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An analysis of barriers which affect women in leadership positions in Eastern Cape Municipalities : case study of Amathole District Municipality

  • Authors: Nyangiwe-Ndika, Welekazi
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Leadership in women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Women executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2049 , vital:27601
  • Description: The primary concern of the study is to examine leadership challenges confronted by women leaders in Eastern Cape municipalities. International organisations has made a number commitments encouraging gender parity and eliminating imbalance against women in the past three decades, through international platforms. In the World Summit held in 2005, it was recommended that a Platform for Action (1995) and the resolutions of the Twenty Third special session of the General Assembly as a crucial baseline in attaining then internationally agreed development goals, as well as those contained in the Millennium Declaration. (www.ilo.org) In the above forums national decision makers worldwide were urged to apply strategies and programmes which would improve gender fairness, in leadership positions, giving women complete and comparable share in economic, social, cultural and political decision-making as men. South Africa as a role player in the international space also joined the world in endorsing various programmes and strategies which seek to address gender parities and strive to eliminate women oppression especially in public sector.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An analysis of policy implementation on HIV and AIDS in pregnant women : a case study of Lukhanji sub-district Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa

  • Authors: Sinyanya, Yoliswa
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: AIDS (Disease) in pregnancy -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV infections -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV-positive women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2282 , vital:27747
  • Description: This research was conducted with the aim to evaluate the policy interventions on HIV and AIDS in pregnant women in the Lukhanji sub district of Chris Hani District Municipality. The study would also propose policy improvement strategies towards curbing the spread of HIV and AIDS in pregnant women. In realizing these goals, the entire research process was guided by the research objectives and questions which sought to evaluate policies and strategies relevant to HIV prevalence in pregnant women. The secondary research objectives were accomplished through the review and analysis of the relevant literature and theories. Qualitative research approach was used in determining the findings and conclusions from the study. Data was collected using qualitative research methods and in this case a structured questionnaire was developed and distributed to the study participants. The Questionnaires were handed and discussed with each participant. Demographics, socioeconomic and cultural factors were considered in designing the data collection tool. These factors are known to have an impact on the prevalence of HIV. It has been shown through the study that demographic variables have an effect on HIV prevalence. Hence when considering policy interventions these should be taken into account. All the respondents were given enough time and they provided clear and comprehensive responses to the questionnaire and follow up discussions. The evaluation of the responses showed that various HIV prevention related policies are being implemented within the Lukhanji sub-district. Numerous programmes relating to HIV and AIDS, also specifically covering pregnant women are being rolled out across the sub-district. HIV prevalence in the study population is rated as average to low when comparing with the district, provincial and national statistics. Current data obtained from the study indicates that HIV prevalence stands at 17%. This finding demonstrates the heterogeneity of HIV prevalence when comparing this result with current provincial and national statistics. Evaluation of the different HIV and AIDS programmes that are aligned to provincial and national policy somehow explain the positive outcomes observed in the Lukhanji sub-district The study recommends that more work be done in reaching out to the communities using various communication channels and strategies. This could address the challenges associated with the lack of cooperation with local traditional leaders, because this has been found to have a negative impact on implementation of some programmes such as circumcision. One of the positive findings from the study is the accessibility of health care facilities to the local rural communities. Further research on the subject should be undertaken to ensure continuous evaluation as this topic is viewed as a continuous global issue.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of alignment of the intergrated development plan of Amathole District Municipality with those of its selected local municipalities, province of the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Magwangqana, Ntsokolo Chris
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7782 , vital:24284
  • Description: The problem investigated by the researcher is that of alignment of the Integrated Development Plan of Amathole District Municipality with those of the selected local municipalities under its area of jurisdiction. The aim of the study was to investigate the extent to which there is or there is no alignment amongst these. The study articulated the background of municipal planning in terms of the provisions of enabling pieces of legislation. It further provided a conceptual and theoretical framework for integrated development planning within the local government sphere. The literature raised critical issues revolving around the importance of the district municipality in achieving congruence of development plans of the district and those of its local municipalities. The data was collected using a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches, to realize the objectives of the research study. The methods used to collect data included, document study, interviews, observation, and questionnaires. The study findings showed that, there is a lot of planning efforts put into achieving alignment of the IDPs of the District and local municipalities under it. The study concluded that, with this good planning by the district municipality a correlating hands on support and monitoring by the municipal unit needs to be firmed up. The recommendations are an evidence that there are processes deliberately put in place by the District municipality to ensure alignment between the IDP of the District and those of its Local Municipalities.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of community participation in strategic decision-making: the case of Amothole District Municipality

