Browsing by Author "Dent, Mark Clifford."

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A critical assessment of the Namibian protected area management effectiveness tracking tool.
(2010) Mulonga, Samison Nzehengwa.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
Protected Areas (PAs) are one of the most effective mechanisms for biodiversity conservation. They are found in almost every country and have been adopted by the international community through various conventions and agreements. However setting aside areas as protected areas does not automatically qualify them to be effectively managed. Research around the world has shown that some PAs are not well managed due to different reasons in different parts of the world. Therefore it is important to determine management effectiveness of PAs to ascertain whether they are managed according to the objectives for which they were created. The Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT) is one of the tools developed to evaluate management effectiveness of PAs around the world. The tool has been implemented in a number of countries including Namibia where it has been modified into the Namibia Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (NAMETT) through the United Nations Development Programme and Global Environment Facility’s Strengthening the Protected Areas Network (SPAN) project. However the effectiveness of this tool in providing necessary information about PA management effectiveness was not ascertained before implementation. The Namibian PA management authorities on the other hand need a tool for determining management effectiveness of PAs for management decision-making and as part of their obligations through international conventions which they signed. The aim of this research study was to analyse and assess the NAMETT as a management effectiveness tool for PAs in Namibia, by looking at the strength and weakness of the tool. This will inform whether its worthwhile adopting the tool as a standard management effectiveness evaluation tool for Namibia’s PAs. To accomplish this NAMETT assessment data obtained from the two NAMETT assessments undertaken by SPAN project was analysed. Furthermore different qualitative techniques were used including a semi-structured questionnaire as part of a case study approach. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken in the process and links to students undertaking similar research projects and professionals in the PA management industry were established and complemented the research data. Data obtained from NAMETT assessment undertaken by SPAN project appear to provide a picture of the different levels of management effectiveness in Namibia’s PAs suggesting the tool could be adopted for management effectiveness of Namibia’s PAs. Research data and information gathered shows that at the moment there is no management effectiveness tracking tool in Namibia. PA management authorities lack the necessary management effectiveness information for decision making. Currently only reports, the Incident Book Monitoring System (IBMS) and park inspections are the only sources of information for PA management authorities in Namibia. These tools are inadequate as they do not provide information at a strategic level which can help show trends and weakness and strength in PA management. Therefore a METT tool based on the World Commission on Protected Area’s Framework of which Namibia is a signatory is warranted. The NAMETT provides good information but lacks a link or section that should highlight the health of the ecosystem or provide information on biodiversity. Furthermore the tool has shortfalls in terms of implementation training and guidelines to assist implementers. Despite this, stakeholders who participated in the research project indicated that the tool should be adopted as the standard management effectiveness tool for PAs in Namibia. This however should come with alignment of the tool to local conditions and development of implementation guidelines as well as linkage to other form of PA management tools such as game counts and the IBMS. There is lack of robust management system for PAs in Namibia which will consolidate implementation of NAMETT. Such a system should involve planning, implementation, reporting and adaptive management. Therefore if NAMETT is to be adopted there is a need for such a system to be in place to enable data and information from the different tools to be able to complement each other for informed decision making about PA management.
A review of the fluvial geomorphology monitoring of the receiving streams of the Mooi-Mgeni [River] Transfer Scheme Phase 1.
(2009) Hunter, Alistair Malcolm Scott.; Kotze, Donovan Charles.; Dent, Mark Clifford.; Archer, Lynette Deborah.
The Mgeni River is the major water resource for the eThekwini Metropolitan and Msunduzi Municipalities. At the end of 2002, the Mooi-Mgeni Transfer Scheme Phase 1, which transfers water from the Mooi River into the Mgeni catchment to augment the water supply to this region, was completed. The interbasin transfer of water resulted in the loss of habitat, erosion of the stream channel and transformation of the riparian zone in the receiving streams. Stream regulation resulting in an altered flow regime is considered the greatest threat to a riverine environment. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP), incorporating fluvial geomorphological monitoring procedures, was implemented to monitor the impact of the transfer on the receiving streams, the Mpofana and Lions Rivers, and to determine the rate and magnitude of erosion. A comparison of the geomorphological monitoring procedure of the EMP with best practice geomorphological monitoring derived from a review of the national and international stream geomorphological literature was conducted in this study. In addition, the implementation of the EMP geomorphological monitoring procedures was described and onsite observations of physical impacts on the receiving streams were completed. The geomorphological monitoring of the EMP included the use of erosion pins, survey of stream cross-sections and fixed-point photography. Photographs and data were collected from February 2003 to June 2006. The comparison of these monitoring methods against stream assessment best practices revealed the strengths and weaknesses of the geomorphological monitoring implemented in the receiving streams. Several key weaknesses were revealed. Firstly, an inadequate number of stream cross sections was included in the monitoring procedures. Secondly, although the erosion pins indicated some general trends in the erosion of the stream channel, they did not give a true impression of the rate and magnitude of change in slope and channel width of the stream, and the location of the erosion pins sites did not take into account the actual direction of flow during transfer as erosion pin sites were selected during low flow conditions. In addition, it was difficult to determine whether the erosion pins had been lost due to erosion or to turbulence. The results were difficult to assess and did not show whether the erosion was localised at the pins or the section of bank or stream profile. Thirdly, analysis of platform changes in the stream channel (e.g. through a comparison of aerial photograph sets) was lacking and no attempt was made to integrate the results from the different methods. Overall, the study concluded that the geomorphological monitoring of the EMP was limited, and it did not highlight the rate and magnitude of erosion in the receiving streams. Based on the findings of this study, recommendations are provided for geomorphological monitoring of the receiving streams of the Mooi Mgeni Transfer Scheme.
Analysis of the effect of using labour from brokers on operational costs, efficiencies and employee morale : a case study.
