11613 research outputs found
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Dike-induced aquifer models derived from high-resolution multi-spectral satellite imagery
No full textThe Main Karoo Basin in South Africa is a typical example of an expanding arid region dependent on groundwater resources. Dolerite dikes in the region, analogous to dolerite dikes worldwide, are known to influence subsurface groundwater flow and spatially relate to high-yielding boreholes. Here, the effect of dolerite dikes on groundwater flow is remotely assessed using the Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index derived from high-resolution multi-spectral satellite imagery. From imagery collected during the wet and dry seasons of 2018 and 2021, two aquifer models relating to 505 dikes were identified; (1) barrier-controlled aquifers are induced by ~ 56% of dikes, (2) fractured aquifers are induced by ~ 35% of dikes. Surficial areas overlying aquifers are also shown to sustain vegetation growth through dry seasons. This research demonstrates the efficacy of vegetation indices to rapidly characterise dike-related aquifer models and their seasonal sustainability, critical for effective groundwater exploration and management.Publisher's versio
The effect of local climatic conditions on household consumption: a case study of South Africa
No full textThe article explores the causal effect of local climate conditions on household consumption in South Africa. The climatic conditions are represented by monthly average temperature and precipitation. The study utilises the nationally representative 2017 National Income Dynamics Study (NIDS), wave 5 data and 2017 Climate Research Unit (CRU) climate data. The parsimonious quantile regression shows that climatic conditions (precipitation, temperature, wet days, and cloud cover) impact household per capita consumption. The quadratic quantile regression model analysis shows that household per capita consumption is convex in precipitation. Below the turning point, increased precipitation is associated with decreased household per capita consumption. Above the turning point, increased precipitation is related to increased household per capita consumption. Regions that receive very low precipitation or experience extreme temperatures (very cold or very hot) require tailor-made interventions to alleviate consumption. When we control for household characteristics, the impact of climatic conditions on household per capita consumption is weak. Providing inclusive development policies and programmes can mitigate the impact of climatic conditions on household per capita consumption.Publisher's versio
Optimizing the master recession curve for watershed characterization and drought preparedness in Eastern Cape, South Africa
No full textRegions grappling with water scarcity are compelled to fortify their hydrological analytical protocols for efficacious drought disaster preparedness, considering the escalating influence of climate change on river periodicity and the sustainable management of water resources. Hence, this study presents a novel optimization and standardization approach for master recession curve (MRC) parameterization to improve the existing MRC computation for environmental flow (EF) parameterization. The study framework is based on constructing MRC using the RECESS computational tool. The concept involved normalizing quadratic improvement in the digitally filtered, smoothed, and automatically extracted MRC parameters from 24 long-term winter streamflows (2001–2020) in South Africa. The optimum recession length suitable for MRC computation obtained was ten days based on the significant proportion of the variance in streamflow as a function of flow timing (R2 > 0.935), EF consistency in most watersheds (p-value < 0.00), optimum standard error, and the appreciable years of significant discharge. The study obtained the MRC index, EF threshold, and the probable diminution period of 3.81–73.2, 0.001–20.19 m3/s, and 3.78 to 334 days based on the periods of significant discharge ranging between 4 and 20 years, respectively. The concurrent agreement of rainfall trend and baseflow (p-value < 0.05) with MRC parameters validate their performance as tools for EF conservation. The intra-variation in MRC across the 24 stations alluded to the overriding influence of river aquifer connectivity on watershed viability. The study provides profound insight into perennial and ephemeral rivers’ viability/vulnerability, indispensable for watershed prioritization, policy formulation, early warning systems, and drought preparedness.Publisher's versio
Exploring the influence of collaborative leadership in ensuring effective school governance in township secondary schools
No full textDissertation (M.Ed.(Education Management and Leadership))--University of the Free State, 2024In this qualitative study, the researcher has explored collaborative leadership as a way of ensuring effective school governance in township secondary schools, thereby helping to improve learner academic performance and discipline. A literature search on national, continental and international sources was conducted on how to the members of school governance can use collaborative leadership strategies to improve the academic performance and discipline in township secondary schools. The study was furthermore grounded in a theoretical framework by David Chrislip and Carl Larson named the Collaborative Leadership Theory.