  • Authors: Ned, Samora
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5742 , vital:20993
  • Description: The South African Constitution of 1996, as amended, provides for three spheres of Government, namely National, Provincial and Local Government. The local sphere of government is mandated to provide developmental and accountable local government and to ensure the provision of basic services to communities in a sustainable manner. The Department of Provincial and Local Government Community-Based Workbook and Guide provided that local government legislation has been put in a place to enable South Africa to constructively work towards providing basic services and improving the social and economic lives of citizens. As local government is the sphere of government where delivery takes place at community level, it is important to ensure and secure the support and participation of communities. It is critical to mention that local government faces many challenges in providing services that will contribute to developing a peaceful, stable and healthy environment. In adherence to Local Government legislation, which includes, inter alia, the Municipal Systems Act and the Municipal Finance Management Act, the local authorities are required to provide systems and processes to enable public participation processes in the affairs of the municipalities. This requirement is mandatory to ensure that citizens contribute by making input in the planning of the municipality. Amathole District Municipality adopted a Public Participation and Petitions Policy to ensure that citizens participate in the activities of the municipality. The main purpose of this study was to establish whether those structures are effective and whether the municipality, in its planning processes, considered the views and input of the communities. The study investigated the extent of community participation in municipal planning and performance and also investigated the effectiveness of ADM community participation strategies. Quantitative research methods were used to collect data for the study. The research questionnaire covered a wide range of council related activities ranging from knowledge of local government legislation relating to public participation, understanding of public participation processes by councillors, compliance of the municipality with public participation processes and related legislation and feedback to communities on the input they make to the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and the Budget planning processes. The questionnaires were administered to all Councillors within the municipality to ensure that all municipal programmes were covered, and the Executive Mayor, Council Speaker who ensures that council resolutions are implemented and the Chief Whip of Council, who is responsible for the welfare of all political parties in Council. There was also the inclusion of the Chairperson of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee who is responsible for oversight and monitoring the performance of the Executive. The sample group was carefully chosen to represent a wide range of councillors who serve in the ADM Council. The positive response rate therefore provided an acceptable scientific basis for analysis and objectivity to the study.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of employee perceptions towards performance appraisal with special reference to statistics South Africa, Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Mniki, Sicelo
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Performance standards
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9935 , vital:26634
  • Description: The aim of this study was to assess the perceptions of employees towards performance appraisal (PA) with special reference to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) in the Eastern Cape Province. The research objectives included, inter alia; assessing employee perceptions towards effective administration of PAs, assessing perceptions of employees towards the fairness of the PA process, identifying the motivating factors for the improvement of employee performance and identifying the challenges facing the PA process. To achieve these objectives, a mixed methods research approach was used. The mixed methods approach utilised a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods. The sample was selected using a purposive sampling technique whereby employees with tenure of at least one year and above in the organisation were targeted. Employees who met this criterion were considered to have reasonable understanding of the PA process and practice of Stats SA. The literature review for this study revealed that employee perceptions towards the PA process are crucial in determining the long-term effectiveness of the PA system. It also emerged that the appraisal process can become a source of extreme dissatisfaction when employees believe the system is biased, political or irrelevant. The findings revealed that 65% of employees perceive the administration of PAs as ineffective whilst 35% of employees consider PA administration at Stats SA to be effective. Ineffective administration of PA was further confirmed by 81% of managers who stated that the evaluation process is not integrated effectively with other human resource (HR) processes at Stats SA. Furthermore, 58% of employees are not satisfied with the fairness of the appraisal process. These negative perceptions towards the PA process were reaffirmed by 88% of managers who also indicated that they are not satisfied with the fairness of the PA process. The research showed that the motivating factors for improving job performance include allocation of adequate resources, training, recognition and appreciation, improved communication along with a good working relationship as well as a performance bonus. According to the research findings, 45% of employees consider the current Performance Management System (PMS) at Stats SA as having a motivational effect on staff to improve their performance whilst 42% held a contrary view and 13% were unsure. The respondents identified the challenges facing the PA process at Stats SA, namely; favouritism and bias, dropping of scores by the provincial moderating committee without clarifying the criteria followed, supervisors scoring themselves high whilst scoring those who are doing the work on the ground low, failure by HR to provide guidance and training on performance management (PM), failure by supervisors to provide performance feedback after the appraisal process, failure to comply with PM policies and procedures, the ambiguous role of the provincial moderating committee, and a narrow focus on monetary reward. The findings suggest that the effectiveness of a Performance Management System (PMS) such as the Performance Appraisal System depends on the achievement of various purposes and objectives for which the PMS is designed and implemented in an organisation. This requires managers and supervisors to be fully involved and committed in the day to day management of employee performance in order to ensure that the strategic goals of the organisation are fully achieved.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the Auditor General's contribution to good governance in the public service: a case of the Eastern Cape provincial administration

