Faculty of Management, Commerce and Law

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Open Access
A Criminological Inquiry into Bad Policing and Student Violent Protest: Insight from the University of Venda
(2024-09-06) Nemurangoni, Gundo Chadley; Olofinbiyi, Sogo Angel
Understanding student violent protests poses a significant challenge. Central to this concern is the perplexing question: "Why do students persist in resorting to violence during protests, risking arrest, injury, or even death?" Despite advancements in comprehending the evolutionary and proximate mechanisms underlying protests, there remains a notable scarcity of insight into the factors precipitating violence during such actions. One often-overlooked factor is ‘bad policing’ during protest events, which can serve as a catalyst for violence. The right to protest is a dynamic avenue for individuals to voice their concerns on pressing issues and ensure that decision-makers heed their grievances. Section 17 of the Constitution of South Africa (1996) enshrines the legal right of all individuals to engage in peaceful and unarmed protests, encompassing non-violent demonstrations that may not be regarded as highly disruptive. The research examined the relationship between poor policing practices and student violent protests at the University of Venda. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, data collection involved administering 200 questionnaires to UNIVEN students through a simple random sampling. Complementarily, SAPS POP officers from the Thohoyandou precinct were purposively selected for participation. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted across four police stations, each comprising five members, including Thohoyandou, Mutale, Levubu, and Vuwani police stations, totaling 20 police officers for the qualitative aspect of the study. Quantitative data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 24 (SPSS), while qualitative data underwent thematic content analysis. The study fosters a balanced and just environment between police officers and protesters, thereby promoting a more stable, peaceful, and orderly university community. Key findings indicate significant relationships between police response attitudes and student violent protests, as well as between bad policing practices and such protests. Moreover, student attitudes toward police intervention during protests, the impact of student violent protests on the university's operational plans, and students' academic progress were also explored with more effective recommendations for improvement.
Open Access
A Critical Analysis of the Enforcement of Human Rights in Addressing Workplace Discrimination Against the LGBTQIA+ Community in South Africa
(2024-09-06) Mashamba, Takalani; Mokoena, U. C. A.; Ndou, M.
Section 9(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa indicates that everyone is equal before the law and no one should be discriminated against on the grounds of gender, sex, race, pregnancy, marital status, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, conscience, belief, culture, or language. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community are discriminated against in their homes, within their communities, and in their workplaces. This happens despite South Africa having progressive laws that support the LGBTQIA+ community compared to other countries around the world. In order to answer the research questions, this study adopted the doctrinal research methodology for its effectiveness in critiquing, assessing, and developing law. The aim of the study was to examine the extent to which the LGBTQIA+ community is protected against discrimination based on their sexual orientation at their workplaces. The objectives of the study were to explore discrimination within the work environment, workplace policies, and all other legislation protecting the LGBTQIA+ community; to explore the nature and determine forms of discrimination and other human rights violations against the LGBTQIA+ community in the workplace; and to analyse LGBTQIA+ anti-discrimination provisions and court judgements from other jurisdictions. The South African constitution and labour-related acts are there to ensure that the LBGTQIA+ community is protected from workplace discrimination. The Employment Equity Act, Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, Labour Relations Act, and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act are available to prevent discrimination. However, LGBTQIA+ people still experience discrimination in the workplace. When employees encounter discrimination because of their sexual orientation, they must first talk to their supervisor, and when no assistance has been provided, the employee must make use of the courts. The outreach awareness campaign for LGBTQIA+ rights in the workplace is also recommended. Equal pay for equal work done should apply to the LGBTQIA+ community in the workplace. Name-calling and harassment should be treated with severe punishment among co-workers who inflict discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community.
Open Access
A framework fo the application of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in improving the service quality of tertiary institutions in South Africa
(2024-09-06) Patala, Najiyabanu Noormohmed; Kadyamatimba, A.; Munyoka, W.
