Theses and Dissertations
Permanent URI for this collection
Browse
Recent Submissions
Item Open Access Challenges causing delay in the implementation of water project in Mutale Municipality and its impact on social life of the community: a case study of Tshipise/Dambale Water Project(2013-05-20) Kwinda, Tshifhiwa Solomon; Khwashaba, M. P.The aim of the study was to investigate the challenges facing the delay in the implementation of a water project and its impact on social life of the community using Tshipise / Dambale water project as a case study. Questionnaires were used to collect the data. The study was placed in both the quantitative and qualitative research paradigm. The researcher used a non-probability method and its subtype purposive sampling for the purpose of collecting from the respondents with accurate and relevant information. The populations involved in this study were local traditional leaders; civic members from Tshipise and Dambale villages; and water committee from Tshipise and Dambale villages who completed the questionnaire and the community development worker (CDW), Ward councillor, community liaison officer (CLO) who were interviewed. The study revealed that the municipality is obliged, by the law, to provide the community with water and also that the municipality is aware that the law binds them to provide the community with water. The studies also revealed that lack of capacity of contractors in the implementation of water project have delayed the implementation of water project. It was recommended that competent contractors with relevant skills need to be appointed to render a relevant service. It was also recommended that the municipality must undertake proper monitoring to ensure the contractor is doing what he or she is supposed to do.Item Open Access The role and task of the teacher in school management with reference to the Dzondo Circuit(2007-09-14) Mashamba, Tshilidzi Meshack; Ravhudzulo, M. A.This study focused on the role of the teacher in School Management in Dzondo Circuit of region three. This study dealt with the important factors like; the planning role of the teacher, the organization role of the teacher, as well as discipline in schools. The empirical findings revealed that principals do not receive extensive insert training about managerial skills, the role of teachers in the formulation of the school policy is not clearly defined. The findings further revealed that teachers do not attend in-service training regularly. The study recommends that the role of teachers should be clearly define in the school - policy and that teachers should be involved in the formulation of the school policy. In the study questionnaires were used to gather information from educators, parents, principals and from the learners in the Dzondo Circuit. Prior to the distribution of questionnaires, a pilot study was done at one of the selected schools in Dzondo Circuit. The questionnaires focused on teachers age, gender, qualifications, experience and the important of the school policy in secondary schools. Findings of the study were gathered from ten percent of schools selected randomly by the researcher. Limitations of the study was characterised by the prolonged time spent doing researchers and the limited resources from the department of education.Item 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.Item Open Access Factors influencing job satisfaction amomg public healthcare employees at Elim Hospital Limpopo Province(2013-05-08) Maguga, Simon GiftyThis study investigates factors influencing job satisfaction among public healthcare employees at Elim Hospital, Limpopo Province. Relationships have been reported between job satisfaction, productivity, absenteeism and turnover among healthcare employees and as such it affects employees' organizational commitment and the quality of healthcare services. The aim of the study was to determine the factors influencing job satisfaction among healthcare professionals at Elim Hospital. Variables such as opportunity to develop, responsibility, patient care and staff relations were found to be significantly influencing job satisfaction and there was a significant positive association between job satisfaction and opportunity to develop, responsibility, patient care and staff relations for both clinical and clinical support staff. In this study, both quantitative and qualitative research methods were used to gather information through the utilization of a questionnaire. The study was conducted mainly to confirm the result obtained. The results of the study have assisted to reflect factors that could be influencing the health workers to leave Elim Hospital. One hundred and twenty (120) questionnaires were issued to the health professionals. Major findings of the study are the following: • The study found a low level of job satisfaction among the healthcare workers surveyed. Almost 80% were dissatisfied or highly dissatisfied with their job. • Factors found to be significantly associated with job satisfaction were, opportunity to develop, responsibility, patient care and staff relations. • The study found a significant positive medium correlation between staff relations, patient care, and responsibility, opportunity to develop and job satisfaction. • Almost three-quarters of participants (73.8%) did not think that their income was a reflection of the work they do. Major recommendation were drawn from the study. These included: • Encourage teamwork by rewarding teams: Allowing managers to facilitate and promote team-building exercises to enhance communication, productivity and job satisfaction. Team incentives should be addressed by rewarding teamwork. • Ensuring job satisfaction by respecting, rewarding, nurturing and upholding these skilled and trained employees fairly is also recommended the authorities should: Recognise individual growth and fairly reward good ideas. Respect experience and qualifications above legislative requirements in order to ensure that the most suitably qualified people are placed in specialised positions. • The human resource practitioners in the public service should be knowledgeable and supportive of the health