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Welcome to the University of Venda Institutional Repository, an open digital archive of the research output of the University of Venda. Univen IR contains theses and dissertations, research papers as well as conference papers. For further information and assistance please contact Mr Keith Malabi at +27 15 9628564 or +27 15 962 8314 during office hours

Recent Submissions

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Compatible components of the integrated pest management of Bathycoelia distincta (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae

(2024-09-06) Manzini, Shaun; Foord, S. H.; Joubert, E.

Two-spotted stink bug, Bathycoelia distincta Distant (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is a major pest of macadamia. It causes damage by directly feeding on macadamia kernel throughout the season and reducing nut quality by inducing nut abscission, premature nut abortion, necrotic lesions, deformed kernels, discoloration, or translucent blemishes on the kernel. Currently, growers rely on chemical insecticides to control stink bug populations. However, with overreliance and extensive use of chemical insecticides, the B. distincta has developed some resistance to certain active ingredients Furthermore, there is no doubt that agricultural intensification is the primary driver of the loss of biodiversity globally. Therefore, there is a need to develop Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to effectively minimize the damage caused by B. distincta and the loss of biodiversity due to agricultural intensification. The goal of this study was to investigate the role of landscape context, elevation, flying vertebrates, and pesticide application in shaping arboreal arthropod assemblages and macadamia nut quality metrics and evaluate the efficacy of alternative pest control measures to control B. distincta, explicitly focusing on entomopathogenic fungi and egg parasitoids Trissolcus basalis (Wollaston, 1858) (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae). Landscape context and elevation were the principal factors that explained species richness and arthropod size. Species richness and insect size decreased with increasing pesticide application rate; however, it was not significant. Insect damage did not vary in response to pesticide application, but the proportion of sound kernels decreased significantly with increasing pesticide application. All entomopathogenic fungal treatments were effective against B. distincta, with chitinase enzyme leading to a 95% mortality rate. Under field conditions, EPFs and a chemical knock-down spray showed no significant difference between the treatments. All parasitoid treatments significantly affected B. distincta egg mortality, with two pairs reaching a 100% parasitism rate. The processes that increase sound kernel recovery seem to be related to an increase in invertebrate community diversity and arthropod size, and although the mechanisms related to this are not always clear, the results suggest that arthropod diversity could be a good proxy for these processes. On the other hand, the study results showed that EPFs and stink bug egg parasitoids, Trissolcus basalis, may be used as biological control agents against B. distincta. Overall, the thesis emphasizes the importance of reducing pesticide application and using biological control agents, promoting more sustainable agricultural practices, and supporting biodiversity to improve ecosystem service provided by pest natural enemies.

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Assessment of nutraceutical attributes of selected wild edible fruit plants used by Vhavenda people of the Thulamela Local Municipality

(2024-09-06) Nephawe, Rinae Lucy; Mokganya, M. G.; Madala, N. E.

Wild edible fruit plants are highly valued in many remote rural areas, where they play a significant role in fulfilling the sociocultural and livelihood needs of people. Many of these plants are harvested by local communities to augment and diversify their diets as well as to promote local food security. The decline in the use of wild edible fruit plants may be due to a lack of knowledge of their nutritional value, their potential for income generation, and medicinal and cultural uses. This study focused on the documentation of utilisation, conservation, and nutraceutical composition of the wild edible fruit plants of the Thulamela Local Municipality. Information on wild edible fruit plants was gathered through semistructured interviews, fieldwork, and a literature review. A total of 39 wild edible fruit plants of 22 botanical families recorded during the study were used as food, beverage, and additionally as medicine. The number of wild edible fruit plants with medicinal properties was 39 whereas those used to make beverages were 9. Wild edible fruit plants of Thulamela municipality were experiencing challenges due to human activities resulting in declining, endangered, or even extinct. Results of this study also showed the use of wild edible fruit plants as firewood because 10 out of 39 were mentioned for this use. In this study the UHPLC-qTOF-MS/MS-based in source collision induced dissociation method was utilized to generate fragmentation data to assist in the differentiation of closely related isomers. Wild edible fruit plants have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and for nutritional purposes. Strychnos species has not yet been fully decoded, and due to the inherent complexity of plant metabolomes, the characterization of Strychnos photochemistry remains challenging. Thus, in this study, we propose the use of molecular networking to unravel the families using the metabolome analysis of two Strychnos species (Strychnos pungens and Strychnos spinosa) and highlight the relevance of molecular networking in exploring the chemotaxonomy of plants. This allows visualization of chemical classes and the variety of substructures within the molecular families.