With the capability of re-shaping the global economy, 4IR necessitates countries to keep up with technological innovations that require most sectors within a country to be restructured drastically. Tertiary institutions are therefore required to transform the delivery of higher education services to the next generation with a seamless combination of skills and knowledge set. Thus, quality measures must be redefined in the context of 4IR. However, very few studies have attempted to define and measure quality from a 4IR perspective and lack frameworks addressing 4IR-based quality improvement solutions. This study investigated how 4IR can be applied within the context of tertiary institutions for improving service quality following a positivist paradigm. A quantitative research design was adopted to obtain an understanding of the 4IR stances and quantitative data was collected through questionnaires to gain an idea of the student and staff members' perceptions of 4IR service quality. The participants were sampled from the University of Venda’s population of students and staff. A quantitative method for data analysis was employed through statistical analysis using SPSS software. The findings of the study identified challenges that inhibits and benefits that could promote a 4IR-based quality of service environment. The study found that 4IR-based quality planning plays a significant role in quality of teaching and learning management. 4IR technologies were perceived to be useful as respondents had some form of awareness. Factors such as 4IR-based institutional responsiveness, empathy and assurance were significantly shown to measure service improvement. Based on the findings, a framework for implementing a 4IR service quality improvement in the teaching, learning, and research context was developed and validated. This study contributed to addressing how best tertiary institutions can implement 4IR by assessing their readiness levels. The Framework will assist tertiary institutions in gathering knowledge of the policies, strategies, and governance mechanisms required for supporting 4IR initiatives while providing guidance to understand quality 4.0 issues. It is recommended that tertiary institutions redesign their technological pedagogies to keep up with the demands of current educations needs and quality standards.
Open Access
A framework for integrating adaptive assistive technologies in inclusive education: A case study of the Disability Unit of the University of Venda
(2024-09-06) Macheque, Vhutshilo; Kadyamatimba, A.; Ochara, N. M.
Integrating Assistive Technologies in inclusive education can enable the academic engagement of students living with disabilities and be transformative from a psychological perspective. However, the success of this endeavour in disadvantaged rural South African universities remains a surmountable challenge due to factors militating against this noble idea. The aim of the study was to conceptualise a framework for integrating assistive technologies in inclusive education at a South African rural university where many students are living with disabilities. The study employed Technology-Task Fit, a variance theory, and DeLone Maclean Information Systems Theory, a process theory as a theoretical underpinning. This study adopts a pragmatism perspective and used an explanatory sequential mixed method design in which quantitative data was collected using an online questionnaire from a convenience sample of seventy-one participants, and the qualitative data was collected from a purposive sample of five participants using face-to-face interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) Version 29, and results were presented as descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and chi-square test. Qualitative data were analysed thematically using Atlas ti23. The study found that several factors influenced the integration of assistive devices, but the lack of a proper framework, policies, or guidelines was the most influential. Five requirements for developing the framework were moderating factors, procurement strategies, training strategies, funding strategies, and ATs integration strategies. There was a strong and significant positive association between the requirements at p < 0.010 and other demographic characteristics and factors mitigating the integration of assistive devices in inclusive education. From the study, a Framework for Integrating Assistive Technology in Inclusive Education (IAATIE) was developed based on the requirements and best practices documented in journal literature. IAATIE was validated as relevance and acceptance using content (requirements), relevance, and acceptance by most of the reviewers and validators. The academic contribution of the study was the framework for Integrating Assistive Technologies in inclusive education at the university, which encouraged coordinated efforts from various key players, including students who have been previously ignored. The study recommends the implementation of a IAATIE framework for inclusive education.