profession, vacancies should be filled quickly and the recruitment process should be speeded up. In-service training should be provided to ensure the competencies of the health workers are of high standard at all times.Item Embargo The assessment of the role of Vhembe District Municipality in the provision o water resources: the case of Mphambo Community(2025-09-05) Ngonyama, Tatani; Mafunisa, M. J.; Mahole, E.The study aimed at assessing the role of Vhembe District Municipality in the provision of water services at Mphambo Community. The Free Basic Water Policy of 2002, which seeks to address poverty and affordable access to basic water service to the indigent, requires that all municipalities should provide at least 25 litres of free basic water to poor persons within 200 meters of where the person resides and at a flow rate of at least 10 litres per minute. The study used a prospective mixed method research design, in which primary data was collected from 100 Mphambo community members and 50 municipal workers using a questionnaire and interviews. Collected data was coded, captured, and cleaned before subjecting it to rigorous statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics, figures and tables were used to describe and understand data. The study produced results that summarises the relationships between water service provision related variables and socio-demographic variables. In particular, the analysis of water services provision data will help in exposing the relationship between dependent variable and several independent variables e.g., gender, age, participant type (community member or municipal worker). The strategies and the recommendations from this study will help to improve the provision of water services by the Municipality to the communities. The study will also assist the local government sector in ensuring the importance of working closely with communities to deliver the water services to the communities.Item Embargo The involvement of school management teams and teachers in managing work-related stress in selected schools, in Soutpansberg North Circuit, in Vhembe District Municipality(2025-09-05) Muravha, Khathutshelo; Lavhelani, N. P.; Zitha, H. E.This study was based on the involvement of School Management Teams and teachers in managing work-related stress in selected schools in Soutpansberg North Circuit, in Vhembe District Municipality. The South African Department of Education has been undergoing different challenges which compel an employer to play a dynamic role in improving and preserving the wellbeing of employees. School Management Teams have the responsibility to understand the causes and effects of work-related stress so that they can strategize on how to overcome them. The main aim of the study was to assess the involvement of School Management Teams and teachers in managing work-related stress in selected schools in Soutpansberg North Circuit in Vhembe District Municipality and to propose recommendations to enhance their involvement. A qualitative research approach was used to assess the involvement of School Management Teams and teachers in managing work-related stress. The study adopted a qualitative approach because it is deemed appropriate when collecting and analysing non-numerical data to understand concepts, opinions and experience. Non-probability sampling through purposive sampling was adopted to allow the researcher to focus on in-depth issues essential to the study. The population of this study comprised - School Principals, Heads of Departments (HODs), and senior teachers - of three purposively-selected primary schools in Soutpansberg North Circuit in Vhembe District Municipality. Twelve participants were selected for the study due to their experience and familiarization with the study phenomenon. Self-administered open-ended questionnaires were utilized to allow for unlimited responses and to offer qualitative data, while using thematic analysis on the data. The findings of the study shows that School Management Teams and teachers do not consult the Employee Assistance Practitioners because the former have not experienced challenges that may need such services, while others have no idea of the Employee Assistance Programme. The researcher recommends that senior managers need to initiate sub-branches of the Employee Assistance Practitioners in circuits to ease the programme’s access by all employees in an area.Item Embargo Proposing a framework for enhancing good governance in the Limpopo Provincial Government: the case of the Department of Health and Education(2025-09-05) Nkwinika, Miyelani Kulani Kelvin; Mafunisa, M. J.; Nekhavhambe, M. M.The aim of the research was to propose a framework for improving good governance within the Limpopo Provincial Government, specifically, in the Health and Education Departments. The investigation aimed to assess whether the existing policy framework supports good governance and is advantageous for government institutions, by strengthening the public administration ethos and advocating for best practices, to create a state that is effective, efficient, accountable, and transparent. The Office of the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA), in its national and provincial audit report for the 2021/2022 financial year, expressed concern over the high levels of corruption within the South African government. Additionally, the AGSA highlighted issues of ineffective governance and incompetence within the Limpopo Departments of Health and Education, which continue to receive qualified audit opinions and clearly show evidence of fruitless and irregular expenditure; consequently, the researcher chose these two departments as case studies. Financial challenges in government continue to be a concern, post the attainment of democracy in 1994. During the 2023 budget speech for Vote 5, the former MEC for the Provincial Treasury in Limpopo, Honourable Seaparo Sekoati, confirmed that both the Health and Education departments had received qualified audits for the 2021/2022 financial year. The research utilised a case study research design as its chosen methodology, hence, in the case study framework organised and structured the processes involved in data collection. This research employed a qualitative research approach, this approach proved effective as it enhanced understanding through an informative and naturalistic exploration of the topic under investigation. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to recruit individuals who can provide valuable insights necessary for the analysis and interpretation of data in this study. Purposive sampling intentionally selects individuals, groups, and organizations to provide critical information that might not be available from participants selected from other sampling methods. The study noted the non-adherence to the law, ineffective security systems in vetting of government employees, poor planning and coordination as well as lack of district and management support to be key factors that affects the state of governance in both the departments. vi The study recommends that the Limpopo provincial government should draft a provincial policy that prevents the interference of the Premier, MECs, Director-Generals and HODs on programmes that do not require their personal participation, such as supply chain management processes, project management, and audit steering committees. The study also recommends that the upgrading of the security vetting system should be enhanced to detect any irregularities, such as fake qualifications, criminal records or dismissal records in respect of officials within the public service. Furthermore, the study also recommends that the two departments, Health and Education, need to consult with various stakeholders, such as the Department of Public Service and Administration and the National Treasury on whether, the Performance Management Policy can be amended to ensure that any employee who does not achieve his/her Key Performance Targets in the responsibilities assigned to him or her should be made to account to the employer. This will assist in addressing challenge of non-implementation of the departmental policies and other key legislations that seek to enhance good governance by intensifying service delivery in communities. This research is unique as it aims not only to articulate challenges to good governance but to also suggest a Framework that would enhance good governance in the public service with reference to the Limpopo provincial government.Item Embargo The efficacy of Batho Pele principles in delivering basic services: The case of Thulamela Local Municipality(2025-05-16) Nkuna, Winnies Ndzalama; Zitha, H. E.; Lavhelani, N. P.This study sought to identify the efficacy of Batho Pele principles in delivering basic services the case study being Thulamela Local Municipality. The Batho Pele principles provide a framework on how government services should be provided to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the municipal service. Adherence to these principles will guarantee the provision of excellent services that meet the people’s needs and expectations, and enhance customer satisfaction, while upholding the government’s promise that access to decent public services is no longer a privilege to be enjoyed by a few, but the rightful expectation of all citizens. The delivery of services like housing and road infrastructure, water, social welfare, and health centers to communities by the government is referred to as service provision. Despite the existence of these principles, the local sphere of government has received an exponential increase in the number of service delivery protests. This study holds the view that any form of service delivery protest questions the extent to which the municipal sphere of government implements the Batho Pele principles. This study used a pragmatic research paradigm and employed a mixed method. In this regard, the study deployed both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies with the goal of preserving their original structures and procedures, as well as contextual and descriptive research designs. The study used a non-probability sampling wherein purposive sampling method was used to select participants under the qualitative method. The study also used the probability sampling method wherein random sampling method was used to select participants under the quantitative methods. Data was gathered using research questionnaires and interviews. For data analysis methodologies, the study uses thematic analysis and statistical analysis. The study discovered the following: that services rendered to the communities are not fair, effective, efficient and in an equitable manner; Batho Pele principles ensures effective service delivery; non- adherence to the Batho Pele principles hinders basic services delivery: insufficient budget, allocation of funds, negligence, malpractices, scarce resources, lack of control measures and incompetency challenges the implementation of Batho Pele principles; Batho Pele principles promotes effective and efficient service delivery and that Batho Pele principles; municipal service delivery advocates for the well-being of people; and that basic service can be enhanced through the local government turnaround strategy. The study recommends that the municipality's IDP be informed of the community's needs. The study recommends that municipal officials adhere to the Batho Pele principles to promote equitable access to basic services. The study recommends training for municipal officials regarding BPP and adherence to the Batho Pele principles to enhance equitable basic service delivery. The research suggested an appointment of effective municipal ombudsman to monitor the use of resources and budget to promote Batho Pele principles fostered service provision. The study recommends that Batho Pele principles and municipal service delivery ought to advocate for the well-being of people. Recommendation by the study is that community participation in municipal affairs must be encouraged and strengthened to promote basic service delivery that caters their needs and well-being. The study recommended that local government turnaround strategy be utilized in the implementation of Batho Pele principles.Item Embargo The implementation of municipal by-laws