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Assessment of pharmaceutical waste management in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

(2024-09-06) Malema, Mpho Bridget; Edokpayi, J. N.; Masindi, V.

Administering of pharmaceutical products is recognized as a crucial component of healthcare services, since these are used to treat, prevent, and cure diseases, however, rapid population growth has significantly increased the demand for pharmaceutical products, leading to a noticeable surge in their waste generation. This poses serious ecological and health risks if not properly managed, as pharmaceutical waste includes hazardous by-products that can contaminate various environmental spheres. Traces of pharmaceuticals have been detected in wastewater treatment plants, which often lack the necessary infrastructure to remove these compounds effectively. Consequently, the management of pharmaceutical waste is a critical concern for regional, national, and international communities, necessitating a thorough understanding of their management and potential eco-toxicological impacts to devise effective handling and containment strategies. This study was designed to appraise the holistic management of pharmaceutical waste in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. To fulfil this objective, various data collection methods were employed, including questionnaires, on-site observations, and interviews with medical practitioners and waste management personnel. A checklist was used to evaluate compliance with regulatory frameworks, focusing on healthcare facilities and pharmaceutical outlets. Data from observations were analysed descriptively, supported by visual aids like photographs; the interviews were categorized, coded, and abbreviated for easier analysis, while the questionnaire data were processed using SPSS and other statistical tools to generate meaningful outputs. The study's findings reveal significant deficiencies in pharmaceutical waste management within the Vhembe District. Inadequate waste management practices were observed, marked by the absence of source segregation and the use of suboptimal temporary storage containers chosen for convenience rather than efficacy. The infrastructure for waste storage within some of these facilities proved substandard, thereby, failing to meet regulatory requirements. Most facilities rely on municipal waste collection services and the sewer drainage systems, raising environmental and health concerns. The study also identified a significant gap in education and training regarding pharmaceutical waste management with healthcare professionals, who often perceive their responsibility as ending after writing a prescription. This lack of knowledge and preparedness to manage pharmaceutical waste, in line with legal requirements, is a major concern. Additionally, the study revealed participants’ challenges related to understanding waste categories and regulations, hence, emphasizing the need to sensitize healthcare professionals about these regulations. The results showed that 71% of consumers were aware of pharmaceutical waste, but only 20.1% understood its associated environmental and health risks. Alarmingly, 71.8% consumers lacked essential information about the consequences of pharmaceutical waste, and 80% frequently had surplus medications due to practitioners’ over-prescribing or discontinuation of treatment, contributing to waste accumulation. Furthermore, 86% of participants did not segregate pharmaceutical waste from general household waste. A significant 58.3% disposed of pharmaceutical waste in standard trash bins, leading to landfills and potential soil and water contamination through leaching and migration. The study also highlighted the absence of dedicated regulatory measures addressing pharmaceutical waste; they are often categorised under the broader healthcare waste management framework. The existing framework suffers from a disconnect in policy development, implementation and enforcement, with regulations frequently formulated by different stakeholders who do not effectively collaborate. This lack of clarity makes it challenging for stakeholders to understand their separate roles and responsibilities, necessitating improved stakeholder engagement, education, and clear regulatory measures. Future efforts should focus on holistic approaches, proper stakeholder engagement, and stringent regulatory compliance to enhance proper pharmaceutical waste management and conserve the environment for future generations.

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Strategies for Enhancing Delivery of Beneficiary-preferred Low-cost Housing: A Case Study of Selected Rural Areas in Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality

(2024-09-06) Mokolo, Rudolf Kaleka; Francis, J.; Kamuzhanje, J.

