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Effect of calcium and phosphorus specifications and limestone solubility on mineral utilisation and performance on modern broilers.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, PietermaritzburgModern broilers exhibit extremely rapid weight gain that needs to be supported by concomitant increases in the size and structural integrity of the skeleton. Calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) are vital minerals for metabolism, bone formation, and regeneration and in order to support the required rate of skeletal mineralization, an understanding of Ca and P requirements that matches the continuously changing genetic potential of modern broiler genetics is required. Poultry diets are formulated to total Ca (tCa) and either available P (AvP) or retained P (oP) using fixed estimates of the availability, or retention of dietary P. However, recent research has shown that characteristics of limestone included in diets such as the geology, purity, particle size and solubility speed can profoundly alter phytate P utilisation, Ca and P digestibility and phytase efficacy. These effects of limestone on Ca and P digestibility can therefore also potentially alter dietary recommendations for these nutrients. The study objectives were to assess the effects of three Ca and P recommendations (REC) on broiler performance, bone mineralisation and production costs, and mineral excretion and evaluate the effect of limestone solubility in broiler response to the Ca and P recommendations. The Ca and P REC were from a Dutch Nutrition Group (NL), University of Maryland (UMD), and Commercial (COM) following breed company recommendations. Further, the solubility profile of two commercially available limestones was identified, and these were utilised as either fast soluble (FS-LS) or slow soluble (SS-LS). A commercial type of corn-soy diet was fed ad libitum to 3600 as-hatched Cobb-500-day-old chicks for 32d, which were randomly allocated to six treatments with twelve replicates and 50 birds/pen in 72 pens. The study had a 2x3 factorial design with treatments arranged in a completely randomized-blocking design. All diets of all phases were supplemented with 2000 FTU/kg feed of a 6-phytase. Performance parameters were recorded at placement and further at 7, 10, 14, 21, 28, and 32 days of broiler age. Five birds/pen were sampled for tibia ash at 10 and 32d. Litter sampling for mineral excretion, and foot pad (FPD) and hock burn (HB) was done at 32d. Each pen was regarded as an experimental unit. The data were analysed using JMP (V.15) (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC, 2016) in a two-way ANOVA in a mixed model. Differences between means were analysed using a protected Tukey’s test, and significant differences were reported at P < 0.05 level of significance. The FPD and HB data were analysed using a Rao-Scott Chi-square method. The REC had significant effect on BW performance throughout the duration of the study. The lower Ca and P contained in the NL-REC depressed 7d body weight (BW) by 1.6% and 2.5% compared to the COM and UMD REC and by 2.6% and 2.8% compared to the UMD and COM REC at 32d, respectively (P < 0.001). Feeding Ca and P (UMD-REC) improved the FCR by 0.02 and 0.03 compared to the COM and NL REC at 7 and 32d, respectively (P < 0.001). Low dietary Ca and P (NL-REC) were detrimental to bone mineralisation at 10 and 32d, irrespective of LS solubility (P < 0.05). Dietary treatments influenced the incidence of FPD and HB. Increased dietary Ca and P (COM) promoted high P excretion in litter over 32d irrespective of LS solubility (P < 0.001). A cost saving of ZAR0.17 and ZAR0.21 cents can be made in feed cost/kg broiler harvested at 32d on the UMD REC compared to the COM and NL REC, respectively (P < 0.05). These results suggest that Ca and P REC, and LS used in commercial broiler diets can impact live performance, bone mineralisation and production costs
Investigating women employees’ experiences of returning to the office after working remotely due to Coronavirus: the case of the College of Humanities, Pietermaritzburg campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.This research investigated women employees’ experiences of returning to the office after working remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic within the College of Humanities, Pietermaritzburg Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). The pandemic has profoundly influenced women’s employment, particularly as they confront the intricacies of reintegrating into office environments. Organisations adapted to the challenges engendered by the pandemic, leading to a scenario where numerous women transitioned from conventional office settings to remote work arrangements. This transformation not only modified their work dynamics but also illuminated persistent issues of gender inequality, work-life balance, and the
necessity for adaptable work configurations. COVID-19 acted as a catalyst for transformation, underscoring the disparities in employment experiences contingent upon gender and socioeconomic status, thereby necessitating a comprehensive reassessment of workplace policies and practices.