in the provision of recreational facilities in Greater Giyani Local Municipality(2025-05-16) Sibanda, Tiyani Julu Sydwell; Matloga, S. T.; Mahole, E.This study was based on the implementation of municipal by-laws in the provision of recreational facilities in Greater Giyani Local Municipality. Municipal by-laws play a crucial role in regulating various aspects of local governance and community life. However, the success of municipal by-laws largely hinges on proper implementation and enforcement by the municipalities. The study was conducted utilizing a qualitative method to explore the complex dynamics at play. The researcher sampled relevant documents, reports, and other secondary sources related to the study to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the impact of municipal by-laws on the provision of recreational facilities. Data was collected through desktop and observations. Desktop research involves the collection and analysis of existing data, information, and resources from various sources without conducting direct interactions or experiments. Through desktop, secondary sources related to the recreational sector were employed. Thematic Analysis was used to analyse data in the study. The results of this study made clear how important by-laws are for promoting social cohesion, nation- building, and environmental protection. They guarantee that recreational areas are accessible to everyone, including those with impairments and lower-income populations. Municipalities may redress historical injustices, advance social justice, and support the region's overall socioeconomic development by making sure that these facilities are accessible and fairly distributed. The recommendations include the alignment of municipal by-laws with these frameworks to guarantee thoughtful placement, equitable distribution, and upkeep of recreational facilities. In order to determine their needs and make sure that the facilities are applicable and extensively used, it is imperative that local communities be involved in the planning process.Item Embargo The role of good governance in promoting effective municipal service delivery: a case of Thulamela Local Municipality(2025-05-16) Phalanndwa, Ndamulelo; Maemu, E.Good governance has become a focal point in academic discourse due to its critical role in enhancing living standards and fostering societal development. Ever since the present South African government acquired power in 1994, the government prioritised improved governance and service delivery, further making promises to transform the quality of citizens’ livelihood through effective and efficient service delivery. However, South African local municipalities experience critical service delivery problems due to poor governance and administration within their jurisdiction. The study aimed to investigate the role of good governance in promoting effective municipal service delivery and develop a framework that will be used to improve good governance and service delivery in Thulamela Local Municipality. The study adopted a mixedmethod approach for data collection to achieve the study's objectives. The convergent parallel mixed method approach was used. The reason for using the convergent parallel mixed method was to enable the researcher to merge or converge qualitative and quantitative data to provide a comprehensive analysis of the research problem. A total of 120 respondents were sampled. The sampling technique that was used to sample the study population is non-probability sampling with its sub-type purposive sampling technique. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data was analysed using statistical analysis through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 29.0. The data was presented in the form of tables, frequencies, and percentages. Qualitative data was analysed using NVivo version 14. The data was analysed using thematic analysis, whereby data collected through interviews were grouped into themes and presented in a narrative form. The findings of this study inform the strategies for enhancing good governance practices to improve municipal service delivery, potentially benefiting the broader community and similar municipalities. The Major findings of the study are: • There is a relationship between good governance practices and effective municipal service delivery. • Thulamela Local Municipality faces challenges such as the lack of public participation, poor infrastructure maintenance and poor responsiveness. • The Municipality has several initiatives, such as the Integrated Development Plan (IDP), Mayor-Mahosi and Imbizos, to promote effective municipal service delivery. • Involving the communities in decision-making enhances governance and municipal service delivery. The following recommendations are therefore made based on the findings of the study: • The study recommends that the Municipality implement stronger transparency measures, ensuring that all stakeholders have access to information regarding budget allocations, project timelines, and service delivery updates. • The Municipality should improve the implementation of the IDP by involving the community more actively in the formulation and review processes. • The study recommends that the Municipality encourages public participation through E-Participation so that community members can participate at the comfort of their homes. • The Municipality should strengthen the monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to improve service delivery.Item Embargo Strategies enhancing community engagement in local government: a case study of Thulamela Local Municipality(2025-05-16) Mulaudzi, Mulisa Elijah; Lavhelani, N. P.; Matloga, S. T.This study investigated strategies for enhancing community engagement in Thulamela Local Municipality. Community engagement is critical to effective governance and service delivery in local municipalities. The extent of community involvement in municipal services has been inconsistent, leading to a gap between public expectations and service provision. Through a comprehensive literature review, the research examines critical themes such as the role of communication, public