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Item Investigating consumer willingness to pay for improvements in water service attributes in and around Vuwani Town, South Africa(2023-10-05) Rasimphi, Mokgadi Grace; Dafuleya, G.; Dagume, M. A.Water scarcity is a major problem in South Africa given the country’s classification as “water stressed” and the thirtieth driest country in the world. Moreover, and like many other developing countries, the country faces severe challenges with the reliability of water supplies. These challenges includes but are not limited to, the frequency of water supply, low water pressure and poor water quality among other challenges. Although these challenges impose difficulties in the country in general, they impose a severe burden in rural settings and outlying towns such as Vuwani town and the surrounding villages in Limpopo. To this end, this study investigates the willingness to pay (WTP) by households of the Vuwani town and surrounding villages in respect of potential improvements of attributes of a water service. The study also sought to uncover potential heterogeneity in the preferences for improvements of attributes of a water service. Using the Conditional and Mixed Logit models, and a sample of 230 households, the study’s findings indicated evidence of respondents expressing willingness to pay for improvements in the attributes of a water service in Vuwani. The results also demonstrated strong evidence of preference heterogeneity among the respondents as well. Since the findings of the study makes it possible to estimate the potential benefits of an improved water service in Vuwani, the results of the study should provide local policy makers with evidence based information of one component of a potential cost – benefit analysis study necessary to inform the potential level of investments required to improve water services in rural settings.Item An urban planning perspective on the readiness of Thohoyandou CBD public spaces in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic: a case study of Thohoyandou CBD(2023-10-05) Ratshilingana, Mudanalwo Maryline; Gondo, T.; Bikam, P.Thohoyandou CBD public spaces need to be ready in the future to urgently react to pandemics. This study aims to introduce urban planning measures that must be taken into consideration to improve the current performance of public spaces in reducing the spread of COVID-19. The study is guided by four research objectives which are as follows, (i) To analyse urban planning and urban management attributes that are critical in limiting the spread of COVID-19 in public spaces. (ii) To identify and categorize public spaces that are likely to pose a threat to limiting the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Thohoyandou CBD. (iii)To determine urban management factors that are significant to COVID- 19 in public spaces of Thohoyandou CBD and (iv) To come up with an urban planning-based resilience framework that will boost the ability of public spaces to respond to the challenges of a pandemic. Twenty-five public spaces were analysed based using five study constructs, which included waste management attributes, water provision attributes, ecological/environmental attributes, demographic attributes, and public space management and behaviours. Data was analysed using Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), Multiple regression Analysis (MRA) and analysis of standardised mean score z-values. Data screening procedures were employed using normality test measures of skewness and kurtosis. Results revealed that there are five critical issues that need to be addressed if we are to limit the spread of COVID-19 in public spaces. These include waste management, water provision, public space user demographics, public space management behaviors and environment integrity issues. HCA results revealed two unique categories of public spaces based on their responsiveness to the spread of COVID -19. Cluster 1(one) is made up of 10 public spaces accounting for 40 % of the total and Cluster 2 is made up of 15 public spaces accounting for 60 %. Cluster 2 type of public spaces are generally performing relatively well in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic as evidenced by positive and high standardized mean score z values when compared to cluster 1 (one) type of public spaces. MRA results revealed that the most significant (P value <0.05) attribute capable of reducing the spread of COVID-19 is water provision. The study concluded by recommending a resilience framework aimed at reducing the risk and exposure to COVID- 19 as well as building public pace capacity to withstand challenges posed by future pandemics. Critical interventions for building resilience should focus on such issues as building functional waste management and water facilities, redesigning of some public spaces, deployment of smart technologies, improved infrastructure maintenance and public space monitoring as well as rolling out of education campaigns. More intervention efforts should be directed to 40 % of public spaces belonging to cluster 1 as they were found to be severely compromised.Item Experiences of Abused Unemployed Young Women at Acornhoek Village, Bushbuckridge Municipality, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa(2023-10-05) Shai, Doris Felicity; Thobejane, T. D.; Mudau, T. J.Domestic violence and the economic dependency of unemployed young women are inextricably intertwined. Hence, the most reason why women become victims of domestic abuse is because they are financially dependent on their partners. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the link between domestic violence and the economic dependency of unemployed young women. A qualitative research method was embarked upon to solicit the views of young women who depend on their spouses for their survival. The population was abused, and unemployed young women aged between 28 to 35 years who are from Acornhoek village in Bushbuckridge Municipality. Non-probability purposive and snowball sampling was used as a method to select the participants. To choose the participants, a non-probability purposive and snowball sampling technique was adopted. Ethical considerations were considered for the sake of confidentiality and the safety of the research participants. Semi-structured interviews were employed in the study to obtain data. A thematic data analysis approach employing Atlas.ti software was used to systematically evaluate and report the data. The study revealed that economic independency does not give an individual immunity to abuse. However, it also revealed that economic dependency puts young women at a greater risk of being domestically victimized by their intimate partners. Men view financial support as a grant for entitlement over their partners.Item Thodisiso ya u sa londwa ha vhana nga vhokhotsi na masiandoitwa a hone zwine zwa vhonala kha nganea mbili: Vhusha ho shandulela (Mahuwa), 1997) na Thonga i pfi ndo vhada (Demana, 2015(2023-10-05) Siaga, Fhatuwani Grace; Raphalalani, T. D.; Netshisaulu, N. C.Ndayotewa ya Riphabḽiki ya Afrika Tshipembe ya 1996, kha khethekanyo ya 28 i dubekanya pfhanelo dza ṅwana. Dziṅwe dza pfhanelo dza vhana ndi dzi tevhelaho: >pfhanelo ya ndondolo muṱani kana ndondolo nga mubebi wawe kana iṅwe ndondolovho yo teaho arali o bviswa kha muṱa we a bebya khawo. >pfhanelo ya u ṋeiwa zwiḽiwa zwa pfhushi, vhudzulo na ndondolo ya mutakalo wawe; pfhanelo ya u tsireledzwa kha u sa farwa zwavhuḓi, u litshedzelwa, u tambudzwa na u nyadziswa. Hu vhonala vhabebi vhanzhi vha sa khou dzhiela nṱha pfhanelo dza vhana idzo sa zwe zwa laedzwa kha Ndayotewa. Kha vhabebi vhenevho vhane vha khou vhonala vhatshi khou litshedzela kana vha sa khou dzhiela nṱha pfhanelo ya ndondolo ya vhana ndi vha mbeu ya tshinnani kana vhokhotsi. Vha vhonala vha tshi ḓiwana vhe kule na vhana vhavho lune vha fhedza vha tshi laṱela mbebo yavho kha mubebi muthihi ane a vha mme a vhana uri vha vhe vhone vhane vha dzhia vhuḓifhinduleli ha u londana u londota vhana vhe vhoṱhe. Ṱhoḓisiso iyi yo livhiswa kha u ṱoḓisisa u sa londwa ha vhana nga vhokhotsi na masiandoitwa a hone zwi vhonalaho khanganea mbili: Vhusha ho shandulela (Mahuwa, 1997) na Thonga i pfi ndo vhaḓa (Demana, 2015). Hu ḓo shumiswa ngona ya khwaḽithethivi u kuvhanganya data u bva kha nganea idzi mbili na kha maṅwalwa o fhambanaho a katelaho Ndayotewa ya Afrika Tshipembe (1996). Ṱhoḓisiso iyi yo ḓisendeka nga thyiori ya ‘Literary Structuralism (Structuralist approach)’. Hu lavhelewa uri ṱhoḓisiso iyi i ḓo bvisela khagala zwiitisi zwa u sa londa vhana nga vhokhotsi avho. I ḓo dovhavho ya bvisela khagala masiandaitwa kha vhana musi vha sa khou londiwa zwavhuḓi nga vhokhotsi.Item Investigations of various agro-wastes as substrates for cultivation of oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostratus (Jacq: FR) P. Kumm And Pleorotus pulmonarius (Fr.)(Quel)(2023-10-05) Matidza, Takalani Lorreta; Mchau, G. R. A.; Adesoye, P. O.This study was conducted to assess the effects of various agro-waste substrates on the production of oyster mushrooms (P. ostreatus and P. pulmonarius). The substrates utilised in this research were banana pseudo-stems (BP), macadamia husks (MH), macadamia nutshells (MnS) and maize stalks (MS) as control. The experimental design used in study 1 was a complete randomized design (CRD) for chemical constituents with 3 replications (rep) and 2 bags per rep. In contrast, the experimental design on study 2 was factorial in a complete randomized design comprised of mushroom growth and yield replicated thrice and bags duplicated per rep. Study 3 was nutritional compositions replicated three times, having 2 bags per rep. The maximum pH was observed on MS and the minimum was obtained on MnS. Severe infections by Trichoderma species were observed from PO Pleurotus ostreatus (PO) and Pleurotus pulmonarius (PP) on MnS, and as a result, no fruiting bodies were formed. The growth in terms of the number of days to colonization (DC) was delayed on MH when compared to others. The yield was significantly superior on MS 75.73 and 94.40 g during March to May 2019 in terms of fresh weight (FW). Moreover, the highest yield was observed on MS and BP at 120.19 and 92.63 g from P. ostreatus and P. pulmonarius respectively during June to August 2019. The superior biological efficiency) (BE) was attained from mushroom grown on MS during March to May 2019 whereas on MS and BP was during June to August 2019. The least FW and BE was observed from P. ostreatus and P. pulmonarius grown on MnS. The maximum crude protein (CP) was obtained from PO and PP on MH. Mushrooms are enriched in potassium (K), and the maximum amount was found on MS when compared to others from both Pleurotus species. Therefore, MS and MH were best selected to produce Oyster mushrooms.Item Distribution and dispersion of metals and their economic potential: a case of the Fumani Tailings Dam, Limpopo Province, South Africa(2023-10-05) Shavhani, Tshedza; Ogola, J. S.; Mundalamo, H. R.The study was conducted at the Fumani Tailings Dams 1 and 2 located in Malamulele, Mtititi village and the area surrounding it to investigate the distribution and dispersion of gold and metals such as Pb, Zn, Cu, As, Co, Cd, Cr and Ni, and also to determine their pollution status, whilst looking at possibilities of reprocessing the tailings as well as using tailings for brick production. A total of 84 and 63 tailings samples were collected from tailings dams 1 and 2 respectively. 