Browsing by Author "Subban, Mogesperie."

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Assessing of community involvement in strengthening road safety strategies within Umhlathuze Municipality.
(2018) Moloi, Edith Nompumelelo.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Road accidents are one of the primary causes of increased deaths in South Africa, more so for the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Province, including the uMhlathuze Municipality area. Research shows that South Africa and Nigeria account for more than half of the total number of road fatalities on the continent. This indicates that there is a need for an effective road safety strategy. This study, therefore, investigated community involvement strategies used by the uMhlathuze Municipality working with the Department of Transport to strengthen road safety strategies. The main concern of the study was to establish how the uMhlathuze Municipality and the Department of Transport engage with the communities to be part of road safety awareness and thereby enhance service delivery in this context. Furthcm1orc, the study investigated strategies to involve relevant stakeholders when developing road safety strategies, as well as channels of communication, including the encouragement of community participation in road safety as applied by uMhlathuzc Municipality and the Department of Transport respectively. The study provides insights into stakeholder engagement for road safety within the uMhlathuzc Municipality jurisdiction. The stakeholder engagement in this study advocate for community involvement in road safety strategies. The rationale for community involvement in road safety lies in the identification of local road safety problems and issues that require the participation of the surrounding communities in the development of counter-measures to reduce the incidence of road traffic crashes. The literature of the study highlights the strength of the stakeholders' approach to community involvement for road safety, though it is not simple to manage stakeholders due to differences that might arise. However, the principles that underpin the stakeholder involvement provides the guidelines on various processes that ought lo be adhered to for an effective stakeholder relationship. The study adopted a qualitative approach as a strategy of inquiry, and interviews were conducted using the convenience-sampling technique with the selected municipality officials, selected transport department officials, as well as selected Amakhosi within uMhlathuze Municipality. The findings of the study indicate that there are various ways in which both uMhlathuze Municipality and the Department of Transport engage communities about road safety, although it is not sufficient. Whilst these institutions indicated that they are engaging the communities about road safety matters, such findings could not be confidently collaborated by the Amakhosi. It can be assumed then, that community engagement strategies by both uMhlathuze Municipality and the Department of Transport are not effective to yield the desired results. In this case, more communities would remain excluded from the mainstream information about road safety. This further gives an indication that communities do not have a role to play as such when it comes to matters of road safety. According to the research, the value of community involvement in programmes that affect them is that they take ownership of such programmes. The same can be said, about community involvement in the road safety strategy within the uMhlathuze Municipality's tactical plans to include them in matters that concern their well-being.
A case study of environmental health in the South Durban basin.
(2005) Niranjan, Ivan.; Subban, Mogesperie.; Moodley, Sathiasiven.
No abstract available.
The conflict between poverty and nature conservation: lessons from the Dukuduku on-site resettlement project.
(2013) Dube, Nomsa.; Reddy, Purshottama Sivanarain.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Employee health and wellness: a case of public health in ILembe District.
(2018) Van Heerden, Rosemary.; Subban, Mogesperie.
This study was undertaken in ILembe Health District, which is located in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A district sponsored workplace health and wellness program was implemented in 2012. Gymnasium equipment was procured and a 2 hour weekly concessional physical fitness allowance was afforded to enrolling employees. Majority of employees were envisaged to enrol given that private institutions charged for such services. Despite the district’s investments in the programs, the 2012/13 quarterly report recorded a diminutive 12% enrolment in the physical fitness programs. Further exploration was crucial since employee wellness was an integral component of the District’s strategic intent, and insufficient literature existed to comprehend this phenomenon. Managers concerns about low staff utilization of the programs stimulated interest in studying this phenomenon. The objectives of this study, was to examine ILembe Health District employee’s perceptions of the workplace health and wellness fitness program. Furthermore, this study aimed to identify factors that have a bearing on employee enrolment trends. A survey was conducted which applied a quantitative cross sectional survey design. Respondents rated their interests and perceptions of the health and wellness fitness program over a period of 3 months using a four point Likert-Scale measurement tool. All respondents completed consent forms which stated that their details and responses would be confidential. Respondents were also informed that they reserve the right to withdraw from the study at any time, if they so desired. The data was analysed utilizing SPSS version 21.0 statistical procedures. There was an approximate overall 50:50 split in terms of respondents travelling less or more than the 5 km distance to work. This is useful as the even groupings allowed for direct comparison of the factors under section analysis. The response rate was deemed sufficient in that, of the 170 questionnaires despatched, 150 (88%) was returned rendering the statistics useful for generalization of results to the target population. The study findings confirms that ILembe Health District employees believe that the lack of consultation, absence of rewards, poor levels of privacy during exercise, insufficient equipment to exercise, the lack of group and outdoor sport codes, voluntary participation in programs, the incorrect placement of health and wellness program in the health promotion section, coupled with the firm belief that the inadequacy of time to exercise due to the insufficient concession hour offered are factors that are propelling poor utilisation of programs and low levels of enrolment in the health and physical fitness program. Furthermore, findings of the study revealed that employees in ILembe Health District are vulnerable to non-communicable diseases due to poor health-seeking habits.