engagement, transparency, and accountability in fostering community engagement. The researcher used a mixed research methodology. Quantitative data was gathered through a structured questionnaire distributed to residents and municipal employees, allowing for statistical analysis of current engagement levels and public satisfaction with municipal services. Qualitative data was collected through a Semi-structured interview schedule, while quantitative data was collected through a structured questionnaire from community leaders, municipal officials, and other stakeholders. The study used the pragmatic approach paradigm and convergent research design to allow the simultaneous collection of quantitative and qualitative data. The study used purposive sampling to select the techniques of skilled and knowledgeable respondents, experienced and knowledgeable respondents, and a probability sampling technique to ensure a representative sample of participants and allow for the generalization of findings to the broader population. The data analysis process involved combining quantitative and qualitative methods, including using techniques such as SPSS Statistics 29 and Microsoft Excel for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data following Creswell's steps. This dual approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of the issue from multiple perspectives. This pragmatic approach paradigm framework offered practical recommendations for improving communication channels, increasing community engagement in decision-making processes, and fostering a culture of accountability within the municipality. The findings from this study can potentially be valuable to policymakers, municipal managers, and community leaders, as they provide insights into practical strategies for improving community engagement in local governance. Key findings of the study: • Current engagement practices are more consultative than collaborative, leading to dissatisfaction among residents. Recommendation based on findings of the study: • The Municipality should establish sustained and inclusive community engagement platforms to enhance participation and accountability in governance.Item Embargo Youth unemployment as a developmental problem in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa(2025-05-16) Manenzhe, Gudani Janestercius; Vermaak, N. J.; Takalani, H. H.The study aimed to investigate youth unemployment as a developmental problem in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. This study focused on the impacts of youth unemployment on development in the Vhembe District with the intention that addressing these challenges can lead to poverty reduction and promote development in the region. South Africa has been facing the problem of unemployment for so many years. The problem has escalated in the country due to various factors, such as - the emergence of Covid 19, lack of skills, limited access to education and training, and lack of job opportunities. Youth unemployment has amplified poverty levels and social disintegration, which, in turn, has had a significant impact on the country’s economy as it has hindered the country’s development. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended possible solutions to address unemployment in both the Vhembe region, and the country as a whole. The study used a mixed research method, thus, a descriptive design (quantitative approach) and an explorative design (qualitative approach), which helped to compare and collaborate the research results. The research makes use of a pragmatic research paradigm to investigate youth unemployment in Vhembe District and utilises non-probability and purposive sampling for appropriate sample collection. The study used two methods of data collection, namely, questionnaires and interviews. In terms of data analysis, the study adopted descriptive analysis to analyse questionnaires using International Business Machinery (IBM): Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 28.0 and presents information using pictures, graphs, tables, and numbers. For the qualitative aspect, a thematic analysis was applied to the data collected through interviews and presentation of the results is in the form of words.Item Embargo Enhancing ethical conduct in the codification and education options: A case of Vhembe District Municipality(2025-05-15) Thenga, Thanzi; Singo, A. T.; Nekhavhambe, M. M.The study examined the importance of the ethical conduct of municipal officials in promoting a code of conduct for municipal officials through education. In strengthening the code of conduct for Local Government Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, chapter 12, Schedule 1, and Schedule 2 provide the code of conduct for municipal employees; the Code of Conduct for municipal employees is similarly described in Schedule 5 of the Local Government Municipal Structures Act 117 of 1998. Its objective is to promote an environment rich in ethical and moral standards and behaviour. Unethical behaviour is delinquent conduct that affects organizations locally and globally, with ill implications for the societies they serve. Unethical conduct manifests in various forms, including coercive, destructive, deceptive, intrusive, secretive, manipulative, and exploitative conduct. The Limpopo Province has an eminent, recent history of unethical public service conduct involving large-scale tender-related corruption. Based on this concern, this study aimed to enhance ethical conduct regarding coding and education options in the Vhembe District Municipality. An integrated mixed-method research method was used in this study. The target population is municipal officials, and 30 VDM officials were sampled. Simple random sampling was employed in this study. Data collection was based on a Likert scale, and self-administered questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were adopted. The data analysis was based on descriptive and inferential quantitative methods, while the qualitative data was thematically analysed. Digital support from the latest SPSS and Microsoft Excel software was used to manage the statistical data and compute standard