Masters Degrees (Centre for Development Support)

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Open Access
Socio-economic implications for teachers retrenched in Qwaqwa 1996-1999
(University of the Free State, 05-Mar) Phakisi, Lehlomela Stanley; Ruhiiga, T. M.; Crause, E.
The purpose of this research was to investigate the socio - economic effects of teacher retrenchments in Qwaqwa - Free State. Te administration of the survey method generated information that was analysed using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. The findings indicate that retrenchments severely affected the income and social status of teachers in the study area.
Open Access
The impact of foreign direct investment on the livelihoods of workers in the manufacturing sector of Lesotho
(University of the Free State, 08-Nov) Kamara, Ishmail Bassie; Marais, J. G. L.
Abstract not available
Open Access
An evaluation of an out of school program to increase access to education for children in the rural areas of Zimbabwe
(University of the Free State, 17-Feb) Tokotore, Rujeko; Van Wyk, C. J.
After independence, Zimbabwe made significant progress in providing access to education for almost all children. The policy environment for supporting education for all is positive as the country is party to the all the major international agreements that promote education for all and the right to education, and has domesticated these in the Constitution and other legislation. However, with the introduction of the Economic Structural Adjustment Programme in the early 1990s, followed by the economic crisis of 2000 to 2008, this momentum was not maintained. Many children dropped out of school before completion, and others did not to go to school. The Fit for Life Programme was implemented to offer second chance non-formal education to children aged between 15 to 18 years who did not complete formal primary education or never went to school. This research evaluated effectiveness of the Fit for Life Programme in increasing access to education for children in the rural areas of Zimbabwe. A process evaluation approach was applied and questionnaires were used for data collection. The results revealed that the Fit for Life Programme was effective in increasing access for Out of School children in the rural areas of Zimbabwe. The livelihoods and quality of life of the beneficiaries who graduated from the programme differ from those children within the communities who did not enrol in the programme as they are in engaged in ill social behaviours. However, the research also revealed that the programme had some shortcomings which were not anticipated and this was a setback in achieving some of the objectives in some of the programme areas. The shortcomings included a relatively high dropout rate and high levels of absenteeism by the beneficiaries and lack of a MoU. Absenteeism was a major challenge in the programme resulting in a longer training period. The study concluded that the Theory of Change was effective in analysing the implementation of the Fit for Life Programme. Recommendations were made on the improvement of the Fit for Life Programme and these included enhancement of the non-formal vocational and technical training by providing more opportunities for the children; strengthening the implementation of education policies on the ground by availing the necessary resources to monitor and evaluate progress; making education affordable and accessible to all children and conducting more research on areas that need further attention on the problem of out of school children.
Open Access
An assessment of the Swaziland Vision 2022 strategic plan: opportunities and challenges
(University of the Free State, 17-Jan) Shongwe, Thulie; Thwala, Wellington D.
Achieving sustainable development and sustainable improvement in the quality of life of the people is the ultimate goal of each and every government in the world. However, this requires setting up a plan of action to properly guide the governments throughout the whole process. Accordingly, the Government of Swaziland also aspired to achieve ‘first world status’ by the year 2022, aimed at improving the quality of life of the people through the use of the National Development Strategy / Vision 2022. The study therefore sought to assess the opportunities and challenges of the Swaziland Vision 2022 Strategic Plan with a focus on finding out progress made towards Vision 2022 attainment, challenges that have hindered successful implementation of the Strategy as well as opportunities available and strategies for improvement. The study used a descriptive research design and questionnaires were administered to eighty respondents who were purposefully selected and comprised of the Ministry of Economic Planning (Implementation Office), Parliament Portfolio Committee, Civil Society Organizations, Academics, Development Practitioners and Community Development Councillors. The data collected were categorized and classified into comparative ideas and opinions and presented in tables using simple percentage supplemented with actual statements from the respondents. The findings indicated that it will be hard for the country to achieve the first world status because people are still battling with the fulfilment of their basis needs, coupled with the misconceptions that the people have, insufficient resources, corruption, lack of civic education and the lack of citizen participation in decision making. The study also found out that opportunities exist in the regional and international partnerships that the country has, availability and existence of skilled/educated resources, fertile soil and availability of infrastructure to support implementation of the NDS/Vision 2022. The study recommend that civic education should be conducted to allow the people to fully understand and appreciate the NDS/Vision 2022 and that they should be involved in all development endeavours as well as associate freely to discuss their development. Another recommendation was that the distribution and allocation of the budget should be fair and concentrate on important aspects and areas.
