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Item Embargo The Protection of the Right to Healthcare of Illegal Immigrants in South Africa(2026-05-19) Manavhela, Maano; Jegede, A. O.South Africa is experiencing a rising number of illegal immigrants, especially from the neighbouring countries, who come into the country for several reasons, such as seeking socio-economic ends, studies, and seeking new livelihood opportunities. Incidental to this migration subject is the fact that some immigrants enter the Republic in violation of immigration laws or reside in the Republic without obtaining a legal stay. The Constitution entails a Bill of Rights which guarantees the protection of several fundamental rights to everyone. Some of these rights have been extended to illegal immigrants, as evident in the Discovery Health v CCMA case, where the Court interpreted rights to fair labour practices for the protection of illegal immigrant workers. The study looked at the extent of illegal immigrants' right to health care in South Africa according to the existing legal framework. The study adopts a desk-based doctrinal methodology to effectively analyse the legal basis for providing healthcare to illegal immigrants in South Africa, incorporating primary and secondary sources of law such as case laws, journal articles, statutes, international laws, and other pertinent sources. The study concludes that the right of illegal immigrants to health is undermined on the basis of their immigration status, a position contrary to international and regional jurisprudence. The study recommends for the extensive policy review and amendments, courts' extensive engagement with the content of the right to health and eventual endowment of the right to health with a jus cogens status as it is an innate minimum core standard to the right to life and dignity.Item Embargo The Effects of Unethical Conduct on the performance of municipal ward councillors in selected local municipalities of Limpopo Province(2026-05-19) Mukhadi, Mukhethwa; Zitha, H. E.; Matloga, S. T.The main function of local government is to provide communities with basic services such as water, electricity, garbage removal, and sanitation, as well as promoting socio-economic development while encouraging community involvement. However, municipal ward councillors are tasked with understanding and representing community needs and monitoring the performance of local municipalities in service delivery. The practice of unethical conduct in local government manifests in erosion of public trust, political fallout, and reduced performance of both local municipalities and municipal ward councillors. This research analysed the impact of unethical conduct on the performance of municipal ward councillors, proposing strategies to improve their performance, thereby enhancing service delivery. The study aimed to explore the effects of unethical conduct on the performance of municipal ward councillors in Limpopo. The study employed a qualitative desktop research approach underpinned by four theories (the Principal-Agent Theory, Institutional Theory, Political Theory, and Systems Theory), coupled with the Interpretivism research paradigm, Explanatory research design, purposive sampling as a sampling method, document review as a data collection method, and Thematic analysis as the data analysis method. The study found that the performance of municipal ward councillors is not hindered by their own behaviours but is greatly influenced by the environment in which they operate. The continuous practice of unethical behaviour undermines resource allocation, declines service delivery, increases irregular expenditure, reduces public trust, and results in protests. The study recommended the adoption of modern technology, such as the use of Artificial Intelligence, to monitor behaviour, ensure compliance, produce accurate results for decision making, oversee the tender awarding process, and keep records of all municipal transactions. The findings will contribute towards combating unethical conduct, enhancing the performance of officials, promoting quality service delivery in South Africa, and adding to the body of knowledge that already exists.Item Embargo Strategies used by teachers to improve reading in the Foundation Phase(2026-05-19) Tshidzumba, Zwanga; Mulaudzi, L. M. P.; Mulovhedzi, S. A.Reading is generally considered a critical skill, both within and beyond the classroom walls. It is an essential skill that is required for good academic performance. This study aimed to explore teaching strategies that teachers use to improve reading in the Foundation Phase. Research has shown that teaching phonics, shared reading, and guided reading are imperative in establishing strong literacy in learners. The approaches in-volve the building of phonemic awareness and decoding to promote fluency in reading. Some other research suggests vocabulary development and using technology in making reading a richer experience, which can engage and interest learners more. Additionally, the research was guided by interpretivism as the paradigm of the study. A qualitative approach, which was exploratory, was used for research. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. The population for this research consisted of all Grade Two teachers in Nzhe-lele Central Circuit primary schools in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Also, 6 teachers from 3 purposively sampled schools were used. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data from each participant. The study findings revealed effective teaching strategies, which teachers utilise to meet the varied reading needs of their learners. Recommendations stressed the significance of employing a range of these strategies to accommodate different learning styles and enhance reading development.Item Embargo The Psychosocial Well-being of Nurses and Psychologists in Africa: A Scoping Review(2026-05-19) Makhobela, Amukelani; Makhado, L.; Mushwana, M. D.Introduction: Healthcare systems in Africa have prioritised healthcare recipients, and little emphasis has been placed on the well-being of healthcare professionals, as reflected in the limited available literature on the scope of healthcare professionals' well-being. The present study examines studies conducted in African countries, with a focus on the psychosocial well-being of nurses and psychologists. To answer the research question: What is the psychosocial well-being of nurses and psychologists in the African context? The study contributes to improving working environments within healthcare settings, enhancing pandemic readiness, and enhancing the overall quality of life of healthcare workers in African nations. Methods: A scoping review has been conducted using the frameworks established by Arksey and O'Malley (2005) and Levac et al. (2010). A comprehensive literature search has been conducted, covering publications from 2014 to 2024, across the following databases: PubMed, EBSCOhost, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, institutional repositories, and other grey literature sources, as well as a hand search of the reference lists of included studies. Studies included were assessed for eligibility by two independent reviewers. Findings: Fifteen studies are included in this review. Most research on nurses' well-being originates in South Africa, with limited representation from other African countries. There is a notably high psychosocial toll among nurses in healthcare settings with expressions of burnout, severe depressive symptoms, PTSD, anxiety and other stress-related disorders coupled with compassion fatigue. Conclusion: There is an absence of an effective, unified intervention programme(s) to promote nurses’ psychosocial well-being. Irregularities and disparities are highlighted within the organisational structure of most healthcare settings in Africa. There is an urgent need among stakeholders to implement intervention strategies among healthcare workers to support their psychological health and social needs.Item Embargo The comprehension of mothers on the nutritional status of children aged 3-5 years in Greater Taung Local Municipality, North-West Province(2026-05-19) Mogale, Molala Lydia; Nesamvuni, C. N.; Masia, T. A.Malnutrition, especially in childhood, is a major public health concern globally. It is estimated to contribute to more than one-third of all child deaths globally, with approximately 45% of mortality in children under five years from low and middle-income countries. The study aimed to investigate mothers' comprehension of the nutritional status of their children in the Greater Taung Local Municipality. The study design was cross-sectional, following quantitative methods. The target population were mothers and their children aged 3-5 years in GTLM. Two-stage sampling was used. Firstly, simple random sampling was used to select Early Childhood Development Centres, giving them an equal chance of being selected for the study. Secondly, a systematic random sampling method was used to select 236 mothers with children aged 3-5 years. Data was collected with a questionnaire. Data analysis was done using the Statistical and Data Analysis version 18. Descriptive statistics such as means, frequencies and standard deviation were used to describe and summarise the data. Fisher’s exact test was used for the association between a child’s anthropometric status and the mother’s nutritional knowledge. Anthropometric measurements were analysed using the WHO AnthroPlus software. Proper and due consideration was given to research ethics. The University of Venda approved and provided the ethical clearance certificate. Results showed that most mothers did comprehend the interpretation of the direction of the curves in the Road to Health Booklet. Furthermore, the study showed that mothers had average (n= 125; 54%) and adequate (n= 81; 34.3%) knowledge, which is positive for their nutritional outcomes and those of their children. Regarding anthropometric status, most children (n = 227; 96.2%) presented with a normal weight-for-age. Stunting was a concern (n=33; 14.0%). Underweight and wasting were n=9 (3.8%) and n=20 (8.5%), respectively. A significant association was observed between mothers’ nutrition knowledge and weight for height (p=0.009) and BMI (p=0.038).Item Embargo The impact of the structural and behavioural factors on governance in selected Limpopo municipalities: South Africa(2026-05-19) Mafuwane, Amukelani Amanda; Nekhavhambe, M. M.South African local municipalities continue to face persistent governance challenges, which contribute to poor service delivery in areas such as water provision, hygiene, power, and refuse management. Even with the nation’s advanced constitutional and legal structures, the underlying issues of these challenges remain complex and deeply entrenched. This study concentrated on the impact of structural and behavioural factors on governance in selected municipalities within the Limpopo province, focusing on the interaction between governance shortcomings like corruption, poor leadership, and lack of transparency, as well as structural constraint factors like limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and capacity challenges. The researcher employed a qualitative desktop research design, drawing data from various municipal documents, academic journals, publications, and reports from the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA). The data was examined through thematic analysis to uncover important patterns and trends. The Institutional Theory guided this study to explain how both formal and informal institutional structures shape governance practices and service provision outcomes. The findings reveal that the selected Limpopo local municipalities are facing significant challenges including issues in financial management, leadership, inadequate skills, a high level of corruption, and a lack of transparency. These hurdles are linked to non-compliance with financial regulations, poor oversight, and weak institutional capacity, which therefore undermine the ability to ensure effective governance and accountability within the municipalities. Based on the results of this study, the study proposes several recommendations to strengthen governance in the selected Limpopo local municipalities. These include enhancing leadership capacity through the adoption of a leadership scorecard and rotational exchange programme; improving skills through knowledge hubs; enhancing compliance with the MFMA; institutionalising consequence management mechanisms to curb corruption; and promoting transparency. The study further recommends that future studies conduct comparative studies across different local municipalities and employ diverse data collection methods to broaden the understanding of governance challenges and