Theses and Dissertations

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Open Access
A comparative investigation of the success factors affecting local- and foreign-owned SMMEs in the Thulamela Local Municipality
(2026-05-19) Magodi, Fariso; Chiliya, N.; Ndou, A.
Globally, small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are considered vital drivers of economic expansion and development, contributing significantly to the economic prosperity of a nation and its inhabitants. In South Africa, they account for approximately ninety five percent of all operating enterprises, roughly sixty percent of the formal labour force and thirty percent of the country's GDP; despite these significant contributions, a greater percentage of small businesses fail in their early stages. SMMEs are thought to have a failure rate that ranges from 70% to 80%, with about 50% of SMMEs failing within the first five years. Both foreign and locally-owned SMMEs face similar challenges, although, foreign-owned businesses encounter unique obstacles, such as xenophobia, racism, and language barriers. Foreign-owned SMMEs, nevertheless, continue to thrive and grow, often outperforming their locally-owned counterparts. The existing literature on the development of SMMEs, primarily focuses on locally-held SMMEs and makes little to no mention of SMMEs owned by foreigners. This study aims to comparatively investigate the success factors affecting locally- and foreign-owned SMMEs in Thulamela Local Municipality.This study adopted an interpretive method and an exploratory research design was employed. Qualitative research method was exploited to select 16 SMMEs within the municipality - 8 foreign-owned and 8 locally-owned. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews guided by a structured interview schedule, while the sample size was determined by data saturation after using a purposive sampling technique to select participants. The data was then analyzed by thematic analysis using Atlas software. This study's results show that the success of local- and foreign-owned SMMEs, in the Thulamela Local Municipality its mainly dependent on human capital factors, such as education and training, business skills and experience; social capital factors, such as kinship network, social network, group network and information sharing; as well as cultural factors, such as owners’ propensity for long working hours and hard work. Both groups demonstrated these characteristics, however, foreign SMMEs owners use these factors more effectively and strategically, hence making them more competitive than local SMMEs owners. Both local- and foreign-owned SMMEs experience challenges from - crime, financial constraints, market and competitive pressure, government rules, regulation and licensing, lack of government support and services. There were, however, distinct extra challenges for foreign SMMEs - xenophobia, stereotyping and discrimination. Winning strategies employed by foreign SMMEs include - bulk buying, competitive pricing strategy, technological adaptation and cross promotion. This study recommends that local SMMEs invest strongly in social networks and human capital, while also following some of the strategies proven successful by foreign SMMEs’ owners to remain competitive.
Open Access
A support framework of enhancing business performance of ruaral SMME's in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2024-09-06) Razwiedani, Khathutshelo Collins; Chiliya, Norman; Nkondo, Livhuwani G.
South Africa's aspiration for inclusive growth and development acknowledges the pivotal role of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) given the country's pervasive unemployment and poverty rates, particularly in rural regions. Since the inception of democracy in 1994 with the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) to the present National Development Plan: Vision 2030, the focal point of South Africa's developmental endeavours has been the alleviation of poverty and inequality. This study aimed to devise a support framework to enhance the performance of SMMEs in the rural expanse of Limpopo Province, South Africa, while also fostering entrepreneurship expansion. Its primary objectives encompassed identifying the determinants affecting rural SMME performance, crafting a conceptual framework to bolster it, utilizing empirical research outcomes to formulate recommendations, and drawing conclusions to augment SMMEs' performance in Limpopo. Additionally, the study proffered actionable insights for stakeholders, including policymakers and entrepreneurs, to ensure the sustained viability of SMMEs in rural South Africa. Employing a quantitative research design aligned with the educational positivist paradigm, the study collected data from 377 entrepreneurs through questionnaires. A Convenience Sampling method was employed. Validity and reliability were ensured through exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach alpha coefficients determination. Pearson's correlation coefficient tests were employed to discern relationships among independent variables. The resultant path model addressed prevalent challenges confronting rural small businesses, proposing a roadmap for enhancing their operational performance.