Using thematic analysis, themes were identified, and data were analysed and interpreted through logical reasoning to determine the relationship, trends and patterns of the study in order to bring meaning to a set of data. The findings revealed that, even though the (RSA, 1996) promulgates the participation of parents and learners in the SGB, they participate the least, due to a number of factors. As a result, there is a lack of collaborative leadership. Although this lack of participation is of serious concern, the study found that it has quite a minimum impact on the academic performance of the learners. The study therefore recommends regular training of parents and learners to help improve their participation. The study further recommends the election of learners in lower grades (particularly Grade 10) into the SGB to allow for sufficient time in governance
Evaluating the impact of poor-quality governance in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality in the Free State Province
No full textDissertation(M.A.(Governance and Political Transformation))--University of the Free State, 2024In South Africa, Local Government was established as the third sphere of government with a mandated function of administering and providing basic services to all citizens, governed by specific legislative frameworks and regulations designed to ensure good governance practices. Despite these prescripts and guidelines, it was noted that the widespread occurrence of poor governance practices within Local Government had significantly hindered the ability to function effectively, leading to negative consequences for Local Government, citizens and the country.
Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of poor-quality governance within the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM) in the Free State Province of South Africa. The literature review examined the factors and challenges that contribute to poor governance and its implications for MMM and the provision of service delivery.
In addition, the study concentrated on a desk-based research method that utilised qualitative and quantitative secondary data. MMM has encountered substantial governance challenges marked by leadership instability, rapid urbanisation, corruption, inefficiency and lack of transparency. These challenges have resulted in inadequate service delivery, financial
instability within the Municipality, and widespread distrust among citizens toward municipal authorities.
The analysis revealed a direct correlation between the quality of governance and the quality of the output, which is service delivery. The findings presented a concerning view of an organisation that is not fully functional and fails to comply with the key principles of good governance, as outlined by the legal framework for Local Government and good governance metrics. The findings of the study revealed that poor governance practices in MMM have led to ineffective policy implementation, financial instability, the absence of performance management systems, unethical behaviour, institutional inefficiencies, and inadequate cooperative governance. Additionally, the study emphasised the lack of community participation, which has caused growing dissatisfaction and a loss of faith in municipal governance. This erosion of trust is reflected in the increase in protests.
The findings of the study further revealed that the impact of poor governance extends beyond MMM to affect the entire country. Poor governance has left MMM in a fragile financial state, resulting in an unstable liquidity position that prompted Moody's to downgrade MMM’s rating in August 2019. MMM is also grappling to fulfil its short-term obligations and manage
the expenses associated with the delivery of service. Additionally, poor governance has resulted in a decline in municipal revenue collection, rising debt levels, and unsatisfactory audit outcomes.
Considering the findings, the researcher recommended strategic actions to improve governance within MMM. These encompass the professionalising of Local Government, implementing robust anti-corruption measures, strengthening financial oversight and sustainability, increasing community involvement in decision-making, conducting capacity building initiatives for municipal staff, and leadership evolution to effectively implement good governance practices.
The study concluded by suggesting that addressing the factors and challenges leading to poor governance in MMM could pave the way for implementing good governance, restoring public confidence, improving service delivery, and promoting sustainable economic growth in Mangaung. Furthermore, good governance could contribute to sustainable development
by aligning with the NDP 2030 goals, positioning South Africa to become a capable and developmental state
Genomic evaluation in different environments in the South African holstein breed
No full textFixed regression model (FRM) analyses that consider only fixed, non-genetic effects to vary over the lactation are currently used for genetic evaluation of production traits in South African Holstein. With random regression models (RRM), the random animal and permanent environmental effects are allowed to also vary over the lactation. Hence, RRM can account for an individual component representing changes during the lactation i.e., its persistency (PERS), enabling selection for more persistent cows. Also, test-day (TD) records used for genetic evaluations come from cows in contrasted production systems. The main ones rely on full pasture (PAST) or a total mixed ration (TMR), a choice often depending on local average rainfall where herds are situated. TD records from herds were divided into two datasets based on the production system (PAST or TMR). REML was used to analyse production for each of the first three lactations under different multiple-lactation models for milk, fat and protein production, as well as fat and protein percentage. Various FRM were compared to the current FRM officially used for genetic evaluation in South Africa (saFRM).
