2694 research outputs found
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Digital framework for redefining South African Local Government Service Delivery
No full textPh.D. (Business Information Systems)Department of Business Information SystemsThe emergence of new ICTs is triggering organisations into digital transformation, targeting their business model, resulting in a shift on how organisations operate and generate revenue. Moreover, high consumer technological demand and external dynamics also signify the need for organisations, both public and private, to reshape their operations on how they respond to emerging technologies. The study investigated the digital transformation initiative to integrate emerging technologies into the South African rural municipalities business model. A pragmatic paradigm was adopted to achieve the study objectives, and holistically examining the digital transformation in municipalities, and further allowed the researcher to explore digital transformation initiatives from both individual (citizens) and organisation’s (municipalities) perspectives. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to collect quantitative data from citizens on their perception towards emerging technologies as a model of accessing and engaging rural municipalities. Interviews were conducted with rural municipalities departmental managers. IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for regressions and corelation test analysis, while the IBM AMOS was deployed to test the study model and confirm the study’s quantitative results. Furthermore, Atlas. ti was used to analyse qualitative data. The results of the study show that both citizens and rural municipalities have a positive perception towards using emerging technologies in municipalities. However, the citizens identified safety issues as their primary concern. Furthermore, the study shows that rural municipalities currently do not have the right skills, expertise, resources, infrastructure, external relationships, research, and innovation capabilities to support digital projects initiative. Based on the findings, a framework to support digital transformation initiative in rural municipalities was developed.NR
Tshivhumbeo na thalutshedzo zwa mirero kha Luambo lwa Tshivenda
No full textPhD (Tshivenda)Department of African LanguagesTho ḓ isiso ino yo ḓ isendeka kha u ita tsenguluso ya tshivhumbeo na ṱ halutshedzo zwa
mirero kha luambo lwa Tshiven ḓ a. Luambo lwa Tshiven ḓ a lwo fara mirero yo yaho
nga u fhambanana ine i na zwine ya amba zwo fhambanaho. Vha ṱ o ḓ isisi vho yaho
nga u fhambana vho no sedzulusa mirero kha masia a zwine ya amba, mishumo na
pfunzo ine ya i swikisa kha lushaka. U swika zwino ndi zwi ṱ uku ṱ uku, arali zwi hone,
zwine zwa ḓ ivhiwa nga tshivhumbeo na ṱ halutshedzo ya mirero ya Tshiven ḓ a. Zwa
zwino hu na ṱ ho ḓ ea ya uri ri ḓ ivhe maipfi o itaho heyi mirero na u ri aya maipfi u
dzu dzanyiswa hani. Ndi zwine ngazwo heyi ṱ ho ḓ isiso ndivho yayo ndi u ita tsenguluso
ya hetsho tshivhumbeo na ṱ halutshedzo ya yeneyo mirero kha Luambo lwa Tshiven ḓ a
u itela u fhindula iyo ṱ ho ḓ ea. Nga murahu ha iyi ṱ ho ḓ isiso hu ḓ o dovha ha vha na
kusedzele kwavhu ḓ i kha mirero, kuhumbulele kwo dzudzanaho na vhaambi vha ḓ o
vha na fulufhelo nga ha mirero. Ṱ ho ḓ isiso iyi i khou shumisa mutheo wa Thyiori ya
Tshivhumbeo i tshi khou thusedzwa nga pharadaimi ya phosithivizimu u sedzulusa
ma ṅ walwa a murahu sa vhunga i tsh i khwa ṱ hisedza uri zwivhumbeo zwo
dzumbamaho zwine zwa vha zwipi ḓ a zwine zwa vha na vhushaka ndi zwone zwine
zwa sedzuluswa nahone zwi ṱ alutshedzwa nga vhushaka vhune ha vha hone kha
zwipi ḓ a zwi no ita zwivhumbeo izwo zwine zwa nga mafhungo na mafurase ho katelwa
na zwi ṱ alusi zwa tshivhumbeo. Heyi ngona ya khwa ḽ ithethivi ya tsedzuluso ya zwi re
ngomu i sedza kha mirero yo fhambanaho muhumbulo hu u ṱ o ḓ a u ḓ ivha tshivhumbeo
na ṱ halutshedzo dzi re hone. Ṱ humbulo ya u livha kana hune ha vha na n ḓ ivho
(purposive sampling) ndi yone n ḓ ila ine ya ḓ o shuma u ṋ anguludza vha ṱ o ḓ uluswa
vhane vha vha na n ḓ ivho ya luambo lwa Tshiven ḓ a na mirero ine ya ḓ o shumiselwa
izwo. Ṱ humbulo iyi yo tea sa vhunga i tshi ḓ o ita ṱ humbulo kha vhadededzi vho no
funza luambo lwa Tshiven ḓ a kha Sekondari vho no ḓ o ita inthaviyu na mirero i hone i
minzhi nahone i tshi swikelea fhedzi hu fanela u dzhiiwa yo linganelaho.