This study is significant as it highlights the exacerbation of gender inequalities in the workplace during and after the pandemic. The study examined how the pandemic has exacerbated the difficulties related to work-life balance for women, especially those with caregiving responsibilities. By comprehending the elements that underpin the gender gap and executing measures to mitigate them, organisations can strive toward establishing more equitable and inclusive workplace settings. As organisations progress, it is essential to confront these obstacles and utilise the insights gained during the pandemic to develop a more just and supportive work environment for women.
This study used a qualitative research design since it aimed to investigate the experiences of women returning to the office after working remotely. Purposive sampling and snowball sampling techniques were used for the research. Data were collected from both secondary and primary sources. A case study approach was also employed, focusing on the College of Humanities as a case study. Thematic analysis was used in the study.
The findings show that most women perform the majority of child care and domestic responsibilities. They suggest that having children, poor social support systems, and increased workloads affect women’s ability to take promotional steps at work. The findings also indicate that males had more time to excel at career advancement during COVID-19, whereas women had so many more responsibilities that “climbing the ladder” was difficult. Women with younger children faced more challenges since their children depended more on them. The study highlights the pressing need for institutional reforms and specialised support to confront these disparities and cultivate a more equitable academic space at the UKZN post-pandemic. The ramifications of the findings imply that women in academia may encounter heightened obstacles in attaining equity in employment and advancement prospects in the aftermath of the pandemic.
This study contributes to existing literature on women employees’ experiences during COVID-19 and upon returning to the office after working remotely. It provides insight into the experiences faced by UKZN women employees, particularly in the College of Humanities, Pietermaritzburg Campus, and advises on the development of flexible work policies. The study also provides insight into the implementation of inclusive policies and the cultivation of a societal transformation aimed at achieving gender equity. By addressing these issues, it is possible to progress toward a future characterised by greater equity that acknowledges and appreciates the contributions of women employees
Unravelling the dynamics of power in the employer-domestic worker relations in contemporary South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal: praxis-oriented research.
No full textDoctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.In South Africa, domestic work continues to serve as a significant source of employment for many Black African women, both in rural and urban settings. Through a critical, praxis-oriented and reflective method of inquiry, this study examined contemporary power dynamics and multifaceted interactions between female domestic workers (DWs) and domestic work employers (DWEs) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Grounded in post-structural feminism and other emancipatory theoretical frameworks, the study examined how various structures of oppression and privilege intersect in the domestic worker-employer relationships.
To qualitatively uncover strategies of power and privilege and explore their deconstruction in the domestic worker-employer relationship, the study employed a critical research paradigm with participative narrative inquiry coupled with a praxis-oriented design. The study utilised a non-probability sampling method, selecting a total of 38 adult participants. Among these, 26 participants were Black African female DWs, while the remaining 12 were female employers of domestic workers, equally representing Black African, Indian, and White racial groups (each category comprising four participants). Data collection was carried out through a series of in-depth individual interviews and focus group discussions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the participants’ perspectives and experiences. Ethical considerations were rigorously observed throughout the study, including obtaining informed consent from all participants, ensuring privacy, and maintaining confidentiality of the information shared.
The collected data was analysed using NVivo analysis software, with further examination carried out through a combination of critical discourse and thematic analysis to uncover deeper insights. The findings unveiled intricate patterns of power relations including surveillance, narratives of power and powerlessness, agency and acts of resistance, gendered performative acts and mutual dependency between domestic workers and employers. Through exploring the definitions of self-worth and self-determination among these groups, the study contributed to a deeper understanding of the socio-political implications of domestic work and offered insights into the potential for praxis-oriented research to challenge and deconstruct prevailing power structures in the employer-domestic worker relationship. This study highlights the urgent need to challenge and disrupt the entrenched systems of neoliberal capitalism and patriarchy that underpin the structural roots of gendered racism in domestic work. Ultimately and at its core, this study aimed to humanise domestic work, redefine its societal value, and inspire critical reflection and action to address the deeply entrenched inequalities within this labour sector. Recommendations include the promotion of collective action, raising critical consciousness that could inform policies and practices towards more equitable and respectful employment conditions, and promoting educational initiatives aimed at dismantling the intersecting oppressions that perpetuate inequality in the domestic work sector
Characterisation, identification and integration of drought tolerance in banana (Musa spp.).