Embargo
A Systematic Literature Review of the National Health Insurance (NHI) funding models: Insights fot the Financial Sustainability of the South African NHI
(2026-05-19) Nemathaga, Pfano Kundani
As South Africa moves towards implementing National Health Insurance (NHI), concerns remain about how to fund the system in a way that is both sustainable and equitable. This study aims to review existing literature on NHI funding models across different countries to identify insights that can support the financial sustainability of South Africa’s NHI. A systematic literature review was conducted, focusing on low- and middle-income countries with socioeconomic conditions similar to those of South Africa, and following the PRISMA protocol to ensure a structured and transparent selection of studies. Relevant literature was organised and analysed using the Atlas—ti software, enabling thematic coding and the synthesis of key findings. The findings highlighted a range of funding models adopted by low- and middle-income countries and the challenges of implementing NHI. The study provides evidence-based insights to guide policymakers in developing a sustainable and inclusive NHI funding model. Limitations include a focus on literature published between 2015 and 2025, and between 2021-2025 for results analysis, predominantly in English, which may exclude relevant studies from other periods or regions. The government should try to implement a progressive, primary healthcare–focused NHI funding model while strengthening public participation to ensure fairness, sustainability, and trust. Kurt Lewin’s Change Management Theory should guide implementation to reduce resistance through clear communication, training, and phased reform. Future research should employ a qualitative research method to explore stakeholders' perceptions and experiences regarding the feasibility and acceptability of a progressive financing and primary healthcare investment funding model for South Africa's National Health Insurance (NHI).
Open Access
Agricultural technology's effect on entrepreneurship: a case study of the Mopani District Municipality in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2023-10-05) Mangena, Mokgadi Lucy; Nkondo, L. G.; Nemushungwa, A.
Traditionally, agriculture was considered a low-tech industry with limited technical dynamics. As modernisation engulfed human kind, changes to the agricultural sector occurred, spearheaded by economic liberalisation. Economic liberalisation helped to reduce the sector’s protection. These changes brought new entrepreneurial players into the sector, in addition to innovation and portfolio entrepreneurship. Despite these positive changes, the agricultural sector faces entrepreneurship challenges. A lot of these situational challenges are widely publicised in literature but not much has been written about agricultural entrepreneurship. This study, therefore, brings a new dimension to the entrepreneurship field of research. That is, the need for a study about the agricultural technology’s effects on entrepreneurship is long overdue. Against this backdrop, this study investigated the agricultural technology’s effects on entrepreneurship in the Mopani District Municipality. The study adopted a qualitative approach with a sample of ten participants using purposive sampling. Interpretive paradigm was used to underpin the study. Data was collected through interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. The study found that agricultural technology provides unparalleled benefits to farmers despite negative consequences associated with its use. The study recommends that farmers should familiarise themselves with the new agricultural technology’s effects on their trade before embracing it. Policy makers are encouraged to formulate appropriate policies that would help to develop the farmers’ knowledge and skills about agricultural technology.
Embargo
An exploration of Small, Medium Enterprises (SMEs) owners’ preparedness towards the risk of natural disasters within the Limpopo Province: a case of Vhembe District Municipality
(2025-09-05) Masenya, Mapitsi Paulinah; Nkondo, L. G.; Khohomela, N. T.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are considered as the engine of growth for every country’s economy. These enterprises are estimated to be the major employer within the South African economy and contributes approximately 40 percent to the gross domestic product (GDP) of the country. SMEs are perceived as the main drivers of poverty reduction, employment, economic growth, and wealth generation, hence are vital for a marketplace to be profitable and competitive. Regardless of the significance of SMEs on the country’s economic growth, literature has mainly ignored investigating the preparedness of SMEs owners towards the risk of natural disasters. Several available studies concentrated mainly on the challenges that SMEs come across in their businesses because of natural disasters thus threatening these enterprises’ business continuity and performance. Hence, it is an opportunity for this study to address the gap based on the above literature. The purpose of this study was to investigate the SMEs owners’ preparedness towards the risks of natural disasters within Thulamela and Makhado Local Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Furthermore, a qualitative research approach was employed with a sample of 10 participants; purposive sampling was used to select the sample who share similar characteristics, experiences, and sentiments. Semi-structured interview guides were used to conduct face-to-face interviews to gather data. After collecting data, the transcription of data was done using Microsoft word, then the transcribed data was analysed using thematic analysis through ATLAS.ti version 8 software. The findings of this study have shown that there is plethora strategies implemented to prepare to overcome risks of natural disasters in Thulamela and Makhado Local Municipality, therefore strategies revealed were investment in insurance, emergency financial funds, employee training and use of digital tools. The current study was limited solely to SMEs operating within two Local Municipality, namely Thulamela and Makhado Local Municipality and dependent only on the views and experiences of participants. The researcher recommended that SMEs should establish disaster awareness workshops and training to instil knowledge to other SMEs and large enterprises from other Municipalities or districts. It is advisable that a similar study be conducted in other districts using quantitative or mixed research approaches to gain a holistic understanding about the differences or similarities that may exist.
Embargo
An exploration of the factors that contribute to hybrid entrepreneurship sustainability: A case of City of Tshwane Municipality, Gauteng in South Africa
(2025-09-05) Makhuba, Appriciate Thikhedzo; Nkondo, L. G.; Zindiye, S.