deviations, whereas NVIVO was used to build themes. The findings of this study revealed that while the municipality has a code of ethics in place, codification and education are effective options to enhance the ethical conduct of municipal officials. This study concludes by recommending strategies to promote ethical codes in municipal settingsItem Embargo Asian Tigers Model as a strategy to achieve a developmental state in South Africa: a case of Thulamela Local Municipality(2025-05-15) Mulaudzi, Witnes; Maemu, E.; Zitha, H. E.This study sought to evaluate the Asian Tigers Model as a strategy to achieve a developmental state in South Africa, with specific reference to Thulamela Local Municipality. The term "Asian Tigers" refers to East Asian countries such as South Korea, Taiwan, China, and Singapore, which achieved rapid economic growth and industrialization from the 1960s onwards. These nations implemented key elements of the Asian Tigers Model, including export-oriented industrialization, strong government intervention, investment in education and technology, and strategic trade policies. By examining the historical context and unique challenges facing South Africa, this study aimed to evaluate the applicability of the Asian Tigers Model to South Africa’s development trajectory. The analysis considered the potential benefits, challenges, and adaptations necessary for successful implementation, highlighting lessons learned and policy implications for fostering sustainable economic development in South Africa. In this study, the researcher employed a mixed research methodology, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The motive behind using the mixed method was to enhance validity by providing deeper understanding through qualitative insights and broader coverage via quantitative data, resulting in more comprehensive and reliable conclusions. To achieve the study's objectives, non-probability sampling and its sub-type, purposive sampling, were used by the researcher to select samples. For data collection, two methods were employed: a structured questionnaire and interviews. The data collected through the structured questionnaire were analysed and presented in graphical tabular form, frequencies, and percentages, while the data collected via interviews were analysed and presented in a narrative form. This study aimed to offer a nuanced understanding of how the Asian Tigers Model can be adapted and applied to promote sustainable economic development in South Africa, with a focus on Thulamela Local MunicipalityItem Embargo The unique challenges facing the Mozambican immigrants in Mbombela Local Municipality(2025-05-15) Manzini, Nomondwe; Lavhelani, N. P.; Matloga, S.The study sought to investigate Mozambican immigrants’ unique challenges in Mbombela Local Municipality. Migration is the process of moving to another area with the intention of being a permanent resident. Factors that might influence a person’s decision to immigrate include career possibilities, environmental considerations, a desire to get a better education, the need to escape danger, persecution, terrorism, human rights abuses, and natural catastrophes. Immigrants increase economic activity, foster innovation, and raise native-born workers’ productivity. Immigration growth also increases tax receipts and fiscal experience. Even though they may only have the option to relocate, immigrants face several challenges in the nations where they settle, including language problems, cultural differences, prejudice, and difficulties finding employment, housing, and health care. To ensure the logical premise of the research, the study applied interpretivism and positivist research paradigms and a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods. The researcher adopted a purposive subtype of the non-probability sampling method to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. The researcher used the open-ended questionnaire to collect qualitative data and structured interviews for quantitative data. Both statistical and narrative data analysis were used as they focus on various methods for interpreting data. For quantitative data, the researcher employed statistical data analysis, and thematic data analysis for qualitative data. The research is intended to greatly advance people’s knowledge and diversity associated with migration and to enlighten them about the challenges facing immigrants and its effect on both the migratory communities and the immigrants. The study adhered to the ethical guidelines of the institution. Failure to acquiring legal documentation and formal employment forced labour and violence and are the major challenges facing Mozambican immigrants. Difficulties for immigrants to further studies due to lack of legal documentation is another challenge. The study recommends municipal policies, strategic plans, and reports pertaining to immigration and foreign nationals by consulting local government documents. It is significant to simplify immigration processes with the Department of Home Affairs to improve legalisation of permits and documents.Item Embargo The effect of political interference on the performance of senior managers in Local Government: a case of Greater Giyani Local Municipality(2025-05-15) Makaringi, Looksharp Amukelani; Nekhavhambe, M. M.; Matloga, S. T.This study sought to evaluate the effect of political interference on the performance of senior managers in local government with special reference to the Greater Giyani Local Municipality. Section 40 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996 provides for a government that is constituted of national, provincial, and local spheres. The local sphere is the one closer to the people and tasked with the provision of basic services to members of the local communities within its jurisdiction. The structure of municipalities is such that it provides for politicians and senior managers to work together to address challenges facing local communities in relation to service delivery. This set up often creates challenges of political interference in administrative issues, and this give rise to tensions between politicians and senior