No full textDoctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, PietermaritzburgBanana (Musa spp.) is one of the major staple foods grown in the subtropical and tropical parts of the world. Given the increasing drought occurrences in sub-Saharan Africa and high susceptibility of banana to water stress, the improvement of cultivars through breeding offers the most effective and long-term solution to protect the crop against the daunting effects of climate change. Therefore, the objectives of this study were: (1) to assess the effects of drought on banana production and identify management strategies deployed by farmers (2) to determine the response of a diverse set of Musa genotypes to water stress based on phenotypic and physiological traits and select promising genotypes for use in banana drought tolerance breeding (3) to analyse the hybridisation success of the two selected drought-tolerant candidate male parental lines based on pollination success, seed production, embryo recovery and embryo germination rates (4) to determine the genetic relationships and diversity among 55 banana genotypes using DArT-based SNP markers and (5) to determine the variability of water usage and assess the growth behaviour and transpiration responses of secondary banana hybrids and their parental lines to declining soil water content in function of vapour pressure deficit and light intensity.
A baseline participatory study involving 120 banana farmers selected from eight major banana growing districts in the cattle corridor of Uganda showed that the majority of the farmers were small-scale holders utilizing intercropping systems and growing mostly East African Highland (EAHB) cooking-type bananas. Fifteen drought stress effects were reported, with reduced bunch weight (90%) being the most prevalent. Amongst the different drought mitigation practices, mulching (56%) was used the most, although irrigation (10%) was the most effective option, but the high cost of water pumps and water scarcity limited its deployment. The extent of deployment of mitigation practices was mostly low (72%), with farmers applying only 1-3 practices.
The second study evaluated 16 genetically diverse banana genotypes in the screen-house at the National Agricultural Research Laboratories, Uganda, under well-watered and water stress conditions. Water stress significantly reduced the plant height (PH), total leaf area (TLA), number of functional leaves (FL), total dry matter (TDM), chlorophyll content (CC) and relative water content (RWC). Genotype by water treatment interaction effects were significant for TLA, PH, FL, number of new leaf cigars (LC) and RWC (p < 0.01; p < 0.05). The water use efficiency (WUE) of 12 genotypes increased under water stress conditions. Stomatal conductance was also affected by the genotype x water treatment interaction (p < 0.05). ‘ITC.0987’ was the most tolerant, whilst among the improved diploids, ‘TMB2x9722-1’ had the least TDM reduction and the highest WUE, and ‘TMB2x9172’ showed the least decrease in RWC and highest root-shoot ratio (RSR) under stress conditions. Thus, ‘ITC.0987’, ‘TMB2x9722-1’ and ‘TMB2x9172’ are essential drought-tolerant candidates that may be utilized in breeding.
In the third study, pollination success, seed set rate, embryo recovery and germination success were determined for crosses between four tetraploid Musa hybrids, including ‘660K-1’, ‘917K-2’, ‘1201K-1’ and ‘222K-1’ (female parents) with two diploid droughttolerant candidates, ‘TMB2x9722-1’ and ‘TMB2x9172’ (male parents). Seed set (p < 0.05), embryo recovery (p < 0.001) and embryo germination (p < 0.001) were significantly affected by female-male parent interaction effects. Crosses with ‘TMB2x9172’ exhibited relatively higher pollination success, seed set, and embryo recovery than those with ‘TMB2x9722-1’. Thus, ’TMB2x9172’ was the more ideal male parent for generating progeny populations for subsequent drought tolerance studies.
