Repository logo
 

Doctoral Degrees (Graduate School of Business and Leadership)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7377

Browse

Recent Submissions

Now showing 1 - 20 of 157
  • Item
    Re-conceptualizing fiscal decentralization framework to improve service delivery: a case of uMgungundlovu district municipality.
    (2023) Msomi, Buhlebakhe.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
    Abstract available in PDF.
  • Item
    Developing a public sector leadership framework for advancing economic development in South Africa.
    (2024) Sheik, Shoayb Emam.; Govender, Krishna Kistan.
    Abstract available in PDF.
  • Item
    Information and communication technology model to enhance small-medium enterprises development using indigenous languages in Limpopo Province, South Africa.
    (2023) Makgopa, Matome Samuel Fortune.; Majola, Priscilla Xoliswa.; Ngwenya, Charles Tony Simphiwe.
    Abstract available in PDF.
  • Item
    A strategic leadership framework for sustainability in hotels; a case study of 5-star hotels within KwaZulu-Natal.
    (2023) Motsamai, Ntombifuth Angel.; Mutambara, Emmanuel.
    Abstract available in PDF.
  • Item
    Paradigm shift in South African medical education: a management model for decentralised training in KwaZulu-Natal.
    (2023) Mqadi, Nonhlanhla Precious.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
    Abstract available in PDF.
  • Item
    Exploration of enablers and barriers of strategy alignment within state-owned enterprises in KwaZulu-Natal.
    (2023) Chamane, Ziphathele Harold.; Kanyangale, MacDonald.
    Abstract available in PDF.
  • Item
    Livestock identification and tracking system for controlling livestock theft: case study of South Africa.
    (2024) Mzingelwa, Mpho.; Mutula, Stephen.
    This thesis explores livestock theft problem within the South Africa context, focusing on cattle, sheep, and goats, and evaluates the potential of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) to address this critical problem. Conventional identification and tracking methods are currently ineffective, prompting the need for ICT based solutions. Despite calls for ICT intervention, no comprehensive conceptual model exists for South Africa. This study aims to fill this gap by proposing an ICT-based national livestock identification and tracking system to control livestock theft in South Africa. Utilizing Actor-Network Theory and a qualitative approach, the research includes interviews and questionnaires with stakeholders such as farmers, police, and stock theft forums. The study also integrates secondary data and literature, supported by a Scoping Review, snowball strategy, PRISMA method, and CASP framework. Data analysis employed thematic and content analysis techniques. Findings reveal that livestock theft networks are well-organized, highlighting the need of a unified national ICT based solution to combat livestock theft. The study identifies several potential ICT tools such as mobile phones, biometric technology, radio and TV broadcasting, camera traps, cloud computing, and drones as viable solutions. The proposed conceptual model of a national livestock identification and tracking system features two modules: retinal pattern-based biometric identification and three tracking methods. A Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM) framework was used to present the conceptual model for the proposed system. Recommendations emphasize the need for collaboration among stakeholders, including the Department of Agriculture, South African Police Service, and State Information Technology Agency. Limitations include a focus on the top ten livestock theft-hotspots and reliance on secondary data, with suggestions for future research to involve direct data collection from additional informants and explore how perpetrators use ICTs. The study contributes empirical insights and presents a practical model for controlling livestock theft through ICTs, along with a business case for its implementation. Future research should address the political implications and technical details of the ICT solution, as the current study does not cover the implementation process.
  • Item
    Exploring how the emotional intelligence-social capital nexus in academics impacts third stream income: a case study of University of KwaZulu-Natal.
    (2023) Reddy, Devendren Vengatas.; Proches, Cecile Naomi Gerwel.; Moodley, Thiruveni.
    South African universities have been facing financial challenges brought about by the legacy of the apartheid education system. The higher education system is looking for solutions to manage the financial sustainability of institutions. The aim of the study was to determine whether the emotional intelligence and social capital nexus in academics has an impact on attitudes towards third stream income at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). Third stream income draws on commercial practice to raise income through consultancy, commercialisation of research, philanthropy and the creation of public private partnerships. A challenge facing institutions is getting academics to participate in third stream income because they are consumed with academic responsibilities of teaching, learning and research. Literature review was conducted, which included the development of a mini case study of UKZN based on the 2017- 2021 strategic plan and factors that impacted third stream income generation at the university. The thesis used the four-dimensional theory of emotional intelligence model of Goleman, Boyatzis and McKee (Goleman et al., 2002:47) and the three-dimensional model of social capital (Nahapiet and Ghoshal, 1998). This thesis used a sequential exploratory mixed-methods case study methodology. The qualitative part of the study comprised 13 interviews and two focus group interviews. The quantitative part of the study was based on 100 respondents who participated in an online questionnaire. The qualitative data analysis used a thematic analysis, and the quantitative data analysis was conducted using SPSS Statistics 26.0 software. The study found a strong relationship between the emotional intelligence – social capital nexus and attitudes towards third stream income. The study recommends the construction of a coaching framework to develop the participation of academics at UKZN in third stream income. Further research is required on the impact of how emotional intelligence can be used to grow social capital in academia. These studies may look at what the motivators are for academics to participate in third stream income generation and how to promote academic benevolence to promote increased social capital to support third stream income generation.