Equitable share formula and fiscal capacity in municipalities with particular reference to Msunduzi Municipality.
(2015) Mpumela, Xolile.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The apartheid regime left its imprint on South Africa's municipalities with systematic under-investment in municipal infrastructure in black areas. Deprivation of communities with limited access to basic services including water, sanitation, refuse collection and roads created skewed settlement patterns as one of ‘enduring planned and deliberate’ poverty. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 established ‘wall-to-wall’ local government with municipalities to address past inequalities. There was no equally corresponding increase in the tax base of communities within municipalities. As a result, they are faced with fiscal imbalances in raising adequate funds to meet mandated functions with municipalities heavily dependent on intergovernmental transfers from national government. Twenty one years into democracy, municipalities continue facing infrastructural disparities evidenced by significant increases in service delivery protests. A suitable redistributive approach is envisaged as current local government funding arrangements may not be addressing objectives of development and redistribution adequately. National Treasury recently completed a review of the 2008 LGES formula and introduced a new formula for the equitable distribution of funds to municipalities. The purpose of the study was to assess the appropriateness of the new LGES formula as a resource allocation and mechanism for equitable resource sharing in government, deemed a focal point in addressing municipal fiscal challenges, using Msunduzi Municipality as reference. Underpinned by the pragmatic paradigm or philosophical worldview, the study used mixed methods research design which included review of documented data, as well as questionnaires for empirical data. The key research question was if the current Local Government Equitable Share formula fiscally capacitates municipalities such that they are able to provide basic services to communities? The study revealed that there is insufficient data available at the local government level to support the design of an appropriate LGES formula. The formula is unable to accurately quantify fiscal structural gaps in municipalities, and therefore fails to respond to basic service needs of municipalities. Furthermore, the LGES formula cannot be effective if the restraints on municipal own revenue sources are unresolved. National government must identify constraints to revenue generation and collection in municipalities to provide appropriate and sustainable financial support whilst promoting economic development, good governance and social progress for all financially ‘ailing’ municipalities.
An evaluation of disaster and risk management in the Durban south basin, with particular reference to community awareness.
(2006) Purmanund, Hardeo.; Subban, Mogesperie.
No abstract available.
Evaluation of disaster risk reduction initiatives at eThekwini Municipality’s Disaster Management Unit.
(2019) Mabaso, Nompumelelo Theodorah.; Subban, Mogesperie.
In recent times eThekwini Municipality has experienced various kinds of disasters such as storms, fires and floods or heavy rains. This exposes communities’ especially vulnerable communities to extreme risks including death, loss of property, loss of income and environmental degradation. Policy-makers, disaster management experts, specialists or practitioners, authorities, societies and other relevant partners in the disaster management field under these circumstances need to take precautionary and responsive measures to protect, prevent, detect, mitigate and minimize the threat of disasters to its communities and people and its surroundings. The locus for the study was to determine, appraise and evaluate the Disaster Risk Reduction initiatives, approaches and methods that are employed at eThekwini Municipality. It was conducted within the Disaster Management Department, which assisted the researcher to evaluate the skill and capacity of the Unit and its partners to respond to emergencies, and curb and reduce hazards. The research used a qualitative approach in the form of face-to-face interviews as the primary data collection instrument as well as analysis of documents and articles as secondary data. Probability and non-probability sampling was done by means of expert and purposive sampling. Although the study targeted fifteen participants, the number of the final sample constituted eleven interviewees. These were made up of five eThekwini Municipality Disaster Management officials, two donor agencies and four councillors. Therefore, sampling was based on their seniority, expertise, knowledgeability and political exposure in the field under study. These instruments gave the researcher an understanding of the study and allowed triangulation of the outcomes with the key questions and objectives. The findings revealed that there are several DRR strategies and actions currently employed by the Municipality’s Disaster Management Unit such as the utilisation of a fully-fledged ‘state-of-the-art’ operational centre; ward-based volunteer programmes, public awareness, education and training, compliance with planning regulations and early warning systems (EWS). These also include the use of science and technology initiatives. Moreover there is a need for more DRR strategies and for early warnings to meaningfully reduce the susceptibility of societies to risks. The study revealed that there are a few notable challenges with some of these programmes, particularly where divergence in opinions exist between the Municipality and other stakeholders, especially in respect of prevention and response. It emerged from the study that: There is a need for the improvement, strengthening and activation of the existing EMDMU volunteer programme across the eThekwini Municipal area; More funding should be allocated for financing and filling of the 84 vacant posts as an urgent matter for the effective and efficiency delivery of disaster risk reduction strategies; Collaboration of relevant departments should be intensified and the interdepartmental committee should consider permanent solutions that reduce the level of disaster and vulnerability; and Science and technology and the utilisation of experts and professionals would assist in the creation of other mitigation.