(2006) Manilall, Priya.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
Low cost and high efficiencies are probably the most common of strategies used in large businesses today. This requires, however, optimum levels of commitment and performance from the employees coupled with an excellent taste for change. The transition from the use of Mondi employees to labour broker employees is a change process that impacts on a company's most valuable asset - their employees. It is with this in mind that the researcher conducted a case study aimed at identifying the impact of using labour broker employees in the waste handling operations on the morale of the affected employees. The researcher found it essential to evaluate the impact of this change on operational costs and efficiencies of the section. The three research questions that were outlined to meet the above aims were: (1) Does the use of labour broker employees in the waste paper handling part of the recycling operations impact positively or negatively on the morale of the Mondi waste paper handling operators? (2) Does the use of labour broker employees in the waste paper handling part of the recycling operations reduce the operational costs in that section? (3) Does the use of labour broker employees in the waste paper handling part of the recycling operations decrease or increase the operational efficiencies in that section? The initiative to use labour broker employees in the waste paper handling operations was not set up as an experiment. It was already in motion and the researcher opted to study it. Direct observation and unstructured interviews were used to answer research question (1). It was found that the change had completely demotivated the Mondi waste handling operators. Their morale levels dropped to particularly low levels as they felt disliked, not part of a team and unappreciated for their efforts and past service. The impacts of this low morale were hidden due to the plant being under utilised against its design capacity. They also had a prevailing sense of insecurity and uncertainty regarding their jobs, which made them uneasy. Factors associated with operational costs and efficiency was measured before (2004) and after the initiative (2005) to establish the impact of using labour broker employees on them. Direct observations and a quantitative analysis of data from the company's finance and technical departments were used to answer research questions (2) and (3). It was noted that there was a decrease in the operational costs due to the lower rate of pay of the labour broker employees and them doing overtime. The use of labour broker employees resulted in no significant improvement on the operational efficiencies.
Application of theory U to assess the implementation possibilities of a co-existence agenda at Panna Tiger Reserve, India.
(2012) Kolipaka, Shekhar Srinivas.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
This thesis develops understanding on the prospects of successfully implementing a co-existence buffer zone agenda around the Panna Tiger Reserve by its management. Fostering co-existence of humans and wildlife in the buffer zones and multi-use forests around tiger reserves is suggested as a way forward by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) of India for ensuring the long term survival of the tiger species in India. The proposed shift involves change from managing tigers in national parks with minimum human interference to the managing tigers at larger land units promoting co-existence. While successful implementation of the proposed change may have potential benefits for tigers and people, the failure to implement the proposed co-existence agenda will be an opportunity lost to revive the tiger species in India. To provide understanding on the above described situation, the main research objective of this study was to use Theory U lenses to assess the potential of key stakeholders to engage in transformational change towards co-existence. The second research objective was to identify the barriers, as perceived by the stakeholders seeking transformational change, to co-existence. To gain insights into the study objectives, stakeholders from the five groups were interviewed using structured questions, subjected to group meetings and were also observed as they performed in daily life. The collected information allowed an assessment of prospects of implementing change to co-existence. The study findings suggest that the concept of co-existence buffer zone is not well supported by majority of the stakeholder groups at Panna. Stakeholder interrelationships leading to lack of trust, existing conflicts, leadership deficiencies, fear of economic repercussion and poor communication created barriers between various stakeholder groups. Some of the barriers, for example, lack of trust and existing conflicts between stakeholder groups distanced the groups from each other and reduced mutual cooperation, vital for co-existence to succeed. Study findings also revealed that some stakeholder groups viewed the co-existence concept positively. Findings suggest that some stakeholder’s placed importance on issues such as, aesthetics, ethics and moral principles, spiritual values, customs and cultural beliefs and economic incentives. These issues perceived within the context of co-existence in the buffer zone may have incited positive feelings towards the co-existence concept. When stakeholders were assessed through the mental lenses of Theory U the study findings suggest that stakeholder groups differed in their ability to change and also support the proposed change to co-existence at Panna Tiger Reserve. Study findings suggest that members of the Landlord and Villager stakeholder groups may be most receptive to change. Members of these stakeholder groups, through their thinking and actions, demonstrated ability to support the proposed change to co-existence in the buffer zone of the Panna Tiger Reserve. The Politician and Tourist lodge groups demonstrated levels of openness to change their thinking towards co-existence but did not show enough evidence during the study to suggest that they could undertake actions and contribute towards transformational change at Panna. This means that though members could mentally think along the lines of the proposed change their ability to directly take actions to achieve change, was at the time of the study, limited. The Panna Tiger Reserve management group members revealed least ability to shift their thinking from their existing mind set towards co-existence scenarios. Their ability to take actions that led towards achieving change to co-existence was also restricted. Based on the study findings it may be suggested that Panna Tiger Reserve Management ability to directly contribute to successful implementation of the proposed co-existence buffer zone agenda at Panna Tiger Reserve may be the lowest amongst the five stakeholder groups.
Assessing the impact of growing Jatropha curcas for biofuel on the livelihood of Swaziland's rural community of Mpaka at household level.
(2012) Vilane, Patience B.; Hill, Trevor Raymond.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
As biofuels were growing in importance, Jatropha curcas has been widely promoted as the best suitable source for biodiesel that can be exploited by developing countries .Whilst there were fears that this development may threaten food security and put a strain on other natural resources there was a view that if well managed, the activity may spur rural economic growth thereby reducing poverty and unemployment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact that growing Jatropha curcas for supplying the biodiesel industry has made on the livelihoods of the households that were involved within the community of Mpaka in Swaziland. The target respondents were all the farmers that had an agreement with D1 Oils Swaziland and actually planted Jatropha curcas based on the Sustainable Livelihoods framework and using qualitative techniques data were collected using documentation, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussion, and some observation. Content analysis was then carried out to document the history of growing Jatropha curcas in Swaziland; map out the vulnerability context for the community of Mpaka; identify the range of assets that create the different livelihood strategies for the different households; determine the effect of policies and institutional conditions; and describe what the stakeholder’s view of growing Jatropha curcas is. The findings of the study revealed that growing Jatropha curcas greatly reduced the households’ vulnerability to drought, crops being browsed by livestock and high cost of farming inputs. However the study also revealed that the activity did not yield the desired outcome of income generation as the project did not continue due to bad publicity coupled with a poor policy environment and lack of coordination between and within government ministries and departments. Whilst it can be concluded that that the activity had a negative impact on the households involved it showed a great potential provided government through the relevant ministries and departments creates an enabling environment of proper policies and institutions and by involving all stakeholders at the right time.