Open Access
A Sense-making Perspective of Algorithmic Accountability during Infodemics
(2024-09-06) Ramaru, Rifhiwa Rodney; Munyoka, Willard; Ochara, Nixon Muganda
During the pandemic era, enormous amounts of data were available to decision-makers. Much of the data was generated using algorithms in which people did not want to be held accountable for any wrong/false information (misinformation) that was being provided to the public, either on internet websites, social media or television and radios. Algorithmic Accountability examines the process of assigning responsibility for harm when algorithmic decision-making results in discriminatory and inequitable outcomes. Mis-and disinformation about science, technology, and health is neither new nor unique to the COVID-19 era. Amid an unprecedented global health crisis, many journalists, policy makers, and academics have echoed what World Health Organisation has stressed that misinformation about the pandemic presents a serious risk to public health and public action. The biggest challenge is that this misinformation or fake news is drowning official public health advice on COVID-19, making it extremely problematic for the voices of healthcare professionals to be heard; the implications of this may be enormous as it may cause the virus and other pandemics to spread more rapidly within diverse populations. The purpose of this study was to establish the extent of Misinformation during Infodemics, to address the lack of Algorithmic Accountability. A mixed-methods approach was used as the topic required a purposeful mixing of methods in data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of the evidence. The key word is ‘mixed’; this explains that an essential step in this approach is data linkage or integration at appropriate stages in the research process. The researcher used Spyder Python for extracting data from the Twitter API and then used Feedly which is a news aggregator application for various web browsers and mobile devices running iOS and Android; this procedure is also available as a cloud-based service. Python was used to compile news feeds from a variety of online sources for the researcher to customize and share with others; after filtering for the Covid-19 Tweets there were 21 of 508 records. The analysis suggests that misinformation about COVID-19 comes in many different forms, from many different sources, and makes many different claims. The process of misinformation often rearranges existing or accurate content relatively than formulated on a large scale, and where it is manipulated, it is edited with simple tools. Given the breadth of the pandemic, independent media and actions by platforms and others played a vital role in addressing virus-related misinformation. Government websites and the World Health Organization (WHO) can help sort false from true material, and accurate from misleading assertations. With running topic modelling for the data consisting of 21 of 508 tweets, topic modelling provided a way to compress the big data qualitative phase of the research.
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.
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Access to Healthcare Services for People with Albinism in South Africa: A Human Rights Perspective
(2025-05-16) Mudau, Benni Avhatakali; Simbo, C.; Phanyane, T. C.
The Albinism Society of South Africa found that the national healthcare system is failing to meet the needs of people with albinism. People with albinism face significant health challenges, including skin damage from ultraviolet (hereafter referred to as UV) rays and vision problems, primarily due to a lack of melanin. Research shows that many people with albinism die young, often from skin cancer in their 30s or 40s. Regular annual skin tests and eye check-ups are essential for early detection and treatment of these health issues. In South Africa, the right to access healthcare services for people with albinism is protected by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (hereafter referred to as the Constitution). The Constitution is read with various international laws and agreements, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (hereafter referred to as the UDHR), the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (hereafter referred to as the ICESCR), the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (hereafter referred to as the ICERD), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (hereafter referred to as the CEDAW), the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (hereafter referred to as the UNCRC), the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (hereafter referred to as the CRPD), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (hereafter referred to as the ACHPR), the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (hereafter referred to as the ACRWC), and the SADC Declaration on the Protection of Persons with Albinism (hereafter referred to as the DPPA), all of which provide for the right to health. However, despite these international and constitutional provisions, there is no specific case law or health legislation in South Africa that clearly defines the state’s obligations in providing access to healthcare services for people with albinism. This lack of case law and legislation that defines the state’s internationally and constitutionally compliant obligations creates significant challenges for people with albinism in enforcing their right to access healthcare services. Clarifying these legal obligations is crucial to establish the health demands of people with albinism as legally enforceable claims, facilitating effective advocacy grounded in rights-based language. Advocacy based on international and constitutional entitlements empowers people with albinism to assert their health needs as rights rather than mere service requests. This approach provides a stronger foundation for holding the state accountable and ensuring that people with albinism have access to healthcare services they are entitled to. Through a doctrinal method, this study aims to clarify South Africa’s specific international obligations which are also protected by the Constitution in section 27. It evaluates South Africa’s legislative framework and measures to ensure healthcare access for people with albinism, identifies gaps, and concludes with recommendations to persuade the government to adopt internationally and constitutionally compliant health laws that guarantee full access to necessary healthcare services for this population.
Open Access
The admission and enrolment of foreign legal practitioners in SACU countries as an international trade services issue
(2022-11-10) Mambure, Yolanda Nyasha; Ndlovu, Lonias; Van Der Walt, Tharien
When WTO members make GATS commitments, it is imperative to do follow-up studies to establish how each member adheres to her international obligations and the laws they profess to uphold. To this end, the dissertation calibrated each SACU country's GATS commitments in the background of the laws underpinning those commitments as a way to see if they uphold international ratifications. Data were collected from information available in the public domain and published online. The study established that legal services are the most restricted in all SACU countries except Lesotho. For example, foreign legal practitioners are not admitted or enrolled in the Republic of South Africa and Namibia unless they become ordinary residents or citizens. In BOLESWA countries, namely Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini, law graduates from sister universities are given preferential treatment. Graduates with qualifications from outside BOLESWA, irrespective of nationality, must sit for local Bar examinations and satisfy some local laws. For these reasons, the measures put in place are viewed as a wanton infringement of each respective country's constitution and the key tenets of GATS. Using Lesotho, one of the SACU members who has completely liberalised legal services, as a model, the study, through recommendations, demonstrates how these countries could best comply with the GATS to enhance regional integration, cooperation, and development.