interventions in the South African local government context.Item Embargo The Efficacy of E-governance in Promoting Community Participation(2026-05-19) Tshikovhi, Lufuno; Matloga, S. T.; Maemu, E.This study examines the efficacy of e-governance in promoting community participation within Thulamela Local Municipality (TLM). As information and communication technology (ICT) becomes increasingly integrated into public administration, e-governance has emerged as a crucial tool for enhancing transparency, accountability, and civic participation. Municipalities are increasingly utilising online platforms to better engage with their communities. To evaluate the efficacy of e-governance portals, including social media, municipal websites, and mobile applications, this study employed a mixed-methods approach. This approach combined quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews involving community members and municipal officials. The choice of mixed methods was made to gain a deeper understanding of the research problem. The study has five main objectives. To accomplish these objectives, the researcher adopted a pragmatism paradigm and utilised descriptive and contextual design. Nonprobability sampling methods, specifically purposive sampling, were employed to select participants. In total, 130 individuals were sampled, including 10 municipal officials who participated in interviews and 120 who completed structured questionnaires. Data collection was conducted through two main methods: structured questionnaires and interview schedules. For data analysis, the quantitative data obtained from questionnaires were analysed using statistical methods with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 30.0. The results were presented in the form of tables, frequencies, and percentages. Qualitative data from the interviews were analysed using NVivo Version 15.0, employing thematic analysis to group the data into themes and present the findings in a narrative format. The study explored how e- governance facilitates community participation, the challenges faced during its implementation, and the municipality's responsiveness to digital feedback. The findings of this study revealed that e-governance has significantly enhanced accessibility and convenience for community participation in Thulamela Local Municipality. The study emphasised the need for improved municipal strategies to incorporate digital feedback into decision-making processes. This research contributes to the evolving field of e-governance and participatory democracy. It offers recommendations to enhance e-governance in local governance and provides valuable insights to policymakers, municipal officials, and community stakeholders on effectively leveraging technology for more inclusive decision-making in TLM. The major findings in this study are: ➢ There are relationships between e-governance and community participation in TLM. ➢ The current e-governance of TLM is ineffective in promoting community participation due to poor network services in rural areas, high data costs, budget constraints, and delays in updating information. ➢ Thulamela Local Municipality still faces several challenges in implementing e- governance to promote community participation, including limited internet access, a lack of digital literacy, language barriers, inadequate training and awareness, high data costs, Trust issues, ideological barriers, and financial and infrastructural challenges. ➢ TLM has several initiatives to strengthen community participation through e- governance, including digital literacy workshops and training sessions, as well as social media platforms, to encourage residents to engage with e- governance. ➢ A dedicated help desk, training sessions for both municipal officials and residents, and expanded internet connectivity enhance participation through e- governance portals. The following are the recommendations based on the study findings ➢ The Thulamela Local Municipality should support community members by providing an opportunity to express their voices through e-governance portals, allowing them to prioritise their needs. ➢ Simplifying e-governance processes further and providing user training or support mechanisms to enhance effectiveness. ➢ Implement multilingual platforms, simplify content, and provide educational support programs to promote inclusivity and equitable participation in digital initiatives. ➢ The municipality’s annual community participation plan should be implemented to ensure continuous learning and participation. TLM should invest in broadband infrastructure, establish public Wi-Fi hotspots, and collaborate with network providers to enhance participation through e- governance.Item Embargo Risk Factors associated with high prevalence of stillbirths in Capricorn District, Limpopo Province(2026-09-19) Nekhumbe, Phumudzo; Mulondo, S. A.; Chewe, V. M.Background: Stillbirth is foetal death at or after 20–28 weeks of pregnancy, resulting in a baby born without signs of life and often causing guilt and grief for the mother. About half of stillbirths occur during childbirth, especially in developing countries. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (2016), risk factors include maternal age over 35, smoking, drug use, and first pregnancy. Purpose of the study: This study aimed to determine risk factors linked to the high prevalence of stillbirths in Capricorn District, Limpopo Province Methodology: A quantitative descriptive research design was used to conduct the study. A purposive sampling method was used to select the healthcare facilities. A non-probability convenience sampling approach was utilized to select the respondents, and the sample size was the total sample, that is, all accessible midwives in the selected facilities, in order to have a large sample size. The target population was all midwives working in the Capricorn district healthcare facilities. The study population was 68 midwives working at the selected healthcare facilities in the Capricorn district, Limpopo province. A self-developed structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Pre-test was done using 6 midwives from the facility who were not part of the study. Reliability and Validity were ensured by pre-testing the tool. Data were analysed using SPSS version 27, and the findings were presented in frequency tables and percentages. The researcher followed all ethical guidelines, including