Assessing the implementation prospects of the Waste Act within the Msunduzi Municipality through the Theory U.
(2009) Jogiat, Riaz.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
The Msunduzi Municipality is confronted with a waste management crisis. It struggles to provide existing refuse collection services and is unable to extend refuse collection services to more than 40% of households in the municipality, illegal dumping and littering continue unabated, waste volumes continue to grow in the absence of waste minimisation programmes and the only landfill site within the municipality is poorly managed and has less than seven years of airspace remaining. In the midst of this crisis, the new National Waste Act has been approved for implementation requiring all municipalities in South Africa to provide universal access to refuse collection services, to comply with national norms and standards for waste disposal and to implement new services that provide opportunities for recycling and the treatment of waste. The Waste Act requires the Msunduzi Municipality to transform its waste management system from a poorly run collection and disposal operation to an ecologically sustainable system where waste generation is prevented, materials are recycled and organic waste is treated in order to prevent the release of greenhouse gases. This research project sought to develop a deeper understanding of the implementation obligations confronting the Msunduzi Municipality as a result of the Waste Act and explored the prospects for implementation success and failure. The conceptual framework of the Theory U was used to provide insights into how transformational change of the Msunduzi waste management system can be undertaken. A qualitative research methodology was used in order to understand implementation issues from the perspectives of all the stakeholders within the Msunduzi waste management system. The main research tool used was a semi - structured interview conducted with individual stakeholders from government, NGO's, technical experts, labour and the organised business sector. A documentary analysis of relevant literature and direct observation of the research participants complemented the interview data. The research results indicate that leaders of the administrative, political and labour components of the waste management sector within the Msunduzi Municipality and the organised business sector within the city of Pietermaritzburg are collectively attending to waste management issues from an absencing cycle. Given that these key institutions are unable to think and act to improve the entire waste management system, the quality and quantity of waste management services being delivered will steadily decline whilst pollution levels will increase; and the system is at risk of eventual collapse. Key stakeholders from within the Msunduzi Municipality are unlikely, in the current context, to either initiate or participate in the activities of a diverse group of core players who could be brought together through common intention to transform the waste management system. The NGO sector, the regulatory authorities, the technical experts and the organised waste management business sector on the other hand are willing to come together to transform the Msunduzi waste management system. Given that the waste management sector within the Msunduzi Municipality operates within an absencing cycle and some of the other core players in the system are operating from a presencing cycle, the need for transformational change is both urgent and possible. The process is likely to be protracted, conflict ridden and complex. If the core players within the system who share a common transformational intention are able to collectively sense the system, learn from the future to develop a common vision and create prototypes to embody new practices, they can, however, gradually create forces within the system that can unlock opportunities for profound change to occur. Key Words: Waste Management, Policy Implementation, Theory U, Local Government.
An assessment of community understanding of the Human Animal Conservancy Self-Insurance Scheme and the impact of human-wildlife conflicts : a case study from the Kwandu conservancy, north-east Namibia.
(2006) Kasaona, Marthin Kaukaha.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
The research problem of this mini-dissertation involves the conflicts between human and wildlife populations and the trialing of ‘compensation’ payouts that are emerging as a critical test within the conservancy. Crop raiders such as elephants, buffaloes, hippopotamus, bush pigs and small rodents, diminish farmers’ resource bases and cash crops, while carnivores are responsible for livestock losses. The aim of the research is to assess the level of community understanding of the compensation scheme and the impact of human wildlife interaction within the conservancy. This mini-dissertation investigated the level of community understanding about the Human Animal Conservancy Self-Insurance Scheme (HACSIS), and the impact of human-wildlife conflicts within the Kwandu Conservancy. Some of the research data were obtained from the conservancy game guards’ event book system, and the actual field research data were collected from the 1st August to 20th August 2006. The researcher conducted a total of 35 interviews, whereby 32 involved face-to-face interviews with single individuals, and 3 separate focus group discussions that consisted of four, five and two conservancy members. The interviews averaged 30 minutes in length. Each interview was preceded by a careful explanation of the purposes of the work, stressing that the intent was to evaluate their understanding and perceptions on HACSIS, the impact of human-wildlife conflicts and to explore better management strategies. The researcher has taken into account that the communities might exaggerate the wildlife problem based on his previous experience with the adjacent conservancy, in the hopes of gaining more compensation – they also use the researcher as a way to vent their frustration at the problem. On the assumption that there may be an element of exaggeration verification of these was obtained from the Event Book System (a manual book used by the Community Game Guards for recording both crops and livestock incidents on daily basis). This mini-dissertation reveals that 74.3 % (n = 26) of respondents are aware of the existence of the HACSIS program and its role, while 17.1 % of respondents had no idea about the scheme’s presence and its involvement to minimize the impact felt by communities when they lose livestock to predators. The percentage of respondents who claimed that they had heard of the scheme’s existence but had no knowledge of its role was 8.6 %. In addition, most respondents (n = 15) claimed that the conservancy committee did not explain to them why their claim forms were rejected. In contrast, some respondents (n = 6) did received feedback on rejected claim forms. HACSIS was not formed to compensate livestock losses based on market value, nor was it intended as a ‘compensation’ scheme. Its aim was to test a conservancy-run process – local verification of claims and monitoring by conservancy committee and traditional authority. In addition, the authorization of payments for a type of ‘self-insurance’ is drawn from conservancy income to partially offset the losses of conservancy members versus the overall gains that wildlife brings to the conservancy (direct conservancy income and local jobs through tourism, trophy hunting, own use game harvesting). Conservancy committees and the support NGO, IRDNC, agreed on the amount to be refunded for animal losses before the scheme was started, initially using donor funding in the trial phases. The amount was deliberately kept low as it was acknowledged from the start that conservancies themselves would take over the repayments from their own income. Once the conservancy was used to its own income to finance the scheme, conservancy members could vote to increase amounts paid for predator losses. The crucial aspect, according to IRDNC, was that the process itself be tested and that the scheme be run by the conservancy, with Ministry of Environment and Tourism and IRDNC merely monitoring and providing assistance as needed. Compensation is based on this pre-determined amount that is less than the livestock value. However, the research reveals that respondents (n = 19) were dissatisfied with the amount paid (N$ 800-00 per ox killed), because