The fourth study determined the genetic relationships and diversity among 55 Musa spp. genotypes using 1551 high-quality DArTseq-based SNP markers. The study population comprised breeding lines, Musa progenies, wild species and landraces. Neighbour-joining (NJ) cluster analysis divided the population into two major clusters, with one large cluster consisting of all the breeding lines, progenies, ‘Mpologoma’ (AAA) and ‘Calcutta-4’ (AA) and a smaller cluster consisting of ‘Musa balbisiana’ and three landraces, all with a ‘B’ genome. We zoomed into the genetic relationships of 16 selected Musa progenies and their drought-sensitive female (‘917K-2’) and tolerant male (‘TMB2x9172’) parents and identified sub-clusters of uniquely and genetically similar progenies. Principal component analysis was consistent with the NJ tree and predicted that three progenies, ‘NM101F1’, ‘MNK-17-11’ and ‘MNK-17-12’, were more genetically identical to their male parent, while the rest of the progenies were more identical to the female parent. Analysis of molecular variance showed that 88% and 12% of the total genetic variation were within and between the gene pools, respectively. The SNP markers had a mean proportion of polymorphic loci and observed heterozygosity of 0.65 and 0.36, respectively, indicating the existence of substantial genetic diversity across the study population.
The fifth study investigated the water usage, plant growth and transpiration rates (Erate) of 18 Musa spp. hybrids, including 16 progenies and their two parental genotypes. Traits recorded were duration of soil water content (SWC) decline from 2.1 g g-1 (-0.01 MPa) to 0.7 g g-1 (-1.92 MPa), functional total leaf area (TLA), leaf damage, and transpiration rates (Erate). Erates were modelled in relation to SWC, vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and light intensity according to the Jarvis-Stewart model. The number of days taken for SWC to drop to 0.7 g g-1 (-1.92 MPa) differed significantly (p < 0.05) among the genotypes. The TLA, leaf damage and Erate were significantly affected by the genotype, water treatment and genotype x water treatment interaction effects. The female parent (‘917K-2’) and four triploid progenies, ‘MNK-16-3’, ‘MNK-16-16’, ‘MNK-16-8’ and ‘MNK-17-5’, exhibited good growth potential under optimum conditions, but their growth was significantly reduced during short periods of water stress (17-22 days). The male parent (‘TMB2x9172’) and two diploid progenies, ‘MNK-17-11’ and ‘MNK-17-12’’ took longer to deplete their soil moisture (28-35 days) and sustain relatively good growth under water stress conditions. ‘MNK-16-2’, ‘MNK-16-4’, ‘MNK-16-5’ and ‘MNK-17-6’ (all triploids) had relatively good growth under both well-watered and stress conditions but relatively fast soil water depletion. Genotype-specific critical thresholds (SWCcrit) were observed, implying varying stomatal and or hydraulic control levels. Based on the daily Erate model, ‘MNK-17-6’ had the highest SWCcrit (4.92 g g-1, -0.0002 MPa), indicating a conservative, drought-avoiding response to a declining SWC. Among the eight genotypes assessed under gradual increase in VPD and light, ‘MNK-17-4’ and ‘MNK-17-12’ had the fastest and slowest Erate increases, respectively.
In conclusion, drought is a major threat to sustainable banana production in the East African Great Lakes region. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop and deploy varieties with improved tolerance to drought. Also, farmers need to prioritise preventive drought mitigation practices. The selected drought-tolerant candidate banana genotypes (diploids) are recommended for further field testing and future use in crosses as male parents to generate larger segregating populations and or improve drought tolerance in cultivars that are susceptible but possess desirable agronomic and taste attributes, e.g. the EAHBs. The causes of low hybridisation success and poor embryo germination in crosses with the drought-tolerant candidate, ‘TMB2x9722-1’, should be investigated to enhance its utilisation in banana drought tolerance crossbreeding. The study also recommends crossing ‘TMB2x9172’and ‘TMB2x9722-1’ to generate even more drought-tolerant hybrids. Understanding the genetic relations of the progenies is valuable in providing insight into the genetic diversity underlying the phenotypic diversity, especially regarding their responses to water stress. The great phenotypic variation observed in the water usage, growth, and transpiration behaviour of the tested progenies in relation to the fluctuating environment suggests that the suitability of a given progeny will depend on the prevailing drought scenario. The relatively drought-tolerant diploid progenies, ‘MNK-17-11’ and ‘MNK-17-12’, should be further evaluated for their growth and yield potential under optimum and drought field conditions. The contrasting phenotypic behaviour among genetically similar progenies highlighted the significance of the environmental impact on a plant’s phenotypic expression. Despite the challenges posed by the complexity of banana drought tolerance, this work illustrates that banana drought tolerance improvement through crossbreeding is possible
Forest suitability mapping and land use change analysis in eThekwini Municipality: leveraging remote sensing and machine learning for forest restoration and rehabilitation efforts.
No full textDoctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.Ecosystem services are vital in environmental policy, emphasising the crucial role of forests in providing these services. However, urbanisation, deforestation, forest degradation, and climate change continue to threaten forests globally. Moreover, despite international efforts like deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD+) and growing recognition of their importance, forests continue to face significant threats from deforestation, degradation, and climate change. While regulatory frameworks and incentives are important, they may fall short without advancements in forest restoration processes. As such, this study aimed to streamline forest restoration and rehabilitation by employing remote sensing and machine learning techniques to enhance natural forest monitoring and regional forest suitability modelling.
Objectives included reviewing and analysing global publications on forest rehabilitation and restoration efforts to investigate trends, explore various practices, and identify opportunities for enhancing the success of these initiatives. This was achieved through the usage of a systematic review methodology. Findings for this objective revealed an increasing research activity in recent years, indicating growing interest in forest rehabilitation and restoration. Geographic analysis highlighted regional disparities, with Asian countries leading in research frequency. Policy recommendations underscored the importance of community participation, efficient fire control, and government support in forest rehabilitation efforts. The second objective reviewed and analysed publications on the utilisation of forest suitability models and remote sensing techniques for identifying areas suitable for forest vegetation, also using a systematic review methodology. The findings also indicate a notable increase in research output. Furthermore, the analysis of reviewed articles revealed a preference for medium to high-resolution remote sensing data, with Landsat being the predominant sensor used for forest suitability assessments. Maximum entropy (MaxEnt) was identified as the most utilised model, followed by the increasingly popular random forests (RF). However, the research revealed a significant geographical disparity, with a heavy concentration of publications in the Americas and Asia. The third objective explored mapping land use and land cover (LULC) changes within the eThekwini Municipality from 2002 to 2022 using remote sensing data from the three most recent Landsat sensors and machine learning algorithms. It utilised RF, support vector machine (SVM), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) to conduct LULC classifications. The generated maps revealed a significant decrease in cropland and an increase in impervious surfaces. As such, this research established a framework for continuous LULC mapping and highlighted Landsat 9's potential in LULC classifications. The fourth objective assessed land degradation within the eThekwini Municipality by focusing on land cover change and soil organic carbon (SOC) stock using medium-resolution remote sensing data and machine learning algorithms. Variables for land cover change and SOC stock prediction were extracted and analysed using XGBoost, light gradient boosting (LightGBM), RF, and SVM models. LightGBM outperformed other models, revealing a notable land cover shift, with forests and shrubland being converted to cropland and urban areas within the municipality. The fifth objective sought to provide a framework for monitoring natural forests at a municipal scale using the last three Landsat Missions, focusing on the eThekwini Municipality, to facilitate forest rehabilitation and restoration. Classifications based on Landsat 7 significantly underestimated the extent of natural forests within the study area, whereas Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 data revealed an increase in natural forests from 2015 to 2023. The final objective aimed to model the suitability of areas for forest species within the eThekwini Municipality using species distribution modelling (SDM)/environmental niche modelling (ENM) methodology. The study modelled current forest suitability (2023) using bioclimatic variables from the WorldClim dataset, and elevation and slope data from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). Remote sensing data was obtained from Landsat 9 and Sentinel-2A. For future forest suitability (2021–2040), bioclimatic variables from two Global Climate Models (GCMs) under four WorldClim shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP)-based representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios were used. The models employed were RF, LightGBM, and artificial neural networks (ANN), with data processing conducted via Google Earth Engine (GEE), QGIS, and Python. Currently, 30% of the municipality's land is deemed suitable, primarily concentrated in the central region. Future projections highlight the mountainous north-western region as most suitable, notably under the SSP370 scenario with a projected suitable area of 63%. Overall, findings from this study highlight the potential of remote sensing and machine learning in supporting forest restoration and rehabilitation efforts, with significant implications for informing policy and prioritising areas for future interventions. Ultimately, this research provides a comprehensive framework for leveraging modern technological advancements to streamline forest restoration initiatives, ensuring sustainable management and conservation of forest ecosystems amidst escalating environmental challenges
Investigating the factors that influence branding of grocery retail shopping apps in Durban.