A FRM that cumulates different curves over the lactation for different fixed effects was retained based on results in the PAST dataset and was also applied to the TMR dataset. This model was then broadened to an alternative RRM (aRRM) combining for each lactation an average production and a PERS effect, after which it was compared to the current saFRM under both production systems. The aRRM for both PAST and TMR had a better goodness of fit than the current saFRM for all traits except protein percentage. The mean squared error of aRRM was lower for all traits. Generally, aRRM heritability estimates were higher than with the saFRM at the beginning and end of lactation for most traits in PAST while being mostly higher during late lactation in TMR. Overall, the h² in PAST were mostly higher than in TMR for all traits. Estimates of between-lactations genetic correlations for average production from the aRRM were generally higher. Within-lactations genetic correlations between average production and PERS for TMR from the aRRM were negative and stronger than for PAST. The extra source of information from the aRRM enables a genetic prediction of PERS and is expected to increase accuracy of genetic predictions. Different genetic parameters between the two production systems may denote a genotype x environment interaction.
Dairy cattle in South Africa (SA) must produce in varying environments which can roughly be separated as total mixed ration (TMR) and pasture (PAST) production systems according to the level of rainfall in the herd area. Previous studies aimed to determine a possible genotype x environment interaction (GxE) using 305-day lactation records, finding no interaction, but different heritabilities. An alternative random regression model (aRRM) was developed using SA Holstein test-day records of herds with known production system used (TMR or PAST, analysed independently). The aRRM separates the animal genetic (additive) effect into an average-production (level) and -persistency (slope) effect and shows clear differences in the genetic variances and heritability estimates over the lactation between TMR and PAST. The aim of this study was to further investigate the existence of a possible GxE interaction, using the same dataset, methods and aRRM to differentiate each trait (milk, fat and protein production for the first three3 lactations) separately for the two production systems (TMR or PAST). The possible reranking of sires on resulting estimated breeding values from the analysis between TMR and PAST were also investigated. Genetic correlations (0.81 to 0.94) of the genetic-average-production effect between TMR and PAST were strong, while corresponding correlations of the genetic-average-persistency effect were weak (Lactation 1, 0.22 to 0.27) to moderate (Lactations 2 and 3, 0.55 to 0.68) for all traits. Minor reranking of sires between TMR and PAST are predicted for genetic-average-production, but with moderate to major reranking for genetic-average-persistency. Analyzing TMR and PAST separately using a reduced rank model fits the data significantly better, adds additional information and allows for more accurate predictions to improve genetic persistency, more so than using within-PAST estimates. The recording of TD records as TMR or PAST should be seriously contemplated as the genetic component of persistency has a significant impact on total production.
Genetic improvement for persistency of milk production in South African Holstein cattle in a total mixed ration or pasture production system will be impeded because of the existence of genotype by environment interaction between the production systems. Previous studies where herds’ production system was known (unlike reality) showed that rainfall level indicates the production system preferred by producers. The study aimed to determine the effect of including average rainfall in a random regression model as a possible proxy for production system used. The animal-additive-genetic effect due to annual rainfall (class) was added to the existing additive-genetic-average-production and -persistency effect. Heritability estimates of rainfall class 1 (‘low’ rainfall) coincided with total mixed ration estimates while rainfall class 5 (‘high’ rainfall) coincided with pasture estimates in later lactations. Results suggest that genetic background responsible for average production level and persistency over the lactations are not consistent over different rainfall areas.