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.
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An Analysis of the Strategies to promote Ethical Behaviour in Local Government: A Case of Thulamela Local Municipality
(2025-09-05) Ravhuanzwo, Shumani Maxwell; Zitha, H. E.; Lavhelani, N. P.
The study analyses the strategies to promote ethical behavior in local government, with a particular focus on Thulamela Local Municipality (TLM). TLM is one of the local municipalities constituting Vhembe District Municipality in the Limpopo province. The 1994 first democratic elections in South Africa demonstrated the country's dedication to human rights and prosperity. There are three spheres of government: national, provincial, and local. Local government has come a long way since then, but obstacles to service delivery have led to a loss of trust in municipal employees. Good governance is increasingly being threatened by systemic corruption, which results from the unethical behavior of municipal leadership. The strategies and recommendations to be provided in this research study serve as a light on the challenge of adherence to the prescribed ethical standards in service delivery by TLM and other local municipalities across the country. To better investigate strategies to promote ethical behavior by municipal employees in service delivery in TLM, the study utilized the public value theory, a qualitative approach (descriptive design and explorative design) and the constructivism paradigm. The study used purposive sampling to ensure precise sample collection. Primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Thematic and descriptive analyses were applied to the analysis of the qualitative data. The major findings of this study are that unethical behavior in TLM is manifested through corruption, nepotism, cadre deployment, political interference, and bribery; that lack of exemplary behavior by senior municipal officials and incompetent staff members are some of the causes of unethical conduct within TLM; that unethical behavior demotivates committed municipal officials; and that internal strategies for enhancing ethical conduct within the municipality are not effective. The study recommends that consequence management and the provisions of the codes of conduct must be enforced and that TLM stakeholders must report unethical behavior by municipal officials to external watchdog bodies such as the National Prosecting Authority and the Office of the Auditor General.
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An Analysis on the Impact of Service Delivery on Humam Rights: A Case of Vhembe District Municipality
(2025-09-05) Phangophango, Zwivhuya; Lavhelani, N. P.; Mbedzi, L.
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, provides that failure to provide services is a violation of human rights. In addition, Section 22 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, forbids discrimination and guarantees freedom of trade, activity, and profession,emphasizing the connection between human rights and service delivery. It creates a framework for encouraging fair access to services and holds officials responsible for making sure that the provision of services satisfies the freedom, equality, and dignity guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996. This is a required activity, and people's human rights are infringed when they are denied these services. Moreover, failing to provide services to the public is not supported by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996. It makes clear that everyone has the inherent right to dignity and the protection of the human rights. The study aims to analyze the impacts of service delivery on human rights in Vhembe District Municipality. Secondary data was sourced from the journal articles, municipal annual reports, legal framework, websites, library books, and the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa,1996, pertinent laws, and policies pertaining to human rights. The researcher used non-probability sampling and purposive sampling to collect secondary data for this study. Moreover, the study adopted desktop research. The literature on this subject has been examined in order to find common problems, patterns, and operational parallels with regard to how service delivery affects human rights in VDM. Thematic analysis was used to analyze secondary data collected. Significant gaps in access to essential services such as water, health-care, education, and power were shown by the analysis of service delivery in the Vhembe District Municipality. These gaps result in violations of core human rights, such as the right to dignity, health, and education. To overcome these gaps and protect human rights in the area, it is significant for the local government to consider infrastructure investment as a priority, enhance governance and accountability systems, transparency, and guarantee increased community involvement in decision-making. The study recommended the VDM to respect human rights by extending services to the communities.
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An Assessment of the Influence of Youth Unemployment on Crime Rates in Chavani Village, Limpopo, South Africa
(2025-09-05) Nyalungu, Mixo Penelope; Mulaudzi, A.; Sithuga, N. P.