Evaluation of non-payment for municipal services at Magareng Municipality, Northern Cape.
(2021) Mgaguli, Busisiwe Patience.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The fundamental objective of the public sector is rendering basic services to communities. Local government is key to delivery, having direct interactions with communities for effective and efficient service delivery. Municipalities have powers to charge customers for services rendered. Customers have a responsibility to pay for such services. Several sectors of consumers choose not to pay for municipal services. Magareng Municipality is no exception to this phenomenon. The study provides insight into why consumers in the selected Municipality are not paying for services. Results were categorised into four broad aspects, governance structures, emergence of Ratepayers‟ Associations, entrenched culture of non-payment, and level of indigents with billing-related challenges. The study theorised the Systems Theory, Contingency Theory of Leadership, and Social Contract Theory. Interviews were conducted qualitatively with selected municipal officials, consumers and other stakeholders through semi-structured questions. Reasons for non-payment included culture of entitlement, lack of trust in services rendered, lack of adequate processes to engage consumers on dissatisfaction about municipal services, absence of query resolution mechanisms, failure by the municipality to properly implement its credit policy and unaffordability. Issues of failure to collect meter readings resulted in use of estimates and unreliable billing systems. Affordability worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, as most businesses closed, exacerbating unemployment levels. Perceived lack of engaging consumers was identified as one main cause of service delivery protests. The study could not provide much clarity on the effect of Ratepayers Associations. For Magareng Municipality to improve rates collection, it should appoint a task team to investigate and resolve all unallocated deposits, implement resolution mechanisms and processes to address credit control policy and increase accessibility. Communities need to be involved as participation is a critical process in local government. Such measures are likely to improve revenue collection and enhance service delivery, and hopefully minimise service delivery protests.
Evaluation of the long-term development framework (LTDF) : a case study of eThekwini municipality's integrated development plan.
(2008) Subban, Mogesperie.; Reddy, Purshottama Sivanarain.
The research study emphasizes the significance of public participation in integrated development planning at the local level of government in South Africa. The introduction of a democratic dispensation highlighted the idea of public participation and placed it in the spotlight. The typology is described and presented within the locus and focus of municipal strategic management, and the context and operation of development planning in the current local government dispensation. The literature review presents a theoretical analysis of the local government systems and processes necessary for enhanced citizen participation, and further examines integrated development planning as a strategic communication tool that emphasizes the social praxis of ongoing dialogue with local communities. Furthermore, a concentration on public administration within municipal strategic governance, integrated development planning and public participation will facilitate an in-depth coverage of materials relating to developmental governance within the current context in South Africa. Much has happened to affect the field of local government in South Africa. Of significance, is the impact of public participation via integrated development planning. An integrated development plan is therefore regarded as a strategic management tool that serves as a guideline and informs all planning activities, outcomes, outputs and impact of a municipality. The emphasis, therefore, of this research is centred around an evaluation of eThekwini Municipality's strategic plan focusing on public participation in its integrated development plan which feeds into its Long Term Development Plan (LTDF) for 2020, an analysis of the roles of key stakeholders in the political-management interface between the Council and local communities, and the integration of municipal resources in its long-term planning activities and developmental outcomes. This enquiry therefore culminated in an extensive literature review of municipal strategic planning in eThekwini Municipality within KwaZulu-Natal. Citizen participation through the integrated development plan ought to be viewed as simple and uncomplicated, and is aimed at increasing levels of education and literacy amongst local communities. To this end, the Municipality focuses its integrated development plan on Umsebenzi (Keeping You Informed). Through its strategic approach that "citizens are the centre of the focus, and not an add on through mere political rhetoric", the integrated development plan can serve as an archetype of strong civic-focused leadership. Moving beyond urban pathologies and local bureaucracies and despite a promising and sophisticated institutional framework for public participation, there is still a lack of participation in the local