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Access status: Open Access ,
The rugged trajectory of Africa’s Reparations Agenda: from aspiration to claim and action
(UNISA Press, 2025) Namakula, Catherine S
The first advances of Africa’s reparations agenda are traceable to the First International Conference on Reparations held in Nigeria in 1990. The profile of the subject was promptly raised to that of a regional undertaking at the level of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1991. The continent is henceforth seen to stumble into institutional formulations that lack the support infrastructure and formidability to operate. The momentum for reparations set by the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action of 2001 faltered in Africa, primarily because the continent prioritised development assistance, investment and market reforms with the very powers responsible for reparations. More than two decades after this conference, it is increasingly evident that reparations are crucial for dismantling the structural impoverishment that undermines even the most well-intentioned reforms. The African Union (AU) is currently resuscitating the continent’s reparations agenda, amid some gains by Africa’s diaspora, protracted litigation and advances by certain African societies and the renewal of the UN International Decade for People of African Descent, which is based on the pillars of recognition, justice and development. A continent’s reparations agenda must be guided by clear and established principles of engagement, driven by a formidable and sustainable institution, with continental-wide representation and consensus. A holistic agenda must unify the continent, in its diversity, around the core objective. It should include strategies that exert influence over the nations owing reparations to fulfil their obligations and be supported by authoritative African-centred thought leadership rooted in an authentic African conscience. It is a multi-sectoral, multi-dimensional, multidisciplinary, multi-layered and resilient venture.
Access status: Open Access ,
Chitosan-based materials as effective materials to remove pollutants
(MDPI, 2025) Dambuza, Anathi; Mokolokolo, Pennie P.; Makhatha, Mamookho E.; Sibeko, Motshabi A.
Chitosan is a natural polymer derived from chitin through the deacetylation process. It has emerged as a key ingredient in sustainable wastewater treatment, due to its biodegradability, non-toxicity, and low cost. This biopolymer possesses abundant functional groups, such as -NH2 and -OH, that efficiently interact with pollutants. This review offers a comprehensive evaluation of pollutant separation techniques involving chitosan-based materials, including adsorption, membrane filtration, flocculation, and photocatalysis. It further examines the underlying adsorption mechanisms, emphasizing how pollutants interact with chitosan and its derivatives at the molecular level. Special focus is given to various modifications of chitosan, alongside a comparative assessment of different chitosan-based adsorbents (hydrogels, nanoparticles, nanocomposites, microspheres, nanofibers, etc.), highlighting their performance in removing heavy metals, dyes, and emerging organic pollutants. The reviewed performance of these polymeric materials from 2015–2025 not only gives an insight about the recent advancement but also points the need for the design of high-performing chitosan-based adsorbents with applications in real water matrices.
Access status: Open Access ,
Trajectories into gang membership: exploring risk exposure, protective factors and the factors motivating involvement in devil-worshipping gangs
(Stellenbosch University, 2025) Phillips, Ashwill R.
Gangs represent a complex phenomenon, emerging in response to social exclusion, limited opportunities and systemic inequalities. In South Africa, gang-related crime is rife, impacting on individuals, families and broader society. Gang practices in the Free State province allegedly incorporate elements of the occult, including devil-worshipping and witchcraft, generating fear within affected communities. These gangs engage in spiritually-motivated crimes including blood sacrifice, animal slaughter and communication with demons. Drawing on qualitative data obtained from interviews with detained gang members, non-gang-affiliated offenders and service providers, the paper explores key factors motivating membership as well as the protective factors which safeguard against gang involvement. Moreover, the existence of ‘devil-worshipping’ gangs and the prominent risks and protective features in this regard are explored. The findings highlight the need for protection, poverty and peer influence as pertinent factors perpetuating gang membership, while creating prosocial activities, employment and gang-awareness were noted as key protective factors. Understanding risk exposure, gang trajectories and factors that enhance resilience from the lived experience of offenders serve to humanise the gang issue and assists social workers and other stakeholders to strengthen support services for vulnerable youths, develop targeted interventions, refine policies and systemic responses, and incorporate relevant protective factors when designing or facilitating programmes within gang-prone communities.
Access status: Open Access ,
Curriculum concepts appropriate in addressing “How” and “Why” knowledge in Agricultural Sciences Pedagogical Practice
(Society for Research and Knowledge Management, 2025-07-30) Nduku, Nonhlanhla Fortunate
South Africa’s Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) specifies the content to teach and confines pertinent curriculum concepts to addressing the questions of “what”, “how” and “why” in teaching practice. Cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT) was used as a lens, because it is driven by human activity (teachers) and the six principles teachers should embrace in the activity system (the classroom). The prescriptive, communal and habitual perspectives (PCHP) framework personalises CHAT principles by producing curriculum concepts that underpin Agricultural Sciences (AGRIS) practice, while addressing the questions of “how” and “why”. The study presents emancipating action research of six AGRIS teachers to explore curriculum concepts they use to address the questions of “how” and “why” when teaching AGRIS in secondary schools. Reflective activities and semi-structured interviews were used to generate data. Purposive sampling was used to select the most convenient six participants. The findings indicate that teachers’ teaching is dominated by content, which addresses the “what” question; teachers were unaware of other concepts that underpin AGRIS practice. This suggests that teachers mainly impart scientific knowledge when teaching AGRIS and neglect skills and values/attitudes. Consequently, this study recommends an intervention from AGRIS curriculum developers in South Africa to infuse curriculum concepts to address the questions of “how” and “why” in CAPS. The study will contribute to scholarship by bringing an in-depth understanding of curriculum concepts pertinent to the needs of learners and society. It will further assist AGRIS curriculum developers and teachers in producing globally competent learners with the right skills and values/attitudes.
Access status: Open Access ,
The failure factors of change management initiatives within a large insurance organisation
(University of the Free State, 2024) Hansi-Arendse, Thembakazi; Christie, Peter
Change management is an important concept for leading organisations through changes and transitions, by helping them adapt to new organisational strategies that are often put in place to increase an organisation’s capability, competitive landscape, and, often, to increase market share. Apart from strategic changes, organisations, specifically insurance organisation, are often expected to comply with regulatory requirements and therefore need to be in a position to effect those changes should there be any regulatory changes from the bodies that govern the industry. The insurance industry is an environment categorised by strict regulations, technological advancement, and client expectations that evolve regularly; therefore, effective change management ensures that the organisations have operational resilience and are continuously at a competitive advantage. This qualitative study explored the factors that contributed to the failure of change management initiatives within MMA in Gauteng, South Africa. The study made use of the descriptive research design and engaged 14 participants, through semi structured interviews to gather data and insights on the challenges that were encountered by the organisation when implementing change. The participants were employed within the organisation and were directly involved in change efforts. The most important research findings were identified to include but not limited to change saturation, a culture of entitlement, insufficient or lack of understanding of the organisation’s strategic objectives, insufficient or lack of leadership commitment which contributed to the communication and engagement gap highlighted by some of the participants. The absence or lack of a designated change methodology was also highlighted by the participants as a critical contributor to change initiatives failing in the organisation. The literature review conducted demonstrated that these findings were not isolated to this organisation; rather, this was a global challenge faced by various institutions globally.
Access status: Open Access ,
Adoption of technology at the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of The Free State
(University of the Free State, 2024) Isaacs, Tracy; Massyn, Liezel
With an emphasis on improving technological competencies, removing obstacles, and promoting an adaptable culture, this study considered the factors influencing technology adoption among academic and support staff in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State. The primary objective of the research is to explore the readiness of faculty members to adopt to technological challenges presented in the workplace. Utilising the qualitative methodology approach made it possible to fully comprehend the experiences, viewpoints, and difficulties that the participants had with integrating technology into their daily tasks. Semi-structured interviews allowed for the collection of data to be rich and detailed. Recurrent themes and subthemes were then identified from the collected data using thematic analysis. The results show that four main themes—competence and skill development, training and support, adoption challenges, and adoption benefits—influence technology adoption. Successful integration was based on competence and abilities, emphasising the necessity of continuous training initiatives and organised assistance to handle both basic and advanced technical skills. systematic training approach that includes peer mentorship and ongoing support systems, increase staff confidence and engagement with new tools. The necessity for flexible policies, and adequate financial investment to fully address these difficulties are highlighted by the identification of challenges like budgetary restrictions, governance limits, and opposition to change as major roadblocks. A competitive edge for employees who actively embraced new technologies, enhanced performance, and increased operational efficiency were among the perceived advantages of technology adoption, which stood out despite these obstacles. The study suggests several tactics to improve technology integration and adoption. It is crucial to create a comprehensive programme for technological competencies such as training, and ongoing assistance. Furthermore, cultivating a culture of continuous development promotes flexibility and skill enhancement, bolstered by organised feedback loops and official acknowledgment of talent advancement. Adaptable governance policies are also crucial since they allow for staff demands to be met with flexibility and responsiveness while offering the structure required to regulate technology use. By strategically allocating resources to address financial challenges, training programmes and equipment are adequately supported, reducing resource-related obstacles. Lastly, staff commitment and motivation are increased by emphasising the advantages of technology adoption through real-world examples and success stories. To encourage a sustainable, forward-looking strategy for technology use in the faculty, this research emphasises the significance of coordinating technology adoption initiatives with organisational objectives.
Access status: Open Access ,
The potential influence of risks on supply chain management practices in the Maseru City Council in Lesotho
(University of the Free State, 2024) Kholoane, Nteboheng; Olivier, C. D.
This study investigates the potential influence of risks on supply chain management (SCM) practices at the Maseru City Council (MCC) in Lesotho. Utilizing a qualitative research approach within an interpretivist paradigm, the research identifies, evaluates, and proposes strategies to mitigate supply chain risks affecting the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the council. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 key participants from a population of 32 across various departments, and thematic analysis was employed to analyse the findings. The study highlights several key risks, including supplier-related disruptions, financial constraints, regulatory challenges, and environmental threats. Mitigation strategies identified include supplier diversification, strategic partnerships, and the integration of technology for real-time supply chain monitoring. The findings underscore the critical role of risk management practices in ensuring operational resilience and service delivery at MCC. The study contributes valuable insights for policymakers and local government entities seeking to enhance supply chain performance in the public sector.
Access status: Open Access ,
Gender stereotypes and coping strategies for women in male-dominated industries. a case of the Rail Industry in Gauteng, South Africa
(University of the Free State, 2024) Kobese, Chuma; Chamisa, Shingirayi
Progress within the South African technical work environment regarding the eradication of gender stereotyping and the establishment of gender-neutral environments and gender equality in managerial positions has been disappointing. This research investigates the gender-specific challenges faced by women managers and the coping mechanisms they adopt in the male-dominated Transnet Freight Rail, South Africa. The study adopted a constructivism paradigm and utilised qualitative research framed by resilience theory. Purposive sampling was used to select 12 female managers at Transnet freight Rail Johannesburg, who participated in the study. Data collection was conducted utilising semi-structured interviews, and the data was analysed using thematic data analysis. The study sheds light on both the advancements and ongoing obstacles experienced by female managers at Transnet Freight Rail concerning gender stereotypes. Despite the company's stated commitment to gender equity, female employees continue to face gender-based expectations and a lack of gender-sensitive facilities, such as separate restrooms. Some male colleagues may feel uncomfortable working under female authority figures, which can impede progress towards achieving workplace equity, even where policies exist. The research emphasises the importance of allocating resources and developing infrastructure to tackle these challenges, particularly in predominantly male-dominated industries. Strategies for navigating the system included embracing Affirmative Action Plans and pursuing additional education opportunities, enabling women to assert their managerial authority. While there have been notable changes in the representation of women in traditionally male-dominated positions, significant opposition remains. The study's findings highlight the importance of establishing more transparent policies and enhancing resource distribution to promote gender equality. Women continue to encounter difficulties in managing physical demands and work-life balance, especially during pregnancy, in workplaces that prioritise male employees. Recommendations to address these concerns include implementing structured mentorship programmes, establishing clear policies, and continuing with ongoing transformation initiatives.
Access status: Open Access ,
Sustainable Corporate Real Estate Management (SCREM) in uncertain times – avoiding Load Shedding in Lesotho
(University of the Free State, 2024) Kota, Kananelo; Marais, Mark
The Kingdom of Lesotho is facing a significant energy crisis characterised by critical challenges within its electricity sector. This has resulted in the introduction of load shedding to safeguard the limited available production capacity. Load shedding would exacerbate economic instability and lead to severe consequences for businesses, industries, and households, disrupting productivity, resulting in significant economic losses, and hampering the country’s overall development. Therefore, exploring alternative measures to deal with the situation becomes crucial. The goal of the study was to explore comprehensive and sustainable measures to address the challenges of load shedding in Lesotho. The study employed a qualitative research approach to gather interview data from corporate real estate professionals. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the interview data with the aid of the NVivo qualitative data analysis programme. The current sustainable corporate real estate management (SCREM) measures implemented in Lesotho are the promotion and use of environmentally friendly materials and products, the promotion and use of energy-saving measures, the promotion and practice of proper waste management, and regular inspection and maintenance of equipment. However, the sustainable practices in place are insufficient to avoid load shedding in the real estate sector in Lesotho. The implications of load shedding in Lesotho include the disruption of commercial, household, and other activities, and these activities have a negative impact on the economy. Also, there are no sustainable measures at the national level against load shedding in Lesotho. However, some sustainable practices are being implemented by companies even though there is no comprehensive national effort. These sustainable practices include smart meters, green building initiatives, and solar power. Lastly, the proposed sustainable corporate real estate management strategies against load shedding in Lesotho include encouraging energy-saving behaviours, ending the monopoly of Lesotho Electricity Company, expanding solar energy use, increasing hydroelectricity power, increasing wind power, maintaining and upgrading plants, implementing a national power supply strategy, and promoting awareness of sustainability goals. On account of the study results, proposed sustainable corporate real estate management strategies against load shedding in Lesotho should include ending the monopoly of Lesotho Electricity Company, continually expanding solar and other alternative energy use, increasing hydroelectricity power, continually maintaining and upgrading current plants and infrastructure, and establishing and implementing a national power supply strategy.
Access status: Open Access ,
Employees’ perceptions of diversity management strategies in a South African travel company
(University of the Free State, 2024) Ledwaba, Lintle Joyce; Christie, Peter
Diversity is essential in today’s interconnected world as it fosters creativity, innovation, and adaptability within organisations. A diverse workforce combines different viewpoints, experiences and skills, which can considerably improve problem-solving and decision-making processes. Companies can gain a competitive advantage by accepting people of all backgrounds, including colour, gender, age, and culture. This study examines employees' perspectives on diversity management techniques in the South African tourism industry. Utilising a qualitative research methodology, the study examines the relationship between diversity management and key factors such as employee engagement, productivity, and retention. Through thematic analysis of data gathered from interviews, several prominent themes emerged, including inclusivity, a variety of backgrounds, and the principles of equality and fairness in understanding workplace diversity. The findings underscore the importance of effective diversity management in nurturing a robust company culture and enhancing overall organisational performance. Recommendations for improving diversity management strategies include ongoing training and awareness initiatives, better communication, increased representation of diverse groups in leadership positions, the establishment of community partnerships, and the continuous evaluation and adaptation of these strategies. The study acknowledges its limitations and suggests avenues for future research, highlighting the necessity for larger sample sizes, longitudinal studies, and refined methodologies to gain a deeper understanding of diversity management practices within the travel industry. Overall, this research provides valuable insights to assist organisations in creating more inclusive workplaces, ultimately leading to greater employee engagement and satisfaction.