  • Item
    Re-conceptualizing fiscal decentralization framework to improve service delivery: a case of uMgungundlovu District Municipality.
    (2023) Msomi, Buhlebakhe.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
    This research explored the concept of fiscal decentralisation by proposing a comprehensive framework tailored to the unique context of the uMgungundlovu District Municipality. Fiscal decentralisation, a pivotal component of effective governance, aims to redistribute financial authority and responsibility between higher-level governments and local authorities. This research aimed to redefine the fiscal decentralisation framework within the uMgungundlovu District Municipality, with a focus on crafting a comprehensive model that accommodates the distinctive socio-economic and political intricacies of the region. The research problem stems from the absence of a customized fiscal decentralisation framework tailored to the nuances of the district, as the conventional one-size-fits-all approach to fiscal decentralisation seem to fall short in effectively addressing the unique challenges faced by uMgungundlovu. In doing so, it sought to address the research problem of how fiscal decentralisation can be effectively structured and implemented to promote local development and efficient resource allocation. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study utilised purposive sampling to select 19 participants with in-depth knowledge and experience in local governance and fiscal matters. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse these qualitative data, identifying recurring patterns, concepts, and insights related to fiscal decentralisation within uMgungundlovu District Municipality. The findings underscore the need for community participation in fiscal decision-making, emphasizing the need for a re-conceptualized framework that empowers both local governments and actively involves communities in budgetary discussions. The findings thus stressed the importance of capacity building and institutional strengthening at the local level, addressing challenges in human resources, financial management, and technological infrastructure. The research recommends targeted interventions to enhance local government capabilities. Moreover, it contributes to the theoretical foundations of fiscal decentralization by promoting a context-specific approach, incorporating community perspectives, and offering practical guidance for policymakers to design and implement effective policies aligned with the realities of local governance. Based on the study's outcomes, it is recommended that uMgungundlovu District Municipality develop a clear and inclusive fiscal decentralisation framework tailored to its unique socio-economic context. This framework should address issues of revenue generation, allocation, and expenditure, while also emphasising mechanisms for transparent governance and community involvement.
  • Item
    Advancing gross farming income sustainability of smallholder farmers in the Free State Province, South Africa.
    (2023) Moloabi, Badiri Victor Motlhabani.; Yalezo, Bhasela.
    Abstract available in PDF.
  • Item
    A conceptual framework to address challenges facing female-owned agricultural cooperatives in Pietermaritzburg.
    (2023) Ndlovu, Silindile Goodness.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
    The study investigated challenges encountered by small to medium-scale (primary to secondary level) female cooperatives in the agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg. This research aimed to assess the challenges encountered by female entrepreneurs in the small to medium-scale agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal to present a conceptual framework to address the challenges encountered by female owned agricultural cooperatives in Pietermaritzburg. A qualitative methodology generated an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon under study. The researcher’s target population in this study was female owned cooperative enterprises in the agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg. The sample for the study was selected through the purposive sampling method. Only 20 female-owned cooperatives out of 306 in the agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg participated in the study. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were used to collect data on the challenges facing female entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg. Ten primary-level female-owned cooperatives and ten secondary-level female-owned cooperatives were selected to participate. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Study findings revealed that a lack of access to sufficient and productive land for expansion; a lack of skills; a demand for legal and regulatory frameworks; a lack of capital and markets and the issue of collateral availability; a lack of government support, a lack of infrastructure, a gap in understanding business culture; and poor value chain organisation affect female entrepreneurs in the small to medium-scale agricultural sector. These constraints presented a framework of barriers for female entrepreneurs in the small to medium-scale agricultural sector that must be addressed. This conceptual framework can be used towards the empowerment of women as a prerequisite for achieving inclusive growth or for promoting their services from primary to secondary cooperative level within the formal sector of the economy. Iqoqa Lolu cwaningo luhlole izingqinamba izinhlangano zabesifazane ezincane neziphakathi nendawo ngobukhulu emkhakheni wezolimo ePietermaritzburg ezibhekene nazo. Lolu cwaningo lwaluhlose ukuhlola ukuthi zingakanani izingqinamba ababhekene nazo emkhakheni wezolimo osomabhizinisi besifazane abanamapulazi amancane naphakathi nendawo ngobukhulu ePietermaritzburg KwaZulu-Natali, ukuze lwethule uhlaka olucatshangelwe oluzosiza ekubhekaneni nalezo zingqinamba ezihlangabezana nazo izinhlangano zezolimo zabesifazane ePietermaritzburg. Kwasetshenziswa indlela eyikhwalithethivu ukuze kuqondwe kabanzi le ndaba ecwaningwayo. Kulolu cwaningo, umcwaningi ubegxile kubabambiqhaza abangabesifazane emkhakheni wezolimo ePietermaritzburg. Isampula locwaningo bekungolwenhloso. Zingama-20 kuphela izinhlangano zobambiswano zabesifazane kwezingama-306 emkhakheni wezolimo ePietermaritzburg ezibambe iqhaza kulolu cwaningo. Kusetshenziswe izingxoxo ezijulile ezisakuhleleka ukuze kuqoqwe imininingo emayelana nezingqinamba ababhekene nazo osomabhizinisi besifazane emkhakheni wezolimo ePietermaritzburg. Kwakhethwa izinhlangano zobambiswano zabesifazane eziyishumi ezisesigabeni sokuqala kanye neziyishumi ezakhiwa yizinhlangano zabesifazane ezisesigabeni esesithe thuthu ukuba zibambe iqhaza. Kwasetshenziswa ukuhluza ngokwezindikimba ukuhlaziya imininingo. Okutholakale kulolu cwaningo kwembula ukuthi ukuntuleka komhlaba owanele nokhiqizayo ukuze kukhuliswe ibhizinisi; ukuntuleka kwamakhono; izidingo zezinhlaka zezomthetho nezokulawula; ukuntuleka kwezimali nezimakethe okuzodayiswa kuzo nenkinga yokungabi nezibambiso ezingasetshenziselwa ukuboleka; ukuntuleka komxhaso kahulumeni, ukuntuleka kwezingqalasizinda, ukungakuqondi kahle ukuphathwa kwebhizinisi; nendlela yokusebenza kwebhizinisi lezolimo engahleliwe kahle kuba nemiphumela engemihle kosomabhizinisi besifazane abanamabhizinisi amancane naphakathi nendawo ngobukhulu emkhakheni wezolimo. Lezi zithiyo zethula uhlaka lwezingqinamba okumele kubhekwane nazo zosomabhizinisi besifazane bamabhizinisi amancane kuya kwaphakathi nendawo ngobukhulu emkhakheni wezolimo. Lolu hlaka olutuswayo lungasetshenziselwa ukukwenza kube yimfuneko yokuqala ukufukula abesifazane, ukuze kube nokukhula okubandakanya wonke umuntu noma ukuqhakambisa imisebenzi yabo kusukela esigabeni samabhizinisi obambiswano aqalisayo kanye nalawo asethe thuthu ayizinhlangano ezibambisene emkhakheni wezamabhizinisi abhalisiwe.
  • Item
    Managing stakeholder complexities: a model to curb project cost overruns in the construction industry in South Africa=Ukulawula ubunkimbinkimbi kwalabo abanesabelo: Imodeli yokuthiba izindleko zephrojekthi ezigijimela phambili embonini yokwakha eNingizimu Afrika.
    (2022) Nyathi, Moses.; Proches, Cecile Naomi.; Taylor, Simon Michael.
    Project cost overruns present major economic problems for financiers, governments, clients, companies, the supply chain, and the community. Meeting the project’s budget is one of the major objectives in completing a project successfully, and the exhaustion of finances may result in project discontinuation. It is alarming that previous and current studies have shown on-going project cost overruns within the construction industry. Joint project interdependency complexities between diverse project stakeholders in the project life cycle are implicated as one of the major causes of project budget overruns. However, there has been limited research and available literature on project stakeholder complexities' impact on the project budget within the South African construction industry. Therefore, this study focused on project-stakeholder cost overruns causes and established the extent to which construction project managers can effectively and efficiently liaise with stakeholders to curb stakeholder complexities and cost overruns. Construction project managers registered with the Construction Professional board participated in this study. The mixed method research approach was employed for this study by integrating both quantitative and qualitative research paradigms in data collection and analysis to draw inferences. A quantitative research approach focused on positivism paradigm, which utilises mathematical procedures and methods to statically explain the research phenomena. A qualitative research approach focused on interpretivism paradigm, which draws research phenomena understanding, emanating from numerous behavioural