Financial services use in a rural context: a case of rural communities in South Africa
- Authors: Maciko,Loyiso
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Finance --South Africa Financial institutions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18930 , vital:42999
- Description: The thesis focuses on the gap between access and usage of financial services in rural communities of South Africa by using primary data and secondary data. It seeks to examine the factors that affect financial inclusion in rural communities of South Africa and to investigate South African trends regarding utilisation of financial services. This is since there has been an increase on adoption of financial services in South Africa however, this has not been complemented by effective usage. This rise in access of banks paints a misleading picture that majority of South Africans are included while the usage strand remains unmet as most people use bank accounts as a ‘mailbox’. This creates interest on what might be the underlying causes for lack of use, particularly in rural areas. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach in the form of exploratory sequential approach. This study was done in two stages. Firstly, focus groups were conducted in 20 villages from the Eastern Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal. During the second stage, the quantitative research was conducted, using Finscope data for all provinces covering 2013 to 2017. For data analysis the Binary logistic regression and Multinomial regressions were adopted The study discovered that rural households from the Eastern Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal, Limpopo and other provinces, dominated by rural areas, are often detached from the formal economy. As is the case with the rural residents that partook in this study relative to Gauteng, they did not derive any benefit from most formal economic initiatives or policies aimed at improving their well-being through access and use of financial services. Secondly, lack of income, trust, costs of financial services and distance to the nearest financial service provider remain barriers to use of financial services. To have a qualification or degree is regarded as an important factor that influences whether one saves at a bank. This causes rural residents with less education to rely on more informal saving methods. Furthermore, this study showed that households in rural locations of South Africa were either not aware or confident enough about the use and benefits of insurance and other financial services. Therefore, awareness campaigns should be promoted to gain client confidence by educating the current and potential clients. Rural households should be made aware of the safety that financial institutions give them, the interest rates earned, and the benefits that come with investing in formal institutions contrary to not investing. This study suggests that access and use of financial services has a non-uniform impact on household wealth. Thus, for effective poverty eradication in rural communities, there is a need for customized financial services and products aimed at addressing the explicit needs of the marginalised, as their needs diverge along the poverty distribution line. The results provide support to Andersen’s model as a mechanism that can be used to explain the demand-side perspective within the South African rural context. The study has made an empirical contribution tailored to the South African context. This study contributes to the current body of literature by applying the modified version of the Andersen Behavioural Model to financial vi services. It further contributes to the understanding of the relationship between the barrier to use or not use financial services in South African rural areas. It proposes that for financial market participation in the old traditional banking way there is a need to bring services to the people, and design the financial products in the manner that addresses the specific needs of the people in rural communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Maciko,Loyiso
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Finance --South Africa Financial institutions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18930 , vital:42999
- Description: The thesis focuses on the gap between access and usage of financial services in rural communities of South Africa by using primary data and secondary data. It seeks to examine the factors that affect financial inclusion in rural communities of South Africa and to investigate South African trends regarding utilisation of financial services. This is since there has been an increase on adoption of financial services in South Africa however, this has not been complemented by effective usage. This rise in access of banks paints a misleading picture that majority of South Africans are included while the usage strand remains unmet as most people use bank accounts as a ‘mailbox’. This creates interest on what might be the underlying causes for lack of use, particularly in rural areas. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach in the form of exploratory sequential approach. This study was done in two stages. Firstly, focus groups were conducted in 20 villages from the Eastern Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal. During the second stage, the quantitative research was conducted, using Finscope data for all provinces covering 2013 to 2017. For data analysis the Binary logistic regression and Multinomial regressions were adopted The study discovered that rural households from the Eastern Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal, Limpopo and other provinces, dominated by rural areas, are often detached from the formal economy. As is the case with the rural residents that partook in this study relative to Gauteng, they did not derive any benefit from most formal economic initiatives or policies aimed at improving their well-being through access and use of financial services. Secondly, lack of income, trust, costs of financial services and distance to the nearest financial service provider remain barriers to use of financial services. To have a qualification or degree is regarded as an important factor that influences whether one saves at a bank. This causes rural residents with less education to rely on more informal saving methods. Furthermore, this study showed that households in rural locations of South Africa were either not aware or confident enough about the use and benefits of insurance and other financial services. Therefore, awareness campaigns should be promoted to gain client confidence by educating the current and potential clients. Rural households should be made aware of the safety that financial institutions give them, the interest rates earned, and the benefits that come with investing in formal institutions contrary to not investing. This study suggests that access and use of financial services has a non-uniform impact on household wealth. Thus, for effective poverty eradication in rural communities, there is a need for customized financial services and products aimed at addressing the explicit needs of the marginalised, as their needs diverge along the poverty distribution line. The results provide support to Andersen’s model as a mechanism that can be used to explain the demand-side perspective within the South African rural context. The study has made an empirical contribution tailored to the South African context. This study contributes to the current body of literature by applying the modified version of the Andersen Behavioural Model to financial vi services. It further contributes to the understanding of the relationship between the barrier to use or not use financial services in South African rural areas. It proposes that for financial market participation in the old traditional banking way there is a need to bring services to the people, and design the financial products in the manner that addresses the specific needs of the people in rural communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Household food insecurity and its association with psychological well-being of pregnant women in Ghana: the role of selected psychosocial factors
- Authors: Addai, Prince
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Food security -- Ghana Households -- Ghana Self-reliance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12547 , vital:39286
- Description: The inability to get enough food has contributed immensely to dangers confronting pregnant women, especially in the developing countries. Food insecurity has been associated with a variety of negative consequences such as poor health and wellbeing. However, the impact of food insecurity on well-being has not received the needed attention by researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa where the state of food insecurity and its consequence is very pandemic. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of food insecurity on psychological well-being and its components among pregnant women in Northern Ghana and to assess the roles of self-esteem, locus of control, proactivity, and social support on the underlying relationship. The cross-sectional survey was adopted where 386 pregnant women were recruited to complete questionnaires on demographic, some psychological factors, psychological well-being and food insecurity. Dimensionality and Item analyses were conducted to detect complex and poor items and also to ensure unidimensionality. Regression analysis, MANOVA, Baron and Kenney Model of moderation and mediation, the multivariate ANOVA and the Two-way ANOVA were used to test the hypotheses. Results indicated that the measurement and the structural models showed a good fit with the observed data. Results showed that about 37.5% (n=144) out of the 384 pregnant women experienced severe food insecurity. Food insecurity was negatively significantly related with psychological well-being and all its components among pregnant women. Food insecurity elucidated 48.5% of the observed variance of food insecurity. Food insecurity correlated highly to personal growth (β = -.327) element of psychological well-being compared to autonomy (β = -.227), interpersonal relationship (β = -.207), environmental mastery (β = -.168), self-acceptance (β = -.117), and of purpose in life (β = -.107). Self-esteem and locus of control mediated the relationship between food insecurity and psychological well-being. Proactivity and social support also moderated the nexus between food insecurity and psychological well-being. 4 Final Submission of Thesis, Dissertation or Research Report/Project, Conference or Exam Paper Having higher income status and being employed were associated positively with higher psychological well-being. Support was not found for the nexus between marital status and age with psychological well-being. Recommendations are made for pregnant mothers to be supported and empowered to boost their self-esteem and make them proactive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Addai, Prince
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Food security -- Ghana Households -- Ghana Self-reliance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12547 , vital:39286