permission to conduct the study, informed consent, and confidentiality and anonymity. Results: The study findings showed that risk factors such as multiple pregnancy, history of previous stillbirth, unbooked pregnancies ( not attending Antenatal care), low haemoglobin level, Human Immunodeficiency Virus reactive with high viral load, Rapid Plasma Reagin reactive, disease conditions like hypertension, diabetes mellitus and anaemia, normal vaginal deliveries, home deliveries, unmonitored fetal heart rate during labour, spontaneous rupture of membranes, Meconium Stained Liquor grade 3, presentations such as shoulder, brow and breech, complications such as cord prolapse, placenta abruption and congenital malformations have a major contribution in high prevalence of stillbirths in Capricorn district Limpopo province. Recommendations: The study recommended that more research on stillbirths needs to be done to address people at risk factors contributing to the high prevalence of stillbirth. The Department of Health and Healthcare Facilities should provide awareness or workshops on stillbirth risk and prevention.Item Embargo The role of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in implementing the National Development Plan (NDP): a case of Thulamela Local Municipality(2026-05-19) Nemakhavhani, Hanedzani; Takalani, H. H.; Lavhelani, N. P.This research investigated the function of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in conducting the National Development Plan (NDP) within Thulamela Local Municipality. It aimed to analyse how the IDP converts national development goals into local actions, pinpoint barriers to effective alignment, evaluate the extent of alignment between IDP priorities and the NDP, and suggest methods to improve integration. A qualitative research methodology was used, incorporating semi-structured interviews with municipal officials, council members, and community stakeholders to obtain detailed insights into planning processes and local development activities. The reason why this study adopted a qualitative research approach is that it facilitated a comprehensive examination of the experiences, viewpoints, and insights of municipal officials, councillors, and community members concerning the role of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in executing the National Development Plan (NDP). The information gathered was examined using thematic analysis, which is a structured approach for identifying, organising, and interpreting patterns or themes within qualitative data. Thematic analysis provided a systematic method for analysing the data and helped the researcher to understand the key challenges, successes, and areas for improvement in the implementation of the National Development Plan through the Integrated Development Plan at the local government level. Participant responses were transcribed, assessed, and categorised based on recurring subjects and concepts relevant to the study's goals. Significant themes, including the alignment of the IDP with NDP objectives, institutional obstacles, community involvement, and intergovernmental collaboration, were identified and analysed to give a thorough understanding of how national development priorities are converted into practical local initiatives. This approach enabled the researcher to formulate meaningful conclusions and produce actionable recommendations based on the views of the participants. In conclusion, thematic analysis provided a systematic method for analysing the data and helped the researcher to understand the key challenges, successes, and areas for improvement in the implementation of the National Development Plan through the Integrated Development Plan at the local government level. Thulamela Local Municipality uses the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) as the primary mechanism to implement the National Development Plan (NDP) at the local level. The implementation of the NDP through the IDP in Thulamela Local Municipality is hindered by several financial constraints, limited institutional capacity, poor coordination among departments, weak monitoring and evaluation systems, and low levels of community participation. Thulamela Local Municipality should align its Integrated Development Plan (IDP) with the National Development Plan (NDP) by improving coordination with national and provincial government departments, enhancing staff training, and encouraging greater community participation in planning processes. The study also recommends that Thulamela Local Municipality should regularly review and update its IDP objectives to ensure continuous alignment with NDP priorities such as job creation, poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and social services.Item Open Access The impact of Black Tax on the intention to start a business among black entrepreneurs: comparative analysis between female and male entrepreneurs in the Vhembe District Municipality, South Africa(2026-05-19) Salani, Lungelo Giycia; Ndou, Adam; Chiliya, NormanBlack tax represents a multifaceted and sensitive issue that is frequently subjected to discourse among young black South Africans. It pertains to the financial obligations that black professionals often encounter in supporting their families and communities, including extended family members. This study undertakes a comparative analysis of the impact of black tax on the entrepreneurial intentions of black female and male entrepreneurs within the Vhembe district municipality. Employing a comparative analysis approach, this research investigates how black women and men navigate the complexities associated with black tax and its influence on their entrepreneurial aspirations. Drawing upon existing literature, empirical data, and theoretical frameworks, the study examines the differential experiences and barriers faced by black women and men in their pursuit of entrepreneurship in the context of black tax. Intersectionality theory and Kinscripts framework were used in the study. A qualitative methodology was employed, engaging entrepreneurs from the Vhembe district municipality, with purposive sampling utilized for participant selection. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, which were subsequently transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis facilitated by ATLAS.ti software. The findings indicate that black tax exerts a significant impact on entrepreneurial intentions by restricting access to start-up capital, intensifying financial pressure, and increasing the perceived risks associated with business establishment. Male entrepreneurs were primarily influenced by culturally ingrained expectations to serve as the principal financial providers, while female entrepreneurs encountered additional pressures stemming from obligations to provide financial support, childcare responsibilities, and emotional labour. Despite these challenges, the study also identified that, for some entrepreneurs, black tax acted as a motivating factor, prompting business initiation to fulfil family obligations more sustainably. The study concluded that black tax has a complex and dual role in shaping entrepreneurial intentions, functioning simultaneously as both a barrier and a motivator. These findings underscore the necessity for context-sensitive entrepreneurship support interventions that acknowledge family financial responsibilities and address the gender-specific challenges faced by black entrepreneurs in South Africa.Item Embargo The Impact of Monitoring and Evaluation in Enhancing Municipal Performance in the Thulamela Local Municipality(2026-05-19) Luvhimbi, Muravha Ivy; Zitha, H. E.; Singo, T. A.This study examines the Impact of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) on enhancing municipal performance within the Thulamela Local Municipality, Vhembe District Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa. As a vital component of good governance, M&E plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and the effective implementation of municipal programs and projects. The research investigates how M&E practices are institutionalised and their impact on improving decision-making processes, service delivery, and overall performance at the local government level. The study is grounded in the theoretical frameworks of Institutional Theory and Systems Theory, which inform the understanding of how organisational structures, processes, and external pressures shape the implementation and success of M&E systems in the municipal context. This study employed the Interpretivist research paradigm and used an exploratory research design to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of M&E on municipal performance in Thulamela Local Municipality. This study is based on desk-top research and uses a qualitative research method. A purposive sampling method was adopted to select secondary data, which includes government reports, audit findings, scholarly publications, institutional databases, policy documents, and journal articles, providing an efficient and cost-effective approach to data gathering relevant to M&E in the local sphere of government. The collected data were analysed using thematic analysis. The study contributes to the body of knowledge, as it will serve as a point of reference for future scholars in the local sphere of government, with particular attention to the impact of monitoring and evaluation on municipal performance in Thulamela Local Municipality. The municipality has put in place a comprehensive M&E policy and legislative frameworks to improve standardisation and accountability in municipal operations. The study also reveals that limited institutional capacity, resource constraints, inconsistent departmental coordination, and resistance to change prevent the municipality from fully leveraging M&E for developmental decision-making. This study recommends that Thulamela Local Municipality should integrate the M&E systems with the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and enhance the capacity of its M&E personnel through continuous training in indicator development, data management, evaluation design, and results-based management.Item Embargo Investigating the prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors among adults in a selected rural village of Vhembe District, Limpopo(2026-05-19) Maredi, Nketla Ignicious; Mukoma, G. G.; Mashau, N. S.Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of global mortality, with modifiable lifestyle factors playing a critical role. Data on the prevalence and clustering of these risk factors in rural South African communities, which often bear a disproportionate burden of disease, remain limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and clustering of key CVD risk factors among adults in Nweli village, Vhembe District, Limpopo. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 120 adults. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires (including the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire) and standardised physical measurements (waist circumference, blood pressure). The dataset was analysed using SPSS version 29, employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, correlation analyses and regression modelling. Non-normal distributed data are reported as median (Interquartile Range, IQR). Results: The sample was mainly female (78.3%), with a median age of 48.0 years (IQR = 21.0). A high proportion, 61.7%, were physically inactive, with a notable gender disparity: 67.0% of females and 42.3% of males. Central obesity, determined by waist circumference, affected 48.3% of participants and showed a strong association with systolic blood pressure (r = 0.52, p < 0.001). Dietary habits were poor, as 42.5% reported daily intake of fatty foods. Importantly, 71.7% of participants had two or more CVD risk factors simultaneously, with the combination of physical inactivity and central obesity (42.5%) being the most prevalent cluster. Conclusion: A high prevalence and significant clustering of modifiable CVD risk factors exist in this rural community, driven by physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, and central obesity, and exacerbated by gender disparities and socioeconomic constraints. These findings provide an evidence base for the urgent development of integrated, community-based primary prevention strategies tailored to this high-risk population.Item Embargo Factors Contributing to Patient Safety Incidents at a Regional Hospital in Vhembe District”(2026-05-19) Modau, Andani Londanani; Mudau, A.; Raliphaswa, N. S.The safety of patients continues to be a significant challenge in South Africa’s public health sector, particularly within resource-constrained hospitals. This study adopted a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive design to investigate factors contributing to patient safety incidents at a regional hospital in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province. Data were generated by means of semi-structured interviews with 13 healthcare professionals drawn from key wards, including ICU, theatre, labour, antenatal, and paediatrics. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Health Sciences Higher Degrees Research Ethics Committee. Further approval was obtained from the Limpopo Department of Health, the Vhembe District, and the hospital management. Informed consent was obtained from all participants, confidentiality and anonymity were safeguarded, and voluntary participation with the right to withdraw was emphasised. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility (member checking, peer debriefing, and repeated data review), dependability (audit trails), conformability (detailed methodological notes and participant validation), and transferability (thick description of context and processes). Findings revealed that individual-level challenges such as inadequate training, low motivation, and poor awareness of safety protocols contributed significantly to adverse events. Interpersonal factors including poor communication, weak teamwork, and reluctance to seek help were found to undermine collaborative patient care. Systemic barriers, including chronic staff shortages, inadequate resources, weak infrastructure, and ineffective leadership, further compound the risks. Environmental challenges, including overcrowded wards, unsafe clinics, and weak referral systems, exacerbated safety incidents. Additionally, patient-related factors such as non-compliance, absconding, low health literacy, and socio-economic constraints were identified as contributing risks. The study concludes that patient safety in resource-constrained hospitals is the result of a complex interplay between individual, relational, systemic, and patient-driven factors. Strengthening professional training, fostering a culture of teamwork, addressing infrastructural and leadership gaps, and improving patient education are essential strategies to mitigate risks. These results highlight the pressing necessity for integrated, multi-level measures focused on enhancing patient safety and the quality of care within South Africa’s public healthcare system.Item Embargo Loadshedding-related challenges experienced by nurses regarding the provision of health care services at selected Primary Health Care facilities in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province(2026-05-19) Muhali, Phillip; Mudau, A. G.; Motadi, A. S.Load shedding, a tactic employed by Eskom to regulate electricity consumption, presents substantial obstacles to healthcare provision in South Africa, specifically in Primary health care facilities. The health sector in South Africa is heavily dependent on electricity to power medical equipment. When electricity is suddenly cut off during loadshedding, patients’ lives are at risk, also putting nurses in a difficult position as they are unable to provide health care. This study investigated the challenges of load shedding on nurses employed in Primary health care facilities in Vhembe district of Limpopo province, South Africa. The study used qualitative research methodology. In this study, Exploratory, descriptive, and contextual approaches were used. The Participants were chosen to take part in the study using non-probability, convenience sampling, depending on the availability of nurses. The main data collection tool was an interview guide. The collected data was analysed using thematic analysis. The following themes and subthemes emerged from the findings: Equipment malfunction, disruption of medical procedure, psychological impact on nurses, medication storage and integrity, increased mortality rate, and poor network and the strategies to mitigate loadshedding-related challenges, which include supplying backup generators, limiting the opening of fridges, storing more oxygen cylinders, and ensuring that care facilities' lines are not affected by loadshedding. Measures to ensure trustworthiness, which include credibility, conformability, and dependability, were applied. The researcher ensured that research ethics were considered, including informed consent, permission to conduct the study, confidentiality, beneficence, and privacy. The researcher recommends that the Department of Health implement some or all strategies listed by nurses to mitigate the impact of loadshedding. Findings will be presented at a research conference, published in journal articles, and available in the department of health institutions.Item Embargo Investigation of Ubuntu values in the promotion of the health of youth in Vhembe District(2026-05-19) Ndou, Mulamuleli; Mashau, N. S.Vhembe District, situated in the province of Limpopo, South Africa, offers a distinctive setting in which efforts to enhance juvenile health meet with Ubuntu cultural ideals. The district has strong community ties and a diverse range of cultures, but little is known about how Ubuntu ideals might improve the health and well-being of its young people. The effectiveness of traditional health promotion efforts in meeting the holistic needs of young people is limited because they often overlook these cultural aspects. This study aims to close this gap by examining the contribution of Ubuntu ideals to the promotion of health among young people in Muraga village, specifically those aged 15-24. Purposive sampling was employed to select participants for this qualitative study based on their possession of specific traits or experiences that aligned with the study's objectives. With the help of this sampling strategy, a diverse range of young people was included, enabling the recording of various viewpoints and experiences regarding Ubuntu principles and their impact on health promotion. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, and thematic analysis was used. By using measures such as credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability, trustworthiness was ensured. According to the study, young people in the Vhembe District deal with a variety of health problems, such as mental health disorders, HIV/AIDS, and socioeconomic determinants like gender-based violence and poverty. Ubuntu ideals have been found to be effective means of promoting solidarity, community-based care, and youth empowerment in the context of health promotion. However, obstacles including stigma, the decline of traditional values, and the lack of Ubuntu integration in official health care were also emphasised. The study comes to the conclusion that in the Vhembe District, Ubuntu is an essential cultural resource for promoting holistic youth health. To improve health results that are culturally sensitive, sustainable, and driven by the community, it is advised that Ubuntu principles be methodically incorporated into official health systems, youth-focused programs, and community health policies.Item Open Access Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Adolescents Regarding Antenatal Care Booking in a Vhembe District of Limpopo Province(2026-05-18) Nedzingahe, Tsiko Jedidah; Mudau, A. G.; Lebese, R. T.Adolescent pregnancy is a global public health concern that contributed to maternal mortality. However, little research has explored adolescents' understanding and views on antenatal care (ANC). The Vhembe District faces high rates of late ANC booking, which adversely impacts maternal and child health. This study investigated adolescents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding ANC booking in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, offering insights for policy planning. The beneficiaries of this research included healthcare practitioners, adolescent mothers, local communities, and policymakers. A quantitative, non-experimental design was employed, using a questionnaire survey. Stratified random sampling was applied to select 89 adolescents aged 15–19 years from Thohoyandou Block G. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics, including Chi-square tests and logistic regression. The findings revealed varying levels of knowledge regarding antenatal care (ANC) services among adolescents. More than half of the respondents (approximately 55–60%) demonstrated limited understanding of the importance of early ANC booking and the range of services provided during pregnancy. Only about 40–45% of participants correctly identified the recommended timing for initiating ANC. Attitudes toward ANC were mixed, with around 48–52% of adolescents expressing positive attitudes toward ANC utilisation, while the remainder reported neutral or negative attitudes influenced by stigma, cultural beliefs, fear of disclosure, and mistrust of healthcare providers. In terms of practices, delayed ANC booking was common, with over 60% of respondents reporting booking ANC after the first trimester. Socioeconomic challenges such as poverty, transport difficulties, and limited family support were reported by more than half (≈55%) of the participants as key barriers to timely ANC attendance. Despite these challenges, enabling factors were identified, as approximately 45–50% of respondents indicated that education, family support, and the availability of adolescent-friendly health services could improve ANC utilisation. Overall, the study highlighted the need for targeted health education, adolescent-responsive healthcare services, and policy interventions to reduce barriers to ANC access. Addressing knowledge gaps, cultural stigma, and systemic challenges could strengthen maternal health outcomes and encourage timely ANC booking among adolescents in the Vhembe District.Item Embargo Parenting and pregnant teenagers' experiences of pregnancy on mental health in selected schools, a case of Collins Chabane Municipality.(2026-05-19) Sikhwari, Rinae; Maluleke, M.; Tshitimbi, T. O.Introduction Teenage pregnancy is a global issue, and while many studies are working to lower the high number of young pregnancies, they are not considering the psychological effects of these pregnancies. There should be life before and after birth, even amid changes that are or have already occurred. Teenage pregnancy has a variety of adverse effects on teens' mental health. Pregnancy at this age causes significant physical changes in the body, which can lead to mental health issues, particularly for school-leaner children. Purpose: To explore the pregnant and parenting teenagers lived mental health experiences of pregnancy in selected secondary schools in Collin Chabane Municipality. Objective: To describe mental health challenges experienced by pregnant and parenting teenagers at Collin Chabane Municipality. To describe the proposed strategies to address mental health challenges faced by pregnant and parenting teenagers in Collin Chabane Municipality. Method: The researcher employed Qualitative research, which is exploratory and descriptive for the study, and the population of the study comprised of teenage girls who were pregnant (13-19 years old) and who were parenting their less than one-year-old infants, and live at Collin Chabane Municipality and attend the selected secondary schools. The researcher used a non-probability purposive to select the research participants. The unstructured face-to-face interview, having one central question, was used to collect data, and voice recorders were used to capture interviews. Data was analysed using the thematic analysis method. For this research, the following measures to ensure trustworthiness were considered and ensured: credibility, dependability, conformability, and transferability. Ethical consideration was ensured throughout the study. Recommendations were based on the study findings.Item Embargo Contributory factors to hypertension among women selling fruits at Tshakhuma Open Market, Makhado Municipality, Vhembe District Limpopo Province South Africa(2026-05-19) Mutibi, Mulalo Doreen; Luhalima, T. R.; Ndou, N. D.Background: Hypertension is a growing public health concern, particularly among women in Makhado Municipality, Vhembe district, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Aim: This study aimed to determine the contributory factors of hypertension among women selling fruits at Tshakhuma open market, Makhado Municipality, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Methodology: The study employed a quantitative research approach with a cross-sectional design and used a nonprobability total population sampling method. The setting was at the Tshakhuma open fruit market. A self-developed questionnaire was used to collect data. A pre-test was conducted with 25 individuals who were not part of the main study. The collected data was captured and analyzed using SPSS version 30.0.0 using binary logistic regression and chi-square tests. The