managers. This study therefore, sought to assess the extent to which political interference affect senior management adversely in the performance of their duties. Previous studies on political interference, politics and administrative interface, and politics-administration dichotomy have proven that these are challenges still worth exploring in a quest to further expand knowledge on strategies to be used to navigate through the politics and administration relationships and still be administratively and/or politically competent. The study employed a mixed research methodology in which both quantitative and qualitative research approaches were instrumental. Non-probability sampling, in particular the purposive sampling method was utilised to select participants for this study. Questionnaire and interview schedule were used as data collection methods. The analysis thereof was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28.0.1 for data collected through questionnaire and using thematic analysis for data collected through interviews. The findings of the study were presented in pie chart format, frequencies, and percentages and in narrative form, in a manner that is responsive to the research questions; and the recommendations were provided to aid municipal senior management in dealing with challenges of political interference. The major findings and recommendations are as follows: The Municipality’s workforce is not representative of the population’s demographics and promotes speculation about disregard for merit-based assessment when making administrative appointments; there is an overlap of roles between political and administrative officials; political interference compromises organisational expertise and accountability and reduces trust between politicians and managers; and lastly, politicians and managers play an important part in ensuring that legislative requirements and municipal policies are complied with. The recommendation is that the demographics of the Municipality’s workforce should be representative of all community members regardless of their political affiliation; the political and managerial roles should be plainly defined to eliminate elements of ambiguity; the Municipality should develop policies that ensure the protection of administrative officials who disregard political interference and remain administratively competent; and finally, the Municipality should promote collaboration between politicians and managers through training workshops.Item Embargo Exploring the role of ethical governance in enhancing organisationa performance: the case of Collins Chabane Local Municpalty(2025-05-15) Chabalala, Rivalani Precious; Singo, T. A.; Mafunisa, M. J.This study used the Collins Chabane Local Municipality as a case study to investigate how ethical governance might improve organizational performance. As they work to create a service-oriented local government that upholds public trust, municipal administrators face more difficult moral conundrums. Almost every level of the public sector's service delivery has seen a decrease in ethical governance since the new democratic era in South Africa. According to the literature study, ethical problems that plague public organizations—such as a decline in work ethics, a lack of discipline, corruption, and inadequate control systems also affect municipalities, leading to subpar performance and low productivity. Additionally, the study looked at the ethical consciousness of municipal officials and how it affected their behavior. The study has used both a qualitative research approach and quantitative research approach. The Collins Chabane Local Municipality's local authorities were the target population. In this investigation, a purposive non-probability sampling strategy was used. Semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were used to gather data. The researcher used statistical and thematic data analysis. The study's findings have shed light on tactics that should be used to encourage moral behavior in the municipality.Item Embargo An investigation of the challenges of the Reconstruction Development Programme in the provision of low-cost houses: A case of Makhado Local Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa(2025-05-16) Bonyane, Fulufhelo; Nekhavhambe, M. M.; Maemu, E.The study focuses on the challenges facing Makhado Local Municipality in the provision of RDP houses. Housing plays a major role in the lives and development of citizens. Access to adequate housing is a basic human right. Delivery of houses satisfies the basic needs of the people, and houses were provided with the intention to completely destroy the apartheid. The provision of housing has remained a big challenge among the poorest communities. The study used a convergent parallel mixed method approach, which consists of qualitative and quantitative approaches. The reason for choosing this method is that it can be combined in such a way that quantitative and qualitative mixed methods retain their original structures and procedures. To achieve the objective of the study, non - probability sampling and its sub-type, the purposive sampling method were used by the researcher to select the samples. Interviews and questionnaires were utilised to collect data. Data collected through the questionnaires was analysed through: International Business Machinery (IBM): Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) latest version and the information was presented using graphical tabular form, frequencies and percentages. The data collected through interviews was analysed through thematic analysis and presented in narrative form. The Major findings of the study are: The Municipality does not have enough financial and human resources to provide RDP houses There is no transparency and fairness in the provision of RDP houses, The Municipality does not interact with the community to ensure the effective provision of RDP houses. Community members are not aware of the matters related to the delivery of RDP houses. The following recommendations are therefore made based on the findings of the study: The researcher recommends that there must be enough financial and human