- Description: The inability to get enough food has contributed immensely to dangers confronting pregnant women, especially in the developing countries. Food insecurity has been associated with a variety of negative consequences such as poor health and wellbeing. However, the impact of food insecurity on well-being has not received the needed attention by researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa where the state of food insecurity and its consequence is very pandemic. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of food insecurity on psychological well-being and its components among pregnant women in Northern Ghana and to assess the roles of self-esteem, locus of control, proactivity, and social support on the underlying relationship. The cross-sectional survey was adopted where 386 pregnant women were recruited to complete questionnaires on demographic, some psychological factors, psychological well-being and food insecurity. Dimensionality and Item analyses were conducted to detect complex and poor items and also to ensure unidimensionality. Regression analysis, MANOVA, Baron and Kenney Model of moderation and mediation, the multivariate ANOVA and the Two-way ANOVA were used to test the hypotheses. Results indicated that the measurement and the structural models showed a good fit with the observed data. Results showed that about 37.5% (n=144) out of the 384 pregnant women experienced severe food insecurity. Food insecurity was negatively significantly related with psychological well-being and all its components among pregnant women. Food insecurity elucidated 48.5% of the observed variance of food insecurity. Food insecurity correlated highly to personal growth (β = -.327) element of psychological well-being compared to autonomy (β = -.227), interpersonal relationship (β = -.207), environmental mastery (β = -.168), self-acceptance (β = -.117), and of purpose in life (β = -.107). Self-esteem and locus of control mediated the relationship between food insecurity and psychological well-being. Proactivity and social support also moderated the nexus between food insecurity and psychological well-being. 4 Final Submission of Thesis, Dissertation or Research Report/Project, Conference or Exam Paper Having higher income status and being employed were associated positively with higher psychological well-being. Support was not found for the nexus between marital status and age with psychological well-being. Recommendations are made for pregnant mothers to be supported and empowered to boost their self-esteem and make them proactive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Human capital Development and Economic Growth: A cross country study
- Authors: Sokanti, Thembalethu
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development Human capital
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18985 , vital:43005
- Description: The study examined the impact of human capital development on economic growth for 129 countries comprising of developed and developing countries. The primary focus of the study is on examining the contribution of human capital index components on economic growth for the period 2014 to 2017. The panel data model was employed in the study. Firstly, the hausman test was used to determine the suitable method between fixed and random effects. The fixed effects model was selected as the best panel econometric technique to be used in the study. The empirical results showed that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between human capital index components (capacity, development, deployment and know how) and economic growth. The study also found that these components of human capital index have more impact on economic growth when they are interacted together based on theories of human capital and economic growth. Capacity and development are found to be the best contributors to economic growth for all the regions; thus, the study recommends that for economic growth to be increased, countries should invest more of their funds on capacity and development sub- indexes of human capital index. Exchange rates and inflation are found to have a negative relationship with the economic growth, while interest rates are found to have a positive and statistical relationship with the economic growth. The study also found out that there is a regional effect associated with human capital development, with European region being the best contributor to GDP. The components of human capital index also found to be important for all regions to invest on to improve economic performance. Deployment is found not to be significant is Sub-Saharan Africa. The existence of income group effect is found with developed countries performing much better compared to developing countries. The study also recommended that countries should invest more of their wealth in human capital development components such as education and health to enhance their economic growth
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sokanti, Thembalethu
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development Human capital
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18985 , vital:43005
- Description: The study examined the impact of human capital development on economic growth for 129 countries comprising of developed and developing countries. The primary focus of the study is on examining the contribution of human capital index components on economic growth for the period 2014 to 2017. The panel data model was employed in the study. Firstly, the hausman test was used to determine the suitable method between fixed and random effects. The fixed effects model was selected as the best panel econometric technique to be used in the study. The empirical results showed that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between human capital index components (capacity, development, deployment and know how) and economic growth. The study also found that these components of human capital index have more impact on economic growth when they are interacted together based on theories of human capital and economic growth. Capacity and development are found to be the best contributors to economic growth for all the regions; thus, the study recommends that for economic growth to be increased, countries should invest more of their funds on capacity and development sub- indexes of human capital index. Exchange rates and inflation are found to have a negative relationship with the economic growth, while interest rates are found to have a positive and statistical relationship with the economic growth. The study also found out that there is a regional effect associated with human capital development, with European region being the best contributor to GDP. The components of human capital index also found to be important for all regions to invest on to improve economic performance. Deployment is found not to be significant is Sub-Saharan Africa. The existence of income group effect is found with developed countries performing much better compared to developing countries. The study also recommended that countries should invest more of their wealth in human capital development components such as education and health to enhance their economic growth
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Individualism and collectivism as moderators of the relationship between achievement motivation and entrepreneurial interest among undergraduate students at Walter Sisulu University
- Authors: Magadlela, Asanda Sinazo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Individualism -- Psychological aspects Collectivism -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18543 , vital:42607
- Description: The purpose of this study” is “to explore individualism and collectivism” “as moderators of the relationship between entrepreneurial” interest “and achievement motivation”among undergraduate students. The study is focused on analysing the relationship behind the variables and what drives the University students of Walter Sisulu University towards the business development of young people. “Researchers have traditionally associated individualism with high rates of firm creation, arguing that an orientation towards achievement and the pursuit of personal objectives” (dominant aspects of individualist cultures) “are determinants of entrepreneurial activity.” “The current analysis shows that a culture correlates to entrepreneurship”, “but cannot uphold the idea that higher levels of individualism mean higher rates of entrepreneurship.” “Many universities have introduced entrepreneurship education to promote the interest” of undergraduates in “becoming future entrepreneurs. Here, the researcher tries to retrieve the undergraduate’s interest and achievement motivation which influences them to entrepreneurial intentions. Based on” the “literature” review, it identifies various factors that are used in the predictions of entrepreneurial interest. “These factors were” adopted “to explore” student’s interests. “Survey questionnaires were distributed to” two campuses from the University of Walter Sisulu, namely; College street campus (East London) and the Potsdam campus which is the main campus of the University. “A total of” 154 “valid data” was “analysed using multiple regressions. The results show that entrepreneurial” interest “was predicted by achievement” motivation, individualism and collectivism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Magadlela, Asanda Sinazo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Individualism -- Psychological aspects Collectivism -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18543 , vital:42607
- Description: The purpose of this study” is “to explore individualism and collectivism” “as moderators of the relationship between entrepreneurial” interest “and achievement motivation”among undergraduate students. The study is focused on analysing the relationship behind the variables and what drives the University students of Walter Sisulu University towards the business development of young people. “Researchers have traditionally associated individualism with high rates of firm creation, arguing that an orientation towards achievement and the pursuit of personal objectives” (dominant aspects of individualist cultures) “are determinants of entrepreneurial activity.” “The current analysis shows that a culture correlates to entrepreneurship”, “but cannot uphold the idea that higher levels of individualism mean higher rates of entrepreneurship.” “Many universities have introduced entrepreneurship education to promote the interest” of undergraduates in “becoming future entrepreneurs. Here, the researcher tries to retrieve the undergraduate’s interest and achievement motivation which influences them to entrepreneurial intentions. Based on” the “literature” review, it identifies various factors that are used in the predictions of entrepreneurial interest. “These factors were” adopted “to explore” student’s interests. “Survey questionnaires were distributed to” two campuses from the University of Walter Sisulu, namely; College street campus (East London) and the Potsdam campus which is the main campus of the University. “A total of” 154 “valid data” was “analysed using multiple regressions. The results show that entrepreneurial” interest “was predicted by achievement” motivation, individualism and collectivism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Integrating quality management principles into policies and procedures for water and sanitation provision in the Cape Town Metro
- Authors: Madliwa, Nokhanyo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Total quality management local government Quality assurance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18882 , vital:42995