research was conducted ethically, following ethical approval obtained from the relevant institutional review board. Informed consent was secured from respondents prior to the data collection. Results: The results showed that women selling at the Tshakhuma open fruit market are affected by various factors that can affect hypertension, such as their level of education, the type of transport they use to reach the market, and others. Chi-square results indicated a strong relationship among lifestyle factors, psychological factors, and hypertension. Conclusion: Hypertension among women fruit sellers at Tshakhuma market is shaped by social and lifestyle factors, including old age and low level of education, which can increase vulnerabilities when it comes to experiencing hypertension. The study achieved its objective of investigating the contributory factors to hypertension among women selling fruit at the Tshakhuma open market in Makhado municipality. Contribution: The study will contribute to the body of knowledge on hypertension and will alert women selling at the market on how to stay fit and reduce the risk of hypertension. Recommendations: Women at Tshakhuma fruit markets need to be educated about how factors such as diet, lifestyle, and psychological factors can impact their lives when it comes to exposing themselves to hypertension. There is a gap in knowledge about hypertension that needs to be filled through targeted education regarding hypertension.Item Embargo Perceptions of male teenagers towards teen fatherhood in Alxexandra Township, Eastern Cape Province(2026-05-19) Nemangaya, V. M.; Mafumo, J. L.; Rikhotso, T. N.Background: Teenage parenthood is gaining popularity globally, raising child welfare concerns and other issues among diverse stakeholders. Male teenagers, for instance, have different ideas regarding being teenage fathers. Purpose: This study aimed to explore and describe the perceptions of male teenagers toward teenage fatherconcerns about child welfare hood in Alexandria Township, Eastern Cape Province. Methodology: A qualitative explorative design was used. Purposive quota sampling was employed to select 25 participants from a population of teenage male learners in schools in Alexandria Township, Eastern Cape Province. Unstructured interviews, supported by probing questions, were used to gather comprehensive data on male teenagers' perceptions. Pre-testing was done before data collection to assess the feasibility of the interview sessions, the quality of the interview questions, and their ability to answer the research questions. The collected data were analysed using Tesch’s open coding approach, with findings presented as themes. Trustworthiness was ensured through dependability, confirmability, credibility, prolonged engagement, and referral adequacy. Ethical considerations of confidentiality, non-maleficence, voluntary participation, and privacy were upheld throughout the study. Results: The study identified four overarching themes regarding male teenagers' perceptions of teenage fatherhood: positive perceptions, negative perceptions, perceptions of the consequences of teenage fatherhood, and perceptions of factors contributing to teenage fatherhood. Recommendations: The study recommends strengthening sex education, advancing access to reproductive health services, and supporting teenage fathers. Schools, healthcare providers, and communities should use inclusive and sensitive approaches. Parents and community leaders also have an important role in guiding young men. More male involvement in health services, community awareness campaigns, and economic support is essential to changing perceptions, reducing school dropout rates, and improving outcomes for teenage fathers and their children.Item Embargo Experiences of professional nurses caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 at the selected hospitals in Tshwane District of Gauteng Province, South Africa(2026-05-19) Nyamande, Lucky; Ndou, N. D.; Tshililo, A. R.; Rangwaneni, M. E.Introduction and Background: The South African healthcare system was hard hit by the second wave of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which affected professional nurses as healthcare facilities became overwhelmed due to an increased workload because of the overflow of admissions. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the experiences of professional nurses caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 at selected hospitals in the Tshwane district of Gauteng province, South Africa. Methodology: The researcher employed a qualitative approach with an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis design. The researcher used a non-probability purposive sampling technique to select the participants. The researcher purposively selected professional nurses who are 25 years or older and have worked in designated COVID-19 units, intensive care units and other admission wards were COVID-19 patients were being treated. The population of the study comprised of 15 professional nurses from the Tshwane district. In-depth face to face unstructured individual interviews were used to collect information pertaining to the experiences of professional nurses in caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19. An audio recording device was used during the interviews, with the participant's consent. The data was transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed guided by the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis process. The study found that professional nurses faced challenges during the provision of care to patients this including amongst others, increased workload, staff shortage and anxiety. The challenges they faced encouraged them to employ coping strategies such as increasing teamwork, conducting in-service training and reallocating staff to busy units. The study also found that professional nurses had experiences they cherished and appreciated, such as increased knowledge and enhanced employment opportunities. They indicated that such experiences boosted their morale and served as motivation to soldier on in the battle against COVID-19. Based on the study findings, several recommendations were made focusing on the practice of nursing, the management and for further research studies. Measures to ensure the trustworthiness of the study and the required research ethics were applied and maintained throughout the study.