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Welcome to the University of Venda Institutional Repository, an open digital archive of the research output of the University of Venda. Univen IR contains theses and dissertations, research papers as well as conference papers. For further information and assistance please contact Mr Keith Malabi at +27 15 9628564 or +27 15 962 8314 during office hours

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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.

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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.

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Sustainability of South African Hpmestays: an integrated approach for Tourism and Hospitality Development

(2025-05-16) Nethengwe, Tondani; Dafuleya, G.; Mokabe, M.

This study aimed to develop a framework for enhancing the sustainability of homestays in South Africa, addressing the lack of standardized quality control and certification programs. This absence leads to inconsistent service quality, making it difficult for tourists to set clear expectations. The research assessed the current state of homestays by profiling various types through online surveys, including web pages and social media platforms like Facebook. A case study approach was used to evaluate the economic, environmental, and social factors influencing homestay sustainability. Six homestays (two per province—urban and rural) across three provinces (Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal) were selected for in-depth interviews. Surveys were conducted with 120 households near each homestay to examine local community perceptions. The findings revealed the need for government intervention to establish clear policies for regulating homestay standards. This would address inconsistencies and improve service quality and sustainability. The study also emphasized the importance of adopting responsible environmental practices, such as solar energy, sustainable water management, and better waste disposal systems, to mitigate long-term environmental damage. It recommended training programs to encourage sustainable tourism practices among homestay operators. The research further identified the vulnerability of homestays to climate change, particularly in rural, ecologically sensitive areas. Strategies to enhance climate resilience, such as eco-friendly infrastructure and disaster preparedness, were suggested. Additionally, technological challenges were identified, particularly in rural areas where limited access to digital platforms restricts marketing efforts. The study recommended capacity-building initiatives to improve the visibility and profitability of homestays through digital marketing and online platforms. Regarding community perceptions, the study found that local communities generally viewed homestays positively, with no major social or economic changes observed. However, the study suggests further research, including structured surveys targeting various community groups, to assess the broader impacts of homestays on the economy, society, and environment.

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Developing guidelines for the protection of indigeneous knowledge under agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area

(2025-05-16) Mukwevho, Tshimangadzo Donald; Ndlovu, L.; Oriakhogba, D. O.

This study examines the efficacy of protecting indigenous knowledge within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement. It examines the efforts aimed at establishing a robust legal and policy framework within the AfCFTA to foster African economic development. Although the Protocol to the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area on Intellectual Property Rights (IP Protocol) has been adopted, there is yet to be an annex on indigenous knowledge, traditional cultural expressions, and genetic resources. Therefore, this study proposes guidelines and a structured framework to guide the development of this annex. As a desktop (doctrinal) research, this study examines international, regional, and national legal frameworks, best practices, case law, and academic literature on the protection of indigenous knowledge. Grounded in a combined biopiracy, IP, and, free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) conceptual framework, this study develops an "Integrated Indigenous Knowledge Protection Theory," which justifies the adaptation of the conventional IP regimes and developing a sui generis regime for indigenous knowledge protection. This approach encapsulates the incorporation of the IP regime, indigenous peoples’ rights, customary rules, and administrative and institutional framework for protecting indigenous knowledge. To achieve the study objectives, the thesis explores the propriety of using trade agreements, particularly the AfCFTA Agreement, to protect indigenous knowledge. It then examines the approaches adopted in existing international and national legal, policy and practices on the protection of indigenous knowledge. From this, the study proposes useful guidelines and effective structure for the Annex to the IP Protocol. Ultimately, this study advances the argument that a comprehensive framework that balances the economic exploitation of indigenous knowledge and the associated resources, with the rights indigenous people/communities have over these resources will effectively guide policy and lawmakers towards developing a framework that will ensure the protection of indigenous knowledge for the actualisation of the objectives of the AfCFTA Agreement.

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Impacts of seasonal dynamics on cyanobacterial proliferation and cyanotoxins bioaccumulation in fish species: Comparative study of aquaculture fishponds in Nigeria and South Africa

(2025-05-16) Bassey, Odo Jones; Gumbo, Jabulani; Mujuru, M.; Dondofema, F.

Aquaculture production plays a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on food security, economic growth, livelihoods, sustainable production, biodiversity conservation, and improved nutrition. Locally produced fish from aquaculture ponds serve as an affordable and accessible protein source in countries like Nigeria and South Africa. However, the rise of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) poses a serious challenge to the sustainability of fish culture production and human health. In the aquaculture ecosystem, the consequences of these blooms have triggered widespread interest due to cyanotoxin bioaccumulation in cultured fish species. In tropical regions, especially in Africa, there is a paucity of research investigating the temporal drivers of cyanobacterial biomass in aquaculture fishponds. Cyanobacteria are integral to the pond food chain, yet their seasonal dynamics factors and influencing factors remain poorly understood. This knowledge gap is particularly critical as these factors significantly impact aquaculture productivity and the risks associated with cyanobacterial blooms. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of seasonal dynamics on cyanobacterial proliferation and cyanotoxin bioaccumulation in cultured fish. A comparative study design between small-scale commercial fishponds located in Nigeria (NGA) and South Africa was employed in this study. A total of six fishponds located in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria, and Duthuni, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa (SA), were selected. Water and Clarias gariepinus (African catfish) samples were collected from each fishpond at seasonal intervals (SA - summer, winter, NGA - dry and wet seasons). Seasonal variations in water quality parameters were observed in NGA and SA fishponds. Cyanotoxins analysis was carried out using the Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LCMS). The results of the study revealed that elevated temperatures (>20°C) were consistent during dry, wet, and summer seasons, with a notable winter decrease (16.5°C) at Duthuni, South Africa. Dissolved oxygen (DO) and electrical conductivity (EC) levels were consistently low across seasons, while total dissolved solids (TDS) peaked during winter in South Africa (125–193.2 mg/L) and were lower in Nigeria (15.9–37.7 mg/L). Nutrients, particularly nitrite and nitrate, peaked in Nigeria during wet (10.42 mg/L) and dry (6.45 mg/L) seasons, while South African fishponds exhibited lower concentrations in both summer and winter. The study revealed that cyanobacterial biomass and cyanotoxins in fishponds were not driven by seasonal factors like warmer temperatures or precipitation. Cyanobacteria biomass was predominantly influenced by management practices, including feeding, fertilization, nutrient levels, water volume, stocking density, water exchange, and retention time. The LCMS analysis revealed that the microcystin variant MC-RR was absent in fish tissue, while MC-YR was detected in the intestines, gills, muscles, and liver. The highest concentration of 20.9 μg/g was found in the liver. Additionally, untargeted LC-MS identified a broader range of cyanotoxins, including aeruginosins, anabaenopeptins, microcystins, and microginins, in the water samples and fish tissue. These findings underscore the critical influence of fishpond management practices on cyanobacterial dynamics and cyanotoxin bioaccumulation. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to mitigate cyanotoxins risks in aquaculture systems. Understanding and addressing these factors are essential for ensuring the sustainability of aquaculture production and safeguarding public health in tropical regions.