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Grieving processes, ubuntu values, and challenges encountered by families that experienced losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
No full textM. A. in PsychologyDepartment of PsychologyEngaging in Ubuntu with grieving individuals is considered a component of the healing process, in African cultures. Grieving, however, had to be altered in shape and form due to the Coronavirus pandemic of 2019 (COVID-19), as numerous restrictions had to be implemented, worldwide, to mitigate the spread of the lethal virus. This research employed a qualitative methodology for data collection and analysis, utilising in-depth interviews. This study employed a single data collection instrument, interviews, to collect data from 20 participants across 10 families. Participants were picked conveniently by purposive sampling procedures. The data underwent thematic analysis, and the findings were presented thematically, with analogous perspectives and experiences consolidated. Data was collected and handled in a manner to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of the participants details were not compromised. The recommendations from this study were derived from the analyses and interpretations of the findings. The results indicated that during the COVID-19 pandemic, bereaved families encountered emotional, social, and cultural obstacles, such as isolation, interrupted rituals, and insufficient community assistance, which exacerbated their mourning. Nonetheless, Ubuntu principles, such as empathy, solidarity, and collective resilience facilitated families' adaptation to evolving circumstances and recovery. The research advocates for interventions, such as culturally-attuned mental health therapies, utilising internet platforms to preserve social connections during disasters, and communities formulating recommendations to assist bereaved families during public health emergencies. Ethical principles such as, informed consent were adhered to, and the privacy and anonymity of participants were maintained throughout the research procedure
Development of an integrated HIV, STI and Teenage pregnancy prevention programme in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa
No full textPhD (in Public Health)Department of Public HealthBackground: In South Africa, there are several health care services provided at the primary level of health care dedicated to addressing adolescents' sexual and reproductive needs. These services often face challenges such as limited resources, lack of funding and insufficient training for healthcare providers, which hinder their ability to provide integrated care. Additionally, cultural stigma and lack of privacy are factors which deter adolescents from seeking help.
Purpose: The study sought to develop an integrated Human Immunodeficiency Viruses (HIV), sexually transmitted infections (STI), and teenage pregnancy prevention programme among youth in the Vhembe district of Limpopo province.
Methods: This study employed a comprehensive multiphase mixed-methods strategy structured across three interconnected phases to ensure a robust exploration of the subject matter. The journey began with Phase 1, where a comprehensive literature review was conducted. This foundational step laid the groundwork for the entire research by synthesizing existing knowledge and identifying gaps that warranted further investigation. Moving into Phase 2, the research adopted a concurrent triangulation mixed methods approach divided into two stages. This innovative phase was pivotal, culminating in the development of a conceptual framework interwoven with qualitative and quantitative findings. The study created a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand by integrating, comparing, and interpreting data from diverse sources.
In the Final Phase, the findings from Phase 2 were subjected to rigorous analyses, including a Political, Environmental, Social, and Technological (PEST) analysis and a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis. The insights gleaned from these analyses served to inform the design of integrated programs geared toward preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and teenage pregnancies. To ensure the efficacy of these proposed programs, a consultation was held with the Reduce the Risk (RTR) Coalition, which included a diverse group of stakeholders and experts. This collaborative effort aimed to validate the approach taken. Quantitative data were gathered through questionnaires distributed to 112 respondents at selected clinics in the Vhembe district, while qualitative insights were captured through simultaneous face-to-face interviews.
As the data from Phase 2 were analyzed, qualitative findings underwent thematic analysis to identify key patterns and themes, while the quantitative data were processed using SPSS software. This detailed analytical process aimed to provide a nuanced understanding of the results, ultimately enriching the study's findings and contributing to more effective public health interventions.