trends, processes, reflections, cultural and social contexts. Concurrent triangulation design was used by simultaneously collecting and discussing quantitative and qualitative approaches, aimed to better understand the study of interest by comparing and contrasting study findings to produce well-validated conclusions. Here, online questionnaires and structured interviews were the applied data collection techniques guided by a pragmatism philosophical worldview. One-hundred and fifty-two online questionnaires were completed and analysed, using SPSS to obtain quantitative data. To obtain qualitative data, thirteen interviewees participated and NVivo was used to analyse transcribed responses. The findings showed that the number of projects completed and scope changes, are central to stakeholders-related complexities contributing to budget overruns. Furthermore, the findings showed that factors comprising incompetency, local community strikes or unrest, market conditions, South African regulatory framework, reworks and contract misunderstanding, significantly contribute to project budget overruns. An iterative project-stakeholder budget overrun mitigation model was developed, and a template incorporating all the stages of the construction project life cycle was included, which will be jointly used to alleviate project-stakeholder budget overruns. Iqoqo Izindleko zephrojekthi ezigijima phambili ezinkingeni ezinkulu ezikhona njengamanje kwabanikezela ngemali, ohulumeni, amakilayenti namabhizinisi. Ukubhekana nesabelomali sephrojekthi yikhona okuyizinhloso ezinkulu ekuqedeni iphrojekthi ngempumelelo kanye nokuqedwa amandla kwezimali okungaholela ekungaqhubekini kwephrojekthi. Kuyethusa ukuthi ocwaningweni olwedlule nolwamanje lukhombisa ukwedlulela kwezindleko eziqhubekayo zephrojekthi phakathi embonini yokwakha. Ubunkimbinkimbi obuhlangene nephrojekthi encikene phakathi kwabehlukene abathintekayo bephrojekthi kumzungezompilo wephrojekthi ongena njengenye yezimbangela ezinkulu zokwedlulela kwesabelomali sephrojekthi. Nakuba kunocwaningo olungenele nokubuyekezwa kwemibhalo okutholakele kumthelela wobunkimbinkimbi kwabathintekayo bephrojekthi kusabelomali yephrojekthi embonini yokwakha eNingizimu Afrika. Ngakho-ke, lolu cwaningo lugxile ekwedluleleni kwezimbangela zezindleko zabathintekayo kuyiphrojekthi nokwakhiwa kwezinga abaphathi bamaphrojekthi ezokwakha abangasebenzisana ngayo kahle nabathintekayo ukuze kuthitshwe ubunkimbinkimbi kwabathintekayo nokwedlulela kwezindleko. Abaphathi bamaphrojekthi ezokwakha babhalise nebhodi Labafundele Ukwakha, iConstruction Professional board ababambe iqhaza kulolu cwaningo. Lolu cwaningo lwalandela indlelakwenza yocwaningo endlelangxube kwaphinde kwsetshenziswa zombili izinjulalwazi eyocwaningobunjalo botho neyocwaningozinombolo ngenkathi kuqoqwa imininingo kanye nokuhlaziya ukuze kutholakale umqondo. Indlelakwenza yocwaningozinombolo yayigxile kwinjulalwazi iphozithivizimu, eyayisebenzisa izinkambiso zezibalo nezindlela ukuze ichaze ngokwezibalomidanti okuvelayo kocwaningo. Indlelakwenza yocwaningo locwaningo lobunjalo botho yayigxile kuyinjulalwazi yomhumusho, eholela ekuqondeni okuvezwa ucwaningo, okuvela ezinkambisweni eziningi zokuziphatha, izinqubo, ukubuyiseleka, izimo zenhlalo nesiko. Isifanekisomumo sendlelakwenza yocwaningo engxube eyenzeka sikhathisinye yasetshenziswa kanye kanye kuqoqwa kubuye kuxoxiswane ngezindlelakwenza zocwaningozinombolo nocwaningo lobunjalo botho, kuhloswe ukuqonda kangcono okuthandwa ucwaningo kuqhathaniswa kubuye kufananiswe okutholwe ucwaningo ukuze kukhiqizwe isiphetho esiqinisekile. Lapha kwasetshenziswa uhlu lwemibuzo lwe-inthanethi kanye nezimposambuzo ezisakuhleleka okwakungamaqhingakwenza asetshenziselwa ukuqoqa imininingo aqondiswa ukubukajikelele ngobunzululwazi bendlelakubuka yenjulalwazi yokungenzeka. Uhlu lwemibuzo lwe-inthanethi oluyikhulu namashumi amahlanu nambili lwagcwaliswa lwaphinde lwahlaziywa kusetshenziswa iSPSS ukuze kutholakale imininingo yocwaningozinombolo. Ukuze kutholakale imininingo yocwaningo lobunjalo botho, ababamba iqhaza babuzwa imibuzo baba ishumi nantathu lapho kwasetshenziswa iNVivo ukuhlaziya izimpendulo zokuloba okuqoshiwe. Okwtholwa ucwaningo kwakhombisa inani lamaphrojekthi aqedwa kanye nezinguqo zomklamo okuyikhona kungumongo kubunkimbinkimbi obuhlobene nathintekayo kwaneqhaza ekwedluleleni kwesabelomali. Ngaphezu kwalokho, okwatholwa ucwaningo lwakhombisa izimo eziqukethe ezingenalo ikhono, iziteleka zendawo noma imibhikisho, izimo zezimakethe. Uphiko olushaya imithetho lwaseNingizimu Afrika, lusebenza kabusha luphinde lwakhe ukungaqondi, okuneqhaza ekwedluleleni kwesabelomali sephrojekthi. Kwasungulwa isabelomali sabathintekayo bephrojekthi ephindaphindekayo kokwedlulela kwimodeli yokuthambisa kuthambisa, kanye nokufakwa kwethemplethi ehlanganisa zonke izigaba zomjikelezo wempilo yephrojekthi yokwakha, ezazizostshenziswa ngokuhlanganyela ukudambisa ukwedlulela kwesabelomali sabathintekayo bephrojekthi.