Genomic evaluations for dairy cattle have become standard practice in 23 developed countries according to Interbull at the end of 2024. The development and use of many (tens to hundreds of thousands) single nucleotide markers (SNPs) spread over the whole genome opened new doors for improved genetic predictions. Together with the relatively newly developed single-step (ss) method that blends phenotypic, pedigree and genotypes (indicated by the SNPs of key animals) a new evaluation encompassing all this information in a single genetic analysis. Such a ss, genomic evaluation has been shown to enhance accuracy of prediction for various traits. SA Holsteins do not employ such genomic evaluations due to the relatively high cost of genotyping animals playing a significant role. Some 1221 SA Holstein animals (1143 cows) were, however, genotyped. The production system under which 535 of these cows were recorded for milk production was known. Because of the significant genotype x environment interaction between the two production systems, cumulative 295-days milk production for lactation 1 and 2 in TMR and PAST were analysed as different traits (i.e., four-trait analyses). Two-trait analyses (lactation 1 and 2, irrespective of production system used) were also carried out. Using REML, two multi-trait (MT) i.e., four-trait analyses (MT4) were done. In the first analysis (MT4) genomic information was not implemented and yielded estimated breeding values (EBVs) and their accuracies (ACC). The second analysis was the same as the first (MT4) one, except that the single-step method (ssMT4) was used, which incorporated the genomic information and yielded genomically enhanced EBVs (ssGEBVs) and their ACCs. The two-trait analyses were carried out in the same way; a MT2 and ssMT2 analysis. Heritabilities between the ssMT4 vs the MT4 analyses were similar (TMR lactation 1 estimates of 0.23 vs 0.24, respectively; TMR lactation 2 estimates of 0.16, respectively; PAST lactation 1 estimates of 0.31, respectively; PAST lactation 2 estimates of 0.27, respectively).
Heritabilities for the ssMT2 vs the MT2 analyses were also similar (0.25, respectively for lactation 1, and 0.17 vs 0.18, respectively for lactation 2). Genetic correlations from the ssMT4 between TMR and PAST for lactation 1 and 2 were 0.81 and 0.70, respectively. Hence, minor to moderate reranking of animals on ssGEBVs between the two production systems might take place for lactation 1 and 2, respectively. On average, the largest and significant increase in ssGEBV vs EBV ACCs were for cows with records (0.17; no progeny in the pedigree) and especially for the corresponding cows with the lowest EBV ACCs (increases of ~0.11 to ~0.40). Dams with records (and progeny in the pedigree) had on average the second largest increase in ssGEBVs (0.06), also with the largest increases in dams with the lowest EBV ACCs (increases of ~0.12 to ~0.33). Results for dams without records followed the same tendency. In this regard, results of the ssGEBV vs EBV ACCs for the ss- and MT2 analyses followed a similar trend. These preliminary results are promising for increasing ACC of genetic prediction using ss genomic evaluations. However, more animals need to be genotyped, especially highly influential sires with genetic merits that represent the whole population. Validation of genomic predictions need to be part of future research in the SA Holstein population
Improving business sustainability at a fast-moving consumer goods company
No full textThe impact of environmental changes, technological advancements and ever-changing consumer demands form the contextual foundation of the study and underline the significance for companies within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry to streamline operational efficiencies constantly.
The primary research objective was to establish how change management can facilitate company sustainability through the high adaptation of digital solutions at an FMCG company. A comprehensive literature study was done to understand Industry 4.0 impact and FMCG industry trends and the change management principles that can facilitate company sustainability by overcoming the challenges when implementing digital systems.
A qualitative research method was followed for this study with a sample size of 12 employees, skilled employees (SE) and manager employees (ME), from four business units at Company A, with first-hand experience of the challenges the current paper-based proof of delivery (POD) process delivers. Interviews, written feedback and rich pictures were used for the thematic analysis approach connecting the visual world and the spoken word allowing for a deep understanding of the current POD process (high touchpoint, and paper intense), highlighting the inefficiencies (delays, time, Order-to-Cash impact, frustration) and potential solutions to close the process gaps.
Thematic coding highlighted robots, laser guided vehicles (LGV), automation, integrated reporting solutions, and a change in communication as visible current trends of Industry 4.0 within the FMCG industry, validating that the digital developments are aligned with global industry trends. Risk considerations to mitigate potential resistance during digital change rollout, include a phased rollout approach with transparent communication, ensuring sufficient support structures and effective training interventions.