Youth unemployment and crime are two major rallying themes across South Africa’s socio-political landscape. This study was conducted due to the concern of a rapid increase of unemployment and crime. Most graduates find themselves in a situation where they are unable to secure employment and this further result into emotional and mental breakdown. The study aims to assess the influence of youth unemployment on crime rates in Chavani village, Limpopo province, South Africa. The study adopted a mixed research methods approach. A purposive sampling and cluster sampling was used to select participants. The researcher used semi-structured interviews and questionnaires to collect data. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis and quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). It is envisaged that findings of this study may be used in the design and implementation of strategies and programmes to reduce youth unemployment and crime in South Africa. Further, the researcher makes some recommendations pertaining to addressing and reducing the high rate of youth unemployment and crime.
Open Access
An evaluation of academic performance of children in foster custody at Thulamela West
(2014-05-20) Mulambilu, Nkhumbudzeni; Mahole, E.; Khwashaba, M. J.
The study was based on the evaluation of academic performance of children in foster custody in Thulamela West under Vhembe district municipality, Limpopo province in South Africa. The population of the study was fifty respondents composed of fifteen social workers, fifteen educators, ten foster parents and ten foster children. The researcher used a mixed methodology where quantitative and qualitative research methods were used. The qualitative method adequately describes or interprets a situation in relation to the study and quantitative method was used because in this study there was collection of numeric data which was analyzed statistically. The researcher used field study as a research design for this study. The main reason for using field study as a research design was to enable the researcher to gain understanding of the physical experiences and challenges of children in foster care with regard to their academic performance. The major findings of the study are: Major findings on the academic performance of children in foster custody: • The findings of this study show the academic performance of children m foster custody is not poor. • The different role players in foster care perform their duties effectively and know their roles and boundaries well. • It was also found that children in foster custody are emotionally stable and have good self image. The recommendations of the study: Recommendations on the academic performance of children in foster custody: • Children in foster custody must always strive to perform better and proceed to the tertiary level. They should continue to behave well at school so that they may remain controllable and avoid dropping out • Social workers must observe the emotional stability of children in foster custody and monitor their academic performance for necessary early intervention. Foster parents should create home environment conducive for studying. • Faster parents must not misuse foster care grant and social workers should further capacitate them on parenting skills. Educators, social workers and foster parents must form foster care forums to discuss issues affecting children in foster custody
Open Access
An evaluation of local government involvement in crime prevention: insight from Mopani District Municipality, Limpopo Province
(2024-09-06) Madima, Khethiwe; Olofinbiyi, S. A.; Rakubu, K. A.
Crime prevention has been recognised as one of the key national priorities in South Africa since the establishment of the National Crime Prevention Strategy (NCPS) in 1996. It is viewed to be the responsibility and duty of the South African Police Service (SAPS); however, with a range of crimes caused by different factors, it is impossible to rely exclusively on the police to prevent crime. Thus, various stakeholders such as businesses, communities, Non-Government Organisations, civil society, law enforcement and Municipalities need to take a stand in maintaining peace and ensuring safety for law-abiding citizens within their municipal boundaries. Using a mixed-method research approach, a purposive sampling was used to select 4 municipal safety officials, 5 SAPS social crime prevention members and 1 member from Department of Transport and Community Safety. A simple random technique was used to collect data from the selected 338 community members from all local Municipalities in the Mopani District. Quantitative data were collected through cross-sectional survey and analysed by descriptive and inferential analyses using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using Thematic Content Analysis. The findings of this study revealed that the municipality is partially active in crime prevention. The study identified lack of resources, informal settlement, lack of coordination, by-laws compliance, accountability, political inference, lack of knowledge and expertise as the challenges that hinders the effectiveness of municipalities in crime prevention. The results further reveal lack of cooperation between SAPS and municipalities in crime prevention. This study recommends stakeholders’ engagement, public awareness, accountability, establishment of crime prevention body, CPTED, regular assessment and professionalisation of the crime prevention space as the intervention strategies that can advance the involvement of municipalities in crime prevention.
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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.
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An Exploration of the Effects of Solar Water Heaters on Selected Households in Thulamela Local Municipality: Challenges and Benefits
(2025-05-16) Sikhitha, Fhatuwani Robert; Nemushungwa, A.; Nkondo, L. G.