  • Item
    Developing an intelligence and security framework to counteract insurance fraud in the low income sector. The case of Zimbabwe=Ukwakha ubuhlakani nohlaka lwezokuphepha ukuze kuphikiswane nokukhwaniswa komshwayilense endaweni yabahola kancane. Ucwaningo luzokwenzelwa eZimbabwe .
    (2022) Nyangoni, Soul.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.
    This study explores avenues to develop a security and intelligence framework to counteract insurance fraud in the low-income sector in Zimbabwe. Insurance fraud, a threat to both national security and performance of the micro insurance industry, offering insurance services to low-income earners in Zimbabwe. The examination stretches from the causes of micro-insurance fraud to measures that can be fused with security intelligence to combat micro-insurance fraud. The framework of this study was a quantitative study, following stratified random sampling of three hundred and twenty-six participants. A structured questionnaire was deployed to collect primary data and complemented by interviews, focus groups and document inspection. The association between causes of insurance fraud, organised criminal syndicates, and low-income earners were investigated using structural equation modelling. The primary objective was to identify factors that enhance insurance fraud and measure the significance and causal effect of the identified variables. The response postulated that there are internal and external factors amongst them poor internal controls, lack of investment in artificial intelligence and poor human capital management systems which are being explored by organised crime syndicates to peddle micro insurance fraud. The internal and external factors work as an integrated front and the absence of one factor may negatively affect the decision to continue with the crime. In that regard, this study recommended the CEPSI strategy. The acronym CEPSI abbreviates for Customers, Employees, Participation, Systems and Intelligence and this is meant to overhaul microinsurance service provider’s operating systems. Conclusions were reached after synchronisation of primary and secondary data with research objectives. The CEPSI approach provide insurance firms with capabilities to detect, prevent, sanction, investigate, and remediate insurance fraud in the low-income sector of Zimbabwe. The focus is to equip the micro-insurance service providers with proactive capabilities meant to detect and thwart insurance fraud amongst policyholders, employees and organised crime syndicates by designing internal security measures fused with artificial intelligence to detect insurance fraud, educating the general public with regards to threats and consequences of insurance fraud and also working in liaison with security intelligence apparatus. Iqoqo Lolu cwaningo luzohlola imigudu yokwakha uhlaka lobuhlakani kanye nezokuphepha ukuze kuphikiswane nokukhwabaniswa kwemishwayilense endaweni yabahola kancane eZimbabwe. Ukukhwabaniswa komshwalense, ukusabisa kukho kokubili ezokuphepha kuzwelonke kanye nokusebenza kwemboni zomshwalense esencane, ukunikezela komsebenzi womshwalense kulabo abahola kancane eZimbabwe. Ukuhlola kuyodlulela nasezimbangeleni zokukhwabaniswa komshwalense okuncane kuye ezilinganisweni ezingahlanganiswa nobuhlakani bezokuphepha ukuze kuqedwe ukukhwabaniswa komshwalense omncane. Uhlaka lwalolu cwaningo kwakungolocwaningozinombolo, lulandela ukuqoka ngokohlelomkhakha okungahlelekile kwababambiqhaza abangamakhulu amathathu namashumi amabili nesithupha. Kwasetshenziswa uhlu lwemibuzo oluhleliwe ukuqoqa imininingo yokuqala kwahlanganiswa nezimposambuzo, amaqoqo azocwaningwa kanye nokuhlola imibhalo. Ukuhlobana phakathi kwezimbangela zokukhwabaniswa komshwalense, izinhlangano zobugebengu obuhleliwe kanye nabahola imali encane baphenywa kusetshenziswa imodelingi yesibalokulingana sesakhiwo. Inhlosongqangi yocwaningo kwakungukuhlonza izimo ezinokuthuthukisa ukukhwabaniswa komshwalense kanye nesilinganisi esimqoka nomphumela wamavariyebuli ahlonziwe. Impendulo yabeka ngokuyiqiniso ukuthi kunezimo zangaphandle nezangaphakathi phakathi kwezilawuli zangaphakathi ezimbi, ukungabibikho kophenyo kubuhlakani obungaziveleli kanye nezihlelo zokuphathwa kwengqalabhizinisi yabantu abaswele yahlolwa izinhlangano zobugebengu ezihlelelwe ukuthengisa ngokukhwabaniswa komshwalense osemncane. Izimo zangaphakathi nezangaphandle zibonakala zisebenza ngokuhlanganyela kodwa ngokungabibikho kwesimo esisodwa kungasiphazamisa kakhulu izinqumo sokuqhubeka nobugebengu. Ngaleyo ndlela, lolu cwaningo lwancoma isu iCEPSI. Isifinyezo