Mbudzisavhathu na Tsenguluso ya mawanwa i ḓ o itwa hu tshi shumiswa u khouda
muhumbulo muthihi.NR
Perceptions of cannabis entrepreneurs on South Africa’s cannabis masterplan: a case study of Limpopo Province
No full textM. A. (Business Management)Department of Business ManagementThis study delves into the emerging discourse surrounding the decriminalisation and commercialisation of cannabis, particularly within the context of South Africa's Cannabis Master Plan. With global shifts toward legalisation for both medicinal and recreational purposes, understanding the perceptions and challenges faced by cannabis entrepreneurs becomes paramount. In the Limpopo Province, like many other regions of South Africa, one of its strategic plans is to promote entrepreneurship and small-scale businesses, thus there is a need to interrogate the cannabis masterplan of the country. The main objective of the study was, therefore, to explore the perceptions of cannabis entrepreneurs on South Africa’s cannabis Master Plan. In this study a qualitative research method was used, and participants were selected using non-probability snowball sampling. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview guide through face-to-face interviews. An audio recorder and a notebook were used to capture the responses of the participants and data was collected from 16 cannabis entrepreneurs in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The adequate number of the sample size was guided by the point of saturation. The collected data was transcribed using Microsoft Word version 26 and analysed using ATLAS.ti.23 and the results found were used to make conclusions and recommendations of the study. The research findings highlight challenges faced by cannabis entrepreneurs, particularly, compliance with the country’s laws and regulatory bodies. For instance, to obtain a cannabis operating license, one is expected to pay a minimum of R25 000 and build a cannabis facility with high security and a sensory detector which is estimated could be over a million rand. The participants emphasised the need for unrestricted cannabis commercialisation, citing its benefits, such as income generation, economic growth and employment creation amongst others; also, entrepreneurs face issues with society not being informed about cannabis’ potential benefits. One of the recommendations made from this study is that policymakers and industry stakeholders should foster a sustainable, inclusive cannabis industry through full implementation of the Cannabis Master plan.National Research Foundation (NRF
Teaching English First Additional Language Listening and Speaking Skills, in the Intermediate Phase, at Vhembe West Districtm Limpopo Province
No full textD.Ed (Curriculum Studies)Department of Curriculum StudiesThe study sought to investigate how teachers of English First Additional Language (EFAL) develop learners’ listening and speaking skills at Intermediate Phase (IP). Through listening and speaking, learners collect information, construct knowledge, solve problems, and express ideas and opinions. The research objectives included - identification of challenges which confront EFAL teachers in their effort to teach listening and speaking skills, determining the competence of IP learners in listening and speaking skills as well as the teaching strategies for the development of EFAL listening and speaking skills. The study employed Transcendental and Hermeneutic Phenomenology as its research paradigm and a qualitative research design was adopted. The population comprised of EFAL teachers and Departmental Heads (DH) at IP from selected schools and the participants were selected through purposive sampling. The sample consisted of fourteen (8) Departmental Heads in EFAL and 14 EFAL teachers sampled from fourteen (14) Circuits in Vhembe District. Data was analysed thematically. The research findings revealed that in most school, teachers do not use the teaching strategies tabled in the National Curriculum Statement and that there is a dominant use of mother tongue in English lessons. The teachers often code switch to mother tongue when they give learners instructions as EFAL teachers encounter several challenges when they teach learners listening and speaking skills, hence, the study advanced appropriate ways of improving listening and speaking skills of learners at IP. The study recommends that proper training in teaching listening and speaking skills should be given to teachers during their years of training and that there should be continuous monitoring and support by subject advisors and departmental heads for teachers in IP. Time allocated for English teaching should be increased in both Foundation and Intermediate Phases and teachers’ competency in speaking English should be prerequisite for them teaching English. Formal assessment should be based on the different strategies of teaching listening and speaking skills as established in the National Curriculum Statement.NR