resources for the provision of RDP houses, Training should be provided to municipal officials so that they can know their responsibilities in the provision of RDP houses, The study recommends that there should be transparency and fairness in the provision of RDP houses, The study recommends that the Municipality should fully interact with the community to ensure the effective provision of RDP housesItem Embargo Exploring leadership competencies of sector management service of the South African Public Service(2025-05-16) Maimela, Khuliso Kenny; Mafunisa, John; Matshabaphala, J.; Munzhedzi, P. H.This study aims to explore the literature on leadership competencies of the Senior Management Service (SMS) of the South African public service by incorporating international best practices from selected countries. The thesis focused on the challenges confronting members of the South African SMS and also on the regulatory frameworks underpinning leadership development in the South African public service. The study also focused on the leadership theories and leadership styles underpinning leadership competencies in the public service. The research determined whether it is possible to align the agile leadership model to the public service leadership competency model. To address the main aim of the study and the underlying research problem, a non-empirical approach was adopted. This research adopted a qualitative research method using scholarly literature. The post-positivist research paradigm was utilised. The findings of the study are that the competencies identified in the SMS Competency Framework (CF) do not adequately prepare public servants to perform their duties effectively in the networked governance context, that SMS members are failing to attend training due to operational requirements, that competency assessments results are not made available to SMS members, that assessment results are not a consideration when deciding on the appointment of a candidate, that departments experience financial constraints for financing the resources needed to implement CFs and that coaching and mentorship in the public service is not yet formalised. The study recommends that the directive on the implementation of competency based assessments for members of the Senior Management Service (SMS) in the public service, as amended (Minister for the public service and administration, in terms of chapter 4, part II (D) and chapter 4, part IV of the public service Regulations, 2001) be reviewed and, assessment results to be a consideration when making appointment decision for SMS posts, departments to partner with Public Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) to solicit financial support for SMS training/development where appropriate budget should be reserved specifically for competency related training interventions, introduce stringent measures to stop training budgets from being shifted to other needs should be introduced, departments to formalise senior management mentorship programme in order to address the identified competency gaps and departments to use online leadership programmes offered by the National School of Government (NSG) and other training institutions. For researchers, the findings can add to leadership competency theories, especially in the public service. For policymakers, the findings can form a solid foundation that they can rely on to work out public policies for leadership development in the South African public service. For Public Administration, the findings will contribute to the development of the body of knowledge of the discipline of Public Administration. Further studies are recommended towards understanding the challenges confronting SMS members in the implementation of competency frameworks, and the determination of the effectiveness of competency frameworks. The study is limited to SMS members in the South African public service.Item Embargo Reconfiguration of accountability in developmental local government: A case of City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality(2025-05-16) Mawela, Ndivhaisafhi; Mahole, E.; Munzhedzi, P. H.Accountability denotes answers to be provided for actions taken by those in power. It is crucial to ensure that decisions taken are lawful and best represent the community at large. The failure to effectively implement accountability has negatively impacted developmental local government. The reports by oversight bodies have demonstrated the lack of accountability within developmental local government, which has cemented a way to increase mismanagement. This study focuses on the redesigning of accountability in developmental local government in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng Province. A pragmatic research approach was followed where mixed method research was adopted, as it permitted to cover issues in greater depth. The study was descriptive in nature. The sample methods were purposively drawn from the identified population. Interviews and questionnaires were utilised as instruments for collecting data. Collected data was analysed utilising both statistical and thematic techniques. The Principal-Agent Theory was selected as the theory that underpins the study. The key findings of the study are the ineffectiveness of current mechanisms for accountability, the cadre deployment policy being identified as one of the hindering elements of accountability, the lack of consequence management and the inadequate protection of whistle-blowers. The study recommends revising the current mechanisms for accountability, especially those for performance assessment, which plays a critical role in promoting performance accountability. The study also recommends that the cadre deployment policy be adjusted to ensure that the deployment only speaks to members who have formal qualifications relevant to the deployed portfolio. There is a need for a consultative approach with the private sector to determine how and why accountability in that environment is effective. The study further developed a framework as a means to reconfigure accountability, wherein various role players who enforce accountability should display strong stewardship.