Open Access
The effects of mine downscaling (and closure) on the socio-economic development of mining communities: the case of Oranjemund
(University of the Free State, 18-Dec) Ndeleki, Christerline N.; Van Rooyen, Deidre
The research investigates the socio-economic effects, associated with mine downscaling (closure) and understanding community perceptions, risks and opportunities in Oranjemund. Oranjemund is a mining town under transformation, since the mining operations are downscaling and projected to cease operations in 2022. A qualitative research was used by administering open-ended questionnaires and face-to-face interaction with officials from the local mine leadership, local authority, business and local community, mine union, a consultant and non-governmental organisations, in order to collect the required data. Using both purposive and snowball sampling, the first point of contact was the Constituency Office, where a list of names was obtained and participants were purposefully selected to take part in the research. Focus group discussions and individual in-depth interviews were the method of data collection. The interviews used guides, which set out the themes according to the study objectives. Secondary information was obtained by reviewing documented literature, government reports and website articles. The negative consequences of mine closure on the socio-economic aspects of a community include reduced quality of living standards, upsurge in out-migration, emergence of crime, poor and inadequate infrastructure, loss of employment and income, less employment opportunities in the area and reduction in buying power. The positive effects of mine downscaling include accelerated focus in local economic initiatives for economic diversification and potential assessment studies. The findings suggested that the key characteristics that render local economic development by mining operations ‘insufficient’, is the lack of community involvement in development. The study findings further suggested that transformation of a mining-led economy requires the involvement of stakeholders including community, local government and the private sector to create a sustainable economy post mine closure. The study found that mining operations somewhat contribute to local economic development. It also showed that mining communities are at the receiving end of negative effects imposed by mine downscaling and closure. The study also shows that communities do not perceive mine downscaling and closure positively, as they feel that their livelihoods are threatened. The recommendations emphasised strong investment in social infrastructure and participation of communities in development. Lastly, the crucial role of comprehensive legal framework on mine closure was highlighted for the mining industry.
Open Access
Large-scale land acquisitions and their impacts on the livelihoods of displaced communities: a case study of the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone community
(University of the Free State, 19-Feb) Chinyemba, Bridget Ngambo; Marais, Mark
Large-scale land acquisitions (LSLAs) are on the rise in Zambia and throughout the Sub-Saharan region. LSLAs provide economic benefits to host countries and contribute to the reduction in rural poverty. A study was conducted to enhance the understanding of the impacts of LSLAs on communities, focusing specifically on a case study regarding the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) in Zambia. The main research problem is that, although LSLAs come with positive benefits, these acquisitions have been known to have negative impacts on the livelihoods of communities that are dispossessed of their land to accommodate the LSLAs. A household survey was conducted using a simple random selective sampling technique to select 109 respondents from Lusaka South MFEZ. Two focus group discussions and 15 key informant interviews were also held with relevant stakeholders. The data was collected through personal interviews using semi- structured questionnaires and analysed using Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study found that the sample community was displaced by the Lusaka South MFEZ project, and were resettled in the Mphande Forest of Kafue District. The displaced community faces significant negative impacts on social and economic aspects, including reduced agricultural land, food insecurity, family disintegration, and reduced household incomes, among other things. The conclusion is that LSLAs will continue to take place in Zambia, and principles guiding compensation and resettlement must therefore be implemented and monitored so that the LSLAs benefit all parties, including community members. The main recommendation is that government or investors must put compensation and resettlement packages into place that benefit the affected community, as well as other supportive mechanisms for the communities to experience lesser negative impacts of LSLAs.