Results: AYFS has been evaluated in depth across eight WHO global standards for quality healthcare services for adolescents, with areas of success and areas for improvement identified. Provider competency reveals a disparity, with a majority (67.0%) of healthcare providers trained in effective communication with adolescents. In comparison, significantly fewer have received specific training in
AYFS (16%) or on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) (25.9%), underscoring the need for a more balanced approach to training focus. Ineffective implementation and monitoring of existing interventions were also identified as barriers. Several respondents cited insufficient resources for HIV PrEP implementation. Institutional barriers, such as staff shortages, also hinder HIV PrEP integration into family planning. A significant challenge is the lack of knowledge among healthcare workers regarding HIV PrEP and its benefits. Several facilitators were identified for successfully integrating HIV PrEP into family planning services, including community support, motivated staff, technical support and stakeholder collaboration. By effectively integrating these services, we can significantly diminish stigma and improve access to quality sexual health care in rural areas. This, in turn, is likely to result in better health outcomes, including reduced rates of HIV infection, as well as increased access to contraception.
Conclusion: The findings of this study support the need for the integration of HIV, STIs, and pregnancy prevention services, given that all stakeholders demonstrated a readiness to participate in such a programme. The stakeholders agreed that such a programme would be an effective way of reducing HIV, STI transmission and teenage pregnancies while also providing reproductive health services. The stakeholders have expressed a desire to work collaboratively to ensure the success of the integrated programme. To implement the integrated programme, stakeholders could establish joint training sessions for healthcare providers to ensure consistent service delivery. They could also create a centralized platform for sharing resources and best practices. Additionally, regular community outreach events could be organized to raise awareness and encourage participation in the programme
Nsiyeto eka swinwana swa swirungulwana swa Xitsonga
No full textDepartment of African LanguagesPhD (Xitsonga
Determinants of Post-Harvest Handling Practices and Technologies Harnessed by Smallholder Fruit Crop Farmers in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
No full textMScAGMAAEDepartment of Agricultural Economics and AgribusinessPost-harvest losses pose a significant challenge to smallholder fruit crop farmers in South Africa's Vhembe District, affecting their economic livelihoods and food security. The study, which was designed with a comprehensive approach, investigates the post-harvest handling practices and technologies (PHHPT) harnessed by smallholder fruit crop farmers in the region. The research objectives include profiling the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, identifying available post-harvest practices and technologies, determining factors influencing their adoption, identifying, and identifying and assessing associated challenges faced by these farmers. The study utilised a quantitative research design in its approach, ensuring a robust and reliable analysis. The research employed a multistage sampling technique to select participants, ensuring a representative sample. Primary data were collected through administration of the administration of a structured questionnaire, which covered various aspects, including demographics, farming details, post-harvest practices and technologies harnessed, and challenges faced. A total of 224 farmers were selected comprising 114 farmers from Thulamela, 88 farmers from Makhado, 16 farmers from Musina and 5 farmers from Collins Chabane municipality. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and the Tobit regression model.
The data analysis results, with direct implications for policymakers and organisations, reveal a predominance of male farmers (63.8%), with significant engagement in agriculture (84.4%) and high land ownership (95.5%). However, there is limited access to credit (5.4%), storage facilities (96.4% lacking), and market access (62.1% facing difficulties). The most common fruits grown include avocados, mangoes, macadamias, and bananas. The main selling channels are farmers' markets and roadside stands, influenced by factors such as market demand and transportation efficiency. Postharvest losses are prevalent, with 50.9% of farmers experiencing issues such as rotting and physical damage, primarily due to inadequate storage and improper handling. Despite 50% awareness of postharvest practices and technologies, only 37.5% usage rates were observed, with minimal use of advanced technologies like refrigeration. The Tobit model result indicates that land ownership, selling method, access to agricultural information, pack houses, and PHHPT usage significantly influence the use of PHHPT.
