International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147- 4478)
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A cultural significance of the concept “Monna ke Nku, O llela teng” in the Balobedu communities: a case of Motsinoni Village, Greater Letaba Municipality, Limpopo Province
Get PDFThe phrase, which translates to "A man is a sheep, he cries within," holds deep historical and social significance in the community, reflecting complex social dynamics and traditional beliefs. "Monna ke Nku, O llela teng" serves as a symbolic representation of gender roles, power dynamics, and social hierarchies within the Balobedu community. This research article delves into the cultural significance of the phrase "Monna ke Nku, O llela teng" within the Balobedu community, with a particular focus on its impact in Motsinoni Village, located in the Greater Letaba Municipality of the Limpopo Province. The purpose of this study is to explore and document the various interpretations and cultural practices associated with the phrase "Monna ke Nku, O llela teng" among community members in Motsinoni Village. The study aimed to deepen understanding of the unique traditions, beliefs, and social structures of the Balobedu community, shedding light on the ways in which this phrase shapes individual identities and collective relationships. Adopting a qualitative research approach, the study utilized interviews, specifically semi-structured interviews to gather rich, in-depth data on the cultural significance of the phrase. The research design involved a case study methodology, allowing for a detailed exploration of the specific context of Motsinoni Village and an exploratory investigation of the broader implications of the phrase within the Balobedu community. Ethical considerations were prioritized throughout the research process, including obtaining informed consent from participants, ensuring confidentiality, and respecting the cultural norms and practices of the community
The role of training and development on enhancing work engagement and employee quality service delivery
Get PDFThis study examines the role of training and development in enhancing work engagement and service quality in rural public health facilities in Tanzania. Grounded in Social Exchange Theory, Job Demands-Resources Theory, and the SERVQUAL model, the study adopts a positivist paradigm, a deductive approach, and a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 285 respondents across 63 health centers and dispensaries using self-administered questionnaires. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed for data analysis. The findings reveal that training and development significantly enhance work engagement, which in turn positively influences service quality. Furthermore, work engagement partially mediates the relationship between training and development and service quality, highlighting its pivotal role in translating employee development initiatives into improved service outcomes. These results underscore the importance of investing in training and development programs to foster employee work engagement and enhance service quality in rural health facilities. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare administrators aiming to improve healthcare delivery in resource-constrained settings
Interrogating decentralised healthcare service delivery quality in Lesotho through the patient’s eyes
Get PDFAs African countries continue to improve their healthcare quality, a study of this nature that sought to examine satisfaction with healthcare services from the perspective of healthcare users cannot be overemphasized, as the findings serve as a benchmark to guide policy decisions in the healthcare sector. This study assessed perception of satisfaction on the quality of decentralised healthcare service delivery from a positivist research orientation. A total of 408 users of healthcare services from 10 districts of Lesotho were selected to respond to a set of questionnaires and a researcher-administered survey developed from the six World Health Organisation–defined dimensions of quality healthcare: safety, equity, acceptability, accessibility, efficiency, and effectiveness. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysing the data obtained. The findings of the study revealed mixed feelings among users of healthcare services in Lesotho. For example, healthcare users were generally satisfied with how receptive service providers were to innovative service delivery, honesty, and the overall competence of healthcare service providers. However, significant deficits were observed in treatment safety, record-keeping, equitable geographic service distribution, and timely access. Particularly worrying were concerns about drug administration, rural service equity, and duplication of health procedures. There were no significant differences in the respondents’ satisfaction regarding healthcare services despite variations in their sexual orientation and age distribution. The study highlights the systemic inequalities and inefficiencies that counter the desired objectives of decentralised healthcare and the critical need for participatory health governance, digital health systems, improved communication strategies, health infrastructure investments and adaptive governance frameworks to bridge the disconnect between the lived experiences of healthcare users and decentralised health policy frameworks. The results offer evidence-based insights for healthcare administrators, donors, health communicators and policymakers seeking to enhance equity and quality in healthcare in resource-constrained African settings
A critical analysis of the psychological and socioeconomic factors that contribute to youth offending in South Africa