Open Access
The South African Women Entrepreneurship Network (SAWEN) programme in the Free State: a capability approach
(University of the Free State, 19-Feb) Molefe, P. G.; Mkwananzi, Faith
This study evaluates the capacity of SAWEN in empowering women entrepreneurs in the Free State. The study adopted the human development informed capability approach to determine the capabilities, functionings and aspirations of women entrepreneurs within this programme. The focus was on identifying the effectiveness of SAWEN in empowering women entrepreneurs in the Free State. For this purpose, the study identified opportunities and challenges within this programme and its impact on developing women entrepreneurs towards empowerment. The study followed a qualitative approach as a method of research, and data were collected from seven former SAWEN members in Bloemfontein, Welkom and Trompsburg in the Free State. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data, and data were analysed using thematic analysis. Lastly, findings and recommendations to influence areas of future research are suggested.
Open Access
The unintended consequences and spatial implications of mining downscaling in South Africa - a case of mining in Merafong City local municipality
(University of the Free State, 19-Feb) De Lange, Anri; Marais, Lochner
Abstract not available
Open Access
Livelihood challenges in a rural growth point: the case of Ondobe, Namibia
(University of the Free State, 19-Feb) Namabanda, E. M.
Widespread poverty and high levels of inequality are among the biggest challenges facing developing countries. This has led to the migration of numerous people from rural areas to urban centres in a search for better survival opportunities. A number of individuals settle in proximate urbanising areas, where they are susceptible to poverty traps as a result of high demand for services and infrastructure. Government and other development partners persistently support initiatives to uplift the poor and most vulnerable out of poverty through the implementation of programmes and projects. The strategies developed under the auspices of the economic progression pillar of the fifth National Development Plan (NDP 5), which aims to achieve growth that is inclusive, sustainable and equitable, include the identification and advancement of growth points, development centres and sub-centres. This research explores livelihood challenges in the rural growth point of Ondobe, Namibia, as well as the availability of livelihood capitals that may need to be strengthened. A survey of 50 participants including 10 key informants was carried out with a 100% response rate. A deep understanding of the underlying issues facing urbanising areas is crucial for evidence-based planning and the effective implementation of responsive measures. The study found that most people in Ondobe are employed in the informal sector, with activities ranging from artisan work to subsistence farming and trading, with a few people being employed in the public sector. It was also observed that the area has been developing over the years, although not at the desired level given that the lives of a considerable segment of the population have not improved. An element of informality in terms of how the area is developing as well as a lack of adequate infrastructure and services is a hindrance to the creation of sustainable livelihoods. This study concluded that the impediments to sustainable livelihoods are unique to various settlement areas, therefore a consideration of customised responses to each community's needs, especially in rapidly growing areas, is crucial for effective implementation and inclusive development. Relevant stakeholders can build further on these findings with a comprehensive study that will provide guidance in devising responsive policies and strategies.
Open Access
Communication mechanisms and community participation in the planning and implementation of community development projects: a case study of a girls' education project in Malawi
(University of the Free State, 19-Jan) Pemba, Phillip Robert; Magaiza, Grey
Top-down development approaches seldom yield sustainable development. Development programmes, projects and processes ought to embrace effective community participation to be inclusive and sustainable. This has resulted in an endless search for effective approaches to achieve active local people’s participation in development among researchers and practitioners, leading to emergence of many paradigms such as the people-centred development paradigm. Globally, the practice of people-centred development has not fully yielded the desired impact as many local communities still experience socio-economic deprivations and exclusions. One reason for this is lack of active participation of local people in their own development. While many factors affect people’s participation in development, poor communication has emerged as one cause of passive community participation in development. Thus, having effective communication mechanisms in community development projects helps to engender active community participation in the projects and achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to realise inclusive development that leaves no one behind. Therefore, this study set out to explore communication pathways and community participation in community development projects, with a specific focus on why communication mechanisms across community participation structures in community development projects fail to galvanise genuine popular participation in the projects. The study analysed communication mechanisms in a project within a girls’ education programme, called the Joint Programme on Girls Education in Malawi, one of the poorest countries in Africa and in the world. The analysis was done at three sites in three districts where the programme is implemented. Data for this research derived from a case study of the girls’ education project in Malawi. The study investigated the project in the context of the District Development Planning System (DDPS), which the Malawi government established in 1998 to promote active local participation in the planning and implementation of development projects across the country. Generally, the research noted that, while structures for community participation may be in place in projects, people’s use of the structures to actualise their participation largely depends on how communication pathways function across the structures. Communication mechanisms ought to embrace the elements, principles and practices of development communication to succeed at mobilising active community participation in community development projects.
