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Murdering for medicine: a scoping review of the psychology-based evidence of muthi murder in South Africa
Full text linkMuthi murder is a culturally embedded phenomenon that involves the violent harvesting of human body parts for use in traditional African medicine. While muthi murders are acknowledged as a crime in South Africa, explanations have primarily been informed by cultural interpretations and sensationalised by media coverage. It is thus worth considering whether an overemphasis on ethnographic particularity in understanding the motivations behind muthi murder risks neglecting or overlooking its inscription within broader psychological structures. This review aimed to ascertain the prevalence of psychologically based evidence for muthi murder within existing South African literature. To achieve its aim, the review applied Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) six-stage methodological framework for scoping reviews. This framework provided a structured approach to map and synthesise existing research on muthi murder systematically. The review moreover implemented a PCC (Population/Concept/Context) framework to develop an initial search strategy and formulate a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Five articles were identified for final review and thematic analysis. Braun and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis was used to identify and unpack the predominant themes associated with the practice of muthi murder in South Africa. The research results conveyed that muthi murder practices in South Africa exist within a multifaceted arena that has been influenced by a confluence of sociocultural, economic, political, and psychological variables. Collectively, the dynamic interplay between these elements contributes to the distortion and perversion of traditional African belief systems that often result in the exploitation of vulnerable community members. This review augmented the concept of muthi murder by integrating psychological dimensions to cultivate a more nuanced and profound understanding of the complexities inherent to these acts.Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 202
Experiences of cisgender amaXhosa fathers in Gqeberha after the birth of their first child
Full text linkThe transition to parenthood, particularly fatherhood, presents notable challenges for couples as it necessitates the reorganization of the family unit, often resulting in emotional, functional, and boundary shifts that can disrupt the marital relationship. Within the amaXhosa culture, fatherhood is typically recognized through marriage or the acceptance of responsibility, referred to as intlawulo. Definitions and experiences of fatherhood vary across and within cultures, highlighting the importance of understanding its cultural nuances. This study focuses on the experiences of first-time cisgender amaXhosa fathers in Gqeberha following the birth of their first child, aiming to provide psychological practitioners with culturally informed insights and recommendations for supporting amaXhosa fathers in cohabiting relationships. Qualitative methodology was employed, guided by the ecological systems framework to contextualize and interpret the findings. Eleven first-time fathers were recruited through daycare and nursery school networks and participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcribed data, revealing key themes related to cultural identity, the negotiation of new roles, and the emotional challenges associated with fatherhood. Trustworthiness was ensured by adhering to principles such as credibility, dependability, and confirmability. Ethical considerations, including beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, autonomy, and dignity, were maintained throughout the study. The findings underscore the significance of cultural values in shaping the fatherhood experience, with participants reporting a strong emphasis on responsibility and family cohesion. Psychological practitioners are encouraged to adopt culturally sensitive approaches when working with amaXhosa fathers, recognizing the interplay between cultural expectations and individual experiences during the transition to fatherhood.Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 202
Nutritional status, diet diversity, food insecurity and lifestyle factors of pregnant women at community: oriented primary care sites in Pretoria East
Full text linkInformal settlement and inner-city living are increasingly becoming home to urban communities in South Africa. The study describes the food insecurity, diet diversity, and lifestyle factors of pregnant women attending an inner-city clinic or living in an informal settlement and how birth outcome is affected. A quantitative, comparative, descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional study with a convenience study sample of 170 pregnant women as participants was conducted at the Woodlane Village Clinic in Moreletta and the Skinner Street Clinic in the Tshwane CBD. The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) was completed to determine low, medium and high food insecurity. The Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) score was calculated as a proxy of micronutrient adequacy using one open-list 24-hour recall. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score and the WHO-Assist V3.0 indicated the depression and suicide ideation prevalence, as well as alcohol, recreational drug and tobacco use and desire during pregnancy. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Nelson Mandela University Faculty Postgraduate Studies Committee (FPGSC), reference number H17-HEA-DIET-004. The NHRD reference number is GP_201803_007, and the study adhered to the principles set out in the Declaration of Helsinki (2013). Statistically significant differences between the two clinics were found regarding maternal age (p < 0.0005), citizenship (p < 0.0005), education (p < 0.0005), and employment status of both women and men (p < 0.0005) at the two sites. The association between diet diversity, food insecurity, depression score, and alcohol, recreational drug and tobacco use during pregnancy was investigated, and birth outcome was described. Self-employment of one partner and the other partner's unemployed or part-time employment had a positive association with MDD-W equal or more than five, consequently indicating a good DD. Furthermore, having a grant also indicated that a DDS of five was achieved. There was no statistically significant difference between other demographic factors. A positive association was not found between a higher education level of participants or partner or participant and partner and adequate DD. Skinner Street Clinic, despite the high-rise buildings and access to electricity and services, has statistically significantly more participants (20.73%), indicating severe food insecurity compared to the Woodlane Clinic (5.19%), where a poor living environment and lack of services are more common (p < 0.004). It is postulated that the access to food and food security in city dwellers are affected mainly by income and that those with less income can only buy smaller amounts or cheaper food, with very little food production. In this study 40.25% of participants (n = 64) experienced food insecurity, thus double the South African prevalence (Dlamini, 2023). Coping mechanisms significantly differed among the two sites for food intake (p = 0.02) and general coping mechanisms (p = 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the two sites (p = 0.446) for depression. When screened for antenatal depression using the screening tool (EPDS), 36.23% of participants at the Woodlane Clinic and 43.37% at the Skinner Street Clinic screened positive for antenatal depression. The suicide ideation among the Woodlane clinic participants was 30.43% (n = 21) compared to 13.25% for the Skinner Street Clinic participants (n = 11); the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.010) although the practical value was small (V = 0.21). There was a statistically significant difference between the two sites for ever-use alcohol, tobacco or recreational drugs (p < 0.0005) as well as for use during pregnancy (p < 0.004), with the Skinner Street clinic ever-using nearly four times that of the Woodlane clinic. Smoking, even second-hand smoking, is harmful and can increase the risk of intrauterine growth restriction. Both sites have fewer caeser section births than the South African, or the global average of 21%. South Africa is in epidemiological, health, and nutritional transition, and factors that affect nutritional status affect birth outcomes. The importance of promoting a healthy dietary pattern to help women enter pregnancy with normal BMI forms part of public health initiatives needed to curb the obesity pandemic that starts in utero.Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 202
An exploration of provincial government intervention in a selected local municipality in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
Full text linkWith the end of apartheid and the beginning of democratic dispensation in 1994, South Africa’s governance model was redesigned to cater for and align with the values of the new democratic South Africa. The country’s governance model was decentralised, thus forming three spheres of government: national, provincial, and local. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa formulates the three spheres of government that are distinct yet interrelated and mutually connected. Each sphere has its own responsibilities and functions, which it performs autonomously within a decentralised cooperative governance system. The three spheres of government are equally imperative. However, local government is considered the most important sphere of government, given that it is embedded in the communities. This sphere is regarded as the face of government and is responsible for essential service delivery to the communities. Municipalities are charged with managing this important sphere of government in the country. However, South African municipalities are generally viewed as being in a state of crisis. Many municipalities in the country are considered at risk, and some have become completely dysfunctional in that they cannot fulfil their constitutional obligations and mandates as per the constitution. In such a situation where a municipality cannot perform its functions and fulfil its obligations, the provincial government can intervene in that municipality through various instruments, including Section 139 of the Constitution. Given the country's rising number of dysfunctional municipalities, provincial authorities' invocation of Section 139 intervention has become widespread in South Africa. Accordingly, this study sought to investigate the effectiveness of Section 139 interventions in local government using a selected municipality in the Eastern Cape as a case study. The study also sought to examine the roles and functions of the provincial government concerning the implementation of Section 139 interventions. The study employed new institutionalism and decentralisation as a theoretical lens to investigate this phenomenon. It adopted a qualitative research approach and included semi-structured interviews with key research participants with knowledge and experience of Section 139 interventions. The study purposefully engaged 20 participants from a selected local municipality in the Eastern Cape. The selected local municipality has been placed under administration for two consecutive terms by the provincial authorities in accordance with Section 139 interventions. The findings obtained through engagement with selected participants were corroborated with secondary data sources regarding the topic under study. The study notes that implementing Section 139 interventions remains a contested phenomenon in local government. It was found that these interventions have, at most, not been effective in turning around dysfunctional municipalities in South Africa. Specifically, the results indicate that implementing the interventions for two terms has not changed the situation in the municipality; instead, it has caused animosity among different municipal role players, thus further deteriorating the state of the municipality and impeding service delivery. The study notes that the selected municipality faces many challenges, including, among other things, service delivery-related protests, unemployment, poverty, and inequality within the municipality. The study's findings show that service delivery remains constrained in the municipality; however, this state of affairs mirrors the general crisis that local government in South Africa faces. Furthermore, the findings confirm that the lack of adequate human, financial and physical resources has made it complex and problematic for local municipalities (especially the ones in rural areas) to perform and fulfil their constitutional obligation of delivering essential services to local communities.Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 202