3 profiles were set on each tailings dams, with 4 and 3 boreholes set on each profile of Fumani Tailings Dams 1 and 2 respectively. All boreholes were drilled by a hand auger up to a depth of 7 m, collecting samples of approximately 5 kg at each 1 m interval. The samples were prepared at the University of Venda MEG laboratory where they were analysed for pH using pH meter, metals and major elements using X-ray Spectrometry, Gold using AAS as well as geotechnical tests using sieve analysis. Profile logs as well as pH logs revealed that the tailings dams were highly oxidized at the surface of the tailings dams to about 2 m. The average pH revealed that the entire tailings is slightly acidic to neutral. X-ray fluorescence spectrometry confirmed the presence of Pb, Zn, Cu, As, Co, Cd, Cr and Ni. The pollution status conducted revealed that As and Ni pollutes the tailings dams whilst the remaining metals are within the required standard. Gold values within the tailings dams showed a very erratic trend with depth, with an average concentration of 1.34 ppm and 1.44 ppm at tailings dams 1 and 2 respectively. The study ascertained that there is about 299.1 kg and 225.5 kg of gold within Fumani Tailings Dams 1 and 2 respectively. Soil samples were collected in four directions from the Fumani tailings Dams at an interval of 200 m. The samples were prepared and analysed using XRF for Pb, Zn, Cu, As, Co, Cd, Cr and Ni at the university of Venda. The Study showed that Zn and Cd do not contaminate the soil whilst Pb, As, Cu, Cr and Co highly pollutes the soil. These might be from a different source since they are low within the tailings dams. The Major oxides, sieve analysis, liquid limit test and the plastic limit test were used to classify the tailings using USCS and AASHTO Classification system. The USCS revealed that the tailings were ML and/or CL fine grained silty clay, whilst AASHTO Classification system revealed that the Fumani Tailings Dams 1 and 2 were in class A-4(3) and A-4(1) respectively. The tailings had low LL, low PI, and low alumina content required for brick production. The tailings, therefore, had a low compressibility, slight to low plasticity, and no cohesion, and therefore were not suitable for brick production on their own. Clay and cement bricks of different tailings to soil and cement ratios were made at Tshidino Bricks. All bricks were tested for dimension tolerance test, water absorption test, compressive strength test, hardness test as well as the impact test. All clay bricks failed these tests. The cement bricks passed the hardness test, water absorption test, and hardness test. This was not enough to make them suitable for brick production as they failed the dimension tolerance test and compressive strength test.Item Factors that influence the utilisation of high performance computing systems at selected higher education institution(2023-10-05) Ndwamai, Reginald Mulalo; Ngirande, H.; Shambara, R.High levels of organisational performance may be achieved through the effective use of technology. By supplying High-Performance Computing (HPC) systems to previously underserved universities, the South African government sought to promote science and innovation while addressing Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 (SDG 4), which aims to improve the quality of education. This was done to improve research capacity and correct resource disparities in institutions. However, not all universities offer access to and ensure the effective use of these systems. As a result, the study aimed to investigate the factors that affect how the University of Venda's (UNIVEN) HPC system is accessed and used. The study used a mixed research approach. Descriptive research design was used to explore and understand the phenomenon., A non-probability sampling method based on a purposive sampling method was used to select 10 participants who provided qualitative data. On the other hand, a random stratified sampling was utilised to identify the 218 participants who provided quantitative data. The research study comprised three groups, namely masters students, PhD students and academics. Simple random sampling was then used within each group to select the participants. The total sample size was 228. Data were gathered by the researcher using self-administered questionnaires and in-person structured interviews. The ATLAS.ti program, which manages thematic content, was used to analyse the qualitative data that had been collected. To handle the themes, the researcher followed four steps: reading the material for the first time, recognising potential topics, classifying codes into themes, and producing a table of themes that summarizes all the themes. The Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28.0 was used to analyse quantitative data. The study highlights the importance of organisational support, perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness in the actual use of High-Performance Computing system at the University of Venda. Therefore, the study's outcomes indicate that the support provided by an organisation and the users' perception are crucial elements for the successful implementation and use of technological systems.Item 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.Item A framework to integrate business intelligence and collaborative visual analytics for decision support in disaster risk management in South Africa(2023-10-05) Maligudu, Mashudu; Ochara, Nixon Muganda; Patala, NajiyabanuAccess to real-time information, which can be either information before, during, or after the disaster, is essential to the effectiveness of disaster risk management, prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The current Visual Analytics in Disaster Risk Management is not equipped to handle a considerable volume of disaster-related information dissipated across various partners. The study's main aim was to design a framework for Collaborative Visual Analytics integration in Disaster Risk Management. The current research