The concept of hybrid entrepreneurship was previously classified as either professional labour or self-employment to an extent that it was regarded as an act of “double-dipping”. On contrary it now stands at a forefront as a mechanism that generate supplementary income. However, the phenomenon of hybrid entrepreneurship has not been fully studied, as the most common studied aspects relates to the benefits of hybrid entrepreneurship, and its transitory decision notion. Thus, it has left a knowledge gaps pertaining to challenges of hybrid entrepreneurship and sustainability strategies. Therefore, in this context, the present study has investigated the factors contributing to the establishment of hybrid entrepreneurship, challenges of hybrid entrepreneurship and sustenance strategies thereof. To conduct the study in appropriate to meaningful conclusion the researcher has adopted the methodological assumption, guided by interpretivism paradigm, which led to the adoption of a qualitative research approach. This has enabled the researcher to gain an in-depth understanding of human behavior, and experience shared by hybrid entrepreneurs. As a result, this study was piloted with two participants before commencing with the main data collection process which entail 16 more participants. The pilot study was done to expose the researcher to the data collection process and to improve the questioning and probing skills of the researcher. Furthermore, thematic analysis process was adopted to deduce the meaning behind the participants’ words and experiences, with the use of ATLAS.ti. software to analyse data, code and develop themes. The findings showed that individuals are compelled to venture into hybrid entrepreneurship out of financial necessity, passion, gaps in employment and career enhancement opportunities (promotions). Also, it was found that the professional industries play a vital role in empowering hybrid entrepreneurs through equipping them with the knowledge and skills; also, family support and motivation, and community and social issues are also influential towards the establishment of hybrid entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the results have also shown, that hybrid entrepreneurs face difficulties with the management of time, overwork and fatigue, financial constraints, client mistrust and reliability issues - which hampers market and business operations. Therefore, in order for hybrid entrepreneurs to overcome these at some point they had to use their salaries to finance side- businesses; they normalise executing business tasks after working hours or in their free time. Also, they transfer the knowledge and skills across both spheres. They further eliminate untrusted clients and maintain a robust clientele that is profitable to the business, which helps to maintain the clientele, and sustain their businesses. This study is amongst the first to provide sustainable strategies towards guiding hybrid entrepreneurs to ensure survival. The study has further contributed to a reliable and comprehensive knowledge of this phenomenon through investigating challenges of hybrid entrepreneurship and the factors contributing to its establishment. Thus, it has enabled the identification of new factors, in addition to the established ones like financial supplement and passion. The recommended strategies for survival have opened a knowledge gap for future researchers, on the impact of hybrid entrepreneurship on economic growth, because when a business is sustained and generates income, it is likely to have an impact on economic growth. The study suffered from time constraints as it was supposed to be completed within a specific period but was delayed.
Embargo
An exposition of micro-franchising and women’s entrepreneurship development, in Thulamela Local Municipality
(2025-09-05) Maluleke, Tiyisani Shiella; Nkondo, L. G.; Zindiye, S.
Micro-businesses, help, for instance, women to build their social, emotional, and economic capabilities in addition to increasing national productivity and creating jobs. Limited studies, however, have explored the exposition of micro-franchising on women entrepreneurship development in Thulamela Local Municipality, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. This study was conducted to explore the challenges that are faced by women entrepreneurs in micro-franchising and to come up with strategies that can be employed to overcome those challenges. A qualitative research approach was employed, with a sample of 12 women entrepreneurs in Thulamela Local Municipality; convenience sampling technique was adopted to select the participants. Primary data was gathered through in-depth interviews using a structured interview guide. The study findings reveal that the contribution of micro-franchising to women’s entrepreneurship development includes employment creation, income generation, independence, and skills pooling. The study also established that the challenges that are faced by women entrepreneurs in micro franchising are – lack of access to markets; inadequate infrastructure; very stiff competition; unreliable customers; distrust by individuals; gender discrimination; inadequate knowledge; lack of capital; lack of financial literacy; lack of training; low profit, inadequate client base; having to sell on credit; poor time management and unsatisfied customers. Strategies recommended to enhance micro franchising for women entrepreneurship development, included – stakeholders conducting awareness events, campaigns and entrepreneurial workshops, financial literacy training; funding; infrastructure provision; mentorship, non-financial support and network opportunities; skills training and the municipality must create an enabling condition such as providing women entrepreneurs with stalls to sell from. The major limitation is that the study was done in Thulamela Local Municipality, Vhembe district, Limpopo which implies that it might not be possible to generalise the findings and recommendations to other municipalities or provinces.