they claim that the amount paid to relieve the immediate impact from wildlife is too little to sustain the affected member. In contrast, some respondents (n = 8) were satisfied with the amount paid as compensation. Despite criticisms about the amount paid for livestock losses, none of the respondents (n = 22) who were familiar with the scheme wanted it to be abolished. The respondents emphasized the need for the conservancy committee to review the amount paid as compensation, especially for cattle. They suggested an increase from the current N$ 800-00 to N$ 1000-00 per ox loss. The research reveals that community livestock management practices have not changed to deliberately benefit from the compensation. In fact community management strategies have improved because of the condition set by the review committee dealing with the compensation scheme. Wildlife incidents have increased because animals are habituated to techniques used by communities to deter them and this has contributed to high livestock incidents. For human-wildlife conflicts, the research acknowledges that the conflict exists. Between 2003-2005, the Kwandu Conservancy reported 1508 incidents of damage to crops by wildlife. Species that were responsible included elephants with 30.2 % damage, bush pigs (29.8 %), hippopotamus (12.7%), antelopes (12.7 %), porcupine (7.5 %), and baboons/monkeys (7.2 %). Most of the crops destroyed by crop raiders, as suggested by the respondents, were maize (30 %), sorghum (26 %), millet (17 %), groundnuts (14 %), pumpkins (8 %) and beans (5%). During the same period of crop losses, the conservancy reported 98 livestock incidents. Animals responsible for livestock incidents were crocodile with 32 incidents (32.7 %), then hyena (23 incidents, 23.5 %), leopard (22 incidents, 22.4 %) and lion (21 incidents, 21.4%). The role of community game guards was found to be extensive. From a total 35 responses, 74.3 % (n = 26) of members stated that community game guards effectively record incidents, chased problem-causing animals from the community crop fields by shouting or shooting in the air, and assessed or verified killed livestock for compensation purposes. In addition, community game guards conduct crop assessment for record-keeping purposes. The scheme for crop compensation is to be introduced in 2007. Currently there is no proper formula to use in assessing the value of crops and the method to use to compensate the affected members. Other methods used by communities to deter wildlife include sleeping in the field to guard crops, cracking a whip, construction of human statues, hanging tins on the fence, chilli coils, watchtowers and digging trenches. Respondents had different views on the best management practices for problem-causing animals. The response was generally based on the degree of threat that the animal posed. Most (43.8 %, n = 14) preferred the monitoring of problem-causing animals that are sighted in an area as a best practice, while 40.6 % (n = 13) of respondents preferred the animal to be captured and relocated to parks. Only 25.6 % (n = 5) of respondents preferred that the animal be destroyed. The management practices preferred by respondents when an animal kills a person are different from when an animal is simply sighted in the area. If an animal kills a person, only 12.5 % (n = 4) of respondents preferred that the animal be captured and relocated to parks, while 87.5 % (n = 28) of respondents preferred the problem-causing animal to be destroyed. None of the respondents suggested monitoring as the best management option for this degree of threat. In conclusion, the research revealed that Human Animal Conservancy Self Insurance Scheme does not treat the cause of the problem but the symptom. This approach does not decrease the level of the problem given that the cause of the problem is not addressed. Therefore, the researcher stressed the need to fully explore and implement the recent piloted lion, crocodile fencing, and elephant proof fencing and elephants chilli coil to address and reduce the problem within Kwandu Conservancy. In addition, the research revealed that the scheme has very lengthy delays before compensation is paid and the review panel does not arrange meetings on the stipulated dates. This causes a back-log in the number of claims that need to be reviewed and approved. On Human Wildlife Conflict the research findings recommend the need to strengthen and improve existing problem-causing animal management strategies that are in place. Innovative strategies include reducing the number of stray livestock at night and developing static fences. Communities should be advised, as is being done by IRDNC, to herd their livestock during the day and to build strong kraals. This is the most effective and cheapest way to prevent livestock from being taken by predators at night. Further more the research revealed that the combination and rotation of the methods yield high success rather than deploying a single method over a long period, for the prevention of crop losses methods include guarding the crop field, cracking a whip, shooting in the air, watchtowers, human statues and beating drums.
An assessment of Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife's labour policies for unskilled temporary workers.
(2014) Faure, Robert Rees.; Fincham, Robert John.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife (EKZNW) is a Schedule 3C public entity that is legally mandated by way of the KwaZulu Natal Nature Conservation Management Act 9 of 1997 to conserve indigenous biodiversity within the province of KwaZulu-Natal. During normal operations EKZNW employs unskilled temporary workers. In compliance with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act 32 of 1997 EKZNW’s Conservation Board approved the adoption of human resource and labour relations based policies to apply consistency in its dealings with human resource matters. Using International Labour Organisation principles to provide context, this study aims to identify the differences in conditions of employment between unskilled temporary workers and unskilled permanent workers at EKZNW, to understand why these differences exist, and what the implications are for the unskilled temporary workers. The following objectives applied in realising the aim: 1. Review International Labour Organisation conventions to determine internationally accepted employment principles for unskilled permanent workers; 2. Establish to what extent South African Constitution and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act complies with International Labour Organisation employment principles for unskilled permanent workers; 3. Establish to what extent EKZNW complies with International Labour Organisation employment principles, in relation to the South African Constitution and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, with specific reference to unskilled temporary workers; 4. Understand the reasons for the differences in the Condition of Employment between unskilled temporary workers and unskilled permanent workers; 5. Establish the resulting implications for unskilled temporary workers; 6. Suggest recommendations about making working conditions more equitable between unskilled temporary workers and unskilled permanent workers. This study uses a combination of research techniques entailing document examination, semi-structured interviews, personal observations and data evaluation in realising the objectives. Descriptions of the study population, sample and size are presented; whilst describing the data collection instruments, data collection procedures, management and data analysis methods employed in conducting the study. Set against the International Labour Organisations 1988 Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, namely; freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining; the elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour; the effective abolition of child labour; and, the elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation; Chapter 4 presents the results and discussion in combination against Objective 2, 3, 4 and 5, with Objective 6 being presented in the final Chapter. The study found that whilst EKZNW’s Conservation Board had approved and adopted the 2006 Remuneration Packages Policy and the 2007 Employee Performance Management and Development System to ensure ‘justice’ in its dealings with human resource matters; the policies had not been implemented on unskilled temporary workers.