used a qualitative methodology, and data was collected through documents. The research addressed collaborative visual analytics for decision assistance in disaster risk management in South Africa. Several theoretical recommendations from the findings were suggested. These are critical towards having a comprehensive understanding over the subject matter, guiding policy, and enriching the body of knowledge.Item Development of framework for streamlining prospecting and mining right application process in South Africa(2023-10-05) Madilonga, Rudzani Charlotte; Amponsah-Dacosta, F.; Mhlongo, Sphiwe EmmanuelMining has been one of the most significant contributors to South Africa's social and economic progress. South Africa is endowered with a diverse of minerals and mining activities are driven by large corporations and small-scale miners. However, the legislative uncertainty undermines the role of the small miners in society and the economy. This is despite interventions by the government, through legislation, which affords everyone an opportunity to participate in mining, through acquiring prospecting and mining right applications. The promulgation of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA), 28 of 2002, was meant to address the imbalances of the past which amongst others include inequitable access to “the nation's mineral and petroleum resources”. Some of the requirements needed for exploration and mining rights applications to be granted have been seen as stumbling blocks for Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA’s) and emerging junior miners, to fully participate in the sector. For example, finances and technical availability is one of the main reasons why HDSA’s haven’t participated fully in the mining activities of the country. This study proposes a framework, which aims to assist HDSAs and emerging miners to participate in the mining industry through acquisition prospecting and mining rights. The research data was collected in two phases. Phase one was the quantitative phase. In this phase, questionnaires were circulated to more than 50 potential respondents involved in the mining and related sectors. The quantitative data was analyzed statistically for interpretation. The second phase of data collection was done through qualitative method, where specific questions were sent to 10 experts in the sector. The results were also analyzed through the identification of common themes and interpreted to contribute to the design of the framework. The results of this study show that although the MPDRA provides emerging junior miners with the prospect to enter the mining industry, there are still barriers or hindrances blocking them from entering the mining industry. Challenges ranged from the initial compilation of documents, processing of the applications and requirements which need to be met, to departmental challenges. The study reveals that historically disadvantaged South African and emerging miners, do not have the necessary skills to compile applications and attach relevant documents to meet certain regulatory requirements. In addition, the study shows that the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) expects historically disadvantaged individuals and emerging miners to provide proof that they have the financial and technical ability to carry out the proposed prospecting and mining right works programmes. Financial and technical requirements have been the common areas that results in prospecting and mining rights applications being declined. Moreover, the internal process at the DMRE seemed to favor large-scale mining companies, who have financial resources and technical expertise to carry out prospecting or mining rights. The framework for streamlining prospecting and mining rights applications will create an environment that enables indigenous people and emerging junior miners to obtain prospecting and mining rights and will provide economic growth for smaller communities. It will also afford the DMRE to have better control, by providing a section, which will be dedicated to assisting historically disadvantaged people and emerging junior miners by providing guidance in terms of the application process and also recommending for funding.Item Lithostratigraphic and Geochemical Characterisation of the Waterberg Coalfield: Implications to Acid Mine Drainage, Limpopo Province, South Africa(2023-10-05) Ramphabana, Khethani Tom; Mundalamo, H. R.; Ogola, J. S.; Netshitungulwana, K. T. R.The study conducted at Sekoko coal mine in the Waterberg coalfield of South Africa aimed to establish the quality of coal and its host rocks, as well as the potential for acid mine water generation. A total of 18 samples were collected from a box-cut and analysed using various methods such as, Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, proximate analysis, Modified Sobek Acid Base Accounting test as well as petrographic study. The major rock types identified in the study area included shale, sandstone and gritstone. Coal was overlain by these rocks. The study revealed significant concentrations of framboidal pyrite in coal, which increases with depth as determined by X-ray Diffraction spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Whole rock geochemistry indicates that Fe2O3 was higher in coal (1.18 wt%) than in host rocks (0.45 wt%) and increased with depth. Average mean of 1.23% a.d. for sulphur content was revealed thus, classifying the coal as medium sulphur coal. Sulphur occurred as pyritic, organic, and as sulphate, in that order of abundance. Using both proximate analysis and calorific value (with mean value of 21.2 Mj/kg) coal was classified as below grade D. From the vitrinite reflectance value (ranging between 0.6 to 0.7), coal was ranked as medium-grade bituminous C. Paste pH and EC results indicated that the Sekoko coal