Open Access
An analysis of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and entrepreneurship in South Africa: opportunities and challenges
(2023-05-19) Ngomana, Tshembo; Nkondo, L. G.; Nemushungwa, A. I.
Africa and the rest of the world have witnessed plethora of changes in the way we do things, by the introduction of the fourth industrial revolution. This is not just true for the way people live, for the fourth industrial revolution has also impacted the manner in which businesses operate and perform. Its introduction presented changes, challenges and opportunities on the operations of small businesses; these have not been sufficiently tested in the body of knowledge. It is against this background that this study investigates the changes, challenges and opportunities brought by the 4IR on entrepreneurship with special focus on small businesses. The study was guided by the radical humanists‘ paradigm, the phenomenological design and the qualitative research method. Data was collected from 10 small business owners purposively sampled from Gauteng at the Ekurhuleni Local Municipality and Mpumalanga at Bushbuckridge Local Municipality. A structured interview guide was used to collect data through face-to-face interviews while an audio recorder and a notebook were used to capture the responses of the participants. The collected data was transcribed using Microsoft Word version 26 and analysed thematically. Results indicate the fourth industrial revolution applicable technologies, potential changes, challenges and opportunities facing small businesses and entrepreneurship. The value of this dissertation is that it is among the first studies contributing towards understanding of the changes, challenges and opportunities presented by the 4IR to small businesses and entrepreneurship in South Africa. The scope of the study was restricted to Bushbuckridge Local Municipality and Ekurhuleni Local Municipality; therefore, findings might not be generalisable to other areas in South Africa, to the rest of Africa or other developing countries/emerging economies. There is an opportunity to conduct similar study with other municipalities in other provinces in South Africa to gain different views. The researcher recommended that entrepreneurs should search for more information from relevant and reputable sources in order to avoid misinformation and misunderstandings as well as enrolling on 4IR education and skills programme and policymakers should implement necessary tech-related policies that will work towards providing adequate tech-support to small businesses.
Open Access
An appraisal of the efficacy of selected macrotourism policies of South Africa
(2009-09-08) Zembani, Pamela Edna; Steyn, P. E.
Embargo
Assessing Financial Sustainability in South African Higher Education: A Comparative Study of Historically Disadvantaged and Advantaged Institutions Through Ratio Analysis
(2026-05-19) Mulaudzi, Thilivhali Calvin
South African public universities are expected to fulfil multiple mandates simultaneously: widening access, supporting national development goals, and maintaining financial stability, even as the economy stagnates and public funding remains constrained. This study examines how universities cope financially under such pressure, with a specific focus on the divide between historically disadvantaged institutions (HDIs) and historically advantaged institutions (HAIs). While much has been written about access, equity, and the politics of higher education funding, less attention has been directed at comparing the financial positions of these two groups using standardised, longitudinal financial data. This study addresses that gap by assessing financial sustainability through ratio analysis over a five-year period (2019–2023), interpreted through the lens of Resource Dependence Theory (RDT). The study adopted a quantitative, longitudinal approach. Audited financial statements for 2019 to 2023 were collected from four public universities (two HDIs and two HAIs), with institutional identities anonymised. From those statements, standard financial ratios covering liquidity, solvency, efficiency, and profitability were calculated. These ratios were then compared across institutional types and over time, with RDT providing a theoretical framework for interpreting the patterns of financial dependence and vulnerability that emerged. Overall, the results point to a consistent difference between the two groups. The HDIs exhibited weaker liquidity, higher leverage, and less ability to generate surpluses that could be used for reinvestment patterns that link closely to ongoing dependence on state subsidies and student financial aid. The HAIs, by contrast, demonstrated stronger balance sheets and more diversified income, although their indicators also declined over the period. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified these disparities, particularly where institutions lacked reserves or flexible revenue sources. The study concludes that improving financial sustainability requires action at two levels. Universities need to strengthen financial governance and reduce over-reliance on a narrow set of income sources where possible. However, policy-level reform is also necessary, because historical resource imbalances still shape present-day financial outcomes. Without targeted interventions including revised funding formulas, infrastructure support, and capacity-building for income diversification the financial gap between HDIs and HAIs is likely to persist and potentially widen.
Embargo
Assessment of participation of the informal sector in micropension schemes in Thulamela Local Minicipality, Vhembe District
(2026-05-19) Mmbadaliga, Nndivhiseni; Nkondo, L. G.; Khohomela, N. T.