  • Authors: Khashe, Sivuyile Churchill
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Auditing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Civil service -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1654 , vital:27500
  • Description: The Office of the Auditor -General’s role is by no means minor, for it plays a major role in curbing corruption and acts as a ‘’watchdog’’ of the nation over public funds. Amidst high mismanagement and misuse of public resources, as well as corruption, especially in developing countries, the major question one asks is how effective the Auditor -General can be in ensuring good governance within state departments so as to improve service delivery. The gaps between approved budgets and the realisation of policy and development goals stand among key governance challenges in many developing countries. Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) play an important role in holding governments to account. However, many SAIs including AGSA face serious challenges when trying to evaluate the expenditures and performance of government agencies. Therefore this study suggests that more resources should be invested in the office of the AG so as to allow it to carry out its duties without impediments. Good governance and public finance accountability is becoming increasingly important in the public sector. One means of effecting good governance and accountability is through auditing. For this reason the Office of the Auditor-General through the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996 (Act 108 of 1996 section 216 (1)) was established to facilitate and encourage good governance and effective accountability through auditing.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the implementation of employment equity: Department of Transport in the province of the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Mqingwana, Phelo Zolisa
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11335 , vital:26912
  • Description: During the apartheid era black people were systematically excluded from all positions of influence in the state and civil society. The majority of senior posts in government were held by whites, in particular, white males. Women and people with disabilities were similarly disadvantaged and marginalised, particularly those from black communities. With the new post-apartheid dispensation, the democratic government took a conscious decision to change that situation. It is against this background that that the Employment Equity Act (EEA) was introduced in 1998. The two main aims of the Act are: to achieve employment equity by promoting equal opportunity and fair treatment in employment through the elimination of unfair discrimination; and to implement the affirmative action measures, to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by designated groups in order to ensure their equitable representation in all occupational categories and levels in the workforce. The implement of EEA in the Eastern Cape Department of Transport (ECDOT) has so far not been very successful as the Department still has not managed to meet the set targets. According to their Employment Equity Plan (EEP), the senior management level (SMS) is still dominated by males. Although the situation is slightly better at the middle management level, it is still far from being ideal. The lower ranks are dominated by females. With regard to people with disabilities (PWDs) the Department is still far from meeting their 2% target. The purpose of this research was to determine if the ECDOT has been able to implement the dictates of the EEA. It aims to look at ways in which the EEA can best be implemented in order to ensure that the desired results are achieved. This study was prompted by the fact that the ECDOT has not managed to reach the EEA targets in hiring people with disabilities (PDWs) and elevating women to senior positions. The study explored the views of the employees of the Department regarding the implementation of EE. It was conducted using the quantitative approach. 90 employees were asked to respond to a structured questionnaire designed by the researcher. The findings of the study indicate that although in some areas the Department has been able to successfully implement EE, issues of racial equity, diversity, infrastructure conducive for people with disabilities, recruitment practices, and management commitment still need to be improved on. The study recommends, amongst others, that managers should provide leadership in the implementation process, more recruitment sources should be explored, suitable infrastructure must be provided, diversity issues must be addressed through workshops and training sessions, employee participation needs to be ensured, and that feedback must always be provided to EE beneficiaries in order to keep make sure they remain within the organisation and continue to improve.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the municipal infrastructure and systems and their implications on the small town revitalisation strategy at Engcobo Local Municipality, Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Xuba, Zibele
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2888 , vital:28121
  • Description: This study was conducted at Engcobo Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province to assess the role of municipal structures and systems in the implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. From onset, it highlights that numerous attempts to implement small town revitalisation have failed because of lack of institutional capacity. In addressing this problem, the study outlined the following objectives. To assess role played by municipal structures and systems on implementation of small town revitalisation. To identify institutional challenges experienced during implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. To propose alternative institutional measures that can lead to effective implementation of small town revitalisation. In achieving the study’s objectives; literature from both developed and developing countries was reviewed and it was learnt that institutional capacity is important for efficient implementation of the strategy. Systems theory was also reviewed so as to provide conceptual basis that underpins this study. Data was collected through primary methods and secondary sources. Research participants were chosen by random sampling from councillors, managers, business and traditional leaders. Research findings revealed that there were institutional problems which hinder implementation of the strategy such as lack of competent human resources, insufficient budget and shortages of machinery. Through analysis of findings, the research proposed that small town revitalisation strategy should be reformulated and role of municipal structures be clearly defined. Both councillors and officials should be capacitated. The study further recommended that local people and stakeholders should be involved in the conception and implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. Areas for further research were proposed at the end.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the records management system with reference to the Amathole District Municipality