Cybersecurity awareness strategy for rural communities: a case study of the Mopani District in the Limpopo Province
No full textM. Com (Business Information Systems)Department of Business Information SystemsCybersecurity challenges persist in rural communities, exacerbated by the lack of effective cybersecurity awareness strategies. This study aimed to address these challenges by developing a tailored cybersecurity awareness strategy specifically for rural communities in Limpopo Province, Mopani District. The research focused on identifying cybersecurity challenges, factors influencing cybersecurity policies, and assessing cybersecurity awareness and attitudes within these communities. Data was collected through random multi-stage sampling and referral techniques using a questionnaire. The findings revealed a significant prevalence of cyberattacks (81%), with phishing being the most common type. Consequences included data loss, stolen personal information, service disruptions, financial loss, and reputation damage. Key challenges identified encompassed limited awareness, restricted access to resources, weak policies, and insufficient training. The developed strategy focuses on enhancing training programs, improving resource accessibility, and strengthening policy frameworks, which together lay the groundwork for fostering a cybersecurity culture and mitigating cyber threats in rural communities.NR
Water and sediment chemistry quality, and biodiversity structure of floodplain pans in the Makuleke Wetlands, Kruger National Park, South Africa
No full textPhDENVDepartment of Geography and Environmental SciencesThe floodplain pans found in Makuleke wetlands are good representatives of floodplain ecosystems in the region. As such they provide a unique opportunity to investigate floodplain wetland ecological structure and functioning. The Makuleke wetlands are largely understudied despite their importance for provision of various ecosystem services such as flood protection, groundwater recharge and discharge, carbon storage, water quality and biodiversity maintenance, and nutrient cycling. Floodplain pans provide habitats for diverse flora and fauna, while also improving tourism which contribute to economic growth. The present study focused on assessing water quality, sediment quality, chlorophyll–a (chl–a) dynamics, trophic interactions and biodiversity structure within floodplain pans of the Makuleke wetlands, Kruger National Park. The study comprised of four data chapters (Chapters 3–6), each assessing a discrete and fundamental component of wetland ecology.
In Chapter 3, the study investigated the (1) spatial distributions of different metals (i.e., Zn, Mn, Cu, Fe, B, Na, Ca, K, Mg) in sediment cores (sediment depth), (2) identify relationships among sediment metals, and (3) determine the sediment contamination and toxic risks associated with the identified metals using pollution indices. This chapter demonstrated that the concentrations of metals in the assessed cores were higher in surface sediment than in deeper sediment. Furthermore, pans such as Mambvumbvanyi tended to be more polluted (at a depth of 0–20 cm) than Nyavadi and Jachacha pans. These results suggest that high surface sediment metal concentrations are likely to be due to plant debris in surface soils, plant cycling, pan drying as a subject of seasonal changes and soil deposition and through floodplain inundation waters arising from outside the park that contains metals. I further observed that
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pollution load by metals varied slightly across the studied floodplain pans and sediment depth due to catchment development upstream.
Chapter 4 of this thesis focused on assessment of benthic and pelagic chlorophyll‒a, water and sediment metal dynamics across hydroperiods among various pan systems in the Makuleke floodplain. This chapter aimed to assess the overall ecosystem health among pans and hydroperiod, and also assess chl–a concentrations in relation to various environmental variables across various floodplain pans in order to determine potential drivers of phytoplankton biomass and determine the spatio–temporal variation of chl–a based of hydroperiod (water level) and environmental variables. The result of this chapter revealed that the ecology of the floodplain pans was driven mainly by water quality (primarily total dissolve solids and chl–a), sediment chemistry (metal concentrations) and hydroperiod (low– and high– water period). Fluctuation of water levels within the pans resulted in changes of sediment chemistry within various pans. Generally, pelagic and benthic chl–a concentration increased with water and sediment chemistry variables.