- Description: The study aims to find a way of improving water and sanitation services through the standardisation of policies and procedures in Reticulation, Waste Water and Bulk Water. It further aims to develop and test an IQM-based model that improves policy and procedure standardisation for the provision of quality water and sanitation services at municipality level. The researcher regards effective IQMS as one of the possible mechanisms that can contribute to the improvement of standardised policies and procedures in quality water and sanitation provision. This study examined the effects of IQM on the standardisation of policies and procedures for the provision of quality water and sanitation services in the Utility Department of the Cape Town Metro, especially in Reticulation, Waste Water and Bulk Water. The study saw a possible link between the effectiveness of IQM and the effective provisioning of quality water and sanitation. The mixed method approach was used. Quantitative and qualitative methods were both used in order to support each other during data analysis. Furthermore, the mixed method was adopted to provide an interpretative and analytical balance towards a clearer understanding of the phenomena under study. The quantitative phase was completed first, followed by the qualitative phase to explain the results even further. For the quantitative method, survey data was gathered. The quantitative method was used for historical numerical data purposes when explaining the survey results. Survey data was analysed using statistical analysis. The qualitative method utilised interviews, providing clarity and thick descriptions of the findings, where quantitative methods did not. This research found that the three branches of the Utility Department in the Cape Town Metro under study did not fully comply with the IQMS as shown by the results of the hypothesis testing. In other words, there is partial compliance with ISO 140001, ISO 9001 & OHSAS 18001 in relation to the standardisation of policy and procedure design and development (DD), implementation (IP), examination (EP), review (RP) and assessment (AP). This means that components of IQMS were not fully applied to the standardisation of policies and procedures for the provision of water and sanitation services. The partial standardisation of policy and procedure vi design and development accounted for the lack of the following: Firstly, improvement in the management of infrastructure, secondly in monitoring and evaluation for quality water and sanitation services. The partial standardisation of policy and procedure implementation accounted for the lack of improvement in the corrective measures, technical knowledge and public health knowledge for quality water and sanitation services. The partial standardisation of policy and procedure examination accounted for the lack of improvement in the corrective measures, management of infrastructure; and monitoring and evaluation for quality water and sanitation services. The partial standardisation of policy and procedure review accounted for the lack of improvement in the corrective measures, management of infrastructure; monitoring and evaluation, technical knowledge and public health knowledge for quality water and sanitation services. Last but not least, the partial standardisation of policy and procedure assessment accounted for the lack of improvement in the corrective measures, and technical knowledge for quality water and sanitation services
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Madliwa, Nokhanyo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Total quality management local government Quality assurance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18882 , vital:42995
- Description: The study aims to find a way of improving water and sanitation services through the standardisation of policies and procedures in Reticulation, Waste Water and Bulk Water. It further aims to develop and test an IQM-based model that improves policy and procedure standardisation for the provision of quality water and sanitation services at municipality level. The researcher regards effective IQMS as one of the possible mechanisms that can contribute to the improvement of standardised policies and procedures in quality water and sanitation provision. This study examined the effects of IQM on the standardisation of policies and procedures for the provision of quality water and sanitation services in the Utility Department of the Cape Town Metro, especially in Reticulation, Waste Water and Bulk Water. The study saw a possible link between the effectiveness of IQM and the effective provisioning of quality water and sanitation. The mixed method approach was used. Quantitative and qualitative methods were both used in order to support each other during data analysis. Furthermore, the mixed method was adopted to provide an interpretative and analytical balance towards a clearer understanding of the phenomena under study. The quantitative phase was completed first, followed by the qualitative phase to explain the results even further. For the quantitative method, survey data was gathered. The quantitative method was used for historical numerical data purposes when explaining the survey results. Survey data was analysed using statistical analysis. The qualitative method utilised interviews, providing clarity and thick descriptions of the findings, where quantitative methods did not. This research found that the three branches of the Utility Department in the Cape Town Metro under study did not fully comply with the IQMS as shown by the results of the hypothesis testing. In other words, there is partial compliance with ISO 140001, ISO 9001 & OHSAS 18001 in relation to the standardisation of policy and procedure design and development (DD), implementation (IP), examination (EP), review (RP) and assessment (AP). This means that components of IQMS were not fully applied to the standardisation of policies and procedures for the provision of water and sanitation services. The partial standardisation of policy and procedure vi design and development accounted for the lack of the following: Firstly, improvement in the management of infrastructure, secondly in monitoring and evaluation for quality water and sanitation services. The partial standardisation of policy and procedure implementation accounted for the lack of improvement in the corrective measures, technical knowledge and public health knowledge for quality water and sanitation services. The partial standardisation of policy and procedure examination accounted for the lack of improvement in the corrective measures, management of infrastructure; and monitoring and evaluation for quality water and sanitation services. The partial standardisation of policy and procedure review accounted for the lack of improvement in the corrective measures, management of infrastructure; monitoring and evaluation, technical knowledge and public health knowledge for quality water and sanitation services. Last but not least, the partial standardisation of policy and procedure assessment accounted for the lack of improvement in the corrective measures, and technical knowledge for quality water and sanitation services
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Job characteristics and organisational citizenship behaviour among employees in a previously disadvantaged South African university
- Authors: Yawethe, Thozama
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18952 , vital:43002
- Description: This study examined job characteristics and organisational citizenship behaviour among employees in a previously disadvantaged South African University. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 149 randomly selected participants. A 5-point Likert scale job characteristics survey by Hackman and Oldham (1975) was used to measure job characteristics while, a 5-point Likert scale by Lee and Allen (2002) on organisational citizenship behaviour was used to measure employee’s organisational citizenship behaviour. Different statistical techniques such as Spearman rho correlation technique and Regression analysis were used to analyse data. The results showed that task significance, skills variety, autonomy and feedback are significantly positively related to organisational citizenship behaviour. There was a non-significant negative relationship between task identity and organisational citizenship behaviour. A combination of two or more job characteristics dimensions were found to report a higher proportion of variance in organisational citizenship behaviour than any one job characteristic separately. The study, thus, recommends that managers must design employees’ jobs or tasks that are more meaningful to stimulate the display of organisational citizenship behaviour. Initiatives that stimulate the use of a variety of skills, promotes feedback, promote task significance and autonomy were suggested as solutions to stimulate the display of OCB. The prevalence of such dimensions on one’s job increase motivation and satisfaction therefore contributing positively towards organisational citizenship behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Yawethe, Thozama
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18952 , vital:43002
- Description: This study examined job characteristics and organisational citizenship behaviour among employees in a previously disadvantaged South African University. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 149 randomly selected participants. A 5-point Likert scale job characteristics survey by Hackman and Oldham (1975) was used to measure job characteristics while, a 5-point Likert scale by Lee and Allen (2002) on organisational citizenship behaviour was used to measure employee’s organisational citizenship behaviour. Different statistical techniques such as Spearman rho correlation technique and Regression analysis were used to analyse data. The results showed that task significance, skills variety, autonomy and feedback are significantly positively related to organisational citizenship behaviour. There was a non-significant negative relationship between task identity and organisational citizenship behaviour. A combination of two or more job characteristics dimensions were found to report a higher proportion of variance in organisational citizenship behaviour than any one job characteristic separately. The study, thus, recommends that managers must design employees’ jobs or tasks that are more meaningful to stimulate the display of organisational citizenship behaviour. Initiatives that stimulate the use of a variety of skills, promotes feedback, promote task significance and autonomy were suggested as solutions to stimulate the display of OCB. The prevalence of such dimensions on one’s job increase motivation and satisfaction therefore contributing positively towards organisational citizenship behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Mineral Resources Governance and Socio-Economic Development in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chawatama, Chrispen Tauya
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resources -- Zimbabwe Mining law --Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD(Dev)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:42996