  • Authors: Ncamani, Nomsa
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Records -- Management Information resources management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Filing systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11353 , vital:26914
  • Description: Section 13 of the Eastern Cape Provincial Archives and Records Act, 2003 requires the Amathole District Municipality to manage its records in a well-structured record-keeping system, and to put the necessary policies and procedures in place to ensure that record- keeping and records management practices comply with the requirements of the Act. The study investigated the interventions that can be made to improve and promote the best system (centralised versus a decentralised records system) in terms of space resources through greater co-ordination of information management and storage systems with reference to the Amathole District Municipality. A quantitative research methodology was employed to collect data. The empirical component of the treatise utilised self-administered questionnaires. Purposive sampling was used to identify the target population at the ADM. The researcher specifically selected the users of records, namely; senior manager, mid-managers, supervisors and administration assistants. The need for training, workshops and awareness were identified as the main challenges to records management and to the employees’ understanding of the system in place at the ADM. The findings recommended that the municipality should select the records management system that best supports the conduct of business in an orderly, efficient, and accountable manner. The system should ensure that documents provide evidence of business and contribute to the cultural identity and collective memory of the ADM. Further research on the existing records management system is recommended for the Amathole District Municipality.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of the implementation of education training and development policy in the Eastern Cape: the case of Cacadu health district