In chapter 5, the study was conducted to identify different types of fish species and macroinverterbrates found in various pans in the Kruger National Park (Makuleke wetlands). The study further assessed the fish and macroinvertebrates diversity index with the use of ANalysis Of SIMilarities (ANOSIM) and SIMilatity PERcentage (SIMPER) and their relationship with environmental variables (i.e., sediment and water chemistry). Fish species (i.e., Tilapia sparminii, Gambusia affinis, Coptodon rendali, Oreochromis spp. hybrid, Oreochromis mossambicus, Enteromius palludinosus and Clarais gariepinus) and macroinvertebrates (i.e., Notonectidae, Libellulidae, Gerridae, Chironomidae larvae,
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Belostomatidae, Gomphidae, dytiscidae and Baetidae) were the dominant species across the different floodplain pans, indicating that the pans contain high biodiversity. Generally, fish and macroinvertebrates communities were high during high–water level as compared to low–water level, suggesting that hydroperiod play a significant role in structuring species community. In addition, pelagic chl–a was strongly positively associated with fish, in particular Gambusia affinis during high–water level period.
Lastly, chapter 6 of the thesis employed an experimental approach (an experiment called functional response) to understand predator and prey dynamics (multiple predator effects (MPEs)) within the pans using common fish species which are found in the wetlands (i.e., Oreochromis mossambicus and Enteromius paludinosus). During functional response (FR) experiments on multiple predator effects (MPEs), I used single predator species as well as intra– and interspecific paired species to contrast FRs under multiple predator scenarios. Attack rate and handling time estimates from single predator FRs were used to predict multiple predators feeding rates, which were compared to observed multiple predator feeding rates to quantify potential MPEs. From single fish trials, each species displayed a significant Type II FR, characterized by high feeding rates at low prey densities. Oreochromis mossambicus had a steeper (initial slope, i.e., higher attack rate) and higher (asymptote of curve, i.e., shorter handling time and higher maximum feeding rate) FR, whereas Enteromius paludinosus exhibited lower–magnitude FRs (i.e., lower attack rate, longer handling time and lower feeding rate). In multiple predator scenarios, feeding rates were well–predicted by those of single predators, both in conspecific and interspecific pairs, and thus I did not find evidence for antagonistic or synergistic MPEs. Predator–prey interactions in wetland systems can have significant consequences on the structure and dynamics of ecological communities. In turn, this could have destabilizing effects on resources in tropical wetlands. Although the results on
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this chapter on fish interactions and feeding habit were experimental, they help us understand how trophic interaction among conspecific or interspecific fish species in floodplain pan wetlands might have an effect on their aquatic prey species. Overall, this study shows that water, sediment and chl–a have significant impact on biodiversity structure and functioning of floodplain pans wetlands.NR
Intimate partner violence: exploring experiences of women in Msukalingwa Sub-District, Mpumalanga Province
No full textM.A. (Psychology)Department of PsychologyIntimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a human rights violation and a global concern. IPV that includes physical, financial, psychological, and sexual abuse among women by a current or previous intimate partner is a significant public health concern that has both acute and chronic impacts on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. This study explored the experiences of women survivors of IPV in Msukaligwa, utilising a qualitative phenomenological research design. Twenty-five (25) women aged 18-55 years who had experienced IPV and received care from a hospital in Mpumalanga were purposively selected and individual semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted to collect data; the Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the researcher examined how selected IPV victims made meaning of their life experiences. Six main themes emerged from the data, namely: knowledge of IPV, forms of IPV experienced, causes of IPV, impact of IPV, women’s response to IPV and the coping strategies used by survivors of IPV. Participants understood IPV based on the physical, verbal, sexual and emotional abuse they had experienced and substance use, patriarchy and unplanned pregnancy were reported to precipitate IPV incidents. Effects of IPV included - miscarriages due to IPV, strained distant relationships with in-laws. Women responded through separation and seeking the help of law enforcement officials; this situation, consequentially, caused some participants to be depressed and suicidal. Religion, social support from others served as victims’ positive coping mechanism. The present findings suggest the need for awareness campaigns, education on IPV and its associated risk factors in rural settings. Tailor-made relevant interventions are critical and these should be sensitive to cultural practices and also focus on children who witness IPV.NR
The effect of developmental local government in implementing local economic development strategy: a case of Polokwane Local Municipality