No full textMasters Degree. university of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.Grocery retail shopping apps present a new frontier for organisations as a means of gaining a competitive advantage, as groceries are a mandatory component of household expenditure. With the rise of a hyperconnected society due to advancements in technology and network infrastructure, it has become imperative that organisations understand how customers interact with brands whilst shopping using grocery applications. The influence of branding on the usage and perceptions of customers whilst using these grocery shopping apps has emerged as a crucial factor in determining their adoption and success. The study aims to investigate the factors that influence branding within the context of grocery retail shopping apps in Durban. The available extant literature has been reviewed to reveal insights and findings involving how brand loyalty, brand trust, brand image, and customer experience shape customer behaviour and preferences whilst using grocery retail shopping apps. Using the quantitative approach, through the incorporation of closed question questionnaires, from a sample of 276 participants having used a grocery retail shopping app, the research delves into the role of branding in the purchase decision and revisit intention of consumers. The study also highlights the importance of userfriendly features and app design in enhancing the brand experience. The findings reveal that consumers in Durban gravitate towards brands within grocery shopping apps which match their perceived expectations and are backed by the physical grocery retail stores. Consumers also embrace the omnichannel strategy of grocery retail stores as they prefer multiple touchpoints to perform their grocery shopping activities. The insights gained from this study will assist retailers in the design and development of future grocery retail shopping apps and serve to inform the strategic decisions of grocery retailers, allowing them to develop the market for their grocery retail shopping apps. The study will also provide useful information for retailers to leverage the power of branding to attract and retain loyal customers in a competitive grocery retail marketplace
The Role of Female Leadership in Enhancing Internal Audit Effectiveness and Promoting Good Governance at eThekwini Municipality, South Africa.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.This research explores the role of female leadership in enhancing internal audit effectiveness and promoting good governance at eThekwini Municipality, South Africa. The eThekwini Municipality, the third-largest metropolitan area in the country, faces significant challenges related to governance, risk management, and control environments. Despite legislative frameworks like the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) and ongoing national interventions, the municipality has consistently received unqualified audit opinions with material findings over the past five financial indicating persistent governance deficiencies. According to the Auditor-General South Africa (2024), an unqualified audit opinion signifies that the financial statements are free from material misstatements. However, unless a clean audit opinion is issued, there are still significant findings related to non-compliance with legislation, weaknesses in reporting on predetermined objectives, or both. This means that while the financial statements may be fairly presented, governance issues continue to hinder the municipality from achieving a clean audit opinion, highlighting ongoing concerns in accountability, transparency, and compliance. This study aims to assess how female leadership can directly influence the effectiveness of the internal audit function and address these governance issues. The significance of this research lies in its potential to inform policy and improve governance outcomes in eThekwini Municipality. By examining the unique competencies and contributions of female leaders, particularly in the internal audit function, the study specifically aims to (1) evaluate the effectiveness of eThekwini Municipality’s Internal Audit Unit in promoting good governance, (2) examine the leadership competencies of female leaders within the unit, (3) explore the relationship between female leadership and internal audit performance, and (4) provide a framework for policymakers and organizational leaders to promote good governance through gender-inclusive leadership practices. By assessing these dynamics, the study seeks to identify how female leadership can improve audit practices, foster transparency, enhance accountability, and address inefficiencies within the municipality’s governance structures. The study employed a structured analytical framework to assess the relationship between female leadership, internal audit effectiveness, and good governance at eThekwini Municipality. A quantitative research approach was adopted, utilising descriptive statistical techniques such as mean, standard deviation, and frequency analysis to evaluate audit effectiveness and leadership competencies. The study population consisted of 319 municipal employees, from which a purposive sample of 150 employees was selected to provide relevant insights. This sampling method ensured that participants with direct knowledge of internal audit and governance processes were included, enhancing the reliability of the findings. The results of the analysis found that 74% of respondents agreed that the internal audit unit is effective in promoting transparency and accountability, supporting good governance. In addition, 77% confirmed that the unit is