  • Authors: Feni, Monde Ludick
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Employees -- Training of -- Evaluation , Manpower policy -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8261 , vital:26317
  • Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of the Education, Training and Development Policy of the Eastern Cape Department of Health: A Case Study of Cacadu District. The Cacadu Health District as with all Districts is the Eastern Cape Department of Health experiences a few challenges with the implementation of the Education, Training and Development Policy. Through observation these problems seem to be stalling progress in the implementation of this policy. The study seeks to investigate whether there can be an improvement in the implementation of the Education, Training and Development Policy. The focus of the study will be the Cacadu Health District. Provision of Education, Training and Development is key to any organisation especially if performance of employees needs to be of high standard. If the performance of employees is of high standard service delivery will improve. Chapter one provided an introduction which gave a brief overview of the study, problem statement, research objectives and questions, preliminary literature review and research methodology to be employed by the study. Chapter two provided a literature review of education, training and development framework and legislative framework for guiding the development and provision of education, training and development in an organisation. The chapter also looked into mentoring and mentoring strategies. Chapter three looked into detail on the training evaluation strategies and what training evaluation entails. It looked at the different approaches that can be used in evaluating training in an organisation. Chapter four provides proposals for the approaches and strategies to improve the implementation of the Education, Training and Development Policy of the Eastern Cape Department of Health in the Cacadu District. The chapter will also provide an analysis of participants’ responses from the questionnaire. Chapter five will give a summary with concluding remarks and recommendations. This chapter came up with conclusions about the study and gave recommendations and way forward on how best to improve the implementation of the education, training and development policy in the Eastern Cape Department of Health: Cacadu District.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of the Integrated Quality Management System at selected schools within the Lukhanji Circuit, Queenstown District

  • Authors: Gongqa, Mxolanisi Michael
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Total quality management in education -- South Africa -- Queenstown
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3285 , vital:20420
  • Description: The study focused on the evaluation of the integrated management system (IQMS) at selected schools within the Queenstown Education District. A quantitative research method was used for the study and questionnaires were used as a research tool to collect data. The respondents were members of the school management teams (SMT) which comprised the principals, deputy principals, heads of departments, senior educators and educators. These are key role-players in the management and implementation of IQMS. The rationale was to obtain pertinent information which would address the research questions and objectives of the study. The primary objective of the study as outlined above was to evaluate the impact of IQMS implementation in the Queenstown district with specific reference to the Lukhanji Circuit, on the performance of the high schools selected. It was envisaged that the results of the study would contribute towards developing measures to ensure that IQMS implementation achieves the desired objectives. The research questions were: To what extent can IQMS implementation be used as a tool to measure and improve teaching and learning? What measures have been put in place by the district to support and build capacity of the educators to perform? What factors hinder the effective IQMS implementation? The key findings of the study reveal that IQMS as a tool to improve teaching and learning had the overwhelming support of the majority of the respondents. However, a reasonable percentage of the respondents were of the view that IQMS constituted an administrative burden to educators. There are educators who displayed a negative attitude towards the implementation of IQMS. The respondents also felt that the district office needs to provide more support for IQMS implementation so that its objectives can be fully realised. The study makes clear recommendations such as the de-linking of IQMS from salaries and pay progression, provision of more support by the district, to make IQMS more user-friendly to educators and additional budget and teacher training to enhance educators’ professional development.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of treasury oversight and budget under-spending in selected Eastern Cape Provincial Departments

  • Authors: Daniels, Nokuthula
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Expenditures, Public , Legislative auditing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fiscal year -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3265 , vital:20418
  • Description: The investigation of this study focused on the ability of provincial government departments in South Africa to spend allocated revenues on activities adequately, with a direct bearing on social and economic development. The research presents an analysis of two selected Eastern Cape Provincial Government departments’ expenditure for a three-year timeframe (the fiscal years from 2009–2012), with a focus on the oversight role played by the Provincial Planning and Treasury department in instilling fiscal discipline in the provinces, and the potentially detrimental effect of under-spending on provincial service delivery. Among other things mentioned and discussed are, firstly, the fiscal policy; secondly, the funding of provincial departments; thirdly, the role and responsibilities of the Provincial Planning and Treasury department. The study adopted a qualitative methodology which focussed on the perspective of the insider who has experienced first-hand the activities or procedures under scrutiny in the selected provincial departments. Further, the qualitative researcher believed that first-hand experience provides the most meaningful data. In support of this, the respondents were asked twenty-two questions, the first five of which were based on the need to understand their personal particulars. A semi-structured questionnaire was distributed to 43 officials and 22 of those questionnaires were returned.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An examination of the challenges in intergrated development planning and budget alignment at Amathole District Municipality, (Eastern Cape)