government structures. One of the factors that help to make the public participation cliché move beyond mere lip service is active engagement or holistic integration. The research examines and analyzes some of the factors for poor or non-performance in the municipal dichotomy, and the dynamics of public participation in integrated development planning amidst metropolitan urban management. The research arrays the study in a framework that leads to some key recommendations, and brings the following observations to light: • Ensure that the municipal functionaries and the local communities are oriented for more constructive and robust engagement of civil society issues; • Investment in strengthening local governing capacities because municipalities need increased emphasis on strategic planning as opposed to master-planning mechanistic models; • Focus on pragmatism and the promotion of joint learning through genuine interaction with local communities using the bottom-up approach as opposed to a top-down approach; • Undertake research and take proactive steps to manage dynamic climate change in response to economic and socio-environmental needs and sustainable development; • Facilitate social programmes which will emphasis and illustrate the potential development axis, and serve as connexions aimed at addressing grassroots issues and delivering visible and practical outcomes via the integrated development plan, and • Establishing a co-operative community culture invoked by civic pride and public involvement. From the afore-going discussion, the research emphasizes that each trait and focus of development is a distinct variable, and can lead to a new kind of experimentalism when working with local communities, which can contribute to mutual enrichment for urban efficiency and community satisfaction. The outputs of strategic interventions by municipalities affect the communities and help shape their subsequent inputs. Finally, the satisfaction of public desires depends on aspirations, as well as achievements.
Examining strategic management processes in public organisations: a case study of KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs.
(2018) Sibiya, Collen Bongani.; Subban, Mogesperie.
South Africa’s democratic dispensation has for the past 23 years focused on progressive policies to enhance service delivery with policy development culminating in various legislation. Given socio-economic and political realities, the policy development phase had not produced the desired output and outcomes. The South African Government therefore, through National Treasury, introduced the strategic planning framework as part of its business management approach to provide efficient and effective management of planning key service delivery decisions that a public organisation must get right in order to realise its legal mandates in the next several years. A key question raised in the research study is: what are the organisational factors related to effective strategy execution at the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Environment affairs (KZNDAE)? Hence, the thesis assesses how the concerns apply ‘innovatively’ from the public sector organizational perspective, with an empirical study that was undertaken to explore strategy execution and management of organisational factors, as was the case in the KZNDAE. The study was theorized within the 5C Protocol of policy management and the South African Excellence Model focusing on performance excellence, as the thrust of the theoretical framework for enhancing both performance and strategic management practices. A total of 200 questionnaires through a purposive sampling strategy were distributed and a feedback of 180 yielded a 90% response rate, and 20 interviews undertaken through a qualitative study leaning on the mixed methods research for the primary data. Secondary information was also obtained from policy documents, strategic frameworks, Auditor General’s reports and other literature reviews undertaken. The empirical aspect from Cronbach’s Alpha values revealed that respondents from employees, management and users of KZNDAE services have similar views regarding most organisational factors (leadership impact on strategy execution for enhancement of service delivery, detracting and contributory organisational factors and stakeholder support during strategy execution). Again, the study through Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling Adequacy (KMO) and Bartlett's Test proved that there are strong relations amongst the three organisational factors, which was also in some instances corroborated by the thematic and content analysis of the interviews undertaken. The study proposed the Six ‘Rights’ Strategy Execution Model that could facilitate effective and efficient service delivery and organizational performance of the pre-determined strategy objectives as part of its ‘business’ management approach to fulfilling its Constitutional mandate in the current era and beyond. Finally, the department is encouraged to increase its allocation to operation plans in order to curb the problem of budgetary constraints hindering strategy execution and management.
An exploration of strategic leadership and resource allocation for effective municipal performance: the case of Harry Gwala District Municipality.
(2022) Mhatu, Khayakazi.; Subban, Mogesperie.