Building a sustainable competitive organization : the case of the University of Zululand.
(2006) Nhlabathi, Sibonakaliso Shadrack.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
This study explores strategies for building sustainable and competitive organizations with the University of Zululand (UZ) as a case of the study. The problem of the study is uncovering reason/s why the UZ has not developed into a sustainable and a competitive organization. In order to solve the identified problem, two activities were undertaken. These are a review of theory on building sustainable and competitive organizations and collection and analysis of data about the UZ. Systems thinking theory a discipline of a learning organization was used as a framework of the study. Systems thinking theory was used because conventional approaches to organizational development have not been able to offer lasting solutions to the problems that affect sustainability of organizations. Extensive reference was made to the work of Senge (1990, 1994, and 1999). Works of other scholars on this subject were widely consulted. According to Senge (1990) the most successful organizations are what he calls learning organizations. Learning organizations are distinguished by the following disciplines, viz., systems thinking, personal mastery, mental models, building shared vision, and team learning. In as far as data is concerned, three sets of data were collected and analyzed, namely, in depth-one-on one interviews were conducted with people that are knowledgeable about the UZ; and with representatives of business of the city of Umhlathuze to find out how they view the UZ; and a survey was done to determine attitudes of employees of the UZ towards the institution. The analysis of data showed that the UZ did not meet the criteria of a learning organization, that helped to explain why this institution has not developed into a sustainable and a competitive organization. The study recommended that this institution adopt a living systems framework and thus becomes a learning organization, because it is only by becoming a learning organization that the UZ will be sustainable and competitive.
Change management in organisations : a case study analysis of the management of change processes in the civil service of Lesotho.
(2003) Makhetha, Morongoe M.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
This study is an evaluation of the implementation of change processes in the Lesotho Civil Service, Ministry of the Public Service (MPS). A qualitative method was used where an exploratory study was conducted by drawing a case study to evaluate the change implementation process in the organisation. In enabling the researcher to conduct a more focussed study, only five factors that have an impact on the successful implementation of change were considered. The factors were namely: forces for change; managing and leading change; building the desired culture; resistance to change and errors common to organisational change. The relevant information for the case study was obtained mainly from interviews and questionnaires. The pattern matching technique was performed on the case study, whereby the way change was implemented in the Lesotho Civil service was compared to that suggested by the literature. Fifty questionnaires were administered to fifty employees in the Ministry of the Public Service. Finally an evaluation based on the responses of the respondents, what actually happened and that which the literature suggests were evaluated interdependently. Based on this evaluation, it was found that, there were forces for change in the organisation, but management did not communicate with the employees as to the need for change and how it was to be implemented. Employees were never involved or asked to participate in the planning process of the change. Management in the organisation did not take all aspects into account when planning for change as suggested by the literature and all these aspects need to be improved upon by the leaders in the organisation.
Creating and measuring shareholders’ value through acquisition : A case study on Sage Plc.
(2006) Naidoo, Priethieban.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
The key corporate objective of any company should be the constant creation of shareholder value. This can be achieved either organically by earning revenue from the value proposition they offer customers or through mergers and acquisitions. Sage plc, a FTSE 100 company on the London Stock Exchange is a stalwart contender that believes an effective growth strategy has to be the right kind of acquisition - a business combination that increases the power of the customer value proposition allowing the combined entity to achieve genuine organic growth. As one CEO put it, - believe that you don't get better by being bigger, you get bigger by being better.. (Internet Ref 7) This study undertakes to evaluate Sage plc's strategy of protecting and improving shareholder value through acquisitions. It will also determine whether all management's thoughts and actions, from strategizing with respect to competitive positioning and cutting costs and streamlining operations to creating a productive environment that provides employees with economic benefits and opportunities for advancement, correlate to preserve and increase the organic growth of the firms they are managing and whether effective shareholder value was created or diminished over the designated period of major acquisitions. In order to address this issue the thesis presents a general view on the different approaches used to create shareholder. The use of mergers and acquisitions, to increase growth in an organisation, is discussed and analysed. A key aspect to value creation is measurement. A suitable value based management metric must be established in order to measure value creation. The study will examine all different metrics used to measure shareholder value creation and find the most appropriate measurement. Finally this study makes recommendations, based upon its finding on value creation and measurement.
Crop water requirements for irrigation planning in South Africa.
(1988) Dent, Mark Clifford.; Schulze, Roland Edgar.
Irrigation in 1980 accounted for approximately 52 per cent of the water consumed in Southern Africa. The need for planning water resources in the agricultural sector is therefore apparent. Much of Southern Africa's arable farming is carried out on land which, in terms of soil moisture availability to crops, can be described as marginal. Information on soil moisture is therefore valuable to the agriculturalist for planning irrigation schemes and for dryland farming. The objectives of this study were to provide the information mentioned above. This was achieved by producing a detailed delimitation of 712 zones throughout Southern Africa, of more or less homogeneous climate and by providing estimates of crop water requirements under dryland and irrigated conditions in each zone. At the same time the bulk of information which is normally forthcoming from such an analysis involving a large number of combinations of possible input, i.e. crops, soils and planting dates, was reduced, whilst the essential information content was retained. The study provided inter alia an estimate of the frequency of non-exceedance of certain levels of irrigation requirement, based on analyses of soil moisture budgets using long daily rainfall records. The soil moisture budgeting models which were used to estimate the above information were verified inter alia using field measurements of soil moisture. The irrigation analysis was designed such that the results should not became redundant when the inevitable improvement occurs in the estimation of crop factors or soil moisture variables nor if the farming practices change with respect to planting dates. A dryland soil moisture budget analysis for a range of crops and soils was performed in addition to the abovementioned irrigation analysis. The need for this latter study stemmed from the belief that irrigation should not be considered in isolation but rather as one of a range of options, many of them involving dryland farming, facing the agriculturalist. In addition to the dissertation, this study produced a map of Southern Africa on which the 712 homogeneous climate zones are depicted. For each of these zones four pages of computer printout were produced. These pages contain the results of the crop water requirements study for irrigated conditions and the crop water requirement deficit, runoff and an index of stress days for a range of crops, soils and planting dates, under dryland conditions.
The effect of the spatial scale of tree harvesting on woody seedling establishment and tree dynamic at Ongoye Forest Reserve.
(2010) Louw, Sharon Lilla.; Dent, Mark Clifford.; Lawes, Michael John.
Subsistence harvesting pressure in most African countries focuses on the small and mostly unreproductive trees found in the understorey stratum and can have potentially insidious ecological effects. Harvest intensities at Ongoye Forest Reserve (OFR) vary significantly across the forest (range = 87 - 567 stumps ha-1), with harvesting focussed exclusively on poles from tree species that grow only in the understorey. Growing evidence indicates that seedling establishment from the pool of species available beneath a closed canopy is greatly influenced by the differential ability of species to take advantage of the short burst of resources in newly-created understorey gaps. Seedling dynamics in these gaps may determine forest tree diversity and dynamics and consequently harvest gaps have the potential to significantly affect natural forest dynamics. This study examined seedling establishment beneath intact understorey and within artificially created understorey gaps of different sizes (single stem gaps, two stem gaps, four stem gaps, eight stem gaps and control ‘gap’, where no stems were removed) that simulated different spatial scales of harvesting intensity of understorey trees. This experiment examined the proposition that successful seedling establishment and natural succession is strongly dependent on the scale of harvesting. Seedling abundance, species richness, irradiance (photosynthetically active radiation and the red to far-red ratio), soil nutrient composition and herbaceous layer cover was measured in each gap size in 2005 before harvesting, and again in 2007. The mean seedling abundance was not significantly different among gap treatments, although there was a trend towards more seedlings in 2005 than 2007. Seedling abundance in all gaps was greater than at control sites beneath the intact understorey. There was a continuous increase in seedling richness in 2007. An average species richness of 4.3 was recorded in the control sites, beneath a shaded understorey. Here, seedling richness increased by 18.24% with the removal of a single understorey tree (Gap 1). Species richness increased with increasing experimental gap size increased so that the greatest mean species richness (6.2 species) was recorded where eight neighbouring trees were removed (Gap 8). Light transmission reaching the seedling stratum was greater in larger gaps and there was a trend towards more seedlings and greater species richness in the higher light environments of such gaps. Soil nutrient levels did not influence seedling abundance and species richness in gaps. The herbaceous layer suppressed seedling establishment. In the largest gaps (115.4m2) created by harvesting, seedling composition was more deterministic than in small gaps where seedling establishment and density was random, accordingly there were more species in larger gaps from a more defined species assemblage. Current harvesting levels of pole-sized understorey trees, where only small gaps are created in the understorey, are unlikely to alter forest dynamics and species composition at OFR. This study demonstrates that harvesting eight adjacent trees crosses the harvest intensity threshold between sustainable natural tree dynamics and a potential successional shift to an alternative state. Clearly, for natural dynamics to be maintained harvesting intensities will have to be regulated.
Evaluation of EKZNW'S eco-cultural tourism marketing strategy for the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site.
(2011) Mchunu, Philisiwe Juliet.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site has significant value including the natural and cultural value such as the production of water, the wilderness and eco-cultural tourism. Situated in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal, in South Africa, this 242 813 ha Park is a national and international asset. There are marketing activities carried out by Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife (EKZNW); however they are not park specific. Ezemvelo KwaZulu- Natal Wildlife has a number of parks under their management and uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site is one of these parks. The main aim of this study was to evaluate EKZNW’s current eco-cultural tourism marketing strategy for the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site. This was done by achieving the following objectives:- 1. determine the ideal generic marketing strategy for a Protected Area specifically a World Heritage Site; 2. establish the current status of Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife marketing strategy for the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site; 3. conduct a comparative analysis between the ideal strategy and Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife’s actual strategy for uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site; 4. based on the comparative analysis, recommend marketing interventions to improve the eco-cultural tourism marketing strategy for uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site. To fulfil these objectives the research methods used were qualitative in nature because of the type of investigation. Methods used to collect information included a literature review, structured and semi-structured face-to-face interviews, discussions, conducting a SWOT analysis and secondary data analysis. The SWOT analysis was formulated from the interviews but not as a workshop and it was part of the analysis. The results of the study show that the respondents have concerns regarding the marketing of the Site. Currently there is no written eco-cultural marketing strategy for uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site. However marketing activities limited as they are, are being performed on an ad hoc basis. The Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife marketing department is too small (three staff) to handle the marketing of all Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife parks, resulting in uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site not getting the marketing attention it deserves as an international icon. Scarce resources coupled with internal conflicts, lack of marketing skills, insufficient gathering of marketing information and no external or industry marketing alliances has resulted in minimum marketing exposure for the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site. The study concluded that marketing integration and collaboration with all relevant stakeholders is needed. Marketing objectives for the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site must be developed. Better profiling of current and potential visitors to maximise revenues is a priority for better future marketing decisions. The brand identity has to be maximised through collaboration with stakeholders and staff. This will lead to sustainable marketing of the Site which takes into consideration biodiversity conservation. This ensures that conservation objectives are not compromised.
Evaluation of strategic change at Dow Agrochemicals (KwaZulu-Natal)
(2006) Chetty, P.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
Every organization has to undergo change at some time or another. To achieve successful change, the management of the organization have to follow a well structured and organized process. This change process poses a challenge to management to ensure that all its complexities are effectively handled. In light of this, the dissertation on hand is an evaluation of the change process at Dow Agrochemicals (KwaZulu Natal) and the impact it has on the organization's strategic objectives. The method chosen for this study was exploratory using a case study and an extensive literature survey. The technique used for this exploration was qualitative. The strategies and techniques for effective change management have been explored through the literature survey, and the information for the case study was obtained from interviews, questionnaires, documentation and observation. The empirical survey has been compared to the literature survey to evaluate the change process in the organization. Although there were pitfalls in the change process, it was found that the overall management of the change process was done well. Recommendations are presented which are intended to improve the change initiative in order to survive in a competitive environment. Lastly, the areas for future research on this subject have been outlined.
Evaluation of the growth strategy of an educational institution : a case study of the Kigali Institute of Science, Technology and Management (KIST).
(2006) Ntukanyagwe, Michelle M.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
The aim of this dissertation is to carry out an evaluation of the Kigali Institute of Science, Technology and Management's organisational strategy using the criteria of suitability and feasibility. Specifically, this dissertation sets out to evaluate the suitability of KIST's growth strategy by assessing whether it addresses the circumstances in which the organisation is operating and to establish the feasibility of the strategy by assessing whether the Institute possesses the resources and competences to match the chosen growth strategy. In conducting this evaluation it is recognised that, although it is impossible to demonstrate conclusively whether a particular strategy is optimal or even guaranteed to work, one can nevertheless, test it for critical flaws using the above-mentioned criteria. The findings from the case study and analysis show that the main strategic issues facing KIST are: - inadequate funding for vital, urgent capacity building; inadequate infrastructure and facilities for KIST's growth and sustainability; inadequate strategic planning; low employee motivation and high staff turnover. From the suitability analysis, it was revealed that KIST's growth strategy is not suitable since it does not address the circumstances in which it is operating due to its internal weaknesses. However, the strategy is attainable if the management of KIST puts in place mechanisms to address the strategic issues identified. The feasibility analysis revealed that, as a result of KIST staff not being motivated, the Institute's capabilities of technology transfer would not be adequately harnessed. In addition, the Institute may fail to effectively and efficiently run and sustain its programs. Finally the financial feasibility analysis established that the Institute has a weak financial base as a result of inadequate government and reducing donor funding which renders the growth strategy unfeasible. The last chapter provides recommendations that will serve as guidelines for the Institute, in order for it to address the strategic issues identified, and also successfully implement the chosen growth strategy. Further research by KIST has also been proposed in areas identified at the end of chapter six.
An examination of the residents' perceptions of impacts of nature based tourism on community livelihoods and conservation : case study of Chiawa Game Management Area, Zambia.
(2010) Tembo, Sydney.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
Nature-based tourism is centered on the idea that local communities living within and around protected areas should derive benefits from nature resources. Likewise nature resources will simultaneously benefit from their interaction because the community will develop an understanding and appreciate the importance of conserving nature through various benefits derived. The research focus was on assessing the perception of residents of Chiawa, Zambia, regarding the benefits derived from nature-based tourism. This is the first study of this nature to be conducted in Chiawa. The overall aim of the research study was to examine the perceptions of the Chiawa community of the impacts of nature based tourism and its implications on the livelihood of the Chiawa residents and on the conservation of nature, upon which tourism is anchored. The three specific objectives were:- 1. To examine the perceptions of the community on economic impacts of nature based tourism on the livelihood of Chiawa Community. 2. To examine the perceptions of the community of the effects of nature based tourism benefits on support towards conservation of nature in Chiawa and Lower Zambezi National Park. 3. To examine perceptions on nature and extent of constraints limiting household participation in nature-based tourism. Various research methods were used to address the objectives of this study. These methods included quantitative and qualitative research techniques. Structured questionnaires with multiple choice type answers were administered to households and safari operators to collect data. These techniques were complemented with five focus group meetings conducted in village action groups (VAGs) of Chiawa GMA, and both participant and direct observation techniques were used during household surveys. The elements of analysis of the study looked at various factors that influence the perception of households on tourism benefits and conservation efforts by the community. Elements such as tribe, gender, education, length of stay, age and spatial distribution were analyzed. Elements of analysis from tour operators looked at business types, types of benefits filtering to the community through employment and community projects. It was established during the course of the research that both positive and negative perceptions on the impacts of nature-based tourism on residents of Chiawa GMA exist. However, the few residents who derived benefits from nature based tourism operations were positive and the rest were negative. The perceptions of the respondents on support towards conservation are above average. The study found that the most significant silent factor that may influence negative attitudes or perceptions is high levels of human – wildlife conflicts. This is not surprising considering that farming is the major livelihood strategy for most households. Demographic variables were not found to be useful predictors of perception responses. Several factors were established as limiting to household participation in nature based tourism, these established factors included, lack of working and start up capital, lack of understanding of nature based tourism business, lack of interest and lack of support from tourism agencies.
Exploring communication of the elephant management plan of South African National Parks.
(2014) Moore, Kevin Thomas Burden.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
The complexity associated with elephant management within the South African context makes communication of management decisions a difficult undertaking. People construct mental models based on their ideas and understanding which form the bases of the perceptions of their worlds and are the constructs of mental models. An understanding of these mental models is necessary in order for a common focus to be created so that attitudes might be influenced. What is required is a means in which the maintenance of biodiversity could form a component of people’s (or groups of people’s) mental constructs. A recommendation by the Department of Environmental Affairs was that an Elephant Management Communication Plan should be established to facilitate clear channels of communication between the South African National Parks and its respective stakeholders. Thus, the main research question was: How effective is the Elephant Management Communication Plan likely to be in raising awareness amongst all relevant stakeholders about how elephants are managed in National Parks in South Africa? To answer this, the research critically analyses the Communication Plan Formulation Process through qualitative research methodology. The research concluded that the scope of what is required of the Communication Plan Formulation Process needs to take cognisance of changing environments, perceptions and paradigms on elephant management which would involve an overhaul of the communication strategies within SANParks and between SANParks and its stakeholders. In addition, the elephant issue will need to be viewed as a component of a broader system which includes stakeholders and will need to be communicated as such.
Identifying and analysing management requirements in Ezemvelo KZN wildlife for effective implementation of co-management in the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park.
(2010) Goosen, Eduard Johannes.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site (UDP WHS) is one of only 23 properties world wide that has been listed a World Heritage Site of dual significance due to its cultural and natural values. The picture portrayed to the international community depicts a successful conservation history of more than a 100 years. Achievements include the proclamation of the first Wilderness Area in Africa and its listing as a Ramsar Site. However, little or no mention is made of the current anthropological threats facing the Park today as a direct result of the historically discriminatory and politically insensitive protected area designations. The history of the park reveals a battle ground of conflict between indigenous neighbouring communities and management authorities regarding the contentious issues of land tenure and user rights. Even though Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW) as the management authority has embraced a holistic and participative management paradigm in its policies, efforts to implement this paradigm have been slow and contentious with little or no meaningful successes. Internationally, the construct of comanagement has been identified as the best possible way to achieve a participative, inclusive, holistic management paradigm. In South Africa, and the UDP WHS, the relatively sudden imperative for co-management due to legislative requirements as part of the land restitution process has left many conservation authorities to grapple with the implementation of this construct. Co-management however does not conform well to traditional protectionist and imperialist management systems. The implementation of comanagement in Southern Africa, considering the socio-political history of conservation, requires a significant paradigm change not only in the individuals that will be involved with the implementation of the process, but even more so, within conservation organisations, to create an understanding of the requirements of the systems and processes to facilitate the adoption of this holistic management approach. The overall objective of the research is to analyse identified organisational aspects that are deemed to negatively impact on the process of implementation of co-management in EKZNW, and specifically the UDP WHS. To address this objective, the following three key research questions were identified: a. What are the expectations within EKZNW with regards to the implementation of comanagement with neighbouring communities in the different departments within EKZNW? b. What are the barriers in the management systems of EKZNW with regard to the implementation of co-management with neighbouring communities? c. What are the resource requirements in EKZNW for the implementation and maintenance of co-management with neighbouring communities’? This case study focused specifically on the UDP WHS management within the EKZNW organisational structure. A qualitative research design was used to conduct the case study. Research techniques included a review of existing organisational documentation guiding the implementation of co-management; the conducting of semi-structured interviews with purposely selected interviewees; asking open ended questions developed to address the key questions as identified; as well as participant and direct observation. A content analysis was performed on the answers obtained from the semi-structured interview process. This analysis resulted in the creation of a detailed descriptive narrative. The interpretation of the raw data was used to recognise patterns and common elements in the data that were relevant to the key research questions. The key findings of the research indicated that, even though participants indicated some level of understanding of concept of co-management, expectations around comanagement varied substantially. The vision and objectives contained in various organisational policies and strategies around co-management are not congruent with operational actions. This affects both individual and organisational expectations around co-management. EKZNW’s recognition of the difficulties around the implementation of comanagement can thus be contributed to a vicious circle of poorly defined or understood objectives around co-management which are compounded by a number of real and perceived barriers. It is apparent from the research that a lack of a shared vision and understanding of the objectives has resulted in a poor understanding of the resource requirements for the implementation of co-management. It is envisaged that the development of an understanding of a shared future vision and objectives around comanagement through effective communication, education, participation and awareness will assist in growing EKZNW staff capabilities to transcend institutional barriers and promote the development of an enabling environment for the effective implementation of co-management.
Intellectual property right protection in South Africa compared to other developing countries with particular reference to the replacement parts market.
(2005) McCabe, Iain.; Dent, Mark Clifford.
When one purchases an item, whether it is food, appliance, pharmaceutical, or automotive related, one has certain expectations concerning the item. When these expectations are not met, one seeks certain recourse against the manufacturer concerned. Imagine the consumer's confusion when he is told by the manufacturer that they are not responsible for the expectations not being met as the item was not made by them but instead is a "grey' or counterfeit product. The average consumer is not aware that South Africa, as well as most other countries around the world has a major problem regarding "grey" or counterfeit product entering the market. This practice is an infringement of the intellectual property rights of the copyright owner. It is illegal, and like all illegal activities there is no control regarding quality, so the consumer is not aware of the risks faced in purchasing from such sources. This dissertation seeks to answer the key research question which is: How do the levels of Intellectual property right protection in South Africa compare to other developing nations with particular reference to the replacement parts market. And how can these levels of protection be improved. This will be done by explaining what intellectual property rights are, what they mean, and why they should be protected. I also discuss some arguments for and against the protection of intellectual property rights. I will discuss some of the organizations that protect intellectual property rights, as well as some of the implications of the lack of protection. The key research question in this dissertation is how the level of intellectual property right protection in South Africa compares to other developing nations. In order to help answering this key question, I will discuss six basic questions: 1. Is pressure being exerted by developed nations in order to improve levels of intellectual property right protection? 2. What are the general levels of intellectual property law enforcement? 3. What resources are available for enforcement of intellectual property rights? 4. How do the people perceive intellectual property crime? 5. How "user friendly" is the intellectual property rights protection system? 6. What are the levels of involvement of organized crime in intellectual property rights infringements? In closing I will provide some recommendations as to how South Africa could easily and economically move away from being seen as a developing nation from an intellectual property perspective, to being seen as a first world country.