In South Africa, a significant portion of the workforce operates within the informal sector; however, it remains largely excluded from formal retirement savings mechanisms. This study examined the extent to which the informal sector is engaged in the micro-pension initiatives within the Thulamela Local Municipality, situated in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province. The aim of the study was to assess the participation of the informal sector in micro-pension schemes and to identify the key factors influencing uptake. The research adopted an interpretivist paradigm and implemented a qualitative methodology, adhering to an exploratory research framework. The investigation employed a non-probability sampling technique, specifically purposive sampling, to identify participants for comprehensive interviews. Data was gathered through interviews, which were recorded participants’ consent to ensure precise transcription and analysis. The data was analysed manually using thematic analysis. The findings indicated that the participation in micro-pension schemes is extremely low due to limited awareness and understanding. Nevertheless, in contexts where financial literacy and targeted outreach initiatives are implemented, participation rates are anticipated to be significantly higher. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing context-specific insights into micro-pension participation within a rural South African municipality, an area that remains underrepresented in the literature. The study was limited by its small sample size and focused on a single municipality, which restricts the generalisability of the findings. Future research could extend the scope to include other rural and urban municipalities, employing quantitative and mixed methods approaches to enable comparative analyses and enhance the generalisability of findings on micro-pension scheme participation.
Open Access
An assessment of the factors driving consumer's propensity to purchase online
(2021-03) Mujera, Tinashe; Kadyamatimba, A.; Zindiye, S.
Despite the tremendous global development within the electronic-commerce (e-commerce) industry, marketers in emerging economies are still lagging in understanding the dynamic consumers’ online purchasing behaviour. Furthermore, the literature reporting on consumers’ online purchasing practices in an African set up remains largely inconsistent and fragmented as most previous studies are based on consumers in first world countries. To address this problem, by specifically targeting the South African market, the main aim of the study was to establish key factors driving consumers’ propensity to purchase online in order to device a model that guides online marketing strategy and future research. Guided by the quantitative research approach and a descriptive single cross-sectional design, data was collected from a sample of 350 participants drawn from Sandon City, located in the Gauteng Province using a self-administered questionnaire. With the aid of SPSS Version 26, the collected data were analysed through descriptive and multivariate statistical tests. Consumer innovativeness, perceived benefits, online shopping experience and perceived risk were found to be the major factors driving consumers’ propensity to purchase online. These factors were however found to vary according to demographic characteristics, particularly pertaining to consumers’ education and income level. Ultimately, the study findings led to the formulation of a model that can be recommended to marketers in guiding online shopping within the South African retail sector and regionally.
Open Access
An assessment of the potential for sustainable community tourism development in the villages affected by the Nandoni Dam
(2014-01-10) Manavhela, Pfarelo; Spencer, J. P.; Nethengwe, T.
Community participation in tourism developments at Nandoni Dam forms an integral part of the government objectives for the tourism industry, which are inter alia, to build a world class tourism industry, and to integrate historically disadvantaged people into the mainstream of the tourism industry. The purpose of this investigation was to analyse the potential for sustainable community tourism development in the rural areas of the Limpopo Province, in terms of community engagement/involvement in tourism development, preservation and conservation of natural sites, and tourism awareness, in order to make recommendations to sustain the development of tourism and improve service quality, with special reference to the Nandoni Dam. The following objectives were set for this study: • To determine the level of community involvement tourism development at Nandoni Dam. • To determine the level of understanding of environmental conservation of the area affected by the Dam. • To determine the level of tourism awareness among the Ha-Mutoti, Ha-Budeli and Dididi communities at the study area. • To identify the key problems affecting the development of tourism projects in the study area. The results from the survey indicate that there are a number of local people who really want to get in involved in tourism business ventures, such as traditional dancers at the Dam site; sell fruit and vegetables; braai meat at the picnic area; being a professional fisherman; traditional craft work, become cleaners and so forth. At the present moment Nandoni Dam's community involvement in tourism development in the site does not exist at all. There is no community participation at any level of development at the Dam site. Problems seem to be more prominent than benefits that were promised at the first stage of the Dam development. Some of the problem identified are: • The lack of jobs at Nandoni Dam. • On improvement in the genera! infrastructure. •The lack of tourism awareness has been identified as one major contributing factor that hinder community participation in tourism development, as well as the breakdown of communications between the villagers of Ha-Mutoti, Ha-Budeli and Dididi, and the Chief, including the Dam management. Some of the recommendations that emerged from the study include the following: • Tourism awareness campaign are needed for the Nandoni Dam community. • Community members interested in establishing any tourism projects must be encouraged and supported by all stakeholders. • Local educational institutions, government departments that deal with tourism and conservation, forestry, transport departments, and local authorities should become more efficiently engaged an important players at the local level. The capability of these official agent for facilitating participatory processes needs to be built up. Systems of feed-back, to enable appropriate policy decisions and strategic planning at higher levels needs to be put in place
Open Access
Black tax and micro-entrepreneurship in Thulamela Local Municipality forms, challenges and coping strategies
(2019-05-18) Mikioni, Anyway; Shambare, R.; Khohomela, N. T.