This study sought to examine the relationship between strategic leadership and resource allocation for effective performance at Harry Gwala District Municipality (herein referred to as HGDM). HGDM is one of the district municipalities that is under the jurisdiction of KwaZulu-Natal Province. This study focussed on determining how strategic leadership can improve resource allocation at HGDM; identifying factors that could facilitate or hinder resource allocation by senior management at HGDM; developing strategies that could foster strategic leadership to optimise effective resource allocation at HGDM and exploring how senior managers could create an enabling environment through tactical administration at the chosen municipality. The theoretical framework of the study was underpinned by the Bower-Bulgerman (BB) Process Model of Strategy Making. This study employed a qualitative research methodology and exploratory research design. The target population of the study involved managerial employees at HGDM. A sample size of eight respondents was used. Purposive sampling and convenience sampling were employed to select respondents. Standardised open-ended interviews were used to conduct interviews and thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Findings of the study revealed that there are varied perceptions about how resources are allocated at HGDM. The first perception that emerged is that the municipality is embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution by making communication easier for all employees. The second perception is that the resources at HGDM are inadequate due to poor revenue collection arising from the high number of indigent residents and resistance by people to pay for municipal services, resulting in the municipality having to depend on equitable share or grants from the government. The third perception is that the resources at HGDM are allocated in alignment with the PMS and in the spirit of implementing Integrated Development Plans (IDP), systems and budgetary arrangements. The fourth perception is that resources are allocated to priority areas such as water and sanitation. The study findings revealed the need for training and development of employees and proper identification of priority areas. The research established that strategic leadership should continually increase funding for the training and development of employees as a way of capacitating them to perform better and to optimise strategic leadership include conducting strategic planning sessions to ensure that goals and objectives of the municipality are fulfilled.
Financial accountability by responsibility managers: a case study of Mnambithi TVET College.
(2021) Madondo, Fundisiwe Abigail.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The government has increasingly realised the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges for South Africa‟s economic development, due to the sector‟s focus on providing skills for the labour market. TVET colleges were introduced to alleviate the skills shortage, and the government has invested significant resources in developing this vocational sector. Financial accountability in the sector is critical in ensuring the sector functions effectively and efficiently. Accountability is the basis of good governance. Colleges have Responsibility Managers entrusted with accounting for the expenditure of funds. As public officials, Responsibility Managers should ensure that processes and procedures are in place for proper financial accountability. This study provides insights into execution of financial accountability by Responsibility Managers at Mnambithi TVET College. The research was couched in stewardship theory as it considers the role of Responsibility Managers, as tasked by the employer, to execute financial accountability in the TVET colleges. The literature reviewed highlights that good public financial management provides stakeholders with proper, truthful and timely financial information wherein the Responsibility Managers account for financial decisions and expenditure. The legislation consulted in the research echoed the importance of transparency and ethical behaviour as qualities to be upheld by public officials, particularly in management positions. Through a qualitative inquiry, interviews were conducted with respondents selected using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. The research revealed that, measures and procedures have been put in place for ensuring financial accountability in the TVET College. Challenges experienced include a lack of consequence management, poor adherence to turnaround time for supply chain management processes, and inadequate financial training for Responsibility Managers to ensure effective accountability. To conclude, a lot still needs to be done to ensure proper financial accountability in TVET colleges in order to ensure good financial governance of public funds.
Impact of mobile health services within Ilembe Health District : a Batho Pele perspective.
(2014) Sahadeo, Roshilla.; Subban, Mogesperie.
With the launch of a representative government in 1994, the service transformation agenda highlighted the need for equitable and accessible services. The locus and focus of Primary Health Care lies in ensuring that preventative and promotive health services is available and universally accessible to the citizenry as, their initial level of interaction with the health care system and as close as possible to the place where the people reside and work. The Public Service, with particular emphasis on the Department of Health and Ilembe Health District is committed in ensuring that the Batho Pele (People First) Principles are practised in order to provide an acceptable high quality health service delivery. This research study aimed to analyse the impact of mobile health services within the context of the Batho Pele perspective in Ilembe Health District. Mobile health services are part of outreach viz community oriented Primary Health Care which aims to provide the package of health care services in the study area of rural Maphumulo sub-district. The literature review described the various prescripts and contextualised Public Health initiatives within a policy dimension and the Public Administration domain. The Negotiated Service Delivery Agreement of the Department of Health, the Millennium Development Goals and the Sustainable Development Goals post-2015 provide the framework upon which the strategic planning processes are based. The KwaZulu-Natal Citizens’ Charter and the Patients’ Rights Charter advances the directives as depicted in the White Paper for the Transformation of Public Services (Batho Pele Principles). These are the principles upon which clients levels of satisfaction with health services rendered to them are evaluated though exit interviews. The empirical study which included the administration of questionnaires to management, health care workers and clients within Maphumulo sub-district: Ilembe Health District was conducted. Analysis of data illustrate that health care workers are courteous and provide the necessary information to clients despite working under resource and infrastructure constraints. The research undertaking culminates with the key findings of the study. Quality Improvement programmes, integrated planning and revitalisation of the Batho Pele programme through training are a few recommendations for addressing some of the key findings of the study in order to improve service delivery through mobile health services.
Impact of strategic communication policy on service delivery and good governance within KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport and Recreation.
(2014) Singh, Bhoowan Prakash.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Strategic communication within the public sector is a direct determinant of the quality of service delivery provided to the constituency of the current regime. As a critical tool of good governance, the effectiveness of the communication strategy is directly dependent on the quality of the communication policy. The aim of this research study is, therefore, to gauge the level of effectiveness of the current Draft Communication Policy utilized by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport and Recreation (DSR), and to propose a review of the policy with the intent of refining communication strategy in the light of contemporary global practice. The key questions asked included the degree of familiarity of the DSR with e-governance, as well the contribution of strategic communication as an enabler to good governance. Furthermore, it should be noted that the linkage between Public Administration, management and policy perspectives directed the discussion on good governance within the public sector. Also, analysis of the theoretical frameworks on public policy incorporated the Systems Approach to policy-making and the South African Excellence Model, amongst others. The use of empirical methodology, incorporating the use of questionnaires, interviews and observation has been used to elicit relevant information from DSR officials and stakeholders to identify areas of communication review. This case study approach into the formulation of the DSR communication policy and strategy in the digital era, provides a ‘blueprint’ for government departments in general to achieve their goals and objectives electronically. e-Governance is the emerging mode of contemporary service delivery, and the success of digital government process is highly dependent on information technology being embedded within the communication policy. As a consequence the need for the restructuring of the DSR to regularize operations, management and functioning of the Communication Services Component (CSC) should be immediate. In essence, the formulation and adherence to the prescripts of a communication policy, and the resultant communication strategy is intended to be in keeping with the ethos of good governance in its pursuit of best practice to promote efficiency, effectiveness and value-for-money.
Impact of strategic sourcing in public sector procurement : office of the premier, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2017) Ndlovu, Ephraim Siphephelo Sifiso.; Raga, Kishore.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The largest amount of monies budgeted in the Office of the Premier in KwaZulu-Natal, apart from salaries, is accounted for through procurement activities. In the public sector the procurement function can be seen as a strategic attempt to evaluate judicious financial management by government institutions. It is therefore, regarded as a value-added function in the Office of the Premier. Evidence points to that in the public sector rarely departments adopt strategic sourcing, though proper functional strategic sourcing has the ability to produce savings for government of up to twenty per cent of the cost of services and goods procured. In this regard, the Office of the Premier is experiencing a number of procurement challenges, such as ineffective utilisation of procurement plans for goods and services, long lead times when procuring items, high volume of deviations from Supply Chain Management processes and lack of understanding and employment of strategic sourcing when procuring goods and services. It is against this background that this study has focused on determining the impact of strategic sourcing in public sector procurement. The investigation of the problem was done in two stages. Stage one encompassed of the literature study, whereas the stage two involved an empirical investigation. Focus groups interviews, using semi-structured questions were used. Some participants pointed out that procurement plans are not followed; others noted that there are numerous deviations such as poor planning by departmental components, and a lack of clear processes in the supply chain management unit. The research addressed the hypothesis that effective strategic sourcing in the public sector procurement, particularly in the Office of the Premier could help improve service delivery to its internal clients, compliance with necessary regulations, policy and legislative frameworks that govern public financial management. Recommendations included implementing a strategic sourcing model and staff training linked to supply chain-public sector procurement aligned to performance plans. Unfunded mandates, ad hoc directives, poor planning and political effect makes it difficult for the organisation to accomplish a clean audit. The study concluded that strategic sourcing and compliance to procurement policies and legislation are prominent strategic platforms that play a vital role in ensuring that procurement in the public sector is effective and efficient, with improved and sustainable service delivery to internal clients resulting in prudent management of state funds.
The implementation of the National School Nutrition Programme in addressing child poverty in selected schools within the Ethekwini region.
(2016) Govender, Predeshni.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Nearly 130 million children between birth and age 6 live in Sub-Saharan Africa. Each year 27 million children are born, and annually 4.7 million young people below 5 years die. The United Nations Millennium Development Goals, 2015 (MDGs) was to eradicate severe deprivation and hunger and make clear that all children accomplish primary schooling. The Reconstruction and Development Plan focused on alleviating impoverishment and destitution and addressing the gaps of socio economic services in the nation. The most fundamental and central settings in the lifecycle of youngsters is the family and school. Together these surroundings have a domineering influence on their academic and emotional performance. The National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) which was formerly presented as the Primary School Feeding Scheme (PSFS) was a strategic project acknowledged by the Reconstruction and Development Programme. The main objectives of the study were to establish the efficiency of the NSNP in lessening child poverty in selected schools in KwaZulu-Natal. A mixed methods approach was undertaken involving members of the school governing body, selected teachers, school principals and district managers of the NSNP. The study focused on the qualitative (phenomenological) and quantitative (positivist) research style. Four selected schools in the Umlazi and Pinetown Districts were consulted. From the data analysed, it was determined that 73.2% of teachers are agreeable that sufficient food is provided to learners, compared to 95.8% of the SGB who were agreeable that learners received enough food. Focusing on social factors, 93% of teachers agree that the NSNP is improving learner attendance in schools. However only 47.9% agree that the NSNP has assisted in reducing poverty. This is an interesting point as it could indicate poverty rates in the area. It also indicates that although the programme influences learner attendance, the objective of reducing poverty is very daunting. Key recommendations that arose from the empirical analysis included: food handlers must deal with various challenges of the programme. The overall efficacy of the NSNP is dependent on proper planning and implementation to ensure that the medium to long-term goals of government regarding the fight against poverty amongst the most vulnerable sector of society is addressed.
The influence of millennium development goal 5 on maternal health in South Africa: a case study of uMgungundlovu District.
(2018) Dlamini, Sthembile Promise.; Kishore, Raga.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Since the inception of the Millennium Development Goals in 2000, globally there have been great achievements made in the reduction of mortality in women during pregnancy, childbirth and post-delivery. This is due to the fact that maternal health has been a major focus of the international community. However, in many parts of the world, maternal deaths remain unacceptably high, with wide disparities in progress towards Millennium Development Goal 5. South Arica is amongst the countries that have seen limited progress towards achieving Millennium Development Goal 5, due to the fact that it is the ‘epicentre’ of the human immune deficiency virus (HIV) infection pandemic. South Africa, as one of the States that adopted the MDGs, needs to adopt New Public Management (NPM) managerial system in order to achieve the goals. Under the auspices of NPM directing, follow up and evaluation are thus stressed, based on a principal-agent contractual and cost-cutting nexus that substitutes former trust in providers and managers of welfare tasks to serve citizens or provide public goods. The study was done in the rural area of Impendle, a Local Municipality in UMgungundlovu District, which has seven Local Municipalities. The sample was drawn from the population of African Zulu males and females, all residing in the area of Impendle. Four themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: understanding maternal health, factors affecting maternal health, community participation in maternal health and programs towards the improvement of maternal health. Lack of access to healthcare facilities is also a major contributor to failure in the achievement of this goal. Lack of access ranges from the fact that some areas have no healthcare facilities at all, while some are too far, which leads to financial constraints. Stigma on HIV and lack of support for teenage pregnancies are some of the challenges faced by women in the area. The involvement of communities, male partners and local stakeholders is important to ensure care and well-being of women and children, thus preventing unnecessary maternal morbidity and mortality, and ensuring positive health outcomes. It was found that while some improvements in general healthcare and HIV were noted, the area of maternal health is not receiving much attention, and as a result, the likelihood of achieving MDG 5 remains a challenge. The recommendations to the study would assist local authorities and decision-makers to ensure that necessary attention is given to maternal health and the attainment of MDG 5, and the decrease in the relatively high maternal mortality rate. In this way, healthy and well-informed communities can work with government for a better future for all.
Job-related factors impacting motivation of office workers at eThekwini Municipality's Water and Sanitation Unit.