- Description: This study focused on investigating mineral resources governance (reflected in terms of three indicators of transparency, accountability and stakeholder inclusion) and its effect on socioeconomic development (in terms of three indicators of education, health and household incomes. Mineral resources can be a blessing and can lead to socioeconomic transformation of a country if they are managed transparently, accountably, inclusively equitably and sustainably. On the other hand, these subsoil capital assets can be a ‘curse’ and lead to poverty, conflicts amongst interest groups, elite capture, corruption and economic stagnation if they are not properly managed. Good governance of mineral resources seeks to ensure that the harnessing of mineral resources benefits the economy, enhances the quality of life and reduces poverty amongst citizens. The mining sector of Zimbabwe has risen to be the key economic sector in terms of its contribution to the GDP, FDI, fiscal revenue, exports and employment creation, particularly after the discovery of diamonds and more gold deposits in the country. However, in spite of the growth of the mining sector and its elevation to the mainstay of the economy, glaring dire socioeconomic conditions in terms of unemployment and high poverty levels, poor health, education and household incomes, leads one to question the way the country’s opulent mineral resources are being governed. The study used a mixed methods approach, through use of primary data (quantitative and qualitative data) and secondary data (archival data) as the basis for the collection as well as analysis of data. Complementarity of the research methods was achieved through use of data from household survey with 160 households in Mhondoro-Ngezi, Chegutu, Kwekwe and Shurugwi and in-depth interviews with officials of government ministries; of Finance and Economic Development, Health and Childcare, Primary and viii Secondary Education, local councillors, CSOs; ZELA and ZIMCODD, Traditional chiefs and ZASMC. The study established that mining growth is contributing somewhat to socio-economic development through employment creation, corporate social responsibility, CSOTs, ESPOs, taxation and royalties, but broad-based development has not taken place in the four districts. The study proposes a holistic mineral resources governance and socioeconomic development framework. The study recommends the Repeal of MMA and gazetting of a more comprehensive legal framework, implementation of constitutional provisions on transparency, accountability and stakeholder inclusion, adoption of free online tools for mineral processes disclosure, consolidation of the mining fiscal regime and so on.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Chawatama, Chrispen Tauya
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resources -- Zimbabwe Mining law --Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD(Dev)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:42996
- Description: This study focused on investigating mineral resources governance (reflected in terms of three indicators of transparency, accountability and stakeholder inclusion) and its effect on socioeconomic development (in terms of three indicators of education, health and household incomes. Mineral resources can be a blessing and can lead to socioeconomic transformation of a country if they are managed transparently, accountably, inclusively equitably and sustainably. On the other hand, these subsoil capital assets can be a ‘curse’ and lead to poverty, conflicts amongst interest groups, elite capture, corruption and economic stagnation if they are not properly managed. Good governance of mineral resources seeks to ensure that the harnessing of mineral resources benefits the economy, enhances the quality of life and reduces poverty amongst citizens. The mining sector of Zimbabwe has risen to be the key economic sector in terms of its contribution to the GDP, FDI, fiscal revenue, exports and employment creation, particularly after the discovery of diamonds and more gold deposits in the country. However, in spite of the growth of the mining sector and its elevation to the mainstay of the economy, glaring dire socioeconomic conditions in terms of unemployment and high poverty levels, poor health, education and household incomes, leads one to question the way the country’s opulent mineral resources are being governed. The study used a mixed methods approach, through use of primary data (quantitative and qualitative data) and secondary data (archival data) as the basis for the collection as well as analysis of data. Complementarity of the research methods was achieved through use of data from household survey with 160 households in Mhondoro-Ngezi, Chegutu, Kwekwe and Shurugwi and in-depth interviews with officials of government ministries; of Finance and Economic Development, Health and Childcare, Primary and viii Secondary Education, local councillors, CSOs; ZELA and ZIMCODD, Traditional chiefs and ZASMC. The study established that mining growth is contributing somewhat to socio-economic development through employment creation, corporate social responsibility, CSOTs, ESPOs, taxation and royalties, but broad-based development has not taken place in the four districts. The study proposes a holistic mineral resources governance and socioeconomic development framework. The study recommends the Repeal of MMA and gazetting of a more comprehensive legal framework, implementation of constitutional provisions on transparency, accountability and stakeholder inclusion, adoption of free online tools for mineral processes disclosure, consolidation of the mining fiscal regime and so on.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Organisational justice as a predictor of organisational citizenship behaviour among academic employees at the University of Fort Hare in South Africa
- Authors: Matsungo, Forget
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational change Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12458 , vital:39265
- Description: This research was designed to examine the relationship between Organisational Justice (OJ) constructs and Organizational Citizenship Behaviour (OCB). This study was based on social exchange theory, the norm of reciprocity. The sample for the study consisted of 184 academic members of staff from the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Moorman and Niehoff (1993). Organizational Justice Scale was used to measure justice and Podsakoff, MacKenzie, Moorman, and Fetter’s (1990) OCB Scale was used to measure extra role behaviours. Data analysis was done by means of the Spearman Rank Order Correlation Coefficient and Multiple Regression Model using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The findings revealed a positive and significant relationship between OJ and OCB. More specifically, OJ was revealed be significantly positively associated with the measures of OCB (courtesy, altruism, civic virtue, conscientiousness, and sportsmanship) at the University of Fort Hare. Therefore, to improve work performance it is imperative that the university should continuously ensure and promote: fairness in their decisions relating (distributive justice); fairness of the methods, mechanisms, processes, and procedures used to determine the decisions or outcomes (procedural justice); as well as fairness in the quality of the interpersonal treatment employees receive within the work environment (interactional justice). This is particularly so, because when employees perceives that there is emphasis on justice or fairness (procedural justice, distributive justice, and interactional justice) within the organisation, they may reciprocate this gesture by displaying desirable discretionary work related behaviours. Theoretical and managerial implications and suggestions for future research are discussed
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Matsungo, Forget
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational change Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12458 , vital:39265
- Description: This research was designed to examine the relationship between Organisational Justice (OJ) constructs and Organizational Citizenship Behaviour (OCB). This study was based on social exchange theory, the norm of reciprocity. The sample for the study consisted of 184 academic members of staff from the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Moorman and Niehoff (1993). Organizational Justice Scale was used to measure justice and Podsakoff, MacKenzie, Moorman, and Fetter’s (1990) OCB Scale was used to measure extra role behaviours. Data analysis was done by means of the Spearman Rank Order Correlation Coefficient and Multiple Regression Model using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The findings revealed a positive and significant relationship between OJ and OCB. More specifically, OJ was revealed be significantly positively associated with the measures of OCB (courtesy, altruism, civic virtue, conscientiousness, and sportsmanship) at the University of Fort Hare. Therefore, to improve work performance it is imperative that the university should continuously ensure and promote: fairness in their decisions relating (distributive justice); fairness of the methods, mechanisms, processes, and procedures used to determine the decisions or outcomes (procedural justice); as well as fairness in the quality of the interpersonal treatment employees receive within the work environment (interactional justice). This is particularly so, because when employees perceives that there is emphasis on justice or fairness (procedural justice, distributive justice, and interactional justice) within the organisation, they may reciprocate this gesture by displaying desirable discretionary work related behaviours. Theoretical and managerial implications and suggestions for future research are discussed
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Psychological capital as a moderator in the relationship between occupational stress and quality of work life among healthcare practitioners in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Umenze , Catherine Chetachukwu
- Authors: Umenze , Catherine Chetachukwu
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Job stress Human capital -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12536 , vital:39285
- Description: The study investigated psychological capital as a moderator in the relationship between occupational stress and quality of work life. The study used the explanatory survey research design. The convenience and purposive types of the non-probability sampling method were used to sample 150 male and female healthcare practitioners who participated in the study. Validated questionnaires were used to elicit information from the study’s participants. Four hypotheses were stated and analysed using the inferential statistical approach. The research findings showed that there was a significant positive relationship between occupational stress and quality of work life; there was a significant positive relationship between psychological capital and quality of work life; and there was a significant moderating influence of psychological capital on the relationship between occupational stress and quality of work life. And finally, there was no significant relationship between psychological capital and occupational stress. There is need for managers to focus on the four dimensions of psychological capital to help minimise occupational stress and improve quality of work life of healthcare practitioners. Management was also advised to devise optimal methods to curb stress and strengthen the mental and physical abilities of the employees’ outcomes. Future research should endeavour to apply a longitudinal research design in investigating the extent to which psychological capital can predict occupational stress, and in understanding its influence in the quality of work life of employees. The future study can spread the investigation to other districts as this study was conducted in just one district, which is a foremost limitation of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Umenze , Catherine Chetachukwu
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Job stress Human capital -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12536 , vital:39285