Africans are, by nature, collectivist people. This is especially true for countries such as South Africa, where people live their lives as a community – they celebrate life’s achievements together and mourn life’s tragic moments together. Africans support each other as one big family, at least theoretically, however, in the recent past, effects of urbanisation and globalisation have reshaped, reorganised, and reoriented African families. The once communal and collectivist views towards life (that the community or family comes first before the individual) are fast being replaced by individualistic perspectives towards life. The nuclear family is rapidly taking centre stage. In the process, individual needs are crowding out those of the family and community. Communal needs are now being viewed as a burden. To describe this ‘new’ burden, modern society has coined a term to express its mixed emotions towards its responsibility towards the extended family; they call it “black tax”. As a form of tax, supporting one’s extended family results in greater good, at least in the long-run, however, in the short-run, high levels of indebtedness and growing personal needs make one’s obligation to the family almost seems morally wrong, insensitive, and illegal, hence, the word “black,” as in the black market – an informal underground market that is often immoral and illegal. By extension, contemporary South Africans seem to be saying that whilst looking after one’s extended family in the 21st century is immoral, insensitive, unreasonable, and expensive, we still will try our best to be play our part, whenever and wherever we can. Clearly, black tax affects the lives of individuals, particularly those being black taxed. Despite this growing phenomenon, the literature has largely ignored the effect of black tax on the life of ordinary people. The few available studies focus mostly on black tax within the middle class, employed, working population. Very little studies have looked at the effect of black tax on entrepreneurs, as they too are not immune to black tax. It was, therefore, opportune for this dissertation to address this gap within the literature. Consequently, the purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of black tax on micro-entrepreneurs, as well as to identify coping strategies employed by the latter to balance business needs and communal expectations. A qualitative case study was conducted in which 12 entrepreneurs from the Thulamela Local Municipality area participated. Data were collected using in-depth interviews. After transcription, the interviews were analysed by means of thematic analysis using ATLAS.ti. Results indicate a high prevalence of various forms of black tax, challenges as well as well-structured coping strategies, as employed by the entrepreneurs. The value of this dissertation is that it is among the first in contributing towards understanding the impact of black tax on micro-entrepreneurship within the South African context. Several theoretical and practical implications have been suggested.
Open Access
Challenges faced by rural-women entrepreneurs in Vhembe District: the moderation role of gender socialisation
(2018-05-18) Karasi, Yvonne; Shambare, R.; Nkondo, L. G.
South African economic policies (for example, the National Development Plan [NDP] and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act [BBBEE]) place high emphasis on promoting entrepreneurial activities. In particular, these policies seek to provide for interventions that minimise challenges faced by entrepreneurs. In spite of this there is a segment of entrepreneurs that continues to experience numerous challenges – women entrepreneurs. The purpose of this study was to analyse the challenges faced by rural-women entrepreneurs. Rural women entrepreneurs in particular face challenges or barriers, which can be categorised under entrepreneurial, socio-cultural, personal, and technical barriers. The notion of gender socialisation can be used as one of several explanations as to why males and females behave differently. This kind of socialisation is also thought to be at the root of gender stereotyping, including chauvinism. This kind of socialisation has been said to influence the degree to which women face entrepreneurial challenges in rural areas. To address this research problem, which focuses on social perceptions, the critical realism paradigm was used. The research methodology used was a quantitative one, with the sample size 151 participants. Snowballing was utilised to locate participants with the desired characteristics. Self-completing questionnaires adapted from previous studies were utilised to gather data. The collected data was analysed using IBM-SPSS. Various descriptive and multivariate statistical tests, including ANOVA, cluster analysis, and factor analysis were used to analyse the data. The data collected indicated that women entrepreneurs with higher levels of gender socialisation (‘strongly believe’) are affected by entrepreneurial challenges more than those with low levels of gender socialisation. The results also indicated that education plays a key role in changing women’s’ attitudes towards their gendered roles and how they are socialised from a young age through to adult status. The researcher recommended equal opportunities for both males and females with regard to access to state resources such as education and finance, and access to information about businesses.