This cross-sectional survey focused on the intricate process of delivering low-cost housing in Moganyaka and Tsimanyane villages within Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality in South Africa. It aimed to uncover the multifaceted challenges that hinder timely and satisfactory housing provision. Sixty-six participants drawn from Moganyaka (31) and Tsimanyane (35) were sampled. A questionnaire that contained closed-ended questions was administered electronically via Google Forms. Timely delivery of low-cost housing in Moganyaka and Tsimanyane villages was explored, focusing on community preferences, satisfaction levels and viable strategies. Ethical procedures were followed, following steps that included obtaining clearance from the University of Venda Social Research Ethics Committee and securing entry for the study through engaging Traditional Councils in both villages. Data collection was carried out using an exploratory sequentially mixed method research design and involved pre-testing the questionnaire with entirely closed-ended questions. The questionnaire was administered via Google Forms from a total sample of 66 individuals drawn from both villages. Data analysis included crosstabulation and frequency computations, revealing insights into community preferences, satisfaction levels and challenges related to low-cost housing delivery. Demographic factors such as age and gender were observed to be playing a significant role. A higher participation rate from Tsimanyane Village compared to Moganyaka Village was observed, with a higher representation of females in both villages. This imbalance can be attributed to large numbers of males who migrate to other provinces for work opportunities, resulting in a high presence of female-headed households in rural areas. The age group distribution showed that the majority of participants in both villages were youth, highlighting the importance of addressing their needs and concerns. Timeliness of delivery and quality of low-cost housing projects were also explored, with notable concerns regarding project timelines, resource management, structural integrity and alignment with beneficiaries' preferences. Available literature emphasizes the importance of addressing the housing needs of low-income populations, especially in rural areas, and incorporating eco-friendly practices and energy-efficient technologies to enhance the sustainability and resilience of housing projects. Regarding the timeliness of delivery, the participants identified crucial criteria such as iii adherence to predetermined milestones, efficient resource management and streamlined administrative processes. Efficient resource management, regulatory compliance, community engagement, and sustainability were identified as critical factors in ensuring timely delivery and high-quality housing that meets beneficiaries' needs and preferences. Although there was agreement on good value and affordability, concerns about structural integrity, compliance with building regulations, and the visual appeal and functional design of housing units were revealed. In addition, there is a need for more attention to energy-efficient, durable housing. Streamlined processes, community engagement, technological integration and innovation, and risk management and capacity building for timely delivery of low-cost housing were found to be important. In conclusion, the importance of addressing the housing crisis for low-income populations through comprehensive approaches that consider efficient project management, regulatory compliance, community engagement and sustainability was highlighted. Thus, stakeholders can enhance beneficiary well-being and contribute to a more equitable and just society. The current study contributes to the field of rural development by proposing strategies for enhancing the delivery of beneficiary-preferred low-cost housing, which emphasizes the need for streamlined processes, effective resource allocation, technological integration, and community engagement. Addressing these areas helps stakeholders improve the overall effectiveness of low-cost housing initiatives and contribute to a more equitable and just society.

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Perceptions of cannabis entrepreneurs on South Africa’s cannabis masterplan: a case study of Limpopo Province

(2024-09-06) Maumela, Mulalo Rejoyce; Nkondo, L. G.; Khohomela, N. T.

This study delves into the emerging discourse surrounding the decriminalisation and commercialisation of cannabis, particularly within the context of South Africa's Cannabis Master Plan. With global shifts toward legalisation for both medicinal and recreational purposes, understanding the perceptions and challenges faced by cannabis entrepreneurs becomes paramount. In the Limpopo Province, like many other regions of South Africa, one of its strategic plans is to promote entrepreneurship and small-scale businesses, thus there is a need to interrogate the cannabis masterplan of the country. The main objective of the study was, therefore, to explore the perceptions of cannabis entrepreneurs on South Africa’s cannabis Master Plan. In this study a qualitative research method was used, and participants were selected using non-probability snowball sampling. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview guide through face-to-face interviews. An audio recorder and a notebook were used to capture the responses of the participants and data was collected from 16 cannabis entrepreneurs in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The adequate number of the sample size was guided by the point of saturation. The collected data was transcribed using Microsoft Word version 26 and analysed using ATLAS.ti.23 and the results found were used to make conclusions and recommendations of the study. The research findings highlight challenges faced by cannabis entrepreneurs, particularly, compliance with the country’s laws and regulatory bodies. For instance, to obtain a cannabis operating license, one is expected to pay a minimum of R25 000 and build a cannabis facility with high security and a sensory detector which is estimated could be over a million rand. The participants emphasised the need for unrestricted cannabis commercialisation, citing its benefits, such as income generation, economic growth and employment creation amongst others; also, entrepreneurs face issues with society not being informed about cannabis’ potential benefits. One of the recommendations made from this study is that policymakers and industry stakeholders should foster a sustainable, inclusive cannabis industry through full implementation of the Cannabis Master plan.