The silent signals: exploring core themes in exit interviews
Full text linkEmployee turnover is a significant challenge for organisations, particularly in the IT industry, where the retention of skilled professionals is critical for maintaining competitive advantage. This study explores the potential of leveraging exit interview (EI) data as a tool to identify, address and mitigate factors contributing to employee turnover. Using ASEC (Automation, Software and Engineering Company) as a case study, the research applies thematic analysis to existing EI data to uncover key themes and insights into employee experiences, dissatisfaction and expectations. The findings reveal the complex relationship between job design, organisational support, leadership and career growth opportunities as factors influencing turnover. The study offers practical recommendations to optimise the EI process, improve retention strategies and enhance organisational practices at ASEC. These include the implementation of structured EI frameworks, the use of advanced analytical tools, such as ATLAS.ti and the application of HR strategies informed by identified themes. This study contributes to understanding of how organisations can utilise EI data to enhance employee satisfaction, reduce turnover and drive sustainable growth.Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 202
The role of leadership on employee motivation and innovation at an information technology service company in Gauteng province, South Africa
Full text linkEmployee motivation is one of the burning issues for businesses and society, especially at an Information Technology Service Company (ITSC) in Gauteng. The main objective of this study was to explore the role of leadership on motivation and innovation at an ITSC in Gauteng so as to recommend motivation and innovation strategies that can be implemented by the leaders at this ITSC. The theoretical underpinning of this study is based on the Herzberg’s Two-Factor Motivation theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Leadership theories and Innovation theories. This study employed a qualitative research approach which relied on inductive reasoning. The research design followed the non-probability convenience sampling method in order to select the most appropriate participants. The study sample comprised twelve employees working at an Information Technology Service Company in Gauteng selected from the population size of 20 employees. For the purpose of data collection, the study employed semi-structured interviews which relied on open-ended questions. Thematic analysis was used to interpret, analyse and report the data. The study revealed that coaching and mentoring, recognising strong performers, offering training and allocating resources are all aspects of leadership that have an impact on employee motivation, engagement and creativity. The research results emphasise that simple recognition and praise would be just as effective as motivational tools as monetary incentives. The study found that the leaders at this Information Technology Service Company in Gauteng encountered challenges such as poor leadership skills, drawn-out processes, a hostile work environment and a lack of communication when attempting to inspire employees. Furthermore, this study recommends that leaders are responsible for creating an innovative environment, encouraging employee innovation and providing funding for it. The research recommends that endorsing flexible policies, facilitating idea exchange channels and allowing lower level employees to offer ideas are all important ways to create a helpful environment. Funding for innovation, training and leadership buy-in should also be a source of support. Furthermore, the study suggests that employee motivation and innovation are essential to an organisation because they increase output, enhance financial results and encourage the generation of novel ideas. Another recommendation is that in order to minimize challenges and motivate employees, leaders should make sure that there is an effective communication process, they should avoid bureaucracy, establish a positive work atmosphere, and be conscious of their own leadership styles.Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 202
Exploring factors influencing the savings culture of South Africans
Full text linkThe purpose of this study was to identify the primary factors affecting the savings behaviour of South Africans. The study concentrated on exploring South Africans' attitudes and beliefs regarding saving money, analysing the correlation between financial literacy and savings behaviour, identifying the obstacles and challenges encountered in cultivating a savings culture, and assessing how access to financial products and services influenced the savings behaviour among South Africans. In a society characterised by instant gratification and excessive consumption, cultivating a culture of saving has become increasingly essential. Access to savings can be vital during an economic crisis, as it may ultimately determine survival. South Africa, however, demonstrates a pro-consumption culture, resulting in a decline in the savings rate. The country, therefore, displays relatively lower savings levels compared to other countries, and a decrease in the household savings rate throughout the years. This research employed a quantitative methodology. This was accomplished by a survey distributed to a sample of economically active South Africans, using an electronic survey tool developed in Google Forms. A total of 468 economically active South Africans participated in the study. Through this distribution, it was evident that the respondents were predominantly composed of Black females aged 30 to 39, earning over R20,000 monthly, and possessing tertiary qualifications. The sampling methodology was both convenience and snowball sampling, non-probability techniques. The results of this study indicated that, whereas South Africans generally exhibited a favourable disposition towards saving and acknowledged its significance, they encountered considerable barriers that impeded their saving capacity. These barriers included high living costs, low-income levels, and existing debt. Furthermore, financial literacy emerged as a critical determinant, indicating a strong correlation with positive