  • Authors: Links, Ralph Ronald
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local budgets -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/3176 , vital:28329
  • Description: The traditional mandate of local government is to deliver sustainable services to communities. The evolution of local government has since put more emphasis on evidence based planning in the form of IDP and sound financial management. The relationship between the IDP and Budget is that, a) the IDP contains community needs, objectives and strategies on how these will be responded or dealt with by the municipality, and b) the budget is the financial plan to execute strategies that need to be employed. The purpose of the study was to examine challenges in integrated development plan and the budget alignment of Amathole District Municipality. The study moved from the premise that municipalities are different and ADM has been in the fore front in terms of producing IDP and Budget. The study therefore is based on the assumption that the Amathole District Municipality has challenges in the IDP and Budget alignment. The study proposed to give a background of the scholarly literature of the IDP and Budget of local government. The empirical survey and research methodology used in the study is described and explained in-depths and followed by data collection in the form of the questionnaire. The research findings of the empirical survey are then analysed and reported in statistical form.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An investigation of record-keeping as a catalyst in ensuring accountability and transparency : a case study of the Provincial Department of Basic Education in the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Ntontela, Majama
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Public records -- Management Government information -- South Africa -- Management Transparency in government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4415 , vital:28336
  • Description: Not all documents are records. One of the central concerns of contemporary governance is the reduced or complete lack of accountability among public officials when rendering public services. In the absence of accountability and records, corruption thrives. This research examines the relationship that exists between transparency, accountability and record keeping in order to find the effect that records has; in terms of producing positive audit outcomes and in eliminating corrupt activities by public official/s. Since the transition to democracy in South Africa, the new constitution demands transparency and accountability on matters of governance supported with available information (records). Various pieces of legislation in South Africa are available in support of timely, accessible and accurate information in pursuit of official duties. The difficulty in ensuring an effective record keeping creates an opportunity for governance, transparency and accountability to fail. The essence of this research undertaking was motivated by the fact that, absence of records (which has a negative effect in achieving clean audits) renders governance chaotic and infringes on the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution such as accountability and transparency. The purpose of the study was to investigate the practice of record keeping in the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Basic Education (ECDoE) in ensuring accountability and transparency. This research undertaking was guided by the following three research questions: (1) what is the legal/normative framework that governs record keeping in South African public service? (2) How does ECDoE practice record-keeping in ensuring accountability and transparency? And (3) how does the practice of ECDoE’s record-keeping compare with the requirements of the legal/normative framework? After all the gathering of information from different sources, it is therefore recommended that the ECDoE send its employees for records management courses and there must be strict adherence to legislation and recommendations made by the Auditor General in his last audit report for the department. During the conduct of this research undertaking, these are the findings that emerged from the study: at the ECDoE (1) There is no adequate training provided to employees in record keeping. (2) There are ineffective internal control systems. (3) There is no risk management contingency plan. (4) There is no proper record keeping. (5) There is non-compliance with legislation by officials. (6) There is no strong or effective leadership. (7) There is shortage of staff and qualified personnel. (8) Lack of commitment to excel. (9) No significant corrective action undertaken to eliminate past inaccuracies. (10) There is absence of following up on recommendations made by the external audit. Lastly, the researcher accepts the arguments raised by the different authors about record keeping, transparency and accountability in that: there can be no accountable and transparent government without an effective record-keeping in place. Records are vital sources of evidence admissible to any institution be it a court of law or standing committees should clarity be required.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