Get PDFRecent research has shown that youth offending remains a critical issue in South Africa, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society. This study critically examines the psychological and socioeconomic factors that contribute to youth offending, offering a comprehensive and integrated analysis rooted in the South African context. Drawing from a qualitative desktop research approach, the study utilized secondary data including scholarly articles, government reports, and organizational publications. The findings reveal that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), mental health challenges, exposure to trauma, poverty, educational disparities, family dysfunction, and unemployment are key contributors to youth offending. The analysis underscores the interconnectedness of psychological and socioeconomic variables, suggesting that youth offending cannot be understood or addressed in isolation. Instead, a multidimensional approach is necessary, one that recognizes both internal psychological vulnerabilities and external social and economic stressors. Based on the findings, the study recommends trauma-informed mental health interventions, educational and vocational support, poverty alleviation strategies, and community and family-based programs. These recommendations aim to inform holistic and evidence-based policies that can reduce youth crime and support positive youth development. The study contributes to existing criminological literature by bridging theoretical frameworks with practical, policy-oriented solutions relevant to South Africa\u27s unique challenges
Views of teenage mothers on abortion of unexpected pregnancies: A study conducted at Elim village, Makhado municipality in Limpopo province, South Africa
Get PDFThis study explores the views of teenage mothers regarding abortions of unexpected pregnancies at the village of Elim, Makhado Municipality in Limpopo Province. The study employed a qualitative approach, which recognizes the need for an in-depth exploration of these views using semi-structured, open-ended interviews. Snowball sampling was used to recruit five female participants between the ages of 15 and 19 years old. Furthermore, the researcher utilized the ecological systems framework to evaluate the context in which these teenage mothers’ function and how their perceptions regarding abortions are constructed over time based on their systems. The data was analyzed thematically, and interpretations were made based on the themes of the collected data. The study found that teenagers shared mixed feelings associated with considering abortion. Others consider having an abortion to be bad and good, while others say they will consider abortion if they become pregnant while not ready. Regarding the influences of either having an abortion or not, they cited that they will consider abortion if their parents, especially fathers and boyfriends, do not accept the pregnancy. The study also found that financial situation and age of a teenager may compel one to consider abortion. The study also found that teenagers are aware of the consequences of abortion. They cited the risk to life during and after pregnancy, while others believe the consequences are less severe as opposed to giving birth. Finally, the study also found the following barriers to abortion, peer pressure, lack of support for raising a child, and the cost of abortion can be a barrier. The study recommends that educating society about reproductive rights and offering platforms for open discussions about abortion can help reduce the moral pressure that often leads to feelings of moral conflicts and cognitive dissonance. Furthermore, social workers should advocate for broader access to reproductive health services and collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure teenage mothers receive accurate information and emotional support. Additionally, social workers can play a role in facilitating open communications within families and communities to lessen the stigma associated with abortio
A descriptive literature review of Zahara’s Plea for Africa’s healing, hope, and answers in \u27Phendula: A cry for God\u27s intervention
No full textIn South Africa, during the days of apartheid, struggle songs became more than mere melodies; they evolved into a powerful form of expression and unity amongst those fighting against the injustices and racial segregation enforced by the government. This study explores Zahara’s song Phendula as a powerful musical plea for Africa’s healing, hope, and divine intervention. Using a descriptive literature review approach, the study examines the song’s lyrical composition, thematic significance, and socio-cultural impact within the South African and broader African context. Rooted in sociomusicology, the analysis investigates how Phendula reflects the lived experiences of marginalised communities facing poverty, social injustice, and emotional despair while also serving as a spiritual call for guidance and deliverance. The research draws from academic databases, journal articles, books, and music archives to explore the intersection of faith, music, and social transformation. Key themes include the role of music in healing, the evolution of struggle songs in post-apartheid South Africa, and Zahara’s artistic contributions to contemporary Afro-soul. The study also examines the song’s reception and its ability to inspire hope and resilience. Findings suggest that Phendula functions not only as a song but as a cultural and spiritual tool, resonating deeply with audiences who identify with its themes of divine intervention, perseverance, and collective struggle. This article concludes by highlighting the significance of Phendula as a form of social commentary and emotional release, reinforcing its enduring role in shaping African narratives of faith and healing
Caregivers’ knowledge, attitude, and help-seeking behaviour regarding mental health disorders in Tshwane, South Africa: A cross-sectional study