The study highlights the critical need for improved access to credit, markets, storage facilities, and educational programs. Recommendations include targeted support for new farmers, diversification of income sources, tailored financial products, strengthened market linkages, and investments in storage and transportation infrastructure. Addressing these problems can enhance productivity, reduce PHL, and improve the livelihoods of smallholder fruits crop farmers
Digital Migration in South Africa: Experiences of Rural Selected Communities in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province
No full textM. A. (Communication and Media Studies)Department of English, Media Studies and LinguisticsThe global transition from analogue to digital broadcasting has been a significant shift driven by advancements in information and communication technologies. Digital migration offers benefits such as improved picture quality, efficient spectrum usage, and accommodating multiple channels on a single frequency. However, this transition has presented challenges for various stakeholders, particularly in developing regions and rural communities. This study focuses on the experiences of rural communities in the Thulamela Municipality, located in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa, during the shift from analogue to digital broadcasting. The motivation for this study stems from the delayed migration to digital television in South Africa, which began in 2009 but missed International Telecommunications Union deadlines for analogue switch-off in June 2015. Rural communities, especially those similar to the Thulamela Municipality, have faced difficulties related to infrastructural deficits, economic constraints, and limited access to digital equipment such as Set-Top Boxes. The research adopted a qualitative approach, gathering experiences from 15 purposively selected community members of Thulamela Municipality through semi-structured interviews. These interviews aimed to understand the challenges faced by these communities during the digital migration, the impact of the switchover on their access to broadcasting services, and any benefits derived from the digital transition. The results revealed that while there are potential benefits associated with digital migration, most rural households remained disconnected due to inadequate infrastructure, delays in Set-Top Box distribution, and a lack of public awareness campaigns about the transition. This research is based on the theoretical underpinning of communication rights, digital rights, and universal access, emphasising equal opportunities for access to information technologies for all actors. The concept of communication rights is highly relevant as it underscores citizens' right to freely seek, receive, and impart information, compromised due to the irregular establishment of digital infrastructure in many rural communities. The survey findings suggest that the well-intentioned policies of the South African government fell short in addressing the specific needs of rural communities, leading to a digital divide. The study highlights the implications of more inclusive policies and their proper implementation to ensure that all citizens, regardless of geographical location or economic status, benefit equally from digital broadcasting. This dissertation provides insight into the socio-economic implications of digital migration in rural South Africa and emphasises the need to improve efforts toward digital inclusion to reduce the disparities between urban and rural areas. The dissertation offers practical recommendations for policymakers, broadcasters,
and other stakeholders involved in the digital migration, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to achieve universal access to digital broadcasting services in underserved regions
The Use of Veld Restoration Techniques for Rehabilitating Degraded Waterberg Mountain Bushveld in Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, Limpopo Province
No full textMSc (Ecology)Department of Geography and Environmental SciencesThe natural rangelands of southern Africa have undergone significant degradation due to human and climatic activities. Fortunately, rehabilitation measures have been extensively researched and are available to address this issue. A variety of techniques exist to remedy the damage done to our rangeland ecosystems. However, the correct and timely application of these strategies remains a challenge. Further research is needed to provide farmers and landowners with clear and detailed guidelines for successful implementation.
This research project aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a combination of rangeland rehabilitation strategies to provide guidelines for the successful restoration of degraded rangelands where a bare and compacted surface has developed as a result prior treatment. Field experiments were conducted to assess the use of brush-packing and other techniques for rehabilitating degraded land. The study took place in trial plots at Lapalala Private Game Reserve in Limpopo Province.
Eight treatments were applied, including soil ripping, sowing grass seed mixtures, and covering treated areas with single and double layers of thorn branches known as brush-packing. These treatments were duplicated at two sites within the game reserve, one of which was located inside the enclosure of the Lapalala Wilderness School.
Treatments without protection from brush-packing failed to produce sustainable grass growth, as emerging plants were constantly grazed off by herbivores. However, where soil ripping, seed sowing, seedbed compaction, and brush-packing were applied, significantly more biomass was produced, resulting in sustainable growth of grass plants.
The research outcomes highlight several key principles for the use of rangeland rehabilitation strategies in areas with bare soil and compacted topsoil crust. Firstly, where soil is exposed with a compacted topsoil crust or hard pan, rainwater penetration and infiltration must be improved. This can be achieved by breaking the compacted hard pan through soil ripping along the contour, allowing surface water to flow into furrows and penetrate the ground.