No full textD. AdminDepartment of Public and Development AdministrationThe study evaluates effect of developmental local government (DLG) in implementing local economic development (LED) strategy, using the Polokwane Local Municipality as a case study. DLG is borne out of a complex of socio-economic and political procedures marked by democratization, marketization, and decentralization. DLG presents a new approach to the pursuit of collective welfare and developmental goals, leveraged by ideas that favour a redefinition of the role of the state and government. Most important is the decentralisation of functions of the state and government as an important strategy to boost local economies to address high levels of poverty, unemployment, and inequalities facing most communities. LED is a localized, ‘place-based’ approach to local development. LED as a development strategy has in the recent past gained widespread popularity and acceptance as a grassroots-based approach, especially in the developing world. The study applied mixed-methods research approach to understand the scope and nature of the study. The study used a pragmatic research paradigm while descriptive and contextual research design were applied. Questionnaires and interviews are the data collection methods that were used in this study. The population of the study consists of municipal officials, councilors, and selected community members within the Polokwane Local Municipality area. The study used non-probability and probability. Data was analysed using thematic and statistical analysis. The data collected through questionnaires were analysed through the International Business Machinery: Statistical Product and Service Solutions (IBM: SPSS) the latest Version 28.0. The information was presented in the form of tables, and graphs followed by frequencies and percentage. Data collected through interviews was analysed using thematic analysis.
The major findings of the study are:
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DLG improves the living standards of the communities through the implementation of LED.
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DLG empowers local communities and ensures independence.
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DLG ensures the availability of funds to support the LED strategy.
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There is active community and stakeholder participation in the LED project development and implementation.
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DLG ensures that LED alleviates poverty.
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The DLG ensures proper communication channels to coordinate and implement LED strategy.
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Polokwane community members through their participation work with Municipality towards achieving the LED strategy.
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DLG create job opportunities through LED.
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Traditional Leaders, community stakeholders, community development workers, community development groups and NGOs should be incorporated in Municipal LED projects to ensure the effective implementation of LED in the Municipality.
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The increase in funding may sufficiently support the implementation of LED programmes.
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The continuous workshops to educate the local communities and municipal officials about new technological development are necessary since they will be able to adapt to the new changes, for instance the operation of e-governance under the evolution of 4th industrial revolution. The training or workshops of communities and municipal officials is vital for fostering effective LED planning and implementation
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Deployment of sufficient resources for implementing LED programmes is essential.
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Corruption and other mal-administrative practices must be effectively curtailed through oversight mechanisms such as Chapter 9 institutions.
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Sufficient support for the government departments such as Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA, Public Works inter alia is needed.
Recommendations of the study are:
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The study recommends for the sustainable developmental local economic stimuli theory (SDLEST) which is based on the following principles: community-stakeholder participation, public/community value, utilization of local resources, job creation, accountability measures, local education and training, participative NGOs, local investors, and empowerment.
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The study suggests the support of Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) as they are significant contributors to economic growth and employment.
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Education and training regarding the usage of local resources and participation in municipal affairs is vital in Polokwane Local Municipality.
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The study suggests for municipality together with COGHSTA to partner with NGOs and private sectors to encourage sustainable business practises. Sustainable business practises should be aimed at tackling the community problems such as social inequality, unequal distribution of wealth, failing economics, community conflict, gender inequality, lack of education, rampant poverty and provision of quality life for all.
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The study recommends for sufficient budget to be able to cater all the projects the municipality considers to improve the social, political, and economic needs of the communities.
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The study recommends the encouragement of community, and relevant stakeholder participation as a way of empowering community members.
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The study suggests for collaborative partnerships with linguists, cultural organizations, universities, and tourism agencies around Polokwane Local Municipality to enhance local economic development.
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E-government is also recommended as an effective method for the implementation of LED since the issues of corruption, maladministration, and nepotism will be reduced.
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The study recommends that there should be the development of an inclusive and robust local economy to eradicate poverty and create jobs.