proficient in identifying and managing risks, which is essential for proactive governance. Female leaders in the internal audit unit were viewed as highly competent, with 74% of respondents agreeing that female leadership positively impacts decision-making, fostering accountability and strategic planning. Moreover, 70% of respondents believed that female leadership has a constructive effect on internal audit performance, although only 53% identified female leaders as effective motivators for their teams. On the broader impact of gender-inclusive leadership, 86% of respondents agreed that it is essential for promoting good governance, and 85.7% supported prioritising gender diversity in leadership roles to enhance governance outcomes. This study is underpinned by Transformational Leadership Theory, the Corporate Governance Framework (King IV), Internal Audit Effectiveness Models (IPPF), Institutional Theory, Agency Theory, and Gender and Leadership Theory. Transformational Leadership Theory emphasizes the role of visionary and inspirational leadership in driving organizational effectiveness, fostering accountability, and promoting ethical governance. The Corporate Governance Framework (King IV) provides a structured approach to governance, emphasizing principles such as transparency, accountability, and integrity. Internal Audit Effectiveness Models, including the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF), offer key guidelines for assessing audit performance. Institutional Theory examines how organisational structures and cultural norms influence the adoption of gender-inclusive leadership practices. Agency Theory explores the dynamics between municipal leadership (agents) and stakeholders (principals), highlighting the role of female leaders in strengthening oversight and accountability. Gender and Leadership Theory assesses the impact of gender diversity on leadership effectiveness, illustrating how female leaders bring unique attributes that enhance internal audit functions and governance outcomes. This study acknowledges several potential limitations. The research is focused on eThekwini Municipality, a single public entity in South Africa, meaning the findings may not be transferable to other organisations or businesses operating in different contexts. Secondly, the study employs a quantitative research approach, meaning the findings are limited to this method and cannot be generalized to studies using other research approaches
An analysis of community perceptions on lobola payment in Delmas area, Nkangala district.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.The payment of lobola has not proven to benefit the marriage or union in terms of socioeconomic activities. The indirect loss of capital by families from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly in the black middle class may be devastating. People especially males, do mundane jobs that are not paid very well to save for both lobola and activities related to the wedding celebration. The amount used to conduct weddings and for lobola is the money that can be used for necessities for the household since starting a new and independent living, start-up business and facilitation of future financially sustainable activities for the newlyweds. In contemporary South Africa, it is highly demanding to prepare for the future economically alongside the high price of education, soaring percentage of unemployment and lack of business start-ups funding and subsidization by both government and private sector. The payment of lobola is not only about the couple and the belief that will receive blessings from both the ancestors and the elders but also about unionizing both families. However, the upholding of the activity has not yielded any direct socio-economic investment or upliftment to the wedded couples directly. The total bulk money that is used by or between the newlyweds is also an intent to advance their commitment to one another. It is also for the fulfilment of their cultural mandate of a conventional marriage as bridewealth/lobola or dowry may not make financial sense in terms of investment and
economic development. The shifting of the “normal” way of requesting a hand in marriage by the groom’s family to the bride’s family. Instead the total bulk money benefits the newlyweds directly as a couple with an intent to start their lives in marriage with a good capital to balance their financial lives. The major focus is to move the newlyweds out of harm’s way of debt as they will be starting new lives. This will give the marrying couples a positive buying power as they will be embracing a change in terms of property and financial investments. The Department of Home Affairs provides a readily available service for people to receive a certificate of their union in marriage, making their union legal. The activity of planning for a wedding and saving for both lobola and wedding is an asset-based mechanism which may be redirected or have the purpose reviewed. The purposes of lobola should evolve as life evolves, contemporarily cost of living is unmanageable with the social media wooing people into lavish lifestyles which leaves many communities trapped in lack of financial development. Many communities within South Africa lack job opportunities and business start-ups, and they are expecting local municipalities and national government to aid their business activities. A fair financial start in marriage is likely not to lead people into being government liabilities when approaching old age. Most wedded couples get into their matrimonial engagements with a load of debts, especially from previous arrangements such as loans for university fees.