The novel systematic approach followed in this research study harnesses the power of rich picture drawings amplifying how this simple visual method can be exploited to capture and understand complex business processes and systems. In the highly demanding consumer-driven environment, the value this approach offers an FMCG company (on a digital transformation journey as part of a long-term sustainability focus), emanates from the ease it can be incorporated into a company’s problem-solving ‘toolkit’, at the same time help create urgency by facilitating self-generated employee insights and ideas (reducing resistance to new digital change). As the first point of contact during periods of change, the research findings include manager development and upskilling as a crucial strategic focus area to ensure future readiness. Training offerings must empower employees for the digital future and have the flexibility to be tailored to individual needs.
To be a future-fit FMCG company, the research findings show the need for an integrated digital ecosystem approach that provides uninterrupted communication to ensure real-time visibility of product movement to all stakeholders involved. Finally, this research study highlights the potential loopholes and inherent inefficiencies paper-based processes possess, bringing home the importance of actively identifying and reducing paper-based processes
The effect of emotional intelligence and psychological capital on job embeddedness among employees in a Higher Education Institution
No full textDissertation (M.Com.(Industrial Psychology))--University of the Free State, 2023This study examines how Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Capital impact Job Embeddedness among employees in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The primary aim was to identify potential links between Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Capital, understanding their critical roles in fostering Job Embeddedness.
A quantitative survey was conducted involving 229 employees, encompassing various genders and age groups currently working in a Higher Education institution. The sample included academic and support staff and was selected using a non-probability convenience sampling method. The study revealed a strong and positive correlation between Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Capital, in line with initial hypotheses. However, the expected direct connection between Emotional Intelligence and Job Embeddedness was not evident. Further analysis revealed an indirect relationship, indicating that Psychological Capital mediates the connection between Emotional Intelligence and Job Embeddedness. Additionally, the research highlighted notable differences in Job Embeddedness among different age groups, with older employees demonstrating significantly higher embeddedness levels compared to their younger counterparts.
In conclusion, this research emphasises the interplay between Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Capital in driving Job Embeddedness among Higher Education employees. It also underscores the age-related variations, emphasising the heightened levels of embeddedness observed among older employees
Evaluation of rejected wet carcass syndrome lamb meat for human or animal consumption
No full textDissertation (M.Sc.(Food Science))--University of the Free State, 2023Wet carcass syndrome (WCS) is a condition found among sheep and is characterised by a ‘wet’ appearance of the subsurface meat at slaughtering. These carcasses are considered unfit for further use, resulting in financial loss to farmers and the industry as a whole. No preventions or cause have been determined for this syndrome, although WCS seems to be associated with winter/drought conditions. The current study compared twenty WCS carcasses to twenty unaffected normal carcasses to determine the quality and safety of the affected meat. Parameters tested included fat thickness, water holding capacity, colour, proximate analysis, fatty acid composition, water activity, pH and microbial load. A shelf-life study was performed on two products, i.e., lamb chops for human consumption and pet mince for the pet food industry.
From morpho-physical examinations, WCS carcasses had measurements with significantly higher cold mass, external length, shoulder and buttock circumference than the normal carcasses. No significant differences were, however, found in the fatness and conformation code, showing that WCS-affected carcasses were physically larger, but retained the same level of fat around the outside of the carcass. Measurements taken between the 12ᵗʰ and 13ᵗʰ rib, showed normal carcasses had significantly higher fat thickness (45 mm and 110 mm), while WCS carcasses had significantly higher eye muscle width, depth, area and perimeter. The pH, temperature, water activity and water holding capacity had no significant differences. Proximate analysis included dry matter, moisture, protein, fat, organic matter and ash. All of these parameters showed higher levels in the normal vs WCS carcasses, except for moisture content which was higher in WCS vs normal carcasses. Nine of the fatty acids showed significant differences, where all but one, arachidic acid, had higher levels in the WCS, than in normal carcasses. From surface swabs, there were no differences in the number of microbes recovered from the surface of the WCS carcasses versus normal carcasses.
Two products were formulated, lamb chops for human consumption and pet mince for the pet food industry. A shelf-life study (microbial load, colour and pH) determined the quality over a period of six days for lamb chops and 10 days for pet mince. The microbial load and pH on both products showed no significant differences between the WCS and normal carcasses, suggesting that WCS meat had the same microbial quality and was just as safe as that from a normal carcass. The colour analysis of the lamb chops showed no differences in the lightness nor the redness, although there was a difference in the blue/yellow colour on day 0, implying a greenish tint involved with WCS. This phenomenon, however, was only seen on day 0 and not throughout the 6-day experimental period.
The study confirmed the safety of WCS meat for both human and animal consumption, although the wet surface appearance, soft texture and loose subcutaneous fat, is expected to still deter consumers from purchasing such meat. Processing of WCS meat into products like pet mince, will support new commercial ventures and lessen the financial impact of the condition on the livestock industry
Exploring food insecurity, food waste, and dietary diversity among rural and urban households of Lesotho
No full textDissertation (M.Sc.(Consumer Science))--University of the Free State, 2023Lesotho is one of the sub-Saharan African countries that perpetually struggles with food insecurity. Consumers in Lesotho still waste food despite living in a low-income country. Most people live under the poverty line of US$1.00 per day and low-income households consume meals that are low in diversity, which elevates micronutrient deficiencies. Consequently, many children under five years of age experience stunting, obesity, and micronutrient deficiencies due to a lack of food or insufficient intake. The study sought to explore household food insecurity, estimate the quantity of household food waste, determine household dietary diversity, and identify food preservation techniques in rural and urban areas of Lesotho.
The research was conducted in four of the 10 districts of Lesotho, namely Mafeteng, Thaba-Tseka, Leribe, and Qacha’s Nek. The sample size was 440 households, and stratified random sampling was used for the selection of participating households. A mixed-methods approach was utilised and an exploratory descriptive design was adopted. Both structured questionnaires and interviews were employed, which represented quantitative and qualitative elements. The questionnaire addressed socio-demographics, the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS), food waste, the Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS), and food preservation. The consumers who participated in the study were 18 years and older. The analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, and Fisher’s exact test was used to compare variables.
Food insecurity was significantly higher in the rural areas than the urban areas, where four categories were measured, namely food secure, mildly food insecure, moderately food insecure, and severely food insecure. Indicators of food insecurity were to be being a female, being unemployed, and cooking with open fire. Using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and electricity for cooking significantly were found to reduce food insecurity.
Total food waste estimations were calculated at 190.9 kg (rural) and 156.2 kg (urban) per week, resulting in annual estimated food waste of 13 003.2 kg (rural) and 7 496.8 kg (urban), totalling 20, 500 kg of household food waste in Lesotho annually. The main ways that consumers discard food waste in both rural and urban areas are using compost heaps, discarding it in the garbage bin, and burying it. All these were significant predictors of food waste even though they had a weak correlation. It is also a common practice to give food waste to animals.
The main reasons for food waste in both the rural and urban areas were that consumers like to eat fresh food, they are too busy to cook planned meals, food is left too long in the refrigerator/freezer, they buy too much food, they do not check the cupboard or refrigerator/freezer before going shopping, and some members of the household do not always finish eating their food. Food groups that are not wasted in large quantities in rural and urban are fruits, vegetables, milk and dairy products, legumes, and grains.
The dietary diversity of the rural and urban areas differs significantly, with diversity in the urban areas being higher than in the rural areas. Food groups mostly consumed are cereals (soft/stiff porridge and bread) and leafy green vegetables (rape, cabbage, and spinach). Fruits are mostly consumed when they are in season because they are expensive otherwise. Factors that significantly contribute to increasing the HDDS are using electricity and LPG for cooking. Factors that significantly decrease the HDDS are being female, cooking with an open fire, and purchasing food every two weeks. More consumers preserve food in urban areas than in rural areas, and the prominent techniques for preserving food are sun drying and bottling, while fewer consumers in both rural and urban areas consider salting and freezing. Food insecurity is still high, even though diversity is promising. It is therefore recommended that the creation of awareness be established, through policies and other platforms regarding, household food waste, food security and eating patterns