Secondly, while the natural seedbank may provide seeds for pioneer plants to establish in a favourable environment with increased moisture and loose soil, the natural succession process is slow. To accelerate rehabilitation, grass seeds can be sown into furrows.
Thirdly, newly emerging seedlings must be protected from grazing animals. The practice of brush-packing has proven effective for this purpose. Double layers of brush-packing create a favourable environment for seedling establishment and growth, offering longer protection than single layers. This protection is crucial for safeguarding grass stems, preventing grazing herbivores from damaging flowers and seeds essential for reproduction and ecosystem restoration.
While grazing animals can be managed away from areas undergoing rehabilitation in commercial farming situations with domestic farm animals, this is more challenging in game reserves and parks, making brush-packing a valuable tool in these contexts
The importance of community participation in the implementation of Local Economic Development: A case study of Makhado Local Municipality
Get PDFMaster of AdministrationDepartment of Public and Development AdministrationCommunity participation is often seen as essential for the effectiveness of numerous health programs. Nevertheless, there is a deficiency in theoretical frameworks and empirical data concerning the factors influencing participation within specific contexts and relationships. The study focused on the importance of community participation in the implementation of Local Economic Development in the Makhado Local Municipality. Local Economic Development is considered as a solution to the triple challenges (unemployment, poverty, and inequality) in South African municipalities. Local Economic Development approach aims to stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life within communities by identifying the needs of communities through community participation. The study applied the participatory theory, which explains more about community participation and the contribution of citizens in community-based projects. Participatory theory was incorporated on mutual involvement of all important stakeholders, especially the use of respective members of citizens to make decisions and set the plans for their future. The study used a pragmatic research paradigm to select the research method of the study. The study deployed a mixed-methods research design. The descriptive research design was used as a blueprint for the study. The study population was limited to Makhado Local Municipality and the community members who were under Makhado Local Municipality. A purposive sampling technique that uses non-probability sampling was adopted in this study using a qualitative method. Statistical and thematic analyses were adopted to analyse data quantitatively and qualitatively. Enhanced research methodologies are required to enhance the conceptualisation of community participation and to elucidate a deeper comprehension of the ways in which factors like power and influence impact community engagement and its results.
The major findings of the study are:
• The study found that most respondents are unfamiliar with the goals and objectives of Local Economic Development initiatives, and there is a considerable knowledge gap within the community regarding understanding Local Economic Development and its objectives.
• The study found that poor information dissemination is a key challenge and a lack of proper channels by the Local Economic Development officials to reach
out to the community members under Makhado Local Municipality.
• The study revealed that the role of Non-Governmental Organisations in the Makhado Local Municipality is not well played in terms of addressing the barriers to community participation for Local Economic Development initiatives.
• The findings indicated that active involvement fosters a sense of ownership among community members, which enhances both the sustainability and effectiveness of projects.
• The findings indicate that increasing access to information and education about Local Economic Development initiatives would improve participation.
The following are the recommendations that are made based on the findings of the study.
• The study recommends that the Makhado Local Municipality implement targeted public awareness campaigns using local radio stations, social media platforms, and community meetings to educate residents on Local Economic Development.
• The study recommends that Makhado Local Municipality develop a comprehensive Local Economic Development communication strategy to ensure the timely and clear dissemination of information.
• The study recommends the introduction of dedicated Local Economic Development awareness campaigns such as NGOs to educate the community on the benefits and opportunities available through Local Economic Development initiatives.
• The study recommends that the municipality launch extensive awareness programs to address the prevailing uncertainty about Local Economic Development inclusivity and ensure that all community members are well-informed in order to foster ownership to the community members.