This study explores the possibility of a trade-off between bridewealth and investment and a start-up for small businesses, rather than marriage without financial stability. The economic stability of every community starts within its own nucleus being the family unit. In-depth semi-structured interviews were found to be the appropriate method for collecting data and the snowballing sampling technique has been used because of the sensitivity of the phenomena. The use of thick descriptions was also a necessity. The study has established that the involvement of parents in the lobola negotiation process surely varies from household to household. Commonly, the parent’s engagement will either break or mend the marriage of their children. Another establishment of the use of question studies that mimics the study objectives is that men in marriage are carrying a huge financial burden while their partners pay less attention. Husbands need more financial assistance but many times their male ego does not allow them to be seen as vulnerable and needy. Men feel that if there is any financial assistance from elsewhere, it would also cause their partners to lose respect for them
Re-imagining a decolonial university? exploring the voices of Black academics in the struggle for transformation in a South African higher education institution.
No full textDoctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.The study reported in this dissertation was about re-imagining a decolonial university by exploring the voices of Black academics in the struggle for transformation in a South African higher education institution. This qualitative study, located in the critical paradigm, employed a single case study research methodology. 16 Black academics were purposively recruited to share their voices around their struggles for transformation in the university. To generate data, the study made use of semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The analysis of the data that emerged from this study occurred through inductive thematic analysis. The theoretical analysis of the data was informed by Nancy Frasers tripartite social justice framework which involved the economic, cultural, political and the later added on dimension, the epistemic dimension. The focus of the study was on Black academics who are seen as strange intruders, outsiders and pariahs of the academy due to a number of factors such as their race, identity, values, norms and cultural beliefs. The three Key Performance Areas (KPA’s) of an academic; teaching and learning, research and community engagement were the decolonial analytical frameworks that informed the study. The study was guided by two objectives: to explore the voices of Black academics in the struggles for transformation in a South African higher education institution and to understand the voices of Black academics’ in the struggles for transformation in a South African higher education institution. Major struggles for transformation raised by Black academics were the challenges of colonising languages of instruction, a highly Eurocentric curriculum, persistent colonial cultures of community engagement, research trajectories, publishing standards and criteria that draw from a European educational system. Similar to much of the literature, the Black academics raised that much African scholarship such as African indigenous epistemic traditions remained largely marginal, underused and undervalued in the South African higher education system. The findings of this study had broader implications for a future impactful university on the KPA’s of an academic. Informed by these findings; conclusions and recommendations on teaching, research and community engagement for re-imagining a decolonial university were made through a prosed social justice framework model
Investigating the impact of artificial intelligence on human resource management in a manufacturing company in Durban, South Africa.
No full textMasters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.The study investigated the adoption, implementation, and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Human Resource Management (HRM) within a Durban, South Africa, manufacturing company. Following a qualitative research approach by conducting semi-structured interviews, the study, as per its research objectives, examines three areas: the current state of AI adoption, opportunities and challenges of implementation, and AI's impact on critical HRM functions. The study found that AI adoption in Durban's manufacturing industry is still in its early stages, with a significant technology deficit compared to global business. Three major areas of AI use was discovered: formalised recruitment and selection processes, administrative automation, and unofficial usage of generative AI tools by Human Resources (HR) professionals. The study found that adoption rates vary greatly depending on organisational size and resource availability, with large multinational corporations having higher implementation rates. Opportunities for AI applications include increased HR process efficiency, improved recruitment outcomes, and data-driven decision-making skills. However, challenges include concerns about accuracy and reliability, adherence to South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), and cultural sensitivity. Ethical considerations were critical when implementing AI; Data protection, human oversight, and transparency in AI implementation are significant factors. The study revealed AI's considerable impact on four HRM functions: recruitment and selection, performance management, learning and development, and employee engagement. The shift from traditional monthly reviews to continuous, data-driven assessments marks a fundamental change in performance management approaches. The research emphasised the necessity of encouraging positive attitudes towards AI adoption through open communication, openness, and comprehensive training programs. The study contributes to understanding AI integration in HRM within South African manufacturing. It provides valuable insights for organisations planning to implement AI solutions while considering their unique contextual challenges and opportunities