is already undergoing oxidation, and modified Sobek tests indicated that over 72% of the analysed samples have sufficient sulphur to generate long-term acid mine drainage. The potential for acid generation increases with depth (1.09 to 181 kg/t) and was high on the southern side (181 kg/t) than the western side (52 kg/t). Results indicate that there aren’t enough neutralization materials to counter the acid production potential as the neutralisation potential is negative for all samples. The study concluded that the coal from Sekoko coal deposit is enriched with pyrite minerals, hence this causes an increase in the potential for acid mine water generation. Screening of coal prior to utilization is recommended so as to reduce the content of pyrite in coal.Item Experiences of intimate partner violence amongst women in a non-profit organisation in Blouberg Municipality, Limpopo Province(2023-10-05) Muofhe, Mantshi Florance; Mushwana, D. R.; Koko, B.Intimate partner violence is a problem that affects women worldwide. It is a form of gender-based violence usually where women / victims are violated and abused by their male intimate partners. The issue of intimate partner violence (IPV) has become a public health concern, in addition, it violates women’s human rights. South African studies indicate that intimate partner violence prevalence’s rates are high despite the intervention programmes that have been designed to address IPV. This study aimed at exploring the experiences of women who had been victims of intimate partner violence in a non-profit organization in Blouberg Municipality, Limpopo Province. The study employed a qualitative research approach, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Eight participants were selected based on purposive sampling and data was gathered from them using semi-structured interviews. The ecological model and feminist theory as the conceptual frameworks were used to interpret the women’s lived experiences. The findings of the study indicate that women suffer from immense psychological and social effects of their experiences. These effects include - isolation, depression and suicidal ideations. Among some of the recommendations, are that the government should hire more qualified social practitioners, especially, in the rural communities and for stakeholders to address, more diligently, IPV in rural areas to promote gender equalityItem Investigating consumer willingness to pay for improvements in water service attributes in and around Vuwani Town, South Africa(2023-10-05) Rasimphi, Mokgadi Grace; Dafuleya, G.; Dagume, M. A.Water scarcity is a major problem in South Africa given the country’s classification as “water stressed” and the thirtieth driest country in the world. Moreover, and like many other developing countries, the country faces severe challenges with the reliability of water supplies. These challenges includes but are not limited to, the frequency of water supply, low water pressure and poor water quality among other challenges. Although these challenges impose difficulties in the country in general, they impose a severe burden in rural settings and outlying towns such as Vuwani town and the surrounding villages in Limpopo. To this end, this study investigates the willingness to pay (WTP) by households of the Vuwani town and surrounding villages in respect of potential improvements of attributes of a water service. The study also sought to uncover potential heterogeneity in the preferences for improvements of attributes of a water service. Using the Conditional and Mixed Logit models, and a sample of 230 households, the study’s findings indicated evidence of respondents expressing willingness to pay for improvements in the attributes of a water service in Vuwani. The results also demonstrated strong evidence of preference heterogeneity among the respondents as well. Since the findings of the study makes it possible to estimate the potential benefits of an improved water service in Vuwani, the results of the study should provide local policy makers with evidence based information of one component of a potential cost – benefit analysis study necessary to inform the potential level of investments required to improve water services in rural settings.Item Determination of the impact of Antiretroviral therapy in the proportion and genetic diversity of diarrheal associated gut microbiota among HIV infected population(2023-10-05) Musetsho, Phumudzo Pertunia; Mavhandu - Ramarumo, L. G.; Bessong, P.O.Background: Human gut microbiota are microorganisms that reside in the gastrointestinal tract of humans. Gut microbiota provide various functions in the gut including protection from invasion of pathogenic microbes, shaping host immunity and substrate metabolism. HIV which targets the CD4+ T cells in the gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), causes gut microbiota alteration due to disruption of the gut barrier. This result in microbial translocation and pathogen invasion which lead to decreased diversity and proportion of gut microbial and increase in pathobionts and pathogens. As a result, HIV infected patients suffer from diarrhoea due to compromised gut microbiota. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses viral replication and lead to an undetectable viral load, thus restoring the immune system. Previous studies show that ART does not entirely restore the depleted gut microbiota, hence this study aims at determining the change in proportion and genetic diversity of diarrheal associated gut microbiota in HIV infected patients. Hypothesis: Antiretroviral therapy causes changes in the proportion and diversity of diarrheal causing gut microbiota Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the impact of ART in the proportion and genetic diversity of gut microbiota among HIV infected patients. Methodology: Paired blood and stool samples were collected from 17 HIV infected and 11 HIV uninfected individuals (controls). Samples were collected during baseline (before ART initiation); and samples were collected after every three months thereafter, for a total of 12 months. Blood samples were used for CD4 and viral load measurements using BD FACSPresto machine (BD Biosciences) and HIV Qualitative PCR, respectively. Stool samples were used for extraction of total nucleic acid (TNA) using a modified Qiagen QIAamp Fast DNA Stool Mini Kit. Purification of TNA was done using Ampure XP bead. DNA library preparation kit (Illumina) was used for DNA library preparation. Illumina miniseq sequencing was used for sequencing and the obtained sequence reads were analysed using Geneious prime software for trimming and filtering low sequence reads and to determine the genetic diversity of diarrheal causing gut microorganisms. DRAGEN metagenomics was used for taxonomical classification to generate the proportion of diarrheal causing gut microorganism. GraphPad prism was used to generate graphs and for statistical analysis to generate the association between CD4+ T Cell/viral load and diarrheal causing gut microbiota. Results: Escherichia coli (82.33%), Bacteroides fragilis(2.46%), Shigella spp.(1.96%), Salmonella enterica (1.07%), Clostridioides difficile(0.99%), Campylobacter jejuni (0.20%) were the most prevalent detected microoganisms from HIV infected individuals at prior ART initiation. Among HIV negative individuals, Escherichia coli (62.52%), Bacteroides fragilis(18.43%), Shigella spp.(0.40%), Salmonella enterica (3.05%), Clostridioides difficile(15.06%), Campylobacter jejuni (0.54%) were found. The proportion of Escherichia coli (90.77%), Clostridioides difficile (2.20%), Shigella spp. (2.73%),and Salmonella enterica (1.28%) had increased with treatment at three months post treatment in HIV infected individuals. At six months post ART, there was an increase in the proportion of Bacteroides fragilis (88.65%) and Vibrio cholera (0.01%) when compared to HIV positive samples at three months post-treatment. Escherichia coli (9.74%), Cryptosporidium parvum (1.74%), and shigella spp. (0.35%) increased with treatment from six months to nine months post-treatment. Escherichia coli (58.58%), Shigella spp. (0.81%) and Clostridioides difficile (24.77%) had increased with ART at twelve months post treatment. The proportion of diarrheal causing gut microbiota were fluctuating throughout the intake of ART at different time points. There was no significant correlation between CD4/viral load and diarrheal causing microorganisms, as a result ART did not have an effect in the proportion of diarrheal causing gut microorganisms. Genetic diversity of diarrheal causing gut microbiota was higher in HIV positive individuals prior ART than in HIV negative individuals except for Salmonella typhi. Among HIV infected individuals, genetic diversity of most diarrheal causing gut microbiota was higher at three months post treatment. The fluctuation of diarrheal causing gut microbiota’s genetic diversity from six months to twelve months post treatment may be due to inconsistent change in number of viral loads and CD4 counts at different time points of ART. However, this was statistically insignificant. As a result, the change in the genetic diversity of diarrheal causing gut microorganisms was not due to ART. Conclusion: ART does not eradicate diarrheal causing gut microbiota. However, ART encourages a low genetic diversity of diarrheal causing gut microbiota.Item Coal Occurrence and Quality at Mushithe Area, Soutpansberg Coalfield, South Africa(2023-10-05) Mphanama, Thangeni; Mundalamo, H. R.; Ogola, J. S.South Africa is the 7th largest coal producer in the world and continues to rely on coal as its primary energy source, owing to its abundant availability and low cost. The Mushithe coal occurrence, located within the Pafuri basin of the Soutpansberg Coalfield, has been overlooked compared to other coal occurrences in the Tshikondeni area. The coal occurrence at Mushithe outcrops at Mbodi River. The study aims at establishing the geological setting, mode of occurrence, coal quality and economic value of the Mushithe coal occurrence. Geological mapping and sampling, petrography, and geochemical analysis were done on 14 host rock and 6 coal samples. Coal bearing rocks at Mushithe are occurring as a valley isolated from the Pafuri Basin. The outcropping seam at Mushithe is exposed along the Tshamatsha Fault. The coal measures contain four to seven seams, ranging from 0.35 m to 11.38 m in thickness. Pink and red quartzite, mudstone, basalt, quartz vein, sandstone, shale, carbonaceous shale, and calcrete were identified as associated rock types. The general strike is northeast, and the dip direction is northwest, with an average dip angle of 23°. Mushithe coal is dominated by vitrinite (65.77%) and inertinite (34.23%), with no liptinite detected. The high presence of vitrinite suggests that the coal is formed in a wet swamp environment. Additionally, signs of weathering such as cracks, fissures, and oxidation rims were observed in the coal. Coal quality belongs to bituminous C on UNECE 1998 classification, being characterised by low sulphur content (0.23 to 0.38 wt %) and high moisture (6.07 to 10.94 wt %), ash yield (16.7 to 41.9 wt %), volatile matter (29.7 to 35.8 wt %), fixed carbon (25.25 to 50.49 wt %) and calorific value (12.97 MJ/kg to 23.35 MJ/kg). Mineral matter constitutes approximately 5.7 to 35.8 wt %, predominantly quartz with varying proportions of clay (kaolinite), as well as minor carbonates (siderite) and sulphides (pyrite). The geochemistry is characterised by high values of Al2O3 from 7.56 to 15.83 wt %, SiO2 (9.76 to 20.04 wt %), and MgO (0.26 to 2.80 wt %). The outcropping seam was found