(2016) Singh, Rajiv.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Perceptions of the public sector world-wide, and especially in South Africa remains that it is bureaucratic, lazy and corrupt. A highly motivated workforce that is committed to effective and efficient service delivery is a key requirement to address the service delivery backlogs within the country at large. The eThekwini Water and Sanitation unit has been acclaimed the world-over for innovation and service delivery. In light thereof, this study seeks to identify the factors that motivate workers within the public sector, using the eThekwini Water and Sanitation unit as a case study. The literature identified many factors that drive worker motivation ranging from extrinsic to intrinsic factors. Utilising the rationale of Public Choice and Self-Determination Theories, the study seeks to identify the extent to which various motivational factors exist within the environment and the relative importance of those factors to workers. Job involvement is used as a key indicator of levels of worker motivation in this study. A mixed methods approach was used to survey 100 respondents using questionnaires and interviews based on Post-Positivism and Constructivist worldviews. The study identified that the unit has a relatively highly motivated workforce with most motivational factors extant. The study identified some key constraints and challenges to be addressed in order to further improve levels of motivation within the organisation. It recommended a review of the rewards system within the organisation and further research to establish the exact causes of the low levels of confidence in the leadership. The study concludes that these specific interventions would serve to significantly enhance the already high levels of motivation of workers.
Klebsiella outbreak at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital.
(2010) Thumbiran, Kumarasen.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Staff shortages and lack of space at Prince Mshiyeni Hospital in Umlazi, south of Durban, was blamed for an outbreak of Klebsiella that has claimed the lives of five babies. Contaminated intravenous equipment and poor infection control measures were found to be the source of an outbreak of Klebsiella Pneumoniae, which killed twenty-one babies in another KwaZulu-Natal hospital. "Several flaws were identified" with infection control methods, according to the report that was released and compiled by medical microbiologist Professor Willem Sturm of the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine in Durban. Initial investigations at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital north of Durban, found Klebsiella Pneumoniae on the hands of 10% of staff. Interviews revealed that the nursery was usually overcrowded, under-equipped and under-staffed, which worked against adherence to infection control. Early in the investigation at this hospital, a link was found to the babies' intravenous treatment and after other possibilities were ruled out, medication information for seventeen of the babies showed that they had received regular intravenous injections. The spread was attributed to multiple-use of units of the medication to save costs, inadequate hand washing practices and inappropriate hand wash facilities. Recommendations included sealing off the nursery with strict hygiene controls and abandoning the practice of multiple uses of units of intravenous preparations. "Such preparations should be used only once. Multiple-use for one patient should also not be done" Furthermore, long sleeves on gowns, white coats and uniforms, or personal wear should be forbidden, and rings and watches should not be worn on hands and wrists as these interfere with hand washing. Such recommendations, though pertinent, do not disguise the seriousness of this situation in our hospitals.
Learner support in open distance learning at Unisa, KwaZulu-Natal : a developmental state perspective.
(2015) Mouton, Johleen.; Subban, Mogesperie.
When the African National Congress (ANC) came into power in 1994, it was important to relook at the operations of the Public Administration and governance domain in South Africa. Many sectors in all spheres of government have changed significantly since then, and it was thus equally important that the educational system receives a critical examination to improve education in South Africa. The linkage between Public Administration and the higher education landscape should also be seen within the context of the developmental state perspective of the government-of-the-day to develop important skills and invest in human capital in the country. Efficient public administration policies and effective management principles should be in place to implement government policies to achieve the desired outcomes of sustainable development. This study took place mainly within the higher education field as part of the Public Administration paradigm, with particular reference to distance education and open distance education at the University of South Africa (Unisa). It also explained the role higher education has to play in the acquisition of basic knowledge and intellectual skills and its effect on the development policy of the state. Distance education came a long way since 1994. The South African White Paper on Education and Training of 1995 gave direction to change in the higher education system and an Open Distance Learning (ODL) approach was adopted, which brought advantages for students registering at the University of South Africa (Unisa). Unisa became the largest distance education provider in South Africa and, it was important that new policies be developed within the university to guide the development of ODL. Learner support in an ODL university is one of the key elements in an ODL system. The study aimed to provide an investigation into the learner support initiatives in the Unisa region of KwaZulu-Natal through the use of empirical methodology. One of the key questions in this study is to determine whether the students entering the open distance learning system at Unisa KwaZulu-Natal are ready for this new environment. It was depicted from the data obtained, that students are uncertain, not well prepared for this new environment and that improved learner support services are needed to improve on the learning of students and also on the poor throughput rate in the region. Students and staff were part of the research. Questionnaires, interviews and observation informed the relevant information on the readiness of the students coming into the ODL university system, and their experience of the learner support initiatives provided to them in the region.