iCEPSI sifinyeza Abathengi, Izisebenzi, Ukubamba iqhaza, Izinhlelo noBuhlakanikanti lokhu kwenzelwe ukulungisa kabusha izinhlelo zokusebenza kwabanikeza umsebenzi wemishwalense emincane. Kwafinyelelwa esiphethweni ngemuva kokuvumelanisa umniningo wokuqala nowesibili kanye nezinhloso zocwaningo. Indlela iCEPSI yanikezela ngamafemu omshwalense anokukwazi ukuthola, ukugwema, isijeziso, ukuphenya kanye nokulungisa ukukhwabaniswa komshwayilense endaweni yabahola kancane eZimbabwe. Okwakugxilwe kukho ukuhlomisa abancane abanikezela ngomsebenzi wokukhwabanisa umshwalense abanokukwazi ukuthola kanye nokuvimba ukukhwabaniswa komshwalense phakathi kwabanikazi benqubomgomo, izisebenzi kanye nezinhlangano zobugebengu obuhleliwe ngokuthi kusungulwe izinyathelo zokuphepha zangaphakathi zihlanganiswe nezobuhlakani obenziwe ukuze kutholwe ukukhwabaniswa komshwalense, ukufundiswa komphakathi owejwayelekile mayelana nokwesabisa kanye nemiphumela yokukhwabaniswa komshwalense kanye nokusebenza ngokuxhumana nezinsizakusebenza zezobuhlakani bezokuphepha.
  • Item
    The impact of the coronavirus on electronic commerce among small and medium enterprises in Gauteng=Umthelela wobhubhane lwecorona ekuhwebeni ngobuchwepheshe mayelana namabhizinisi asafufusa eGauteng.
    (2023) Ramsern, Atlanta.; Govender, Krishna Kistan.
    During the Covid-19 pandemic, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have had to shift business operations to online, due to government restrictions. The urgency to change to a digital model caused many SMEs to be challenged by one or more of the four e-commerce resources to complete an e-commerce transaction, namely usage of reliable broadband, e-shop of products, digital payment, and logistics to the consumer. The literature revealed that SMEs lacked the infrastructure to support the digital transformation into a successful business model and had to close their businesses. This mixed-methods study addressed this gap by using constructs in the resource-based theory and dynamic capabilities theory. A conceptual model was developed which depicted the relationship between the e-commerce resources and e-commerce growth which was moderated by dynamic capabilities. Several hypotheses were postulated in the conceptual framework and data was collected from the SME owners in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The simple random sampling technique was used to survey 307 retail SMEs in Edenvale, Gauteng. The survey was distributed via email to the SMEs that were alluded in the study. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was used to analyse the data that was collected through the survey, using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences and tested using Structural Equation Modelling. Purposive sampling was used for the qualitative study and the semistructured interviews were conducted with 13 SME owners, to gain an in-depth understanding of the factors that impacted their e-commerce growth. Thematic analysis, via Microsoft excel, was used to analyse the transcripts by focusing on identifying and arranging the codes and patterns. The findings revealed that digital payments and logistics were significant predictors of e-commerce growth during the pandemic and dynamic skill capabilities moderated the relationship between digital payments and e-commerce growth. However, the usage of broadband and e-shop features were not significant in predicting the growth of e-commerce. It was ascertained through the interviews, that there is a favourable impact on the growth of e-commerce among SMEs that invested in unique resources and capabilities, since only those SMEs that had the resources and capabilities managed to survive during the pandemic. Iqoqa Ngesikhathi sobhubhane lweCovid-19, amabhizinisi amancane naphakathi nendawo azithola eseshintsha ukusebenza kwebhizinisi ngokulifaka kubuchwepheshe ngenxa yezivimbelo zikahulumeni. Isigubhukane sama-SME ukushintshela esifanekisweni sobuchwepheshe ukwenza uhwebo, kuphenduke inselelo enkulu. Ama-SME amaningi aphonselwa inselelo eyodwa noma ngaphezulu kwezinsiza ezine ze-e-commerce ukuze aqedele umsebenzi we-e-commerce, okuwukuthi ukusetshenziswa kwe-broadband, i-e-shop yemikhiqizo namasevisi, ukukhokha kwedijithali, kanye nokuphathwa kwempahla kumthengi. Imibhalo iveza ukuthi ama-SMEs antula ingqalasizinda ukusekela impumelelo yoguquko lobuchwepheshe. Ngakho-ke, lolu cwaningo luphenya izinselelo ezahaqa ama-SMEs ngesikhathi kusetshenziswa izizinda zobuchwepheshe bebhizinisi ngesikhathi sobhubhane lwe-Covid-19. Yize sekukhulunyiwe ngezinto ezithinta uhwebo