to be of economic value and suitable for use as thermal coal for electricity generation.Item Comparative analysis of Machine Learning Algorithms for Estimating Global Solar Radiation at Selected Weather Stations in Vhembe District Municipality(2023-10-05) Marandela, Mulalo Veronica; Mulaudzi, T. S.; Maluta, N. E.hstimating anct assessing the energy talling in a particular area 1s essential tor installers ot renewable technologies. Different equations have been applied as the most reliable empir ical for estimating global solar radiation(GSR) in different climatic conditions. The main objective of this work is to estimate the global solar radiation of two stations namely, Mu tale and Messina found in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Four different methods (Random forest(RF) regression, K-nearest neighour (K-NN), Support Vector Ma chines(SVM) and Extreme Gradient Boosting mechanism(XGBoost)) is used to estimate the GRS in this study. The RF model on Mutale station was found to be the best fitting model with R² = 0.9902, MSE = 0.4085 and RMSE = 0.6391, followed by XGB with R² = 0.9898, MSE = 0.4245 and RMSE = 0.6515. RF was also found to be the best for Messina station with R² = 0.9636, MSE = 0.1.4138 and RMSE = 1.1890, followed by XGB model with R² = 0.9595, MSE = 1.5723 and RMSE = 1.2539. From the results, it can be concluded that RF is a better model for estimating GSR for different stations.Item Analysis of work accidents data: A case study of the South African mining industry(2023-10-05) Masindi, Masala Theron; Amponsah-Dacosta, F.; Mhlongo, Sphiwe EmmanuelFor any industry to be successful, its production needs must be met while the highest safety standards are maintained. Mining accidents and their subsequent fatalities have enormous social and economic consequences. The current study was undertaken to better understand the fundamental causes of mine accidents so that major remedial actions can be developed and implemented to improve safety in the mining industry. The purpose of this study was to analyse work accident data of the South African industry that was compiled for the period 2008–2017. Secondary data on accidents was requested from the Department of Mineral and Energy Resources (DMRE). Accident data obtained from DMR was summarized, characterized, and described in a meaningful manner to determine the variables or factors which contribute to accidents in the mining industry. Variables that contribute to accidents in the mining includes fall of ground/rock fall, machinery, transportation and mining, general, conveyance accidents, electricity, fires, explosive, heat sickness and miscellaneous. Descriptive statistics, figures, and tables were used to describe and understand the accidents within the mining industry. A chi-square test was used to quantify the extent to which accident outcomes and commodities are independent of each other by year and injury type. This was done to examine the association between the dependent accident outcome and the independent variables such as year, commodity type, and casualty type. The study was significant in that its findings will contribute to building a culture of safety within the mining environment1, which was not only to reduce the risks of miners being exposed to potential workplace accidents but also had an impact on their attitude and perceptions towards workplace safety and their perception of zero as this is one of the priorities which the mining industries need to achieve. The study produced results that summarize the influence of year, commodity type, and casualty type on accident outcome. In particular, the analysis of accidents helped in establishing the relationship between the dependent accident outcome variable and several independent variables, such as year, commodity type, and casualty type, there was an increased number of accidents with respect to different commodities with different in years. The findings of this study vi will be used in planning, designing, and implementing health and safety programmes that will contribute to decrease in the number of accidents for mining different commodities in South Africa. Keywords: mining accidents, accidents dataItem The Impact of Dam Construction on Downstream Water Resources: A case of Nandoni Dam in Luvuvhu quaternary catchment A91F, North-Eastern South Africa.(2023-10-05) Mathule, Phathutshedzo; Mathivha, F. I.; Ramulifho, P. A.Globally, there is increasing concern over the increased damming of rivers, as this has led to a change in the hydrological regime and transformation of river runoff. There are varying impacts of dams on river flow regimes depending on how these dams are operated. Damming of rivers has altered the hydrologic cycle globally, causing severe consequences for streams' ecological and morphological equilibrium. Reservoir use and its impact on flow regimes have not yet been linked in a recognizable way. This study assessed Nandoni Dam water resources in relation to inflow and outflow, and the amount of streamflow required to maintain the ecological integrity. The inflows and outflows in dam were determined using the traditional water balance approach. Streamflow data collected at Mhinga station A9H012 downstream of Nandoni Dam before dam construction was used to calculate environmental flows using the IHA/RVA methodologies. Inflows trends over the study period were found to be on a downward trend. Peaks in computed inflow occur during periods of heavy rainfall as excepted for rainfallrunoff relationships. Abstraction of water from the Nandoni Dam for domestic purposes (i.e., to water treatment plants) increases over the study period despite increases or decreases in dam water storage. The downstream flow of the dam is impacted both positively and negatively, despite quantitative suggestions regarding streamflow required to