Open Access
Smallholder agriculture and food security in the City of Tshwane Municipality
(University of the Free State, 19-Jan) Ramanyimi, N. D.; Marais, M. T.
The study aims to investigates the role of smallholder agriculture contributing to food security system using resources within the area of City of Tshwane Metro municipality with special focus on the rights to agriculture resources and its value chain (markets/prices), rights to food security by assessing access food availability, food accessibility, food utilisation (meeting nutritional requirements), and food stability sustainability. The study applied a descriptive research using a mixed model approach of both qualitative and quantitative research study. A purposive sampling method was used to identify 61 smallholder agriculture farmers from a population of 412 farmers and five officials participated in the study. The main findings of the research indicate that there is a positive significant relationship between smallholder agriculture and food security as food produced is sufficient to satisfy food access to the household. The smallholder has powers to land but does not use it optimally. Further violations of rights to markets persist, especially formal markets with regard to food prices. The study concludes that the relationship has the potential to contribute to the country‟s challenges of poverty and employment and it is therefore recommended that it should be considered by giving it necessary recognition it deserves. Where necessary the relationship needs to be natured by providing good environment for it to excel e.g. establishment of small-scale financial credit facilities.
Open Access
The role of smallholder farmers' cooperatives in rural development: a case of Umgungundlovu District Municipality, Kwazulu-Natal
(University of the Free State, 19-Jan) Malomane, Mmemogolo Aaron; Marais, Mark
This study investigates the contribution of smallholder farmers’ cooperatives in improving the socio-economic conditions of rural communities, focusing on uMgungundlovu District, KwaZulu-Natal Province. A qualitative research design, using interviews as an instrument to collect data, was utilised. The purposive sampling technique was used to select a sample of smallholder farmers’ cooperatives as participants to participate in the study. The cooperatives were selected based on their potential and prospects to significantly contribute to rural development. The study indicates that smallholder farmers’ cooperatives play a role in enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities, with many members dependent on the income generated from cooperatives. These cooperatives play a role in job creation, poverty reduction, access to markets, economic empowerment, human capital development, the improvement of the creditworthiness of members, and the creation of networking platforms. Furthermore, they are active in improving the lives of the less fortunate in the District through the donation of surplus food to orphanages, the elderly, vulnerable households, as well as funerals. As in other developing countries, poverty eradication, job creation, and improving the lives of rural communities emerged as key reasons for smallholder farmers to establish cooperatives in the District. Other reasons included contributing to economic development and skills development, access to finance, as well as training and capacity development. Despite evidence of the sampled cooperatives sustaining the livelihoods of rural communities, various challenges confront them. These include high illiteracy rates, the inability to access finance and formal markets, inadequate extension support, and the lack of transport. Among others, the study recommends clustering cooperatives following the commodity approach model to address some of the challenges they face. There is a need to expand extension support and the provision of appropriate production and marketing infrastructure to ensure the adherence to and adoption of good agricultural practices. In addition, government should drive public-private partnerships and involve smallholder farmers’ cooperatives as key partners in rural development initiatives. Lastly, it is recommended that smallholder farmers’ cooperatives in the District explore the possibility of establishing a Cooperative Financial Institution (CFI) and eventually a cooperative bank, owned by all smallholder farmers in the District, to address the challenge of access to finance. It is hoped that this study will be of value to policy-makers, cooperatives, rural communities, and academia.
Open Access
From welfare to community development - the role of local congregations as agents of development in the Mangaung metropolitan area
(University of the Free State, 19-Jan) Bezuidenhout, Lynette; Ellis, Willem
Local Christian churches have been identified as development partners needed to address the challenges of poverty and inequality in South Africa. Leaders of local congregations influence the manner in which these congregations become involved in their respective communities. This research indicates a need for the churches in Mangaung to foster an understanding of people-centred, participatory development in leaders and members, and address the legacy of apartheid to move away from the charity mind-set that determines its current involvement in surrounding communities.