ngobuchwepheshe, imibhalo ayikwazanga ukukulungisa okumayelana nokusetshenziswa kwenjulalwazi yohwebo ngobuchwepheshe ngesikhathi sobhubhane. Le ndlela exubile yocwaningo isingatha lesi sikhala ngokusebenzisa okwakhiwe ngokwenjulalwazi ngokwamasu kanye nenjulalwazi yamandla obukhono. Isifanekiso somqondo sathuthukiswa esibhula ubudlelwano phakathi kwamasu ohwebo ngobuchwepheshe kanye nokukhula kohwebo ngobuchwepheshe okwalungiswa ngokwamandla obukhono. Isigejana semicabango engafakazelwanga kwathathwa njenento ekhona ohlakeni lomqondo kanye nokuqoqwa kolwazi kubanikazi bamabhizinisi esifundazweni saseGauteng eNingizimu Afrikha. Okubizwa nge-random sampling kwasetshenziswa ukwaba imibuzo kusetshenziswa ama-email enanini elinga-307 lwama-SMEs e-Edenvale, Gauteng. Uhlaziyo oluqondiswayo ngezinombolo, ngesifanekiso sohlaka ngezinombolo kwasetshenziswa ukuhlaziya ulwazi olwaqoqwa ngokomklamo. Isampula eliqondiwe lasetshenziswa ngokwekhwalithethivu, neziphathimandla eziyi-13 zabuzwa ukuthola ingqikithi yezizathu ezinomthelela ekukhuleni kohwebo ngobuchwepheshe. Uhlaziyo ngokwegqikithi lwasetshenziswa ukuhlaziya okubhaliwe kanye nokugqolozela izifanekiso. Okutholiwe kuveza ukuthi ukukhokha ngobuchwepheshe kanye nezokuthutha kwabaluleka ngesikhathi sobhubhane kanye nobukhono obusabalele ukulungisa ubudlelwane phakathi kokukhokha ngobuchwepheshe kanye nokukhula kohwebo ngobuchwepheshe. Yize kunjalo ukusetshenziswa kwamakhonokhono kanye nezimpawu zobuchwepheshe besitolo akuzange kubaluleke okuqaguleni ukukhula kohwebo ngobuchwepheshe. Kwaqinisekisa ngokwezingxoxombuzo, ukuthi kunesimo esicindezela ukukhula kohwebo ngokubuchwepheshe phakathi kwama-SMEs kulabo abatshale ngamasu angandile kanye nobukhono, njengoba lawo ma-SMEs abenamacebo kanye nobukhono bakwazi ukuphila ngezikhathi ezinzima.
  • Item
    Leadership coaching in a multigenerational workforce – a case in the engineering sector.
    (2023) Strickland, Michelle Eunice.; Martins, Ana Maria De Azevedo.
    In the current volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environment, the case in this study, an engineering consulting organisation based in KwaZulu-Natal, has found itself navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fifth Industrial Revolution, and a multigenerational workforce. Faced with these dynamic shifts, leadership has needed to cope with the various impacts. Intrinsically, leaders have needed to be aware of themselves, of their strengths, opportunities, and challenges that could be associated with these different contextual shifts. Furthermore, the leadership team has been required to cultivate a robust pipeline of future leaders from a multigenerational team. The purpose of the study was to explore leadership coaching readiness to harness new leadership skills, which would enable leaders to improve on their emotional intelligence skills in order to bridge generational gaps. The research was underpinned by a qualitative exploratory research methodology using participatory action research. The strategy was to use a case study with a phenomenological philosophy. Through purposive sampling and use of primary data collection methods, namely, interviews, focus groups, and observations, the objectives were met. Desktop research was conducted to review the extant literature. The thematic analysis tool, NVivo, was used and triangulation of the data sets was implemented. A specific leadership coaching model, crafted for the organisation being studied, included an emotional intelligence element, which resulted in an innovative approach to accelerate the development of future leadership in a multigenerational workforce and which also contributes to the existing body of knowledge. The study highlighted that the expression and appraisal of emotions, use of emotions in decision-making, knowledge of emotions, and management of moods or emotions are critical aspects of emotional intelligence, and, if brought into a coaching intervention, can benefit the leadership and organisation. The recommendations are: the addition of a mentoring element; team coaching interventions to bring the multigenerational workforce together in order to build on relationships; and developing an understanding of the learning gained to ensure the transference of skills to the younger generation, thereby enabling them to work toward professional registration. These recommendations would enhance employee engagement and retention.
  • Item
    A sustainability model for agricultural cooperatives in KwaZulu-Natal.
    (2023) Buthelezi, Sifiso Wiseman.; Taylor, Simon Michael.; Tefera, Orthodox.