- Description: The study investigated psychological capital as a moderator in the relationship between occupational stress and quality of work life. The study used the explanatory survey research design. The convenience and purposive types of the non-probability sampling method were used to sample 150 male and female healthcare practitioners who participated in the study. Validated questionnaires were used to elicit information from the study’s participants. Four hypotheses were stated and analysed using the inferential statistical approach. The research findings showed that there was a significant positive relationship between occupational stress and quality of work life; there was a significant positive relationship between psychological capital and quality of work life; and there was a significant moderating influence of psychological capital on the relationship between occupational stress and quality of work life. And finally, there was no significant relationship between psychological capital and occupational stress. There is need for managers to focus on the four dimensions of psychological capital to help minimise occupational stress and improve quality of work life of healthcare practitioners. Management was also advised to devise optimal methods to curb stress and strengthen the mental and physical abilities of the employees’ outcomes. Future research should endeavour to apply a longitudinal research design in investigating the extent to which psychological capital can predict occupational stress, and in understanding its influence in the quality of work life of employees. The future study can spread the investigation to other districts as this study was conducted in just one district, which is a foremost limitation of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Psychological capital as a moderator of the relationship between intrinsic motivation and employee engagement at public hospital in the Eastern Cape, a South Africa
- Authors: Skoti , Bulumko
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18996 , vital:43006
- Description: Employee engagement is an important characteristic that all organizations would be happy to have among all their employees. This is because employee engagement is linked with many desirable organisational outcomes such as job satisfaction, productivity, and employee retention. It is therefore extremely important for organisations to know how engagement among employees can be generated or enhanced, especially in the South African public health sector that is characterised by high levels of stress and labour turnover among its employees. The main objective of the present study was accordingly to explore (i) the role of intrinsic motivation and psychological capital as individual and combined predictors of employee engagement, and (ii) the role of psychological capital as a moderator of the relationship between intrinsic motivation and employee engagement. A quantitative approach was adopted and a structured self-administered questionnaire was used in data collection. Simple Linear Regression and Hierarchical Multiple Regression were used in hypothesis testing. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between intrinsic motivation and employee engagement. Psychological capital was also found to be significantly positively related to employee engagement. Intrinsic motivation and psychological capital (combined) were found to account for a significantly higher proportion of variance in employee engagement than intrinsic motivation alone but they did not account for a significantly higher proportion of variance in employee engagement than psychological capital alone. The limitations of the study were highlighted and recommendations were made for future research directions. Recommendations were also made for the managerial and professional application of the results of the present study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Skoti , Bulumko
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18996 , vital:43006
- Description: Employee engagement is an important characteristic that all organizations would be happy to have among all their employees. This is because employee engagement is linked with many desirable organisational outcomes such as job satisfaction, productivity, and employee retention. It is therefore extremely important for organisations to know how engagement among employees can be generated or enhanced, especially in the South African public health sector that is characterised by high levels of stress and labour turnover among its employees. The main objective of the present study was accordingly to explore (i) the role of intrinsic motivation and psychological capital as individual and combined predictors of employee engagement, and (ii) the role of psychological capital as a moderator of the relationship between intrinsic motivation and employee engagement. A quantitative approach was adopted and a structured self-administered questionnaire was used in data collection. Simple Linear Regression and Hierarchical Multiple Regression were used in hypothesis testing. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between intrinsic motivation and employee engagement. Psychological capital was also found to be significantly positively related to employee engagement. Intrinsic motivation and psychological capital (combined) were found to account for a significantly higher proportion of variance in employee engagement than intrinsic motivation alone but they did not account for a significantly higher proportion of variance in employee engagement than psychological capital alone. The limitations of the study were highlighted and recommendations were made for future research directions. Recommendations were also made for the managerial and professional application of the results of the present study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Psychological capital as a moderator of the relationship between workplace conflict and organisational citizenship behaviour among administrative staff at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Motema, Boiketlo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational behavior Employees -- Attitudes Organizational effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18565 , vital:42609
- Description: This study investigated psychological capital (PsyCap) as a mediator of the relationship between workplace conflict (WC) and organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB). The study was based on equity theory as well as the social exchange theory. The sample encompassed of 151 administrative staff members from the University of Fort Hare (Alice, Bhisho and East London campuses) in the Eastern Cape Province. Argentero, Cortese, and Ferretti (2008) organisational citizenship behaviour questionnaire was employed to assess OCB; the Interpersonal Conflict at Work Scale (ICAWS) was employed to assess workplace conflict; and Luthans, Avolio, Avey, and Norman’s (2007) psychological capital questionnaire by McGee (2011) was employed to assess psychological capital. In terms of data analysis, a descriptive analysis, correlational analysis together with simple linear regression analysis and multiple linear regression models were applied using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The findings indicated a negative relationship between workplace conflict and organisational citizenship behaviour. Thus, for the purpose of enhancing extra-role behaviours amongst staff members, the management of the institution needs to ensure equitable compensation, rewards, and benefits amongst workers. This is vital because should the employees perceive that inequity exists, they will fight for fairness and justice, and if they are not heard, it will result in workplace conflict.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Motema, Boiketlo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organizational behavior Employees -- Attitudes Organizational effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18565 , vital:42609
- Description: This study investigated psychological capital (PsyCap) as a mediator of the relationship between workplace conflict (WC) and organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB). The study was based on equity theory as well as the social exchange theory. The sample encompassed of 151 administrative staff members from the University of Fort Hare (Alice, Bhisho and East London campuses) in the Eastern Cape Province. Argentero, Cortese, and Ferretti (2008) organisational citizenship behaviour questionnaire was employed to assess OCB; the Interpersonal Conflict at Work Scale (ICAWS) was employed to assess workplace conflict; and Luthans, Avolio, Avey, and Norman’s (2007) psychological capital questionnaire by McGee (2011) was employed to assess psychological capital. In terms of data analysis, a descriptive analysis, correlational analysis together with simple linear regression analysis and multiple linear regression models were applied using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The findings indicated a negative relationship between workplace conflict and organisational citizenship behaviour. Thus, for the purpose of enhancing extra-role behaviours amongst staff members, the management of the institution needs to ensure equitable compensation, rewards, and benefits amongst workers. This is vital because should the employees perceive that inequity exists, they will fight for fairness and justice, and if they are not heard, it will result in workplace conflict.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The Effect of Household Income on Public Transport Demand in South Africa
- Authors: Moss, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Low-income housing -- South Africa Local transit -- South Africa -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12469 , vital:39266
- Description: High transport expenditure by the low-income households has for a long time been a problem in South Africa. This expenditure consumes a big proportion of their income which limits these households’ accessibility to basic services such as health services, employment opportunities and education. Therefore, the study reviewed the effect of household income on public transport demand in South Africa. The aim of the study was to investigate the determinants of public transport demand, through specifically investigating the impact household income has on public transport demand. This study adopted the quantitative approach. The analysis was based on data from the 2017 General Household Survey. Descriptive analysis was conducted to address the objectives of the study. The Probit model was utilised in establishing the relationship between mode choice and household income. The results indicated that household income has a negative effect on public transport demand. The distance to means of transport has a negative relationship on public transport demand, indicating that accessibility plays a significant role in the demand for public transport. The location of a household significantly affects the demand for public transport, more so in peri- urban and rural-farm areas where low-income households reside. Furthermore, variables such as age, social grants and the economically active individuals presented a positive relationship with public transport as a modal choice. Individuals with some form of disability indicated statistical insignificance. The study recommended that, a properly planned coordination of current and new policies for the development of urban planning could be more practical in improving the high transport expenditure through affordability measures by low-income households in South Africa. Furthermore, these spatially targeted developments will enable increases in the accessibility of affordable public transport modes in the peri- urban areas which in turn will manage these high transport expenditures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Moss, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Low-income housing -- South Africa Local transit -- South Africa -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12469 , vital:39266
- Description: High transport expenditure by the low-income households has for a long time been a problem in South Africa. This expenditure consumes a big proportion of their income which limits these households’ accessibility to basic services such as health services, employment opportunities and education. Therefore, the study reviewed the effect of household income on public transport demand in South Africa. The aim of the study was to investigate the determinants of public transport demand, through specifically investigating the impact household income has on public transport demand. This study adopted the quantitative approach. The analysis was based on data from the 2017 General Household Survey. Descriptive analysis was conducted to address the objectives of the study. The Probit model was utilised in establishing the relationship between mode choice and household income. The results indicated that household income has a negative effect on public transport demand. The distance to means of transport has a negative relationship on public transport demand, indicating that accessibility plays a significant role in the demand for public transport. The location of a household significantly affects the demand for public transport, more so in peri- urban and rural-farm areas where low-income households reside. Furthermore, variables such as age, social grants and the economically active individuals presented a positive relationship with public transport as a modal choice. Individuals with some form of disability indicated statistical insignificance. The study recommended that, a properly planned coordination of current and new policies for the development of urban planning could be more practical in improving the high transport expenditure through affordability measures by low-income households in South Africa. Furthermore, these spatially targeted developments will enable increases in the accessibility of affordable public transport modes in the peri- urban areas which in turn will manage these high transport expenditures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The effect of social capital on the performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMES) in Makana Municipality
- Authors: Klaas, Anesipho
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Small business Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12373 , vital:39258
- Description: The small, medium and micro-enterprises (SMMEs) are essential drivers to the social and economic growth. These enterprises have an essential role in employment creation and eradication of poverty in South Africa. SMMEs in South Africa are comprised of heterogeneous groups of businesses in various sectors including services, manufacturing and agriculture. This study investigated the effect of social capital on the performance of SMMEs. Thus, the primary objective of the study was is to investigate the impact of social capital on the performance of SMMEs in Makana Municipality, and the secondary objectives were to determine the effect of bonding social capital on the performance of SMMEs and determine the effect of bridging social capital on the performance of SMMEs. This study discovered that all three forms of social capital, namely: bonding, bridging and linking social capital have a positive effect on the performance of SMMEs. In order to collect data, the researcher distributed questionnaires to the sampled SMMEs in the towns within the Makana Municipality. All the questionnaires were completed by the respondents. The researcher did not interfere in this process but helped where necessary. Prior to the distribution of questionnaires, validity and reliability were ensured in order to eliminate problems in the questionnaires. A total of 126 questionnaires were distributed. To scale the responses in the questionnaires, Likert scale was used in this study. The sections in questionnaires were measuring the extent to which social capital contributes to the performance of SMMEs. Of the 126 questionnaires that were distributed, only 98 questionnaires were returned and used in this study. Thus, the response rate was 71% which is high. Because social capital affects the performance of SMMEs, this proves further the need for government to support these businesses. This study made a theoretical contribution to the literature on social capital and its important on the performance of SMMEs. The researcher recommends that all SMMEs across the world consider the effect of social capital on their performance. Given the importance of successful SMMEs in the growth of the country’s economy and, also the role they play in addressing the unemployment problem, it is recommended that all SMMEs consider the positive impact of social capital in their growth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Klaas, Anesipho
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Small business Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12373 , vital:39258
- Description: The small, medium and micro-enterprises (SMMEs) are essential drivers to the social and economic growth. These enterprises have an essential role in employment creation and eradication of poverty in South Africa. SMMEs in South Africa are comprised of heterogeneous groups of businesses in various sectors including services, manufacturing and agriculture. This study investigated the effect of social capital on the performance of SMMEs. Thus, the primary objective of the study was is to investigate the impact of social capital on the performance of SMMEs in Makana Municipality, and the secondary objectives were to determine the effect of bonding social capital on the performance of SMMEs and determine the effect of bridging social capital on the performance of SMMEs. This study discovered that all three forms of social capital, namely: bonding, bridging and linking social capital have a positive effect on the performance of SMMEs. In order to collect data, the researcher distributed questionnaires to the sampled SMMEs in the towns within the Makana Municipality. All the questionnaires were completed by the respondents. The researcher did not interfere in this process but helped where necessary. Prior to the distribution of questionnaires, validity and reliability were ensured in order to eliminate problems in the questionnaires. A total of 126 questionnaires were distributed. To scale the responses in the questionnaires, Likert scale was used in this study. The sections in questionnaires were measuring the extent to which social capital contributes to the performance of SMMEs. Of the 126 questionnaires that were distributed, only 98 questionnaires were returned and used in this study. Thus, the response rate was 71% which is high. Because social capital affects the performance of SMMEs, this proves further the need for government to support these businesses. This study made a theoretical contribution to the literature on social capital and its important on the performance of SMMEs. The researcher recommends that all SMMEs across the world consider the effect of social capital on their performance. Given the importance of successful SMMEs in the growth of the country’s economy and, also the role they play in addressing the unemployment problem, it is recommended that all SMMEs consider the positive impact of social capital in their growth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The implementation of the back to basics programme by municipalities: a case of Raymond Mhlaba Municipality
- Zengethwa, Noluvuyo Precious
- Authors: Zengethwa, Noluvuyo Precious
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Leadership Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18941 , vital:43001
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the implementation of the Back-to-Basics (B2B) programme in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality. The study used qualitative research design and data was collected using in-depth interviews. The finding of the study revealed that the municipality was able to sufficiently implement the appropriate B2B programme in the community areas. Moreover, the findings identified corruption and mismanagement of funds, improper understanding of the municipality’s IDP and the roles of different government departments, poor communication skills between the municipality ward councillors and the community members, as well as poor service delivery as some of the challenges faced by Raymond Mhlaba Municipality in implementing the Back-To-Basics programmes. Importantly, in respective community areas, the findings revealed that water crises, empty promises and unrealistic/fake promises are some of the negative impacts the community members experienced during the implementation of the B2B programme, which brought little growth and development to the communities. Besides, the findings revealed that the implementation of this programme created employment opportunities for the unemployed youths in the communities. The study, however, concluded that the municipality is not doing enough in the implementation of B2B programme as many communities still complain of poor service delivery. Hence, for effectiveness in the implementation of B2B programme, it is important that the municipality delegates powers to the ward councillors. Furthermore, municipality management needs to refrain from making empty promises to the communities, they must be honest and deliver qualitative services to communities. However, community members should show signs of appreciation to all municipal activities, as well be supportive and ii show lots of interest and willingness attending the municipality’s manifestoes. Finally, the municipality management should ensure transparency, effective communication with the community members, provision of good service delivery, fulfilment of promises, honesty, proper budgetary allocation and spending, effective monitoring and evaluation of the municipal officials, as well as avoiding of nepotism in awarding tenders for the purpose of achieving a smooth running of the municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Zengethwa, Noluvuyo Precious
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Leadership Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18941 , vital:43001
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the implementation of the Back-to-Basics (B2B) programme in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality. The study used qualitative research design and data was collected using in-depth interviews. The finding of the study revealed that the municipality was able to sufficiently implement the appropriate B2B programme in the community areas. Moreover, the findings identified corruption and mismanagement of funds, improper understanding of the municipality’s IDP and the roles of different government departments, poor communication skills between the municipality ward councillors and the community members, as well as poor service delivery as some of the challenges faced by Raymond Mhlaba Municipality in implementing the Back-To-Basics programmes. Importantly, in respective community areas, the findings revealed that water crises, empty promises and unrealistic/fake promises are some of the negative impacts the community members experienced during the implementation of the B2B programme, which brought little growth and development to the communities. Besides, the findings revealed that the implementation of this programme created employment opportunities for the unemployed youths in the communities. The study, however, concluded that the municipality is not doing enough in the implementation of B2B programme as many communities still complain of poor service delivery. Hence, for effectiveness in the implementation of B2B programme, it is important that the municipality delegates powers to the ward councillors. Furthermore, municipality management needs to refrain from making empty promises to the communities, they must be honest and deliver qualitative services to communities. However, community members should show signs of appreciation to all municipal activities, as well be supportive and ii show lots of interest and willingness attending the municipality’s manifestoes. Finally, the municipality management should ensure transparency, effective communication with the community members, provision of good service delivery, fulfilment of promises, honesty, proper budgetary allocation and spending, effective monitoring and evaluation of the municipal officials, as well as avoiding of nepotism in awarding tenders for the purpose of achieving a smooth running of the municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The implications of indigenisation policy on women empowerment in Zimbabwe : a case study of Mhondoro-Ngezi District
- Authors: Makosa, Precious Tariro
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Economic policy , Women in development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12406 , vital:39261
- Description: The study sought to establish how the indigenisation policy solves women discrimination by empowering them through the Community Share Ownership Trust revenue. Literature reveals that Zimbabwe was not the first country to implement the indigenization policy as it was implemented in neighbouring countries. The aim of the policy was to disempower foreign investors and empower local people with the aim of lifting up the standards of the discriminated and less privileged, such as women. Based on the results, the study establishes and concludes that discrimination of women was poorly addressed by the indigenization policy due to some factors such as poor presentation of women in the law-making bodies, patriarchal dominance as well as cultural beliefs that supress women, and lack of clarity on policy objectives. Therefore, a top-down approach was used to address the problem of discrimination faced by women at market place. As a result the approach yielded a negative outcome because empowerment of women without women ideas is impossible. Basic Need Approach (BNA) and Capability Approach (CA) are the two approaches discussed in relation to women and Indigenization, Economic and Empowerment policy in Zimbabwe, with a case reference to Mhondoro-Ngezi district. More preference was given to the capability approach. This was so because it helps to explain the abilities and potential in women as entrepreneurs who produce outcomes to development of society and the nation at large. The study was qualitative in nature of which descriptive research design was employed where semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used as research tools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Makosa, Precious Tariro
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Economic policy , Women in development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12406 , vital:39261
- Description: The study sought to establish how the indigenisation policy solves women discrimination by empowering them through the Community Share Ownership Trust revenue. Literature reveals that Zimbabwe was not the first country to implement the indigenization policy as it was implemented in neighbouring countries. The aim of the policy was to disempower foreign investors and empower local people with the aim of lifting up the standards of the discriminated and less privileged, such as women. Based on the results, the study establishes and concludes that discrimination of women was poorly addressed by the indigenization policy due to some factors such as poor presentation of women in the law-making bodies, patriarchal dominance as well as cultural beliefs that supress women, and lack of clarity on policy objectives. Therefore, a top-down approach was used to address the problem of discrimination faced by women at market place. As a result the approach yielded a negative outcome because empowerment of women without women ideas is impossible. Basic Need Approach (BNA) and Capability Approach (CA) are the two approaches discussed in relation to women and Indigenization, Economic and Empowerment policy in Zimbabwe, with a case reference to Mhondoro-Ngezi district. More preference was given to the capability approach. This was so because it helps to explain the abilities and potential in women as entrepreneurs who produce outcomes to development of society and the nation at large. The study was qualitative in nature of which descriptive research design was employed where semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used as research tools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The relationship between inflation and financial development in South Africa
- Authors: Ninana, Amahle
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Inflation (Finance) -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18643 , vital:42639
- Description: This study examined the relationship between inflation and financial development in South Africa using quarterly data (2005–2016). The study assessed whether theoretical and empirical propositions can be supported in South Africa. Co-integration tests utilising ARDL bounds testing method were employed to examine if there is a relationship between the variables of interest. As a proxy of financial sector development, stock market capitalisation and bank credit to the private sector were employed. Other variables that affect financial development such as money supply, interest rates, Gross Domestic Product, trade openness and net interest margin were also included in the model. The results of the study indicate that there exists a negative relationship between inflation and stock market capitalisation. Bank credit to the private sector showed a positive relationship with inflation both in the short run and long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ninana, Amahle
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Inflation (Finance) -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18643 , vital:42639
- Description: This study examined the relationship between inflation and financial development in South Africa using quarterly data (2005–2016). The study assessed whether theoretical and empirical propositions can be supported in South Africa. Co-integration tests utilising ARDL bounds testing method were employed to examine if there is a relationship between the variables of interest. As a proxy of financial sector development, stock market capitalisation and bank credit to the private sector were employed. Other variables that affect financial development such as money supply, interest rates, Gross Domestic Product, trade openness and net interest margin were also included in the model. The results of the study indicate that there exists a negative relationship between inflation and stock market capitalisation. Bank credit to the private sector showed a positive relationship with inflation both in the short run and long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Graduate attributes: A comparison between public and private higher education commerce students in South Africa
- Bissig, Abigail https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8316-629X
- Authors: Bissig, Abigail https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8316-629X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , Private universities and colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19683 , vital:43166
- Description: In order to handle the capacity shortfall of state-funded universities in developing economies, governments with limited public resources often establish systems and regulations that enable private organisations to provide equivalent qualifications. As such, South Africa (SA) has seen a large growth in the number of registered private higher education institutions (HEIs) offering alternatives to students who are seeking higher education qualifications but do not meet public universities admission criteria. The emergence of private HEIs has resulted in a different type of learning environment. These institutions provide smaller classes than their public counterparts and a faculty which often consists of both part-time and full-time retired public HEIs lecturers and industry experts, in an environment that is more practical, and less research focused. Due to the substantial differences between the public and private higher education sector mandate, the educational quality produced by private HEIs is often a contentious subject among academics. Employer perspectives are that most graduates do not have the necessary work-ready skills to successfully integrate into the workforce. While various studies have attempted to define and measure graduate employability, limited research differentiates between public and private HEI graduates, and even fewer studies compare the level of graduate employability between these two sectors. In an attempt to determine whether any statistically significant differences exist between the graduate attributes of public and private higher education commerce students in SA, this study makes use of the Graduate Skills and Attributes Scale (GSAS). The GSAS clusters eight graduate skills and behaviours into the three holistic, overarching attitudinal domains of personal and intellectual development. These eight graduate attributes include interactive skills, problem-solving and decision-making skills, continuous learning orientation, enterprising skills, presenting and applying information skills, goal-directed behaviour, ethical and responsible behaviour, and analytical thinking skills. Using a quantitative approach, questionnaires were distributed to a total of 416 respondents, consisting of 351 public and 65 private higher education commerce students within SA. The sample consisted of students enrolled in their final year of study, through either a public university or registered private HEI situated within SA, completing a Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) accredited NQF 7 Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree through contact mode of study. After the data collection, independent samples t-tests were used to compare the graduate attributes of the two sectors. The study concludes that higher levels of interactive skills and continuous learning orientation were present among students attending private HEIs, while the remaining six graduate attributes indicated no significant differences between the two sectors. The results of this study provide valuable information to HEIs, students, industry and government, as it measures and compares the level of graduate quality produced by public and private HEIs within SA. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Bissig, Abigail https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8316-629X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , Private universities and colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19683 , vital:43166