maintain ecological integrity. A range of environmental flow requirements was presented in this study downstream of the Nandoni dam. Values for selected Environmental Flow Components (EFCs) parameters are presented as percentiles between 10% and 90%. Different durations of analysis show significant variations in minimum and maximum flows. High pulse numbers, as well as the rate at which they rise and fall, have changed significantly. Hydrologic regime downstream was disturbed, and streamflow variations were directly affected by the construction of the dam. It is crucial to build a detailed water budget model that considers climatic, hydrological, and stakeholder interests to optimize dam operation rules. Reservoir operations must be developed with the participation of riparian communities, engineers, hydrologists, physical geographers and climatologists and general environmentalists to be socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable.Item Credit Card Fraud Detection using Boosted Random Forest Algorithm(2023-10-05) Mashamba, Thanganedzo Beverly; Chagwiza, W.; Garira,W.Financial fraud is a growing concern with far-reaching concerns in financial institutions, government, and corporate organizations, leading to substantial monetary losses. The primary cause of financial loss is credit card fraud; it affects issuers and clients, which is a significant threat to the business as clients will run to their competitors, wherein they will feel secure. Solving fraud problems is beyond human capability, so financial institutions can utilize machine learning algorithms to detect fraudulent behaviour by learning through credit card transactions. This thesis develops the boosted random forest, integrating an adaptive boosting algorithm into a random forest algorithm, such that the performance of a model is improved in predicting credit card fraudulent transactions. The confusion matrix is used to evaluate the performance of the models, wherein random forest, adaptive boosting and boosted random forest were compared. The results indicated that the boosted random forest outperformed the individual models with an accuracy of 99.9%, which corresponded with the results from confusion matrix. However random forest and adaptive boosting had 100% and 99% respectively, which did not correspond to the results on confusion matrix, meaning the individual models need to be more accurate. Thus, by implementing the proposed approach to a credit card management system, financial loss will be reduced to a greater extent.Item Evaluation of water governance systems for improved operation of selected small-holder irrigation schemes in Nzhelele Area, South Africa(2023-10-05) Nedombeloni, Rudzani; Mathaulula, M. A.; Mwendera, E. J.Throughout the world, small-holder irrigation schemes are viewed as a key strategy for increasing agricultural productivity, sustaining rural livelihoods, adapting to climate variability and change, and reducing poverty in rural areas. South Africa prioritises the establishment, rehabilitation and revitalization of small-holder irrigation schemes due to their potential in poverty reduction and enhancing food and nutrition security in rural areas. However, many of these irrigation schemes have failed to achieve their intended objectives for increasing agricultural productivity due to a slew of challenges including irrigation water governance. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the existing water governance systems of selected irrigation schemes in Nzhelele area, South Africa. A survey-underpinned by sequential exploratory mixed methods research design was adopted. Twenty-four farmers were purposefully selected to participate in a qualitative study via face-to-face semi-structured interview guide. Correspondently, census sampling method was used to purposefully select 56 famers to collect quantitative data through a 5-point Likert-type scale questionnaire ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (Strongly agree). Qualitative data was analysed using ATLAS.ti version 8.0 software to perform thematic content analysis. The IBM Statistical Package for the Social Science version 26.0 software was used to analyse quantitative data. Descriptive statistics was carried out to provide the general features of the data. The findings of the study showed there were more female farmers than males on the studied schemes. Three quarter of the respondents were married. Moreover, half of the respondents in all the three schemes had acquired secondary education. The study further revealed that there were various water governance institutions within the schemes. These included scheme committee, Water Users Association, Informal water institutions, Department of Water Affairs, Cooperatives, Government Water Schemes, Irrigation Board and the traditional leadership. The results further revealed that farmers in selected irrigation schemes were faced with water governance related challenges which included ineffective irrigation water governance institutions, vandalizing of irrigation water infrastructure, blockage of main canals to disrupt the flow of irrigation water, lack of irrigation water due to unregistered farming, poor agricultural produce and poor adherence to irrigation schedule. In line with this, the study proposed imposing heavy fines, hiring an overseer, registering unregistered farmers, and accountability by those found guilty of vandalising as some of the strategies which can be used to address irrigation water governance challenges in the schemes. In addition, government institutions need to play their roles in irrigation iii schemes. Farmers need to be made aware about rules, roles and responsibilities of government institutions. Furthermore, an understanding of the factors which determine the participation of women in farming should be explored.