    The high attrition and stagnant rate of agricultural cooperatives in the Province of KwaZulu Natal has raised concerns, given that they are recognised globally and in South Africa for their significant role in promoting impoverished communities' social and economic development. This challenge has become a threat to community development by hampering the growth of the agricultural cooperatives. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the challenges that hinder the growth of agricultural cooperatives and assess factors that contribute to their growth. The study utilised clustered sampling to ensure the representation of all districts and was conducted in nine districts of KwaZulu-Natal Province. The sample comprised 367 respondents who were members of agricultural cooperatives from 99 cooperatives in the province. Quantitative research was employed using questionnaires, and the data were analysed using SPSS (Version 25.0.). Sustainability models used in the study included pictorial visualization, quantitative, physical, conceptual, standardising, egg of sustainability, and prism models. The literature gap in a sustainability model that considers the combined behaviour of resource management, good governance, sustainability monitoring, market access, and social and economic aspects in agricultural cooperatives has been addressed. The study revealed several factors contributing to agricultural cooperatives' demise, including a lack of good governance, leadership, technical skills, business management expertise, conflict management abilities, cohesion among members, and sustainable farming methods. These deficiencies suggest that the agricultural cooperatives under review could be more sustainable. Therefore, the study recommends adherence to cooperative principles, capacity building of cooperatives in all aspects of business, including environmental training, the appointment of boards to inculcate governance systems, the institutionalisation of social responsibility programs, and redefining the government's relationship with agricultural cooperatives. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by developing a model that enhances the sustainability of agricultural cooperatives in KwaZulu-Natal, thereby increasing their success rate.
  • Item
    Aligning information and communication technology strategies with Ethekwini municipality’s strategic objectives for service delivery.
    (2023) Dlamini, Zandile Virtue.; Majola, Priscilla Xoliswa.
    In the realm of municipal governance, the rapid integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has introduced new opportunities and challenges. A critical challenge is the misalignment between strategic objectives and ICT strategies within municipalities, as exemplified by eThekwini municipality in South Africa. The primary purpose of this research was to investigate the pivotal role of strategic alignment in shaping ICT implementation for effective service delivery within eThekwini municipality. The aim was to provide insights and solutions to bridge the gaps between ICT and municipal strategy alignment. A mixed methods approach was employed in this study, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques in a convergent parallel design. The questionnaires used in the study were meticulously aligned with the research's specific objectives. A census approach was adopted to collect quantitative and qualitative data gathered through purposive sampling. The research identified a key issue as limited executive involvement in developing the municipality's ICT strategy, resulting in a misalignment between the strategy and the overarching municipal goals. This misalignment risks suboptimal decision-making based solely on operational inputs. This finding underscores the critical need for strategic alignment between municipal objectives and ICT strategies in eThekwini municipality. The municipality should thus prioritise the development of a comprehensive ICT strategy that aligns seamlessly with its overarching objectives. This strategy should be crafted with active involvement from key stakeholders, outlining clear goals and action plans aimed at harnessing technology for efficient service delivery. To ensure effective alignment, robust ICT governance structures and decision-making processes must be established. These changes will not only enhance service delivery to the community, but also promote a transparent, efficient, and technology-enabled governance approach.
  • Item
    Towards a renewable energy framework for poverty reduction in South African townships: a case of south-west township (Soweto)
    (2023) Gina, Mondli.; Mutambara, Emmanuel.
    Poverty is one of the world’s most fundamental issues negatively impacting livelihoods, with South Africa experiencing high poverty levels. Central to addressing basic human needs towards poverty eradication lies the provision of renewable energy. Poverty can be addressed through access to energy sources that are modern, clean, and affordable. Therefore, energy is necessary for meeting basic human needs and a prerequisite for economic development. The study investigated the ways and extent to which a move towards cheap and clean renewable energy for poor communities contributed towards poverty reduction in an urban context. The purpose of the study was to develop a renewable energy framework for poverty reduction in South African townships, focusing on the Soweto township as a case study. The study employed a mixed research design that included quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data was gathered from a stratified random sample size of 384 respondents selected from a target population of Soweto residents at Dobsonville neighbourhood. Questionnaires were distributed through electronic mail and self-administered questionnaire. Qualitative data was gathered through interviews from a sample of 15 purposively selected participants. Interviews were analysed using conversational analysis and the data collected from the interviews were merged with the questionnaire data, seeking depth as well as breadth. The thematic analysis was the process used to identify patterns or themes within qualitative data. Data collected from respondents was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The tool utilised to analyse quantitative data was the latest Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The study findings revealed that the implementation of renewable energy technologies in South Africa will help alleviate poverty, improve the socio-economic status of citizens, enhance economic growth and save the environment. The study recommended a framework for clean and affordable renewable energy as a poverty reduction strategy in Soweto township. Further recommendations were that the South African government should provide the citizens with affordable renewable energy equipment, such as solar panels to those that are regarded as poor and provide incentives to those that install solar panels in their household.