• The study recommends that the municipality enhance the dissemination of information and educational materials on Local Economic Development initiatives to improve community awareness and participation.National Research Fund (NRF
Towards the Development of an Innovative Mahosi-Led Model: Primary Prevention Strategies in Fighting Against Male-Generated Gender-Based Violence in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
No full textPHD in SociologyDepartment of Arts and Social SciencesGender-based violence (GBV) prevention measures aim to transform communities by addressing the root causes of violence against women and children. In South Africa, traditional leaders (Mahosi) govern rural communities and regulate social behaviour and norms. Harmful social norms, however, perpetuate GBV, resulting in persistently high and increasing statistics. This research study aims to evaluate measures employed by Mahosi to prevent GBV in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province, South Africa; and, where feasible, propose a model for primary prevention strategies. From a feminist standpoint, this research examined how Mahosi’s interventions can challenge and dismantle the patriarchal norms that perpetuate GBV. The research used qualitative methods. The study design was explorative to gain an in-depth understanding of the measures at the disposal of Mahosi to prevent GBV in the villages under their custodianship. The researcher used a purposive, non-probability sampling technique to select ten Mahosi from areas with a high prevalence of GBV in Thulamela namely Collins Chabane; Makhado; and Musina Municipalities in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to collect data from the participants and the data was analysed using the six stages of thematic analysis. The findings indicate varying levels of effectiveness of Mahosi initiatives; with successes observed in community dialogues and awareness campaigns. Challenges include cultural resistance and resource constraints. To address these challenges, it was recommended that intervention strategies should be subject to continuous assessment and adaptation. The Mahosi led initiatives have been found to have ample impact on collaborations with stakeholders. Culturally aligned approaches have proven particularly effective in furthering community acceptance of these initiatives. The findings of this study also emphasised the positive policy implications, highlighting recommendations aimed at ensuring the sustainability of GBV prevention efforts. The study also proposed a standardised model designed to support Mahosi in their endeavours to prevent GBV. This model represents a significant outcome of the research and is intended to offer a structured framework for future interventions
Examining Teacher-Learner Stress During the Covid-19 Pandemic in Secondary Schools in Shamavunga Circuit, Mopani East District, Limpopo Province
No full textMED in Curriculum StudiesDepartment of Professional and Curriculum StudiesGuided by Transactional Stress Theory and an interpretive research approach, this study examines the stress experienced by teachers and learners during the Covid-19 pandemic in selected secondary schools within the Shamavunga Circuit, Mopani East District, Limpopo Province. The study focuses on three key objectives: identifying the causes of stress among teachers and learners during the pandemic, assessing how stress affected learners’ academic performance and teachers’ competencies, and exploring ways to reduce stress for both groups.
A qualitative research approach was used, with phenomenology as the research design. Data was collected through structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. The study population included teachers and learners affected by Covid-19, and participants were selected through purposive sampling. The findings highlight various strategies that teachers and learners can use to manage and reduce stress caused by the pandemic, helping to maintain effective teaching and learning
A Reflective Study on the Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Curriculum Delivery in Secondary Schools in Vhembe West District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
No full textDED in Curriculum StudiesDepartment of Professional and Curriculum StudiesThis study explored the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on curriculum delivery in secondary schools in Vhembe West District, Limpopo Province. It focused on teaching, learning, and assessment in secondary schools during Covid-19. To achieve its objectives, the researcher used a qualitative research approach. Purposive sampling was used to select participants for data collection. A total of ten secondary school teachers took part in interviews, along with five departmental heads and five curriculum advisors. Teachers were selected to share their views and experiences on how Covid-19 affected their teaching and learning. Departmental heads were included due to their responsibility of ensuring effective curriculum delivery in schools, while curriculum advisors were interviewed as they monitor and support curriculum implementation. Participants were audio-recorded, and the qualitative data was analysed.
The findings reveal that Covid-19 challenges were multifaceted, affecting teachers and departmental heads emotionally, professionally, and socially as they navigated an uncertain and unprecedented educational landscape. The study recommends equitable access to digital resources, continuous teacher training in digital literacy, and the adoption of blended learning. The government should invest in digital infrastructure and integrate mobile devices into teaching. Support systems for teachers and learners should be strengthened, and community partnerships are fostered to sustain education during crises