Open Access
A Cloud-based business continuity framework for container terminal operations: A South African case study
(2020) Kutame, Felix Nyadzani; Kadyamatimba, Armstrong; Ochara, Nixon Muganda
Contemporary cloud-based computing is crucial for the efficient delivery of ICT systems to users, as well as for versatile disaster recovery and business continuity management (BCM) platforms. Based on the need for efficient and fault-tolerant port operations, this study proposes a cloud-based business continuity framework (BCM) for the container terminal operations (CTO) in South Africa. The study examined the impact of ICT systems and services on Container Terminal Operations (CTO); determined Critical Business Functions in operations that must stay operational and analysed the impact of the unavailability of ICT systems and services on critical operations. This empirical study employed both quantitative and qualitative research designs and collecting data through self-constructed and self-administered questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data was analysed using the IBM Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) Version 23 while qualitative data was analysed through thematic analysis of interviews. Results show that to realize effective organizational resilience using BCM, three insights, as underlying mechanisms for assimilating cloud computing in BCM can be inferred: the first is that a digitalized BCM architecture ‘fits’ the cloud computing model. The specific BCM characteristics that befits cloud computing are continuous data processing; continuous data access and delivery; multi-platform data access; always – on ICT Services; and better decision making. Secondly, the cloud computing model is a ‘viable’ model that can contribute to managing complex organizations characterized by business units that are highly differentiated in terms of size, structure, ICT and investment levels. For such complex organizations, viability is visible in terms of how the multi-units can harness collective intelligence (CI) for more effective BCM. Collective intelligence, as a form of universally distributed intelligence that is constantly enhanced, coordinated in real time, and which results in effective mobilization of organizational competence, is a core organizing metaphor for achieving BCM in a complex organization. Lastly, to realize BCM, underpinned by greater digitalization of BCM and harnessing of CI; there is need for rethinking strategy towards adoption of an ‘Intelliport strategy’ or ‘smart’ BCM for ports, currently intertwined with the notion of the 4IR. That the ‘smart’ nature of BCM require the assimilation of 4IR technologies that enable ubiquitous presence and real time information regarding organizational processes. Adopting an ‘Intelliport strategy’ is likely to have two main implications for BCM and practice: the first is linked to the development of a circular economy, in which aggregation of BCM activities can enhance sustainable development of the seaports; and secondly, adoption of a cloud computing model that can result in the enhancement of business growth of the units promote collaborative problem solving and decision making in BCM.
Open Access
Consumer acceptance of mobile marketing through mobile phones: a case study of South African University students
(2017-05-18) Donga, Gift Taruwandira; Kadyamatimba, A.; Zindiye, S.; Chibonda, T.
Consumer mobile phone adoption is on the rise exponentially, and offers marketers with many new opportunities to reach and serve customers. The South African mobile phone market has increased rapidly and a significant proportion of mobile services usage in South Africa is the youth. South African youths are following international trends as well as becoming the fastest-growing group in terms of technology adoption in the country. The prevalence of mobile technology as well as its capability to enable laser precision marketing on an individual basis has directed marketers to consider the adoption of mobile marketing. However, the question remains whether consumers are ready for uptake of mobile phone marketing. The purpose of this study was to bring light and create an understanding of the factors affecting university students’ willingness to participate in mobile phone marketing in South Africa. This study used a positivist paradigm that ensures that there is a gap between the researcher’s subjective bias and the objective reality being studied. The study was descriptive in nature with survey method being used to complete the study. The quantitative research technique was applied with data being collected from respondents by a self-administered questionnaire targeted at youth students from selected South African Universities. The questionnaire was pre-tested in a pilot study involving the research participants to identify errors in the research questionnaire and to ensure that the data collected would be relevant and as precise as possible. Findings from this study revealed how consumers want to participate in mobile marketing as well as the contributory factors influencing the acceptance of mobile marketing. Furthermore, this study supplements to the increasing body of evidence on mobile marketing acceptance. The study can also assist managers to utilise the potential of this marketing medium amongst university students in South Africa. More essentially, this study also provided information that can be used to monitor decision making towards mobile advertisements and marketing planning.
Open Access
A context-aware business intelligence framework for South African Higher Institutions
(2016) Mutanga, Alfred; Kadyamatimba, Armstrong; Mavetera, Nehemiah; Zaaiman, Jannie J.