Open Access
A policy analysis of Swaziland's preparedness for the implementation of free secondary education (FSE)
(University of the Free State, 19-May) Mamba, Velaphi; Nsibande, N. H.
The end of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in 2015 resulted in an expanded global effort to increase efforts at fighting poverty, eliminating inequality and protecting the planet. Consequently, an ambitious global agenda was agreed upon through what has become known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals seek to take over from the MDGs and are meant to be achieved by the year 2030. Goal 4.1 of the SDGs calls for the provision of free quality primary and secondary education by states as a means of realizing the right to education. Swaziland, being a state party to the United Nations, is expected to show practical commitment towards the implementation of this new agenda. This study sought to analyse whether or not this is the case and if there was policy clarity for the roll-out of Free Secondary Education (FSE) in the country. A systematic policy analysis approach was undertaken to understand the level of preparedness of the Swazi state for such an undertaking. Overall, the study found that while efforts were being made in this direction, there was no concrete policy clarity that would inform a robust implementation of FSE in the country. The study recommends that for goal 4.1 to be given meaningful impetus the Swazi government needs to clearly review and align its policies and practices with the view of implementing FSE.
Open Access
Perceptions of living environment and quality of life in Freedom Square after the upgrading process
(University of the Free State, 21-Mar) Gondwe, Gift Maynard Makonyola; Marais, J. G. L.; Venter, A.
Using a quantitative research approach and a longitudinal research design, this study investigates Freedom Square residents’ living environment almost 30 years after completion of the physical upgrading process. Freedom Square is located in Bloemfontein in South Africa’s Free State province. Though descriptively analysed, this longitudinal data analysis was considered appropriate, as it contrasts one-off case studies dominating informal settlement upgrading work. Thus, in addition to current quantitative secondary data, the study uses previous sets of work in the same area to evaluate the long-term effect of upgrading interventions on the living environment. Even though the initial upgrading approach in Freedom Square entailed orthodox private sector housing provisioning, the analysis finds a suitable case to evaluate, i.e., both the initial approach and flexible self-help housing that became prominent after 1993. The analysis of the 2020 study largely assents to the previous findings. This appears to be the scenario for almost all the questions regarding the changing demographics, socio-economic changes, and residents’ mobility. Residents’ self-assessed economic wellbeing, general living environment, satisfaction levels with aspects of housing and the location, changing needs, and social cohesion experiences have also assumed a trend similar to previous findings. The study undertakes a comprehensive literature review from both the international housing perspective and the changing South African housing policy. Subsequently, some recommendations that can inform in-situ upgrading processes involving gradual improvement of the physical infrastructure are proposed. Firstly, upgrading programmes must be long-term oriented, and move beyond quick-win outcomes. They must be implemented in an environment of sustainable municipal management, because effective, practical, and efficient provisioning of municipal services are the focus once the initial benefits from the physical infrastructural upgrading are delivered. Secondly, the realisation of expected informal settlement upgrading outcomes is adequately ascertained through housing sustainability. Upgrading processes must therefore be allied with broad economic development themes in the upgrading environment. These broad themes must be pursued along with holistic approaches regarding socio-economic sustainability, social integration, and globalisation. They must be backed by regulatory, social, and economic principles, all of which must speak one language. In this regard, municipal authorities need to institute upgrading methods through participatory and democratic housing governance, new investments for the marginalised dwellers, and equitable delivery of essential services. All these aspects guarantee resilience, and, therefore, long-term benefits. Thirdly, comprehensive municipal capacity assessments should complement upgrading programmes to determine the ability of the municipality to meet adequate service delivery beyond the current requirements. Lastly, it is essential that the planning of an in-situ upgrading process should endeavour to develop plans towards community, location, and labour force participation so as to nurture social cohesion as an important aspect of conducive living environment in an upgraded informal settlement.
Open Access
Local economic development (LED) in a border town: the case of Ladybrand, Eastern Free State
(University of the Free State, 21-Nov) Masiloane, Mary M.; Marais, J. G. L.
This study examines the economic advantages of Ladybrand’s being a border town. Development disparities exist between regions in the periphery and those in more centralised areas. These regional disparities are because development initiatives focus primarily on urban areas, to the detriment of outlying regions like border towns. The lack of attention to border areas results in high unemployment rates and the exodus of skilled labour to larger economic centres. Ladybrand has experienced deterioration and underdevelopment. Problems in the town include a lack of services, depreciating physical infrastructure, a high unemployment rate, and a lack of growth ideas. Mantsopa Local Municipality, under which Ladybrand falls, has introduced LED initiatives in the past, but they have not yielded any economic development in the town. Additionally, the proximity of Ladybrand to Lesotho as a possible economic advantage is not mentioned in the municipality’s Integrated Development Plan. Therefore, the study sought to determine the LED initiatives currently employed in Ladybrand and discover the economic benefits of the town’s proximity to the Lesotho border. The researcher employed a qualitative research approach to better understand the phenomena under investigation. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and purposive sampling used as the sampling design. The study found that the respondents regard Ladybrand’s proximity to Lesotho’s border as an advantage because Lesotho nationals contribute to the growth of businesses in Ladybrand. However, this support has decreased over the years, especially in the retail sector. This is mainly due to the building of malls in Maseru and the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also found that the local municipality has no current LED initiatives to tackle the high unemployment rate in Ladybrand. The study recommends cross-national collaboration between South Africa and Lesotho to boost LED in Ladybrand. The local municipality needs to focus on strengthening the tourism sector to attract visitors to the town. Service delivery and infrastructure in Ladybrand also need to improve to attract business investment to the town. Lastly, with the municipality’s help, the business fraternity needs to introduce marketing strategies to attract Lesotho nationals.
Open Access
The effects of renewable energy on communities: the case of Upington in the Northern Cape, South Africa
(University of the Free State, 21-Nov) Mabele, Modirapula Bernard; Marais, J. G. L.; Venter, A.
The study examines the effect of renewable energy on the communities of Upington in the Northern Cape, South Africa. The researcher analysed the secondary data (through the qualitative method) collected through focus groups and key informants' interviews. The research participants described their knowledge of how renewable energy affect the community. The 1998 White Paper of Energy (amended in 2003) aimed to reduce the environment's energy-related impact. This was followed by the promulgation of the National Energy Act (Act no. 34 of 2008) to implement the Integrated Energy Plan. The plan regulates the present and future energy services needed socially and efficiently while minimising the energy sector's adverse environmental impact. The government continued with its aspirations of green energy by introducing the Integrated Resource Plan in 2010 and reviewed it in 2018 and 2019 to ensure a steady shift towards more cost-effective and sustainable energy. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme was introduced in 2011 to enable the independent power producers to participate in viable bids to construct and maintain large renewable energy projects. The programme created a stage for Eskom to enter into power purchase agreements with the independent power producers to generate clean electricity and contribute to job creation, industrial policy and energy security. The study proceeded with discussions and the participants' views. At first, renewables contributed to jobs, climate mitigation, energy supply, especially in areas without grid access, and economic growth. However, the participants stated that because renewables have a boom effect, especially during the construction phase, they could cause harm to the community. The following socio-environmental issues have been identified because of renewable energy: crime, social disruption, negative impact on the environment and population growth that ultimately strain infrastructure, like roads, schools and housing. The participants cited housing prices that escalated, resulting in a severe affordability challenge for the local people. In addressing the local adverse effects of renewable energy, especially on crime and social disruption, the study recommended that the social integration workshops play a central role in mitigating the social ills in the host communities. Social integration means that the newcomers must be integrated into the host society. Renewable energy was introduced into the area without involving all the key stakeholders, especially the local ones. The study, therefore, recommends collaborative planning. Collaborative planning is an ideal plan to ensure that all key stakeholders work together to ensure a conducive environment (without any harm to the local resources and infrastructure) for renewable energy.