Get PDFMental health disorders remain a major public health concern, affecting individuals across diverse populations. Family caregivers play a critical role in the care and support of individuals diagnosed with mental health disorders, with their level of knowledge, attitudes, and help-seeking behaviours influencing the effectiveness and urgency to which care is provided. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and help-seeking behaviour among family members of people diagnosed with mental health disorders in the Tshwane District, Gauteng Province. A cross-sectional study design was used, and data were collected from a randomly selected sample of 377 family caregivers in district hospitals using a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire incorporated items adapted from the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule to assess knowledge, the Community Attitudes toward the Mentally Ill scale to evaluate attitudes, and the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help scale to assess help-seeking behaviours. Data were analysed using Stata version 17. The findings revealed that 63.23% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of mental health care, while 65.61% expressed positive attitudes toward individuals living with mental health disorders. Despite this, 60.05% of family caregivers showed reluctance in seeking professional psychological help and often resorted to a combination of medical and traditional treatment approaches. Although most caregivers were knowledgeable about mental health conditions, some lacked awareness of available mental health services and relied heavily on traditional healing practices, delaying access to professional care. Cultural beliefs and stigma were found to significantly influence caregivers’ help-seeking behaviours, highlighting the need for interventions that focus on mental health education, stigma reduction, and increased awareness of professional support services
Grassroots Activism in shaping Modern Social Movements in South Africa: An analysis of Cycles of Protest Theory, from apartheid to post-apartheid
Get PDFThis paper analyses the influence of grassroots action on contemporary social movements in South Africa via the lens of protest cycle theory. It examines critical movements such as anti-apartheid activism, labour strikes, and contemporary grassroots initiatives, asserting that social movements are influenced by political, economic, and social factors, including state repression, socio-economic disparities, and civil society. The paper conducts a qualitative examination of movement trajectories, identifying specific mobilisation periods and external elements such as organisational structures, leadership, and local conditions. It demonstrates that cycles of protest signify societal tensions and the persistent quest for justice and equality in South Africa. The results enhance the comprehension of social movements in the Global South and underscore the significance of contextualised analysis in the examination of collective action
Digital content creation as a tool for safeguarding and promoting indigenous knowledge systems in South Africa
No full textThe Indigenous knowledge continues to play a vital role in the lives of Indigenous communities; however, much of the knowledge is at risk of becoming extinct. This is due to the oral nature of the knowledge. With consideration for the safeguarding of the knowledge, digital content creation is a valuable tool for promoting indigenous knowledge. This raises the question: How can digital content creation be utilised as a tool to safeguard and promote indigenous knowledge? Thus, this paper explores the latter. The paper presents qualitative data generated from secondary sources between 2015 and 2025, utilising the Directory of Open Access Journals, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar as search engines. The generated data was analysed using key themes emerging from the Qualitative Document Analysis (QDA). The findings show that digital content creation enables Indigenous communities to sustainably safeguard Indigenous knowledge while allowing easier access to the knowledge in the upcoming generations. The findings further show that the use of the use of digital content creation has not been a smooth process; therefore, bias, misrepresentation, digital divide, and intellectual property rights have emerged as the key considerations for safeguarding and promoting IK. Therefore, this paper concludes that digital content creation plays a vital role in reviving, preserving, and promoting the IK; therefore, these contestations may need to be mitigated for sustainable safeguarding of the IK
Human Resource Management impediments in Lesotho small-scale Agri-business.
Get PDFEntrepreneurial companies depend on their ability to create innovative and improved products and services and be capable of moving quicky in the event of market opportunities. Unless the appropriate people are present and well-managed, competitive advantages become hard to sustain. Lesotho agribusiness companies are not different. The government recognizes agriculture as a very significant sector due to its huge contribution to employment creation. Despite its significance, agricultural companies in Lesotho struggle with several Human Resource Management challenges that stem from both global agricultural trends and Lesotho’s specific context. This article examines these challenges through the lens of selected small scale farms within Maseru District. The findings of the study confirm that HRM challenges in small-scale family-owned farms in Lesotho are consistent with those outlined in broader agricultural literature. Issues such as job insecurity, casual recruitment, limited training, poor performance evaluation, and ineffective communication result in workforce instability and inefficiencies were identified. To address these issues, systematic recruitment practices should also be applied and these farms should implement written employment contracts for enhanced job security. Formal training sessions coupled with collaboration with agricultural schools would improve the skill set of employees