This thesis demonstrates the researcher’s efforts to put into practice the theoretical foundations of information systems research, in order to come up with a context-aware business intelligence framework (CABIF), for the South African higher education institutions. Using critical realism as the philosophical underpinning and mixed methods research design, a business intelligence (BI) survey was deployed within the South African public higher education institutions to measure the respondents’ satisfaction and importance of business intelligence characteristics. The 258 respondents’ satisfaction and importance of the 34 observed business intelligence variables, were subjected to principal components analysis and design science research to come up with the CABIF. The observable BI variables were drawn from four latent variables namely technology and business alignment; organizational and behavioural strategies; business intelligence domain; and technology strategies. The study yielded good values for all the observed satisfaction and importance business intelligence variables as indicated by the Kaiser- Meyer-Olkin (KMO) Measure of Sampling Adequacy and the Bartlett Test of Sphericity. The data set collected from the survey deployed at the South African public higher education institutions, was reliable and valid based on the Cronbach α values which were all above 0.9. The researcher then used the descriptive and prescriptive knowledge of design science research, and the meta-inferences of the results from the principal components analysis to produce five contexts of CABIF. The BI contexts developed were, the Basic Context; the Business Processes Context which was divided into Macro and Micro business process contexts; the Business Intelligence Context; and the Governance Context. These contexts were extrapolated within the University of Venda’s business processes and this researcher concluded that the CABIF developed, could be inferred within the South African higher education institutions. At the University of Venda, this researcher managed to draw up CABIF based business intelligence tools that spanned from leveraging the existing ICT infrastructure, student cohort analysis, viability of academic entities, strategic enrolment planning and forecasting government block grants. The correlations and regression measures of the technology acceptance variables of the business intelligence tools modelled using CABIF at University of Venda, revealed high acceptance ratio. Overall, this research provides a myriad of conceptual and practical insights into how contextualised aspects of BI directly or indirectly impact on the quality of managerial decision making within various core business contexts of South African higher education institutions.
Embargo
Determinants of digital marketing adoption among SME's in the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality: a structural equation modeling approach
(2025-09-05) Chiliya, William; Munyoka, W.; Nkondo, L. G.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are continuously gaining recognition as a vital tool for the socio-economic development of South Africa and most countries, throughout the world. SMEs play a pivotal role in job creation and wealth distribution in previously disadvantaged communities, however, several studies conducted in South Africa have shown that SMEs experience high failure rates. It is estimated that South Africa has the highest failure rate of SMEs, however, they can significantly moderate their high failure rate by leveraging digital marketing strategies. Digital marketing is promoting products and services through digital channels, such as social media, share of experience (SOE), email, and mobile apps using the internet. Digital marketing adoption is an essential tool to curb the high failure rate of SMEs, however, several studies that have been conducted in South Africa show that there is a low level of adoption of digital marketing. This study sought to identify the key determinants for digital marketing adoption among SMEs in the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality in South Africa and to develop a conceptual framework to guide its adoption by SMEs in South Africa and other developing nations with similar socio-economic conditions. A positivistic paradigm was adopted to conduct the empirical component of the study and following the requirements of the positivistic paradigm, a quantitative research design was employed to conduct the study. SME owners or managers operating in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality were selected using the multi-stage stratified random sampling technique. The research employed a survey method through a self-administered questionnaire to gather data from research participants; the questionnaire was developed using literature from previous studies. The descriptive statistics data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 30. From the results, the researcher developed and tested a conceptual model using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling, using the AMOS software package (version 26). Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling were performed to test the hypotheses variables under study, to confirm a causal relationship and make inferences between observed and latent variables. The results obtained in this study reveal a concerningly low level of digital marketing adoption among the SME owners and managers who participated in this study. In addition - perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, firm size, behavioral control, top management support, perceived cost, and perceived availability of financial resources - were identified as the most significant factors influencing behavioral intention to use digital marketing. Compatibility and competitive pressure, however, were found to be insignificant factors influencing the behavioral intention to use digital marketing and the actual adoption of digital marketing. The findings of this study, it is anticipated, will contribute immensely towards the effective adoption of digital marketing by SMEs, using current digital marketing tools and providing guidelines to potential digital-marketing adopters as they develop their growth and sustainability strategies.
Open Access
Determining entrepreneurial challenges among women entrepreneurs selling fruits in the Vhembe District
(2024-09-06) Nenzhelele, Mulweli; Chiliya, N.
While women entrepreneurs in South Africa are making progress in overcoming gender biases and establishing their enterprises, they still encounter several structural and social challenges, many of which have been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. While past and current research has identified numerous challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, very few studies have focused exclusively on the specific challenges faced by rural women entrepreneurs or attempted to identify how these challenges affect women entrepreneurs. It is within this context that this study aimed to investigate the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs selling fruits in Vhembe District. This study was guided by the phenomenological research design and within the qualitative approach dictates. The convenience sampling technique was utilised to select the participants. The study interviewed 15 women entrepreneurs using face-to-face interviews guided by the structured interview guide. The collected data was transcribed using Microsoft Word and analysed using thematic analysis aided by ATLAS. ti. The findings will enrich the body of knowledge of the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs.