16 per cent import growth, and finally, 0.07 per cent import growth from the COMESA FTA. The expected increase in imports is anticipated to create balance of payment problems for Kenya. The results of the study show that the welfare gains from trade liberalisation were not able to compensate for the revenue losses. The study also showed that Kenya was not able to make optimal use of trade liberalisation to expand its export destinations; as the COMESACU was expected to reduce exports. In light of these findings, the study recommends that measures aimed at boosting exports like strengthening of the Export Processing Zones, export subsidies, the establishing of supply-side facilities, trade financing plus strengthening of the export-supporting institutions. It is important to note that the findings of this study provide an opportunity for Kenya, and other developing countries, to implement measures to ensure that they achieve optimal benefits from the various regional trade agreements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The influence of non-financial nation brand image dimensions on foreign direct investment inflows in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Matiza, Tafadzwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Zimbabwe , Branding (Marketing) -- Zimbabwe , Zimbabwe -- Foreign economic relations , Political stability -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8902 , vital:26441
- Description: How a country is perceived by foreign investors is becoming increasingly significant to the ability of individual countries to attract foreign direct investment into their economies. In Africa, existing negative perceptions of the continent as an investment destination have been considered as an obstacle for foreign direct investment inflows to the continent in general. Although Zimbabwe offers foreign investors multiple lucrative investment opportunities, attracting foreign direct investment to the country presents a unique challenge due to the image of the country post the 1998-2008 economic crisis. Despite the vast research on the determinants of foreign direct inflows to particular countries, little is known about whether non-financial image-related factors influence the inflow of foreign direct investment to a particular country, especially a country with a unfavourable global image like Zimbabwe. The primary objective of this study was therefore to determine the perceived non-financial nation brand image factors considered to be influential for attracting specific foreign direct investment inflow opportunities in Zimbabwe. A comprehensive literature review resulted in the identification of nine independent variables (tourism, governance, people, culture and heritage, exports, investment and immigration, factor endowments, infrastructure, and legal and regulation frameworks), as well as four dependent variables (market-, resource-, efficiency- and strategic asset-seeking foreign direct investment inflow opportunities in Zimbabwe). A hypothesised model was developed in order to examine whether the independent variables have an influence on the dependent variables, and as a result nine hypotheses were formulated to test the relationships between the nine independent variables and each of the four dependent variables. A cross-sectional, quantitative deductive approach to research was employed in order to generate the data required for hypothesis testing. Purposive sampling techniques were employed to draw the sample frame for the study. A self-administered online survey was conducted, and generated empirical data from a final sample comprised of 305 investors who had applied to invest in Zimbabwe through the Zimbabwe Investment Authority between January 2009 and April 2015. Data was analysed using STATISTICA 12 software. Exploratory factor analysis was utilised to extract the constructs and validate the measuring instrument. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were calculated in order to test the reliability and internal consistency of the measuring instrument. As a result, a total of six valid and reliable independent variables, and four dependent variables were retained for further analysis. The results of the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients revealed mostly moderate correlations. The Multi-Collinearity diagnostics test confirmed the absence of collinearity between the independent variables and dependent variables respectively. Subsequently, the results of the four sets of multiple regression analyses, disclosed thirteen statistically significant relationships between the six independent variables and the four categorical dependent variables. Tourism had significant relationships with market-, efficiency- and strategic asset-seeking FDI inflow opportunities. Government actions had significant relationships with resource- and strategic asset-seeking FDI inflow opportunities. People had significant relationships with resource- and efficiency- seeking FDI inflow opportunities. Export had significant relationships with market-, resource-, efficiency- and strategic asset-seeking FDI inflow opportunities. Regulatory framework had significant relationships with market- and resource-seeking FDI inflow opportunities. The results of the Analysis of Variance revealed that investor status can be used to predict which non-financial nation brand image determinants played a role in the ultimate decision for taking up foreign direct investment opportunities in Zimbabwe. Further analysis of the role that the demographic profiles of the investors played in predicting which non-financial nation brand image determinants are considered influential in taking up foreign direct investment opportunities in Zimbabwe was confirmed in the Multivariate Analysis of Variance with thirty-four statically significant relationships identified. Further analysis by means of post-hoc Scheffé testing and Cohen’s d-values calculations confirm that thirty-nine practically significant mean differences were evident. This study makes a novel contribution to the empirical body of nation branding, foreign direct investment and investment promotion research by developing and testing a hypothetical model that synthesises facets of the three fields of study. This study represents a new discourse in the identification of the determinants of FDI (that being non-financial determinants) and provides an explanatory framework for the non-financial nation brand image determinants influencing each type of FDI inflow opportunity sought in Zimbabwe. It is within this framework that recommendations, based on empirical evidence, are made for the Government of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Investment Authority. Some of these recommendations could be implemented within the short-term, while others may be more strategic in the long term. Recommendations made include that the Government of Zimbabwe undertakes significant policy reviews, continues its engagement with key external stakeholders such as other governments, supra-national financial institutions, and foreign investors, as well as adhering to existing favourable FDI policies. It is also recommended that the Zimbabwe Investment Authority adopt an intermediary role, by linking the Government of Zimbabwe with potential foreign investors through investor targeting, as well as promoting Zimbabwe as an investment destination by engaging in image-building activities such as public diplomacy, investor relations, specialised advertising and hosting investor forums with multiple, distinct investor segments. These image-building activities should be centered on the non-financial nation brand image determinants that foreign investors consider to be influential to foreign direct investment in Zimbabwe, and should be geared towards improving and managing the perceived image of Zimbabwe as an investment destination.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Matiza, Tafadzwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Zimbabwe , Branding (Marketing) -- Zimbabwe , Zimbabwe -- Foreign economic relations , Political stability -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8902 , vital:26441
- Description: How a country is perceived by foreign investors is becoming increasingly significant to the ability of individual countries to attract foreign direct investment into their economies. In Africa, existing negative perceptions of the continent as an investment destination have been considered as an obstacle for foreign direct investment inflows to the continent in general. Although Zimbabwe offers foreign investors multiple lucrative investment opportunities, attracting foreign direct investment to the country presents a unique challenge due to the image of the country post the 1998-2008 economic crisis. Despite the vast research on the determinants of foreign direct inflows to particular countries, little is known about whether non-financial image-related factors influence the inflow of foreign direct investment to a particular country, especially a country with a unfavourable global image like Zimbabwe. The primary objective of this study was therefore to determine the perceived non-financial nation brand image factors considered to be influential for attracting specific foreign direct investment inflow opportunities in Zimbabwe. A comprehensive literature review resulted in the identification of nine independent variables (tourism, governance, people, culture and heritage, exports, investment and immigration, factor endowments, infrastructure, and legal and regulation frameworks), as well as four dependent variables (market-, resource-, efficiency- and strategic asset-seeking foreign direct investment inflow opportunities in Zimbabwe). A hypothesised model was developed in order to examine whether the independent variables have an influence on the dependent variables, and as a result nine hypotheses were formulated to test the relationships between the nine independent variables and each of the four dependent variables. A cross-sectional, quantitative deductive approach to research was employed in order to generate the data required for hypothesis testing. Purposive sampling techniques were employed to draw the sample frame for the study. A self-administered online survey was conducted, and generated empirical data from a final sample comprised of 305 investors who had applied to invest in Zimbabwe through the Zimbabwe Investment Authority between January 2009 and April 2015. Data was analysed using STATISTICA 12 software. Exploratory factor analysis was utilised to extract the constructs and validate the measuring instrument. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were calculated in order to test the reliability and internal consistency of the measuring instrument. As a result, a total of six valid and reliable independent variables, and four dependent variables were retained for further analysis. The results of the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients revealed mostly moderate correlations. The Multi-Collinearity diagnostics test confirmed the absence of collinearity between the independent variables and dependent variables respectively. Subsequently, the results of the four sets of multiple regression analyses, disclosed thirteen statistically significant relationships between the six independent variables and the four categorical dependent variables. Tourism had significant relationships with market-, efficiency- and strategic asset-seeking FDI inflow opportunities. Government actions had significant relationships with resource- and strategic asset-seeking FDI inflow opportunities. People had significant relationships with resource- and efficiency- seeking FDI inflow opportunities. Export had significant relationships with market-, resource-, efficiency- and strategic asset-seeking FDI inflow opportunities. Regulatory framework had significant relationships with market- and resource-seeking FDI inflow opportunities. The results of the Analysis of Variance revealed that investor status can be used to predict which non-financial nation brand image determinants played a role in the ultimate decision for taking up foreign direct investment opportunities in Zimbabwe. Further analysis of the role that the demographic profiles of the investors played in predicting which non-financial nation brand image determinants are considered influential in taking up foreign direct investment opportunities in Zimbabwe was confirmed in the Multivariate Analysis of Variance with thirty-four statically significant relationships identified. Further analysis by means of post-hoc Scheffé testing and Cohen’s d-values calculations confirm that thirty-nine practically significant mean differences were evident. This study makes a novel contribution to the empirical body of nation branding, foreign direct investment and investment promotion research by developing and testing a hypothetical model that synthesises facets of the three fields of study. This study represents a new discourse in the identification of the determinants of FDI (that being non-financial determinants) and provides an explanatory framework for the non-financial nation brand image determinants influencing each type of FDI inflow opportunity sought in Zimbabwe. It is within this framework that recommendations, based on empirical evidence, are made for the Government of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Investment Authority. Some of these recommendations could be implemented within the short-term, while others may be more strategic in the long term. Recommendations made include that the Government of Zimbabwe undertakes significant policy reviews, continues its engagement with key external stakeholders such as other governments, supra-national financial institutions, and foreign investors, as well as adhering to existing favourable FDI policies. It is also recommended that the Zimbabwe Investment Authority adopt an intermediary role, by linking the Government of Zimbabwe with potential foreign investors through investor targeting, as well as promoting Zimbabwe as an investment destination by engaging in image-building activities such as public diplomacy, investor relations, specialised advertising and hosting investor forums with multiple, distinct investor segments. These image-building activities should be centered on the non-financial nation brand image determinants that foreign investors consider to be influential to foreign direct investment in Zimbabwe, and should be geared towards improving and managing the perceived image of Zimbabwe as an investment destination.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The life and literary works of Peter Tshobiso Mtuze: a critical analysis
- Authors: Mafrika, Andile Ernest
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mtuze, P T -- Criticism and interpretation , Mtuze, P T -- UDingezweni , Mtuze, P T -- Alitshoni lingaphumi , Mtuze, P T -- Amathol’ eendaba. , Authors, Xhosa , Xhosa literature -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4400 , vital:20658
- Description: This thesis is an exploration of the concept of Mphahlele’s African Humanism, against the backdrop of the life and work of Peter Tshobiso Mtuze, well-known author of isiXhosa books, critic, academic and spiritual leader. Mtuze’s commitment to the collective rather than the individual is clearly illustrated in the thesis, suggesting that his early life of struggle, his belated development as an acclaimed academic, as well as his spiritual growth are all intertwined and underpinned by African Humanism and an Afrocentric ethos.The thesis consists of six chapters with each chapter focusing on a particular aspect of the research topic. Chapter One deals with the introduction to the research topic. Part of the introductory material consists of conventional preliminaries such as a research statement, aim of study, methodology, main assumptions of the study and the significance and benefit of the study. Chapter Two is the theoretical foundation of the thesis. It covers the origin of African Humanism as consciousness and as a system of society, oral and written literature in Africa and the early Xhosa literary humanism. Chapter Three is an overview of the biographical background of Peter Tshobiso Mtuze, his Pass Law battles in different towns of South Africa, how he joined the African National Congress (ANC) and his working life and writing life. Chapter Four analyses two major novels, UDingezweni and Alitshoni lingaphumi, and a short story book, Amathol’ eendaba. The analysis aims at revealing African consciousness and African way of life with specific reference to Xhosa people. Chapter Five deals with Xhosa spirituality, its aspects and symbols, Mtuze’s Spirituality and Anglicanism and his writings. Chapter Six is a general conclusion that highlights the main aspects of the thesis, the African personality and the prospects of African humanism in today’s world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mafrika, Andile Ernest
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mtuze, P T -- Criticism and interpretation , Mtuze, P T -- UDingezweni , Mtuze, P T -- Alitshoni lingaphumi , Mtuze, P T -- Amathol’ eendaba. , Authors, Xhosa , Xhosa literature -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4400 , vital:20658
- Description: This thesis is an exploration of the concept of Mphahlele’s African Humanism, against the backdrop of the life and work of Peter Tshobiso Mtuze, well-known author of isiXhosa books, critic, academic and spiritual leader. Mtuze’s commitment to the collective rather than the individual is clearly illustrated in the thesis, suggesting that his early life of struggle, his belated development as an acclaimed academic, as well as his spiritual growth are all intertwined and underpinned by African Humanism and an Afrocentric ethos.The thesis consists of six chapters with each chapter focusing on a particular aspect of the research topic. Chapter One deals with the introduction to the research topic. Part of the introductory material consists of conventional preliminaries such as a research statement, aim of study, methodology, main assumptions of the study and the significance and benefit of the study. Chapter Two is the theoretical foundation of the thesis. It covers the origin of African Humanism as consciousness and as a system of society, oral and written literature in Africa and the early Xhosa literary humanism. Chapter Three is an overview of the biographical background of Peter Tshobiso Mtuze, his Pass Law battles in different towns of South Africa, how he joined the African National Congress (ANC) and his working life and writing life. Chapter Four analyses two major novels, UDingezweni and Alitshoni lingaphumi, and a short story book, Amathol’ eendaba. The analysis aims at revealing African consciousness and African way of life with specific reference to Xhosa people. Chapter Five deals with Xhosa spirituality, its aspects and symbols, Mtuze’s Spirituality and Anglicanism and his writings. Chapter Six is a general conclusion that highlights the main aspects of the thesis, the African personality and the prospects of African humanism in today’s world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The prospects of commercialising small-scale chicken production in Buffalo City metropolitan municipality, Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Seti, Thembalethu Macdonald
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poultry -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Chicken industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15244 , vital:40257
- Description: The aim of this study is to explore the prospects of commercialising small-scale chicken production in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. In the attempt of exploring these prospects, the researcher sought to understand socio-economic characteristics of small-scale chicken farmers, describe the small-scale chicken enterprise, and determine farmer’s level of commercialisation and factors influencing the farmer’s commercialisation level. Stratified random sampling was used to select 99 participants in the study area. The sampled participants constituted small-scale chicken farmers that were supported by government projects and farmers that were not part of any government support. Descriptive statistics, Household Commercialization Index (HCI) and Multinomial Regression model were used to analyse data and bring meaning to it. The results of the study signify that most of the farmers (66percent) are subsistence oriented, meaning most of their produce is consumed within the household and about 40percent are semi-commercial and only 7percent are at full commercialization meaning they only produce for the market. The result also showed that access to extension services (p<0.03), gender (p<0.03) household size (permanent family members) (p<0.01), transport cost (p<0.04), farming experience (p<0.02, grades and standards (p<0.01), production machines (p<0.05), and distance to the market (p<0.05) were the major determinants influencing output commercialization in the study area. The major constraints to production identified and prioritized by farmers were lack of feed, disease outbreaks, high mortality rate and theft. Based on the study results, to bring about the prospects of commercialising small-scale chicken, government should consistently supply extension officers, government investment in poultry machines and transport is also recommended. In terms of further research, the study suggests that research on profitability of small-scale chicken production would yield immense insights for policy development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Seti, Thembalethu Macdonald
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poultry -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Chicken industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15244 , vital:40257
- Description: The aim of this study is to explore the prospects of commercialising small-scale chicken production in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. In the attempt of exploring these prospects, the researcher sought to understand socio-economic characteristics of small-scale chicken farmers, describe the small-scale chicken enterprise, and determine farmer’s level of commercialisation and factors influencing the farmer’s commercialisation level. Stratified random sampling was used to select 99 participants in the study area. The sampled participants constituted small-scale chicken farmers that were supported by government projects and farmers that were not part of any government support. Descriptive statistics, Household Commercialization Index (HCI) and Multinomial Regression model were used to analyse data and bring meaning to it. The results of the study signify that most of the farmers (66percent) are subsistence oriented, meaning most of their produce is consumed within the household and about 40percent are semi-commercial and only 7percent are at full commercialization meaning they only produce for the market. The result also showed that access to extension services (p<0.03), gender (p<0.03) household size (permanent family members) (p<0.01), transport cost (p<0.04), farming experience (p<0.02, grades and standards (p<0.01), production machines (p<0.05), and distance to the market (p<0.05) were the major determinants influencing output commercialization in the study area. The major constraints to production identified and prioritized by farmers were lack of feed, disease outbreaks, high mortality rate and theft. Based on the study results, to bring about the prospects of commercialising small-scale chicken, government should consistently supply extension officers, government investment in poultry machines and transport is also recommended. In terms of further research, the study suggests that research on profitability of small-scale chicken production would yield immense insights for policy development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The recreational value of the Baviaanskloof: a travel cost analysis using count data models
- Authors: Taonezvi, Lovemore
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Travel costs -- South Africa -- Baviaanskloof Valuation -- South Africa -- Baviaanskloof
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12371 , vital:27059
- Description: Despite constituting a sheer 2% of the world’s surface area, South Africa (SA) is the third most biologically diverse country in the world and this makes the country part of the 17 member countries that make up the ‘Megadiverse Countries’(Sandwith, 2002; Nel & Driver, 2012). Besides its exceptional levels of endemism, according to Boshoff, Cowling and Kerley (2000), three of the 25 internationally recognised biodiversity hotspots are found in SA namely the Cape Florist Region, the Succulent Karoo and the Maputaland-Pondoland-Albany centre of endemism. The Baviaanskloof is a very popular tourist destination, which falls within the Cape Floristic Region) ‘biodiversity hotspot’ in the Eastern Cape Province (Myers, 1988; Crane, 2007). Its high biodiversity, numerous archaeological sites, pristine environment, low crime rates, absence of malaria and easy of accessibility, makes it a perfect destination for recreationists (Clark, 1999; Boshoff et al., 2000). The Baviaanskloof was declared a ‘mega reserve’ under the Cape Action for People and Environment (CAPE) programme (CSIR, 2000). It consists of privately-owned farm land and a nature reserve called the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area (BWA). In order to properly manage, conserve and utilise the rich natural resources of the Baviaanskloof, its benefits need to be clearly documented and demonstrated. The aim of this study is to determine the recreational value of the Baviaanskloof, and this was achieved using non-market value technique, namely the travel cost method (TCM). The TCM is used to value recreational assets via the expenditures on traveling to the site by recognising that visitors to a recreation site pay an implicit price – the cost of travelling to it, including access fees and the opportunity costs of their time (Baker & Ruting, 2014). This method is mostly used to estimate use values for recreation activities and changes in these use values associated with changes in environmental quality/quantity. The greatest advantage of the TCM is that valuation estimates are derived from real economic choices made by individuals in real markets, whereas its inability to estimate non-market values is its major weakness which only limits its application to recreational studies. In estimating the recreational value of the Baviaanskloof, data from 328 respondents were used. Five econometric models, namely, a standard Poisson specification, a Poisson specification adjusted for truncation and endogenous stratification (TES Poisson), a standard negative vii binomial model (NB), a negative binomial model adjusted for truncation and endogenous stratification (NBTES), and a generalised negative binomial with endogenous stratification (GNBES) were used to estimate the recreational value of the Baviaanskloof. Crucially, all the five models simultaneously established income and total costs to be statistically significant in determining the number of trips to the recreational site according to a priori expectations. The GNBES model was observed to have the best fit of the data than the other four models after an examination of goodness-of-fit measures in conjunction with the number of statistically significant variables per model. Of the 328 respondents surveyed, on average, visitors to the Baviaanskloof are mostly male, highly educated individuals, receiving gross annual income of ZAR436 372 (USD30 451.64) and 39.87 years of age. The mean travel cost was estimated to be ZAR1 433.56 (USD100.04) and each travelling party consisted of 4.09 people on average. Using estimates from the preferred GNBES model, the study estimated consumer surplus per trip for a recreationist to the Baviaanskloof to be ZAR1 759.32 (USD122.78). When this value is multiplied by the average annual trips a person takes to site, a value of ZAR2 445.46 (USD170.66) for consumer surplus per person is produced. Further aggregation of this value across the population (i.e. 18 500), of recreationists to the Baviaanskloof per year gives total consumer surplus of ZAR3 157 210 (USD220 321). The study concludes that the Baviaanskloof has a significant recreational value which can further be increased if policymakers take actions to, inter alia, upgrade infrastructure, budget more money for conservation and market the nature reserve in unexploited markets. Since the non-use values were not taken into account and also the impact of on-site sampling on the data set, the recreational value of the Baviaanskloof should be carefully considered in any management or conservation project. More studies of this nature are greatly needed to allow for more comparisons and increase credibility of the results of environmental valuation studies in SA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Taonezvi, Lovemore
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Travel costs -- South Africa -- Baviaanskloof Valuation -- South Africa -- Baviaanskloof
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12371 , vital:27059
- Description: Despite constituting a sheer 2% of the world’s surface area, South Africa (SA) is the third most biologically diverse country in the world and this makes the country part of the 17 member countries that make up the ‘Megadiverse Countries’(Sandwith, 2002; Nel & Driver, 2012). Besides its exceptional levels of endemism, according to Boshoff, Cowling and Kerley (2000), three of the 25 internationally recognised biodiversity hotspots are found in SA namely the Cape Florist Region, the Succulent Karoo and the Maputaland-Pondoland-Albany centre of endemism. The Baviaanskloof is a very popular tourist destination, which falls within the Cape Floristic Region) ‘biodiversity hotspot’ in the Eastern Cape Province (Myers, 1988; Crane, 2007). Its high biodiversity, numerous archaeological sites, pristine environment, low crime rates, absence of malaria and easy of accessibility, makes it a perfect destination for recreationists (Clark, 1999; Boshoff et al., 2000). The Baviaanskloof was declared a ‘mega reserve’ under the Cape Action for People and Environment (CAPE) programme (CSIR, 2000). It consists of privately-owned farm land and a nature reserve called the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area (BWA). In order to properly manage, conserve and utilise the rich natural resources of the Baviaanskloof, its benefits need to be clearly documented and demonstrated. The aim of this study is to determine the recreational value of the Baviaanskloof, and this was achieved using non-market value technique, namely the travel cost method (TCM). The TCM is used to value recreational assets via the expenditures on traveling to the site by recognising that visitors to a recreation site pay an implicit price – the cost of travelling to it, including access fees and the opportunity costs of their time (Baker & Ruting, 2014). This method is mostly used to estimate use values for recreation activities and changes in these use values associated with changes in environmental quality/quantity. The greatest advantage of the TCM is that valuation estimates are derived from real economic choices made by individuals in real markets, whereas its inability to estimate non-market values is its major weakness which only limits its application to recreational studies. In estimating the recreational value of the Baviaanskloof, data from 328 respondents were used. Five econometric models, namely, a standard Poisson specification, a Poisson specification adjusted for truncation and endogenous stratification (TES Poisson), a standard negative vii binomial model (NB), a negative binomial model adjusted for truncation and endogenous stratification (NBTES), and a generalised negative binomial with endogenous stratification (GNBES) were used to estimate the recreational value of the Baviaanskloof. Crucially, all the five models simultaneously established income and total costs to be statistically significant in determining the number of trips to the recreational site according to a priori expectations. The GNBES model was observed to have the best fit of the data than the other four models after an examination of goodness-of-fit measures in conjunction with the number of statistically significant variables per model. Of the 328 respondents surveyed, on average, visitors to the Baviaanskloof are mostly male, highly educated individuals, receiving gross annual income of ZAR436 372 (USD30 451.64) and 39.87 years of age. The mean travel cost was estimated to be ZAR1 433.56 (USD100.04) and each travelling party consisted of 4.09 people on average. Using estimates from the preferred GNBES model, the study estimated consumer surplus per trip for a recreationist to the Baviaanskloof to be ZAR1 759.32 (USD122.78). When this value is multiplied by the average annual trips a person takes to site, a value of ZAR2 445.46 (USD170.66) for consumer surplus per person is produced. Further aggregation of this value across the population (i.e. 18 500), of recreationists to the Baviaanskloof per year gives total consumer surplus of ZAR3 157 210 (USD220 321). The study concludes that the Baviaanskloof has a significant recreational value which can further be increased if policymakers take actions to, inter alia, upgrade infrastructure, budget more money for conservation and market the nature reserve in unexploited markets. Since the non-use values were not taken into account and also the impact of on-site sampling on the data set, the recreational value of the Baviaanskloof should be carefully considered in any management or conservation project. More studies of this nature are greatly needed to allow for more comparisons and increase credibility of the results of environmental valuation studies in SA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The relationship between employment value proposition, work engagement and retention among employees of a selected bank in Botswana
- Authors: Ditiro, Salalenna
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee motivation -- Botswana , Organizational behavior -- Botswana , Employee retention -- Botswana , Bank employees -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14994 , vital:28111
- Description: The management concept of Employee Value Proposition (EVP), which details the value and benefits employees derive from being members of the organisation, has been widely touted in literature as a determinant of work engagement and retention. The growing body of Positive Organisational Behaviour (POB) acknowledges the importance of these concepts, particularly in the service industry where engagement and retention are critical for good customer relationships. The research followed a quantitative and non-experimental approach by using primary data as the unit of analysis. Using a self-report electronic questionnaire, relationships between EVP, WE and Turnover Intentions were determined from a sample of (N=259) consisting of supervisor to management level employees in commercial banks across Botswana. The adopted composite questionnaire has been validated for the South African sample and proved to have high reliability. The individual instruments have been used in different industries as well as professions and showed no inherent bias. The results showed some important relationships between EVP, WE and Turnover Intentions. Specifically, EVP fulfilment revealed a substantive positive relationship with Work Engagement whereas another substantial relationship exists between engagement and Turnover Intention. While a definitive but small relationship exists between EVP and Turnover Intention, it was recommended that the organisation that participated can buffer turnover intention through leveraging engagement levels, especially the dedication dimension of engagement as it has found to be the prerequisite for vigor and absorption dimensions of engagement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ditiro, Salalenna
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee motivation -- Botswana , Organizational behavior -- Botswana , Employee retention -- Botswana , Bank employees -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14994 , vital:28111
- Description: The management concept of Employee Value Proposition (EVP), which details the value and benefits employees derive from being members of the organisation, has been widely touted in literature as a determinant of work engagement and retention. The growing body of Positive Organisational Behaviour (POB) acknowledges the importance of these concepts, particularly in the service industry where engagement and retention are critical for good customer relationships. The research followed a quantitative and non-experimental approach by using primary data as the unit of analysis. Using a self-report electronic questionnaire, relationships between EVP, WE and Turnover Intentions were determined from a sample of (N=259) consisting of supervisor to management level employees in commercial banks across Botswana. The adopted composite questionnaire has been validated for the South African sample and proved to have high reliability. The individual instruments have been used in different industries as well as professions and showed no inherent bias. The results showed some important relationships between EVP, WE and Turnover Intentions. Specifically, EVP fulfilment revealed a substantive positive relationship with Work Engagement whereas another substantial relationship exists between engagement and Turnover Intention. While a definitive but small relationship exists between EVP and Turnover Intention, it was recommended that the organisation that participated can buffer turnover intention through leveraging engagement levels, especially the dedication dimension of engagement as it has found to be the prerequisite for vigor and absorption dimensions of engagement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test : normative data for the Xhosa-speaking population and analysis of the influence of the quality of education
- Authors: Nyangwa, Unathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Educational tests and measurements Neuropsychological tests Verbal learning -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6270 , vital:29534
- Description: Objective. The aim of this study was to develop and establish norms for the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) for Xhosa speaking adults with a grade 11 or 12 qualification obtained from a previously disadvantaged educational background in the Eastern Cape. Method. The sampleconsisted of a non-clinical group of South African Eastern Cape Xhosa speaking adults (N = 40), aged 19-40, with Grade 11 or 12 level of education received in former Department of Education and Training (DET) schools. Independent t-test analyses were used to compare test performance ofmale and female research subjects; to compare young adults versus older adult age categories and to compare performance between rural and urban research subjects. In addition, differences between the SA RAVLT norms imitative from this study compared to the Australian standardisation on the young adult category was measured. Results. The findings revealed no statistical significant influence of age; sex or rural and urban schooling among the disadvantaged population of the Eastern Cape on RAVLT performance. Additionally, differences on test performance between research-subjects from South Africa compared to Australian research subjects was evident with Australian research subjects performing better on all the sub-components of the RAVLT measure. Conclusions. It is concluded that clinicians will be able to use the RAVLT with more confidence with this educationally disadvantaged Xhosa speaking population. These RAVLT normative data should not be generalised to other languages; other race groups, or other age categories of individuals other than the ones represented in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nyangwa, Unathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Educational tests and measurements Neuropsychological tests Verbal learning -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6270 , vital:29534
- Description: Objective. The aim of this study was to develop and establish norms for the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) for Xhosa speaking adults with a grade 11 or 12 qualification obtained from a previously disadvantaged educational background in the Eastern Cape. Method. The sampleconsisted of a non-clinical group of South African Eastern Cape Xhosa speaking adults (N = 40), aged 19-40, with Grade 11 or 12 level of education received in former Department of Education and Training (DET) schools. Independent t-test analyses were used to compare test performance ofmale and female research subjects; to compare young adults versus older adult age categories and to compare performance between rural and urban research subjects. In addition, differences between the SA RAVLT norms imitative from this study compared to the Australian standardisation on the young adult category was measured. Results. The findings revealed no statistical significant influence of age; sex or rural and urban schooling among the disadvantaged population of the Eastern Cape on RAVLT performance. Additionally, differences on test performance between research-subjects from South Africa compared to Australian research subjects was evident with Australian research subjects performing better on all the sub-components of the RAVLT measure. Conclusions. It is concluded that clinicians will be able to use the RAVLT with more confidence with this educationally disadvantaged Xhosa speaking population. These RAVLT normative data should not be generalised to other languages; other race groups, or other age categories of individuals other than the ones represented in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The role of protected areas in the conservation and management of fisheries in the Chobe District of Botswana
- Authors: Bakane, Modiegi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cichlids Botswana Chobe District , Protected areas Botswana Chobe District , Fishery management Botswana Chobe District
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7459 , vital:21262
- Description: This study was aimed at better understanding the function of protected areas as a management strategy for the Chobe District fishery in Botswana, by first investigating the relative abundance in fish communities in and outside protected areas and secondly, by performing an assessment of the biology of commercially important large cichlid species viz threespot tilapia Oreochromis andersonii, greenhead tilapia Oreochromis macrochir and redbreast tilapia Coptodon rendalli. In this study, data and specimens were collected during seasonal surveys between September 2014 and April 2015, using the standard graded fleets of gillnets employed in other programmes in the region, together with D-nets, angling and electro-fishing. The study demonstrated that fish communities in the floodplain ecosystems in the Chobe District of Botswana were representative of the region, containing some 70 species in 14 families. This study also demonstrated that for all the species collected, the mean Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) by weight for all the species was significantly higher in protected areas (Kruskal Wallis Test; P<0.05) namely, Zibadianja Lagoon (38 ± 31 kg/net.night"1 and Savuti River/marsh 25 ± 19 kg/net.night"1) than in the fished Chobe River floodplains CPUE (6 ± 3 kg/net.night-1). Biological contributions were estimates of longevity, growth and maturity for O. andersonii, O. macrochir and C. rendalli. Age and growth were estimated using sectioned sagittal otoliths. The Von Bertalanffy growth equation from otolith derived length at age was Lt(mm) =298 (1-e-0 59(t=- 098)) for O. andersonii and Lt(mm) = 337 (1-e-0'20(t=-235)) for C. rendalli. The results indicated that protected areas enhanced fish longevity, and fish in protected areas were larger and older than those in exploited areas. Maturity estimates for the large cichlids were consistent with other research in the region and the length-at-50% maturity was estimated as 250mm Lt for O. andersonii, 225 mm Lt for O. macrochir and 210 mm Lt for C. rendalli. Management recommendations are therefore to retain gill net mesh size regulations that ensure that these fish reach maturity and can breed before being harvested and to assess the possibility of increasing the number of protected areas in the district.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Bakane, Modiegi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cichlids Botswana Chobe District , Protected areas Botswana Chobe District , Fishery management Botswana Chobe District
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7459 , vital:21262
- Description: This study was aimed at better understanding the function of protected areas as a management strategy for the Chobe District fishery in Botswana, by first investigating the relative abundance in fish communities in and outside protected areas and secondly, by performing an assessment of the biology of commercially important large cichlid species viz threespot tilapia Oreochromis andersonii, greenhead tilapia Oreochromis macrochir and redbreast tilapia Coptodon rendalli. In this study, data and specimens were collected during seasonal surveys between September 2014 and April 2015, using the standard graded fleets of gillnets employed in other programmes in the region, together with D-nets, angling and electro-fishing. The study demonstrated that fish communities in the floodplain ecosystems in the Chobe District of Botswana were representative of the region, containing some 70 species in 14 families. This study also demonstrated that for all the species collected, the mean Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) by weight for all the species was significantly higher in protected areas (Kruskal Wallis Test; P<0.05) namely, Zibadianja Lagoon (38 ± 31 kg/net.night"1 and Savuti River/marsh 25 ± 19 kg/net.night"1) than in the fished Chobe River floodplains CPUE (6 ± 3 kg/net.night-1). Biological contributions were estimates of longevity, growth and maturity for O. andersonii, O. macrochir and C. rendalli. Age and growth were estimated using sectioned sagittal otoliths. The Von Bertalanffy growth equation from otolith derived length at age was Lt(mm) =298 (1-e-0 59(t=- 098)) for O. andersonii and Lt(mm) = 337 (1-e-0'20(t=-235)) for C. rendalli. The results indicated that protected areas enhanced fish longevity, and fish in protected areas were larger and older than those in exploited areas. Maturity estimates for the large cichlids were consistent with other research in the region and the length-at-50% maturity was estimated as 250mm Lt for O. andersonii, 225 mm Lt for O. macrochir and 210 mm Lt for C. rendalli. Management recommendations are therefore to retain gill net mesh size regulations that ensure that these fish reach maturity and can breed before being harvested and to assess the possibility of increasing the number of protected areas in the district.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The safety net function of NTFPs in different agro-ecological zones of South Africa
- Mugido, Worship, Shackleton, Charlie M
- Authors: Mugido, Worship , Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/180111 , vital:43311 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11111-017-0285-z"
- Description: Various South African studies have shown that rural households use NTFPs as safety nets in times of misfortune. However being focused on one or two sites, they do not show the prevalence of NTFP use as safety nets across multiple sites. In addition, they do not show the use of NTFPs as safety nets by rural households in different agro-ecological zones. The results of the study showed that about 79% of the total households interviewed experienced at least one shock of some magnitude in the previous 12 months. The most experienced shocks were illness, death, crop failure, and hunger. The households employed various coping strategies in response to different types of shocks, with the three widely used strategies being assistance from friends and relatives, using cash savings, and using NTFPs. Households in low agro-ecological zones used NTFPs as safety nets more than households in high agro-ecological zones.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mugido, Worship , Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/180111 , vital:43311 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11111-017-0285-z"
- Description: Various South African studies have shown that rural households use NTFPs as safety nets in times of misfortune. However being focused on one or two sites, they do not show the prevalence of NTFP use as safety nets across multiple sites. In addition, they do not show the use of NTFPs as safety nets by rural households in different agro-ecological zones. The results of the study showed that about 79% of the total households interviewed experienced at least one shock of some magnitude in the previous 12 months. The most experienced shocks were illness, death, crop failure, and hunger. The households employed various coping strategies in response to different types of shocks, with the three widely used strategies being assistance from friends and relatives, using cash savings, and using NTFPs. Households in low agro-ecological zones used NTFPs as safety nets more than households in high agro-ecological zones.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The socio-economic contribution of non-timber forest product trade to households in four villages in Zomba and Machinga Districts, Malawi
- Authors: Mahonya, Sophie Manchichi
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4787 , vital:20724
- Description: The principal aim of this study was to assess the socio-economic contribution of nontimber forest product (NTFP) trade to households in Zomba and Machinga, southern Malawi. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through several methods, including a household survey using questionnaire interviews, focus group discussions, key informant interviews with individual traders, direct observations, and literature review. The quantitative data were analysed statistically using SPPS version 16.0 while the qualitative data were analysed thematically. NTFP trade was the third important source of cash income for 15% of the households, although the level of use, buying and selling of NTFPs varied across the four study villages. All households in all the study villages used firewood (100%), and most used thatch grass (94%), bamboo (96%), wood for building (92%), largely as construction materials. However, the percentage of households buying NTFPs was lower, with the maximum percentage of households being 50%. The percent of households engaged in selling at least one NTFP was lower still at 39%. Substantial cash incomes were generated from firewood and edible orchids sales which provided up to a maximum of Mk180,000, equivalent to US$456, per year. Households joined the trade mostly for an alternative source of cash income due to poverty and to meet basic needs when other options were not available or feasible. Cash income generated from NTFP trade acted as a safety net and a coping strategy when other avenues supporting livelihoods were not accessible. The socio-economic benefits derived from NTFP trade were associated with the quantities collected, sold, market forces influenced by the law of demand and supply. The small amounts of cash income generated by most households were important as they supplemented household cash needs. There was a strong association between NTFP trade as one of the important sources of cash income and the number of months a household had food from their own garden in a year. There was a significant relationship though weak between ranking of NTFP trade and livestock ownership by households. Value chain analysis was used as an analytical tool to understand the processes involved in NTFP trade. The value chains for the products under study were short, dominated by traders and some intermediaries. Most of the products were sold in local markets with little value addition. This study recommends that policy makers should integrate NTFPs into their development plans, emphasizing the establishment of management strategies that will enhance availability and sustainability of the resource. NTFPs contributed to the livelihoods of the households socially and economically through provision of food, cash income, energy for cooking, medicine and construction materials.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mahonya, Sophie Manchichi
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4787 , vital:20724
- Description: The principal aim of this study was to assess the socio-economic contribution of nontimber forest product (NTFP) trade to households in Zomba and Machinga, southern Malawi. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through several methods, including a household survey using questionnaire interviews, focus group discussions, key informant interviews with individual traders, direct observations, and literature review. The quantitative data were analysed statistically using SPPS version 16.0 while the qualitative data were analysed thematically. NTFP trade was the third important source of cash income for 15% of the households, although the level of use, buying and selling of NTFPs varied across the four study villages. All households in all the study villages used firewood (100%), and most used thatch grass (94%), bamboo (96%), wood for building (92%), largely as construction materials. However, the percentage of households buying NTFPs was lower, with the maximum percentage of households being 50%. The percent of households engaged in selling at least one NTFP was lower still at 39%. Substantial cash incomes were generated from firewood and edible orchids sales which provided up to a maximum of Mk180,000, equivalent to US$456, per year. Households joined the trade mostly for an alternative source of cash income due to poverty and to meet basic needs when other options were not available or feasible. Cash income generated from NTFP trade acted as a safety net and a coping strategy when other avenues supporting livelihoods were not accessible. The socio-economic benefits derived from NTFP trade were associated with the quantities collected, sold, market forces influenced by the law of demand and supply. The small amounts of cash income generated by most households were important as they supplemented household cash needs. There was a strong association between NTFP trade as one of the important sources of cash income and the number of months a household had food from their own garden in a year. There was a significant relationship though weak between ranking of NTFP trade and livestock ownership by households. Value chain analysis was used as an analytical tool to understand the processes involved in NTFP trade. The value chains for the products under study were short, dominated by traders and some intermediaries. Most of the products were sold in local markets with little value addition. This study recommends that policy makers should integrate NTFPs into their development plans, emphasizing the establishment of management strategies that will enhance availability and sustainability of the resource. NTFPs contributed to the livelihoods of the households socially and economically through provision of food, cash income, energy for cooking, medicine and construction materials.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The teaching of english first additional language reading comprehension in selected rural secondary schools in the Ngcobo Education District
- Authors: Mshumi, Lizwi Chysostom
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Reading (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape English language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9286 , vital:34318
- Description: Literacy in South Africa is in a state of crisis according to the studies conducted by Progress in International Literacy Study (PIRLS) of 2006 and SACMEC III, 2011. Yearly there is a public outcry over the low matric pass rate and furthermore the Eastern Cape is below the national benchmark of 60 percent. In the district in which this research was based, the matric pass rate was, in 2016, amongst the lowest five districts nationally. This study used the interactive theory of reading as the theoretical framework and is located in the interpretive paradigm. Qualitative approach was employed in the study with the intentions of finding out as much as possible on teachers‟ experiences with the teaching of reading comprehension in rural secondary schools. The study also applied a case study design. For this study two schools were purposively selected from the Ngcobo District. The data in this study were derived from transcribed interviews, lesson observations and field notes. The main findings of this study reflected the following challenges faced by rural secondary schools based on teaching reading comprehension: the absence of a culture of reading, lack of resources and poor socio-economic background of learners, lack of exposure to reading material, limited availability of time both at school and home, and large classes. It is recommended that the Department of Basic Education (DBE) intensifies teachers with ongoing teacher development in order that they acquire additional skills on how to teach reading. The building of classrooms is required as well as addressing the issue of provision of various resources such as infrastructure library facilities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mshumi, Lizwi Chysostom
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Reading (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape English language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9286 , vital:34318
- Description: Literacy in South Africa is in a state of crisis according to the studies conducted by Progress in International Literacy Study (PIRLS) of 2006 and SACMEC III, 2011. Yearly there is a public outcry over the low matric pass rate and furthermore the Eastern Cape is below the national benchmark of 60 percent. In the district in which this research was based, the matric pass rate was, in 2016, amongst the lowest five districts nationally. This study used the interactive theory of reading as the theoretical framework and is located in the interpretive paradigm. Qualitative approach was employed in the study with the intentions of finding out as much as possible on teachers‟ experiences with the teaching of reading comprehension in rural secondary schools. The study also applied a case study design. For this study two schools were purposively selected from the Ngcobo District. The data in this study were derived from transcribed interviews, lesson observations and field notes. The main findings of this study reflected the following challenges faced by rural secondary schools based on teaching reading comprehension: the absence of a culture of reading, lack of resources and poor socio-economic background of learners, lack of exposure to reading material, limited availability of time both at school and home, and large classes. It is recommended that the Department of Basic Education (DBE) intensifies teachers with ongoing teacher development in order that they acquire additional skills on how to teach reading. The building of classrooms is required as well as addressing the issue of provision of various resources such as infrastructure library facilities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The use of competitive intelligence in the sustainability of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM)
- Authors: Fakir, Kiran
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Business intelligence -- South Africa -- East London Business enterprises -- South Africa -- East London , Small business -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15182 , vital:28176
- Description: The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), situated in the second largest province in South Africa, the Eastern Cape, is an unfortunate victim of low economic development and high unemployment. The South African Government, through the Department of Trade and Industry, identified the need for SMMEs to address these issues with the inception of the White Paper on National Strategy for the Development and Promotion of Small Business in South Africa over 20 years ago. SMMEs in South Africa are noted to have a failure rate of around 70% which does not bode well for the efforts to improve economic development and reduce unemployment through SMMEs. This research sets out to determine the significance of variables such as human resources, financial resources, information systems, government assistance and competitive intelligence on the sustainability of SMMEs. The researcher examined the literature relating to the challenges and issues faced by SMMEs with particular emphasis on the use of competitive intelligence as a tool to assist in sustainability. The literature review was followed by an analysis and interpretation of a qualitative study of SMMEs within the BCMM. Through an analysis of the results it was possible to determine the nature of the relationships between the independent variables and sustainability. Finally, the researcher was able to make recommendations based on the research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Fakir, Kiran
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Business intelligence -- South Africa -- East London Business enterprises -- South Africa -- East London , Small business -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15182 , vital:28176
- Description: The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), situated in the second largest province in South Africa, the Eastern Cape, is an unfortunate victim of low economic development and high unemployment. The South African Government, through the Department of Trade and Industry, identified the need for SMMEs to address these issues with the inception of the White Paper on National Strategy for the Development and Promotion of Small Business in South Africa over 20 years ago. SMMEs in South Africa are noted to have a failure rate of around 70% which does not bode well for the efforts to improve economic development and reduce unemployment through SMMEs. This research sets out to determine the significance of variables such as human resources, financial resources, information systems, government assistance and competitive intelligence on the sustainability of SMMEs. The researcher examined the literature relating to the challenges and issues faced by SMMEs with particular emphasis on the use of competitive intelligence as a tool to assist in sustainability. The literature review was followed by an analysis and interpretation of a qualitative study of SMMEs within the BCMM. Through an analysis of the results it was possible to determine the nature of the relationships between the independent variables and sustainability. Finally, the researcher was able to make recommendations based on the research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Third sector intervention and sustainable development : an evaluation of selected non-governmental organization supported projects in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Moyo, Thokozani Patience
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5774 , vital:29389
- Description: This study evaluates the impact of Third Sector- supported rural development projects in three rural communities of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It focusses on how interventions driven by this sector – denoted by, among others, local and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) - impact the lives and livelihoods of the rural poor. This is against the background of an established discourse that views NGOs as effective agents in the alleviation of poverty. The thesis contends that praise for the Third Sector is driven mostly by advocacy than based on systematic scientific evidence of the real impact of NGO-sponsored rural development interventions. Rural agricultural development projects supported by two Eastern Cape-based NGOs (the one a local NGO, and the other international) were selected for the study. A mini survey was conducted in the communities where the projects are located. Survey data were complemented by qualitative data obtained through focus groups, semi-structured and in-depth interviews as well as key informant interviews. The study found that whereas the projects had been established by the state later went moribund, they were resuscitated by the NGOs through a largely ‘bottom-up’ model of rural development intermediation. In other words, the interventions were resuscitated through a relatively robust prior engagement with project beneficiaries. As a result, while originally lacking a meaningful sense of local empowerment, ownership, and commitment, the projects had become revived and now played an important role in the livelihoods of some community members – even though social grants remained the primary and main source of income for those community members. Even so, the narratives of community members revealed what may be termed a ‘transformation paradox’ in the way the projects were implemented. The NGOs seemed to have replaced one kind of lop-sidedness in rural development (the exclusion of women) with another (the exclusion of men), by focussing on community projects that were ‘culturally’ deemed as ’women jobs’. In this way, the interventions appeared like a systematic attempt to do away with the ‘feminisation of rural poverty’ and entrench the ‘feminisation of rural development interventions’. The study concludes from these and other findings, that the key to understanding the significance and impact of Third Sector-supported development interventions in the rural arena – especially in the Eastern Cape context – is to go beyond the proliferation of NGOs and NGO-supported projects – and the broad sweep of advocacy that underpins it – and pay equally robust attention to systematically studying how these projects resonate at the grassroots, especially from a beneficiary perspective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Moyo, Thokozani Patience
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5774 , vital:29389
- Description: This study evaluates the impact of Third Sector- supported rural development projects in three rural communities of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It focusses on how interventions driven by this sector – denoted by, among others, local and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) - impact the lives and livelihoods of the rural poor. This is against the background of an established discourse that views NGOs as effective agents in the alleviation of poverty. The thesis contends that praise for the Third Sector is driven mostly by advocacy than based on systematic scientific evidence of the real impact of NGO-sponsored rural development interventions. Rural agricultural development projects supported by two Eastern Cape-based NGOs (the one a local NGO, and the other international) were selected for the study. A mini survey was conducted in the communities where the projects are located. Survey data were complemented by qualitative data obtained through focus groups, semi-structured and in-depth interviews as well as key informant interviews. The study found that whereas the projects had been established by the state later went moribund, they were resuscitated by the NGOs through a largely ‘bottom-up’ model of rural development intermediation. In other words, the interventions were resuscitated through a relatively robust prior engagement with project beneficiaries. As a result, while originally lacking a meaningful sense of local empowerment, ownership, and commitment, the projects had become revived and now played an important role in the livelihoods of some community members – even though social grants remained the primary and main source of income for those community members. Even so, the narratives of community members revealed what may be termed a ‘transformation paradox’ in the way the projects were implemented. The NGOs seemed to have replaced one kind of lop-sidedness in rural development (the exclusion of women) with another (the exclusion of men), by focussing on community projects that were ‘culturally’ deemed as ’women jobs’. In this way, the interventions appeared like a systematic attempt to do away with the ‘feminisation of rural poverty’ and entrench the ‘feminisation of rural development interventions’. The study concludes from these and other findings, that the key to understanding the significance and impact of Third Sector-supported development interventions in the rural arena – especially in the Eastern Cape context – is to go beyond the proliferation of NGOs and NGO-supported projects – and the broad sweep of advocacy that underpins it – and pay equally robust attention to systematically studying how these projects resonate at the grassroots, especially from a beneficiary perspective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Towards standardised reef fish monitoring: an assessment of stereo-video techniques to sample shallow and deep reef fish assemblages
- Authors: Halse, Sarah Jane
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Reef fishes -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Reef fishes -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Marine biodiversity -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Biotic communities -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Sparidae -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Reef fishes -- Size -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Underwater videography in wildlife monitoring -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4635 , vital:20702
- Description: Baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs) were developed to determine fish abundance and size structure in a more unbiased, and relatively non-invasive manner across a broader range of depths and habitats than conventional sampling methods achieve. These characteristics make stereo-BRUVs particularly useful for research inside marine protected areas (MPAs) where researchers are required to minimize disturbance to the protected environment. Although stereo-BRUVs have been widely used around the world, they are novel to South Africa and standardised protocols for their application are required. As such, this study aimed to address i) the effect of different bait types, namely pilchard (Sardinops sagax), squid (Loligo reynaudi) and bivalves (Crassostrea gigas and Perna perna) on the observed reef fish assemblage structure and ii) the effect of artificial illumination (lighting) on the observed reef fish assemblage structure sampled with stereo-BRUVs. One key component of the stereo-BRUVs methodology is the application of bait to attract fish into the field of view. Globally, pilchard is the most often used bait type for stereo- BRUVs, however, its suitability has never been tested comparatively against other bait types for South African conditions. Significant differences in fish abundance and assemblage structure were recorded between stereo-BRUVs deployments when applying the different bait types. The bivalve baits, oyster and mussel, were typically poor when sampling the reef fish assemblages of the region. Pilchard and squid were sampled in similar communities and were able to attract the majority of the reef fish from the region, suggesting they are suitable bait types for stereo-BRUVs in the Agulhas ecoregion. However, a power analysis indicated that roughly twice the amount of samples are required to effectively sample the same abundances of Chrysoblephus laticeps (roman) and Cheilodactylidae (fingerfins) species when sampling with squid as opposed to pilchard. Both bait types can be locally sourced, however, squid is considerably more expensive than pilchard. Considering the difference in cost, together with the fact that twice as much squid bait is required, squid is not a cost-effective option relative to pilchard. As such this study recommends that pilchard is the most appropriate bait for the Agulhas ecoregion of South Africa. Due to low light levels, artificial lighting is required when conducting remote video research in the sub-photic zone. Blue light has a shorter wavelength than other colour lights and attenuates slower through water. In addition, blue lighting has no recorded effect on fish behaviour and has proven to be a successful light colour for underwater sampling. The use of lighting is unavoidable for sub-photic stereo-BRUVs sampling and is recommended for all stereo-BRUVs sampling for comparability of data from environments characterised by different light levels. A study was conducted to test the necessity of artificial lighting when sampling from environments characterised by ambient light levels adequate for stereo- BRUVs sampling, a comparative to measure the effect of light on the fish assemblage structure. Of the more commonly detected fish species (those observed in >50% of the samples), most were seen at similar abundances in samples using lighting and in those without lighting. No significant differences were observed in fish length data between samples collected with and samples collected without lighting. This suggests that standardised stereo-BRUVs sampling across photic zones on the continental shelf of South Africa can be collected without blue lighting when ambient light levels are sufficient to see the survey area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Halse, Sarah Jane
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Reef fishes -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Reef fishes -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Marine biodiversity -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Biotic communities -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Sparidae -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Reef fishes -- Size -- South Africa -- Agulhas, Cape (Cape) , Underwater videography in wildlife monitoring -- South Africa -- Tsitsikamma , Baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4635 , vital:20702
- Description: Baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs) were developed to determine fish abundance and size structure in a more unbiased, and relatively non-invasive manner across a broader range of depths and habitats than conventional sampling methods achieve. These characteristics make stereo-BRUVs particularly useful for research inside marine protected areas (MPAs) where researchers are required to minimize disturbance to the protected environment. Although stereo-BRUVs have been widely used around the world, they are novel to South Africa and standardised protocols for their application are required. As such, this study aimed to address i) the effect of different bait types, namely pilchard (Sardinops sagax), squid (Loligo reynaudi) and bivalves (Crassostrea gigas and Perna perna) on the observed reef fish assemblage structure and ii) the effect of artificial illumination (lighting) on the observed reef fish assemblage structure sampled with stereo-BRUVs. One key component of the stereo-BRUVs methodology is the application of bait to attract fish into the field of view. Globally, pilchard is the most often used bait type for stereo- BRUVs, however, its suitability has never been tested comparatively against other bait types for South African conditions. Significant differences in fish abundance and assemblage structure were recorded between stereo-BRUVs deployments when applying the different bait types. The bivalve baits, oyster and mussel, were typically poor when sampling the reef fish assemblages of the region. Pilchard and squid were sampled in similar communities and were able to attract the majority of the reef fish from the region, suggesting they are suitable bait types for stereo-BRUVs in the Agulhas ecoregion. However, a power analysis indicated that roughly twice the amount of samples are required to effectively sample the same abundances of Chrysoblephus laticeps (roman) and Cheilodactylidae (fingerfins) species when sampling with squid as opposed to pilchard. Both bait types can be locally sourced, however, squid is considerably more expensive than pilchard. Considering the difference in cost, together with the fact that twice as much squid bait is required, squid is not a cost-effective option relative to pilchard. As such this study recommends that pilchard is the most appropriate bait for the Agulhas ecoregion of South Africa. Due to low light levels, artificial lighting is required when conducting remote video research in the sub-photic zone. Blue light has a shorter wavelength than other colour lights and attenuates slower through water. In addition, blue lighting has no recorded effect on fish behaviour and has proven to be a successful light colour for underwater sampling. The use of lighting is unavoidable for sub-photic stereo-BRUVs sampling and is recommended for all stereo-BRUVs sampling for comparability of data from environments characterised by different light levels. A study was conducted to test the necessity of artificial lighting when sampling from environments characterised by ambient light levels adequate for stereo- BRUVs sampling, a comparative to measure the effect of light on the fish assemblage structure. Of the more commonly detected fish species (those observed in >50% of the samples), most were seen at similar abundances in samples using lighting and in those without lighting. No significant differences were observed in fish length data between samples collected with and samples collected without lighting. This suggests that standardised stereo-BRUVs sampling across photic zones on the continental shelf of South Africa can be collected without blue lighting when ambient light levels are sufficient to see the survey area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Trade, financial development and the economic growth nexus in South Africa
- Authors: Zhanje, Stephen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa -- Economic conditions Economic development -- South Africa Finance -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13327 , vital:27175
- Description: South Africa is endowed with a well-developed and regulated financial system which compares favourably with those of other developed economies. Therefore the financial sector is intended to play a significant role in supporting the real economy, by enhancing trade and stimulating economic growth and development. Despite the existence of a stable, developed and well-regulated financial sector, the South African economy has experienced current account deficits for the past 10 years and economic growth rates have mostly trailed behind the targets prescribed by the socio-economic programs formulated and implemented since 1994. To solve the trade – financial development – economic growth nexus problem, most studies have focused on other countries while research studies on South Africa did not explicitly investigate the trade – financial development – economic growth triangle, the linkage which failed to yield the desired outcome for South Africa’s post 1994 era.Therefore, this study employs Cointegration Vector Autoregressive (CVAR) methodology to investigate the relationship between trade, financial development and economic growth in South Africa. The unit root test revealed that the variables considered in the study are I(1) variables and the Johansen cointegration test justified the existence of a long run relationship among the variables. The empirical findings indicate that imports and financial development are positively related to exports whilst economic growth is negatively related to exports. The VAR Ganger causality test has shown that there is a uni-directional causality running from financial development to economic growth, exports and imports and that imports Granger cause exports. The results of this study form the basis for further investigation into the non-performance of exports and economic growth in the nexus. The research study opens up new policy insights by suggesting that financial policy can be used to be more supportive to the production of intermediate and finished products destined for both international and domestic markets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Zhanje, Stephen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa -- Economic conditions Economic development -- South Africa Finance -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13327 , vital:27175
- Description: South Africa is endowed with a well-developed and regulated financial system which compares favourably with those of other developed economies. Therefore the financial sector is intended to play a significant role in supporting the real economy, by enhancing trade and stimulating economic growth and development. Despite the existence of a stable, developed and well-regulated financial sector, the South African economy has experienced current account deficits for the past 10 years and economic growth rates have mostly trailed behind the targets prescribed by the socio-economic programs formulated and implemented since 1994. To solve the trade – financial development – economic growth nexus problem, most studies have focused on other countries while research studies on South Africa did not explicitly investigate the trade – financial development – economic growth triangle, the linkage which failed to yield the desired outcome for South Africa’s post 1994 era.Therefore, this study employs Cointegration Vector Autoregressive (CVAR) methodology to investigate the relationship between trade, financial development and economic growth in South Africa. The unit root test revealed that the variables considered in the study are I(1) variables and the Johansen cointegration test justified the existence of a long run relationship among the variables. The empirical findings indicate that imports and financial development are positively related to exports whilst economic growth is negatively related to exports. The VAR Ganger causality test has shown that there is a uni-directional causality running from financial development to economic growth, exports and imports and that imports Granger cause exports. The results of this study form the basis for further investigation into the non-performance of exports and economic growth in the nexus. The research study opens up new policy insights by suggesting that financial policy can be used to be more supportive to the production of intermediate and finished products destined for both international and domestic markets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017