saving behaviours and attitudes. Notably, even among individuals with advanced educational backgrounds, deficiencies in financial literacy and saving practices persisted, highlighting the urgent need for targeted educational interventions. Additionally, the study emphasised the substantial impact of access to financial products on saving behaviours, suggesting that improving access could enhance overall savings outcomes. The recommendations derived from this study aim to enhance the savings culture in South Africa, addressing the country's low savings rate. Key suggestions include: Implementing financial literacy programs in schools and communities to educate individuals on budgeting, saving, and investing. Partnerships between financial institutions and non-profits could facilitate awareness and access to financial advice. Promoting positive saving attitudes through government and employer initiatives, while addressing the high cost of living with subsidies for essential goods to alleviate financial strain. Financial institutions should enhance accessibility to user-friendly financial management tools and offer affordable financial advising services. Investment houses are encouraged to simplify investment account applications and recognize traditional saving practices like stokvels to improve their credibility.Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 202
The economic empowerment of women in rural arts and crafts making: the case of Cegcuwana village
No full textThis study focuses on the contribution of arts and crafts projects to the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The key research questions are as follows: Which challenges are women facing with regard to arts and crafts projects in Cengcuwana? What is the relationship between these projects and women's empowerment in the village? How do women make sense of these projects, and how do they respond to the fact that they work in a space dominated by men? In this study, the data were collected using a qualitative research method. This involved conducting interviews with 15 participants from the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The interviews were conducted physically; with the researcher going into the field to interact with the participants to observe and engage them while they were creating their products. The data were recorded in IsiXhosa and transcribed into English. The conceptual framework is used to understand the challenges facing women in the Cegcuwana Village regarding gender inequality. Finally, the study reveals that these arts and crafts projects provide them with economic freedom; they also assist them in preserving and promoting their heritage to maintain their identity. It is recommended that further research is necessary to investigate the challenges facing these projects.Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 202
Coastal communities' empowerment through participation in blue tourism activities in Nelson Mandela Bay
Full text linkThe promotion and growth of blue tourism, particularly in metropolitan coastal regions such as Nelson Mandela Bay in South Africa, requires strategic tourism marketing approaches that align with local economic development goals. These strategies not only boost the region's attractiveness to tourists but also enhance local economic participation by fostering sustainable practices and supporting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). This study investigated the role of micro-projects and SMEs in advancing blue tourism while addressing the challenges faced by the coastal communities. Specifically, it examined how tailored tourism marketing strategies and community-focused initiatives can unlock the economic potential of blue tourism in Nelson Mandela Bay. The research adopted a constructivist paradigm and employed a qualitative methodology, featuring semi-structured interviews with diverse stakeholders, including community members and tourism industry professionals. This approach allowed for the collection of in-depth insights into the opportunities and barriers associated with blue tourism. Through this methodology, the study identified key themes around stakeholder collaboration, community engagement, and sustainable practices as the critical factors for success in this sector. The key findings revealed the importance of empowering local communities through capacity-building programs, enhancing collaboration between public and private entities, and creating targeted marketing campaigns to elevate blue tourism's profile. The study also highlights the necessity of equipping SMEs with resources and training to promote entrepreneurship and ensure their meaningful participation in tourism-driven economic growth. These recommendations are rooted in the broader objective of fostering an inclusive and sustainable blue tourism ecosystem that balances economic advancement with environmental stewardship. The study concludes by offering actionable recommendations for tourism practitioners, local businesses, and policymakers. These include developing community-driven marketing initiatives, establishing robust support structures for SMEs, and investing in skill development tailored to the blue economy. By prioritising these elements, the stakeholders can unlock long-term growth, by delivering enhanced economic benefits to coastal communities while enriching the visitor experience in Nelson Mandela Bay's unique coastal environment.Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 202
Disciplinary action of employees for the private consumption of cannabis
Full text linkThis paper examines the workplace implications of the legalisation of private cannabis use in South Africa following the landmark Constitutional Court judgment in Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development v Prince.1 The judgment has necessitated a re-evaluation of workplace policies regarding cannabis consumption, which brings to the fore the tension between workplace safety and individual rights. Through a detailed analysis of relevant case law, this treatise distils emerging principles for disciplinary action and emphasises the necessity for equitable workplace policies that uphold employees’ rights to privacy and dignity. It also addresses the regulatory gaps that persist and proposes a set of best practices in policy development which are aligned with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.2Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 202