Open Access
Stakeholder participation in the planning at Alfred Nzo District Municipality
(University of the Free State, 21-Nov) Ndoko, Linda; Marais, Mark
Stakeholder participation is essential throughout the planning and implementation process at a municipality to update, engage and involve the community, councillors, the municipal administration and the politicians. People that are directly affected by planning suggestions and proposals should be involved during the preliminary planning stages; this could be community organisations and stakeholders with specific interests such as the landowners, service providers and business sector. The inclusion of identified participants or stakeholders in the decision-making demands a pro-active attitude of municipal authorities and starts with an invitation to stakeholders to attend the meetings and to ensure that the meetings are accessible. A qualitative research method was used in researching this subject. This approach is beneficial to explore and understand a central phenomenon and was chosen for this research study because the views of the participants, what they perceive as imperative and substantial, provides the point of orientation. An interview schedule was used to obtain information from the officials and stakeholders at Alfred Nzo District Municipality that participate in the municipal planning process, while telephonic semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. In order to address the research aims and objectives, the data collected was analysed using thematic analysis. This study established that Alfred Nzo Municipality has low levels of efficiency with regards to stakeholder engagement. It was also observed that the planning processes in the municipality is insufficiently inclusive, that poor planning in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality has adverse effects such as withdrawal of government funds, strikes, unmet needs of marginalised groups, poor service delivery as well as a low rating in terms of municipal performance. It is therefore recommended amongst others that the Alfred Nzo District Municipality must conduct stakeholder-municipality workshops and they must improve accountability, resource mobilisation, implementation of stakeholder driven policies, and effective communication between municipality and stakeholders.
Open Access
Livelihood impact of solar home systems: the case of Ruimsig informal settlement in Gauteng
(University of the Free State, 21-Nov) Nyamhuno, Shepherd; Kruger, Wessel; Venter, Anita
The study focused on evaluating the impact of a solar home system (SHS) programme on the residents of the Ruimsig informal settlement in the City of Johannesburg. Furthermore, the study compared the SHS to the previous unclean energy sources such as paraffin, candles and firewood. The study used a mixed method approach made up of both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Data collection was done through the telephone to avoid human contact to minimise the chances of spreading the COVID-19 virus. A total of 245 participants were selected for the questionnaires and five for the interviews. In addition, three key stakeholders were interviewed. The study demonstrated that the SHS programme created numerous economic opportunities that were previously unavailable (78% concurrence), such as trading of electric appliances and the selling of entertainment gadgets. The respondents reported that they were able to work longer into the night (80%), transact well under the lights and do mobile banking. Moreover, the respondents confirmed that they saved money because there was no need to travel to banks since they could now transact from home and also save money used on fossil fuel and candles (75%) that had been replaced by the SHS. The programme included energy-saving fridges that added a competitive advantage to their businesses and also increased their ability to store business stock in the fridges. Socially, the SHS improved various aspects of the community. The respondents had a wider choice of entertainment (97%), could communicate better (98%), and their children could study longer into the night (99%). Also, the residents indicated that since they had access to SHSs, their sense of security had improved (85%), indoor pollution decreased (76%) along with coughing (94%). Lastly, shack fires have declined (63%); however, not just because of the SHS, but also as a combined effect of shack upgrades to brick houses. SHS were unable to power heating elements, such as stoves and irons, leaving the residents to use continue using non-renewable energy sources that still posed some challenges of smoke and fire dangers.
Open Access
Housing and child health in South Africa: the value of longitudinal research
(University of the Free State, 22-Feb) Chatindiara, Kenneth; Marais, Lochner; Cloete, Jan
Research investigating the link between housing and health often produces mixed results. It does not always prove that good housing improves health. The results suggest a complex set of factors play a role, and the findings are sometimes contradictory. Two ways of addressing these concerns are longitudinal research, where the relationship between housing and health is measured in the short and medium terms, and a focus on children. We use the children’s housing and health data from the five waves of the National Income and Distribution Survey (NIDS) survey in South Africa, 2008 to 2017. We investigate the effect that continued living in informal housing over the five waves has had on these children’s health. Our results show a statistically significant relationship between prolonged residence in poor housing and poor health outcomes for some health indicators. The results call for a closer understanding of health issues in housing policy in South Africa.