South Africa has abundant coal supplies, so electricity costs are significantly lower than in other countries, albeit the advantage of lower energy costs is slowly being eroded. The low electricity costs have l ed to the widespread use of appliances that almost exclusively utilizes electricity, including heating water through conventional electric geysers. Electric geysers account for an ything between 25% and 40% of average household s monthly electricity bi ll th is cost can be prevented through the use of Solar Water Heaters (SWH), given South Africa s high solar radiation levels. SWH has high initial costs compared with conventional electric geysers; however, they have short buyback periods which is furth er reduced whenever electricity tariffs escalate. Moreover, they have a relatively long lifespan of around twenty to twenty five years, which implies that if households can switch from conventional geysers to SWH s , they can essentially enjoy hot water for free for the remaining lifespan of the SWH s , thus ensuring significant financial savings and potential additional funds for household expenditures. Switching to SHW , potentially confers socio economic, environmental, and health benefits to households.
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An Exploration of the Effects of Solar Water Heaters on Selected Households In Thulamela Local Municipality: Challenges and Benefits
(2025-05-16) Sikhitha, Fhatuwani Robert; Nemushungwa, A. I.; Nkondo, L. G.
South Africa has abundant coal supplies, so electricity costs are significantly lower than in other countries, albeit the advantage of lower energy costs is slowly being eroded. The low electricity costs have l ed to the widespread use of appliances that almost exclusively utilizes electricity, including heating water through conventional electric geysers. Electric geysers account for anything between 25% and 40% of average household s monthly electricity bill this cost can be prevented through the use of Solar Water Heaters (SWH), given South Africa s high solar radiation levels. SWH has high initial costs compared with conventional electric geysers; however, they have short buyback periods which is further reduced whenever electricity tariffs escalate. Moreover, they have a relatively long lifespan of around twenty to twenty five years, which implies that if households can switch from conventional geysers to SWH s , they can essentially enjoy hot water for free for the remaining lifespan of the SWH s , thus ensuring significant financial savings and potential additional funds for household expenditures. Switching to SHW , potentially confers socio economic, environmental, and health benefits , to households.
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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.
Open Access
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 investigation into the challenges facing municipalities in women empoernment: a case study of Ward 2 in Thulamela Municipality
(2012-05-22) Mamidze, Azwidali Alfred; Khwashaba, M. P.
This study was intended to investigate the challenges facing municipalities in women empowerment. The investigation was done on the selected individuals from both Thulamela municipality and ward 2 in Thulamela. The sample was drawn from the population using the purposive and systematic random sampling methods. Sixty five respondents were chosen as follows: four managers and twenty employees in Thulamela municipality, Fourty women under ward 2 in Thulamela and finally the ward 2 Councillor in Thulamela municipality. A single instrument for data collection was used. A questionnaire in (Appendix A) was handed out to concerned people. The analysis of data was mostly qualitative and based on relevant frequencies of response. SOME OF THE MAIN FINDINGS OF THIS STUDY WERE: • The majority of the respondents agreed that women were employed in low paid jobs during apartheid era. • It has been confirmed by 92,3% of the respondents when they agreed that gender equity act and policies created more jobs opportunities for the previously disadvantaged groups of women in particular. • Most of the respondents indicated that more women are employed in more decent jobs in democratic era than in apartheid period. • There are currently more projects that are established to empower women. • Majority of the respondents indicated lack of education as an obstacle to women empowerment. •Education for girls will promote women empowerment • Most of the respondents disagreed that uneducated women are recognized in women empowerment. • Most of the respondents disagreed that majority of the ward Counselors are women. • Combination of family and gender roles hamper women empowerment, this has been confirmed by 63,1% of the respondents. RECOMMENDATIONS As a result of the findings and conclusion, it has been realized that so many problems regarding challenges facing municipalities in women empowerment need to be addressed. The following are some of the recommendations made out of those findings. • Women need to be employed to top management positions and in more decent jobs through Affirmative action. • Gender equity act and policies must be implemented by both public and private sectors for more jobs creation as women empowerment. • Government should go on providing more projects aimed at women empowerment. • Women must also be given tenders for their economic stability. • There to be are educational programmes like ABET that need provided to women as they were previously disadvantaged in education. • Government should have campaigns aimed at discouraging teenage pregnancies.