- Description: In order to handle the capacity shortfall of state-funded universities in developing economies, governments with limited public resources often establish systems and regulations that enable private organisations to provide equivalent qualifications. As such, South Africa (SA) has seen a large growth in the number of registered private higher education institutions (HEIs) offering alternatives to students who are seeking higher education qualifications but do not meet public universities admission criteria. The emergence of private HEIs has resulted in a different type of learning environment. These institutions provide smaller classes than their public counterparts and a faculty which often consists of both part-time and full-time retired public HEIs lecturers and industry experts, in an environment that is more practical, and less research focused. Due to the substantial differences between the public and private higher education sector mandate, the educational quality produced by private HEIs is often a contentious subject among academics. Employer perspectives are that most graduates do not have the necessary work-ready skills to successfully integrate into the workforce. While various studies have attempted to define and measure graduate employability, limited research differentiates between public and private HEI graduates, and even fewer studies compare the level of graduate employability between these two sectors. In an attempt to determine whether any statistically significant differences exist between the graduate attributes of public and private higher education commerce students in SA, this study makes use of the Graduate Skills and Attributes Scale (GSAS). The GSAS clusters eight graduate skills and behaviours into the three holistic, overarching attitudinal domains of personal and intellectual development. These eight graduate attributes include interactive skills, problem-solving and decision-making skills, continuous learning orientation, enterprising skills, presenting and applying information skills, goal-directed behaviour, ethical and responsible behaviour, and analytical thinking skills. Using a quantitative approach, questionnaires were distributed to a total of 416 respondents, consisting of 351 public and 65 private higher education commerce students within SA. The sample consisted of students enrolled in their final year of study, through either a public university or registered private HEI situated within SA, completing a Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) accredited NQF 7 Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree through contact mode of study. After the data collection, independent samples t-tests were used to compare the graduate attributes of the two sectors. The study concludes that higher levels of interactive skills and continuous learning orientation were present among students attending private HEIs, while the remaining six graduate attributes indicated no significant differences between the two sectors. The results of this study provide valuable information to HEIs, students, industry and government, as it measures and compares the level of graduate quality produced by public and private HEIs within SA. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
The effect of marketing capabilities on the competitive advantage of Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in OR Tambo District Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Authors: Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Market segmentation , Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20197 , vital:45407
- Description: It is usually understood that the development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of marketing capabilities (Intellectual capital, marketing strategy and market orientation) on the competitive advantage of SMMEs. Prior research has that early development of marketing capabilities enables firms to achieve competitive advantage. The issue to be attended to will be to identify the connection between the incorrect marketing capabilities and failure of SMMEs, if there is any. Furthermore, a thorough investigation looking at how the reduction of failure of SMMEs can be realised by investigating the marketing capabilities of SMMEs. Quantitative research approach was used in the study, with a population of 200 SMMEs, the Raosoft calculator is also used to calculate the sample size of 100 SMMEs which were used to collect the primary data of the study. Convenience sampling method was used by the researcher. The findings also revealed that SMMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The study recommends that SMME Owners/ Managers should consider spending a higher proportion of their time and money engaging in activities related to marketing throughout the life of their business. Therefore, it has concluded that effective deployment of marketing capabilities can lead to competitive advantage and greater performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Market segmentation , Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20197 , vital:45407
- Description: It is usually understood that the development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of marketing capabilities (Intellectual capital, marketing strategy and market orientation) on the competitive advantage of SMMEs. Prior research has that early development of marketing capabilities enables firms to achieve competitive advantage. The issue to be attended to will be to identify the connection between the incorrect marketing capabilities and failure of SMMEs, if there is any. Furthermore, a thorough investigation looking at how the reduction of failure of SMMEs can be realised by investigating the marketing capabilities of SMMEs. Quantitative research approach was used in the study, with a population of 200 SMMEs, the Raosoft calculator is also used to calculate the sample size of 100 SMMEs which were used to collect the primary data of the study. Convenience sampling method was used by the researcher. The findings also revealed that SMMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The study recommends that SMME Owners/ Managers should consider spending a higher proportion of their time and money engaging in activities related to marketing throughout the life of their business. Therefore, it has concluded that effective deployment of marketing capabilities can lead to competitive advantage and greater performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
The effects of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa
- Authors: Munyu, Yibanati
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20208 , vital:45411
- Description: The study examined the effect of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa utilizing quarterly time series data from 1990 to 2018. Manufacturing exports (MX), foreign income (GDPf), input costs (C01), the real effective exchange rate (REER) and exchange rate volatility (V) were the key parameters. The study employed two alternative measures of exchange rate volatility. The first measure is the moving average standard deviation of the logarithm of the real effective exchange rate (MASDlnREER) based on the raw monthly data of the real effective exchange rate. The second measure is a dummy variable intended to capture the unexpected variation of the exchange rate. The study utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Error Correction Method (ECM) to examine the both the long run and short-run relationships. The empirical results revealed that in the long run, the real effective exchange rate volatility measure (MASDlnREER) has a negative and significant effect on manufacturing exports in South Africa. This result suggests that policy makers need to make an effort to moderate, the volatility of the Rand in an attempt to contain the adverse effects on manufacturing exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
- Authors: Munyu, Yibanati
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20208 , vital:45411
- Description: The study examined the effect of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa utilizing quarterly time series data from 1990 to 2018. Manufacturing exports (MX), foreign income (GDPf), input costs (C01), the real effective exchange rate (REER) and exchange rate volatility (V) were the key parameters. The study employed two alternative measures of exchange rate volatility. The first measure is the moving average standard deviation of the logarithm of the real effective exchange rate (MASDlnREER) based on the raw monthly data of the real effective exchange rate. The second measure is a dummy variable intended to capture the unexpected variation of the exchange rate. The study utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Error Correction Method (ECM) to examine the both the long run and short-run relationships. The empirical results revealed that in the long run, the real effective exchange rate volatility measure (MASDlnREER) has a negative and significant effect on manufacturing exports in South Africa. This result suggests that policy makers need to make an effort to moderate, the volatility of the Rand in an attempt to contain the adverse effects on manufacturing exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-01
The relationship between financial development and economic growth in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)
- Fakudze, Siphe-okuhlehttps://orcid.org/0000-0001-7928-5552
- Authors: Fakudze, Siphe-okuhlehttps://orcid.org/0000-0001-7928-5552
- Date: 2019-12
- Subjects: Economic development -- Eswatini , Eswatini -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19704 , vital:43170
- Description: The study empirically examined the relationship between financial development and economic growth in Eswatini using quarterly time series data covering the period 1996 to 2018. Auto Regressive Distributed Lag bounds test technique and Granger causality test were used. The ratio of credit to the private sector to economic growth, openness to trade, revealed a positive relationship with economic growth in the long-run and short-run dynamics. Money supply displayed a negative association with real output in the long-run and short-run. Government size as a ratio of GDP highlighted a negative linkage with economic growth in the long-run and temporary positive association in the short-run. The Granger Causality test results displayed unidirectional causality running from financial development to economic growth, supporting the demand following causality hypothesis in Eswatini. The study recommends developing policies aimed at enhancing credit to the private sector to stimulate investment; reprioritise Government expenditure to minimise fiscal gap and support supply side reforms focusing on infrastructure development; control domestic liquidity and develop market securities attractive to the private sector; strengthen trade intensity to bolster growth; and improve regulatory framework to develop the non-bank financial industry. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-12
- Authors: Fakudze, Siphe-okuhlehttps://orcid.org/0000-0001-7928-5552
- Date: 2019-12
- Subjects: Economic development -- Eswatini , Eswatini -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19704 , vital:43170
- Description: The study empirically examined the relationship between financial development and economic growth in Eswatini using quarterly time series data covering the period 1996 to 2018. Auto Regressive Distributed Lag bounds test technique and Granger causality test were used. The ratio of credit to the private sector to economic growth, openness to trade, revealed a positive relationship with economic growth in the long-run and short-run dynamics. Money supply displayed a negative association with real output in the long-run and short-run. Government size as a ratio of GDP highlighted a negative linkage with economic growth in the long-run and temporary positive association in the short-run. The Granger Causality test results displayed unidirectional causality running from financial development to economic growth, supporting the demand following causality hypothesis in Eswatini. The study recommends developing policies aimed at enhancing credit to the private sector to stimulate investment; reprioritise Government expenditure to minimise fiscal gap and support supply side reforms focusing on infrastructure development; control domestic liquidity and develop market securities attractive to the private sector; strengthen trade intensity to bolster growth; and improve regulatory framework to develop the non-bank financial industry. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-12