Assessing the role of civil society in poverty alleviation : a case study of Amathole District, (Eastern Cape)

  • Authors: Ngumbela, Xolisile Gideon
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Poverty -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poor -- Services for -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2161 , vital:27618
  • Description: The purpose of this study is to conduct an assessment of the role of civil society organizations with regards to poverty alleviation. The study is conducted in Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province. The sample for the study is constituted by 3 civic society organizations (CSO), which are located in 3 local municipalities; namely, Amahlathi (Ikhwezi Women Support Center), Mbhashe (Nyhwara Home Base), and Mnquma (We Care Ministries) Local Municipalities. In terms of the data collection, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 officers from these civic society organizations. Concerning the research design, a combination of a qualitative and quantitative research approach was used. Concerning the findings of the study, the following points were noted: the different forms of interventions by civic society organizations, poverty eradication strategies, challenges that were experienced by civic society organizations, and the logical framework versus unexpected changes. It is probably safe to make mention that CSOs in the Eastern Cape portray a positive attitude and willingness to learn to manage the organizations better. The continuing support from the Department of Social Development will go a long way to assist the CSOs to become sustainable, in the context of management and efficient running of these organizations. The study thus concluded that specific benefactor-beneficiary dynamics are crucial for the success of any anti-poverty intervention. A greater need for the robust pro-poor social policy, availability of resources with which to translate it into action, and local entrepreneurial potential do not in themselves bring about success; they must operate in a certain way and be supported by certain principles and commitment for them to become powerful proper vehicle for alleviating poverty.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

Empowerment of school governing bodies in selected schools, King William's Town education district

  • Authors: Ronoti, Zamikhaya Sydwell
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: School boards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School board members -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6585 , vital:21120
  • Description: This study investigates the impact of school governing bodies (SGBs) empowerment on school governance in King William’s Town. The study focuses on SGBs challenges and plights, highlights the effects of their lack of empowerment and suggests the review of the election criteria used to elect SGBs who have the potential to be empowered. Furthermore, it explores the elements and methods of empowerment that can be utilised to empower SGBs and examines the difficulties SGBs experience in accounting for finances and formulating and implementing policies. The researcher makes recommendations on the empowerment of SGBs based on the findings of the study. It was necessary to review literature on empowerment and school governance to attain the research goals. Conflicts and the mismanagement of finances indicate a noticeable gap between South African Schools Act policy intention and policy practice. The majority of SGBs, particularly the parent component in rural and semi-urban areas, have low levels of education. As a result, it is difficult to empower members because they have little or no basic knowledge, skills and expertise with regard to school governance. The manner in which SGBs function and carry out their duties, roles and responsibilities indicates that SGBs received inadequate training. SGBs lack awareness of the regulations governing the appointment of educators, hence a number of disputes arise. The increasing number of disputes (both formal and informal) in respect of appointments and promotions results from misinterpretations of or variations in legislation governing appointments in schools as well as the competency or capacity of SGBs. To investigate this problem, interviews were used as the research instrument to gather data from eight participants from selected schools. The main finding is that the majority of the SGBs studied are incapable of being empowered due to low illiteracy levels of some members. Low levels of or no education, a lack of basic knowledge and skills and other factors, such as a lack of educational insight and the inaccessibility of information and resources due to the use of English as the medium in which SGBs are serviced, compound the problem. The quality of the empowerment workshops, which are 'one size fits all', have a marked effect on their efficiency.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

Enhancing public participation in the integrated development planning process: a case of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality

  • Authors: Yekani, Babalo
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Public administration -- Planning , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8989 , vital:26453
  • Description: The aim of the study is to investigate effective strategies and processes for public participation in the IDP process in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. A qualitative study was undertaken and literature review on public participation in terms of the Integrated Development Planning was conducted. Relevant secondary data was sourced and structured interviews were conducted with three (3) ward councillors in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal. Focus group interviews were also conducted with ward committee members from three (3) wards in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The findings of this research indicate that ward councilors have limited information on administrative processes. This could lead to ward councillors not be able to provide feedback on various service delivery issues and the progress of the municipal projects. Also ward councillors may not be able to influence public participation if they do not understand their role in administrative processes such as monitoring implementation of council decisions and policies. Ward councillors have no influence on the Integrated Development Planning especially the cost and budget estimates for municipal projects which are intended to benefit the members of the community. On the basis of the key findings, recommendations were made that ward committees should be empowered to deal with the complex developments in the Integrated Development Planning process and ward councillors should play a leading role in the Integrated Development Planning process.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

Evaluating revenue collection and allocation challenges faced by Ndlambe Local Municipality (Eastern Cape Province)

  • Authors: Pieters, Nonkqubela Ntomboxolo
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Municipal corporations -- Taxation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4426 , vital:28338
  • Description: In this project, the researcher evaluates revenue collection and allocation challenges faced by South African Municipalities in the case of NDLAMBE Local Municipality and this research project consist of five Chapters. Chapter one introduces and outlines the setting of the study and also provides the problem statement, research questions, research objectives and significance of the study. The chapter further clarifies the key concepts and terms that were used in the study, delimitation and limitations of the study. Chapter two provides a critical discussion of the concept of revenue collection and allocation, focusing on the various perspective of revenue. A source of municipal revenue and revenue collection and allocation model is explained as well as theoretical framework that guides it. Chapter three gives an account of the research design and methodology used in the study and in this study the researcher used the qualitative research approach as a data collection technique and document surveys were used because it is cheap and it saves time. The chapter also highlights the revenue collection and allocation applicable to the study and conclude by discussing the data analysis techniques that were used in the empirical study. Chapter four dealt with the data analysis of data collected presentation and discussion of the results and the researcher analyzed data using the filtering technique and content analysis. Chapter five drew conclusions and made scientific recommendations based on the research findings.The municipality is largely dependent on grants from upper spheres of government and generate less than 20 percent of current expenditures from own resources. As a whole, the revenue collection and allocation challenge of the NDLAMBE Local Municipality, given the current scenario of flows, is a reason for concern. Due to historical and political factors, local governments in South Africa differ substantially in terms of potential revenue base, but it may be that in many cases potential revenue is not exploited and that the high level of dependency on grants, high level of bad debts and lack of political will to be more self-reliant is the result of poor revenue in NDLAMBE Local Municipality.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

Improving integrated waste management with community education programmes : the case of New Brighton in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality

  • Authors: Adams, Bulelwa Avril
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Integrated solid waste management -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Community development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Salvage (Waste, etc.) -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: vital:8323 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020161
  • Description: Municipal solid waste management is gradually becoming a major challenge that is confronting governments in all spheres. This can be attributed to urbanisation and startling population escalation. Each and every member in a community is a contributor to this dilemma and a generator of waste. The essence of this study is to investigate whether the utilisation of education programmes can assist to improve how communities handle and dispose their household waste and its contribution to the effectiveness of the integrated solid waste management system for the New Brighton Township in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. A theoretical framework is developed using the systems theory in trying to address the challenge. The study used the qualitative research method. Data were gathered using questionnaires and face-to face interviews. The empirical survey was employed for the purposes of the study and the interpretation of the research findings were analysed and described. As a metropolitan municipality, it is envisaged that this research will assist the NMBM, to identify how to manage solid waste efficiently and effectively and thus enhancing service delivery that will ensure communities of their well-being and dignity. Various recommendations are presented, based on the findings of the study. It is hoped that these recommendations If are adopted, the NMBM will be able to deal more effectively and efficiently with the challenges that the NMBM is faced with in dealing with waste management issues thereby enabling the NMBM to deliver the most basic need to the communities of the New Brighton Townships.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

Oversight for accountable governance in selected municipalities in the Eastern Cape province

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