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The study recommends for agriculture, tourism, SMMEs, education and training, e-government, service delivery, utilisation of local resources, collaboration, participation and public-private partnership as centres of effective LED through DLG.NR
An analysis of exposure and slope gradient impact on tree layer profile of Maroelakop vegetation in Nylsvley Nature Reserve, Limpopo Province, South Africa
No full textM.Sc. (Botany)Department of Biological SciencesSince the 1850s, plant ecologists have been eager to investigate challenges in vegetation communities that are related to slope. The aspect of the slope is crucial in terms of the diversity and distribution of plants. This research was conducted on Maroelakop Mountain within Nylsvley Nature Reserve located in Mookgopong, Limpopo Province. The investigation aimed to assess and contrast the vegetation composition on the north-facing slope with that of the south-facing slope. The specific goals included ascertaining the density and frequency of dominant tree species on each slope, calculating the importance value indices of trees on both slope gradients and analyzing the population structure of the slope gradient. Point Centred Quarter (PCQ) was used in data collection. Shannon-Weiner diversity index, Simpson diversity index, and Evenness index were used to measure plant species diversity. In this study, a total of 600 trees were discovered and identified by their botanical names. The data represented 21 plant species in 17 genera and 12 families. The tree layer of the north-facing slope was dominated by Diplorhynchus condylocarpon, whereas that on the south-facing slope was dominated by Burkea africana. Both tree species had high-importance value indices. Shannon diversity index of 2.20 was obtained for the North-facing downslope, whereas the South-facing downslope had 1.74. The average Simpson diversity index for the North-facing slope was 0.82 and South-facing slope 0.77. The average Evenness index for the North-facing slope was 0.93 and, on the South-facing slope 0.81. This study concluded that Diplorhynchus condylocarpon is the most prevalent species within Maroelakop Mountain in the Nylsvley Nature Reserve.National Research Foundation (NRF
Assessment and Modelling of Particulate Matters from the Brickmaking Industries in the Vhembe District, South Africa
No full textPhDENVDepartment of Geography and Environmental SciencesThe brickmaking industry (BMI) is one of the major industries boosting the economy of the Vhembe District, as well providing means of livelihood to the populace in its immediate and neighbouring communities, however, its impact in terms of PM2.5 released into the ambient air, is unknown. This study assessed the PM2.5 levels in communities around the BMIs. This was done through an examination of, the production methods, phases of production, and the production rates of a formal brickmaking industry (FBMI) and 74 informal brickmaking industries (IBMIs) in the Vhembe District. Highly mechanised method of production is used in all the phases of production in the FBMI, while crude method is used in the IBMIs. Brick firing in the IBMIs is mainly by the use of the wood-based clamp kiln. However, both the energy-efficient Vertical shaft brick kiln (VSBK) and the energy-inefficient clamp kiln are used for brick firing in the FBMI examined. Interestingly, the study has shown that the bulk of the brick produced in the FBMI is via the use of the clamp kiln. The FBMI yields an average monthly production rate of 2.8±0.8 million and 0.8±0.2 million bricks per kiln from the clamp kiln and the VSBK, respectively, while the IBMIs average monthly production rate ranged from 12582 to 21111 bricks per kiln. For both the FBMI and IBMIs, peak production rates occur in the winter months, while the lowest production rate occurs in summer. Additionally, throughout the period of study, a total of 43.1 million bricks were produced with the use of the coal-based clamp kiln and the Vertical Shaft Brick kiln (VSBK) at the FBMI ; however, 11.9 million bricks were produced in the informal brickmaking industrial sector used in the study. Furthermore, the study assessed the PM2.5 levels around the BMI and offers insights into the compliance with PM2.5 standards, diurnal patterns, seasonal variations, and the potential sources of PM2.5 in the study area. A modified Dylos system was used to assess PM2.5 levels around the brickmaking industry. Annual mean PM2.5 concentrations ranging from 21 to 36 μg/m3 were observed at all the stations in the study area. This indicated that none of the monitoring stations was in compliance with the annual PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) threshold limit of 20 μg/m3. Diurnal trends of the PM2.5 concentrations were observed, with two peaks occurring in the morning (6h00 to 9h00) and evening (18h00 to 21h00). These peaks coincide with periods of maximum operation of PM2.5 releasing activities. Seasonally, maximum and minimum PM2.5 concentrations were observed at all the monitoring stations during winter, and summer, respectively. Brick production was observed to be at its climax during winter, but dropped drastically in summer, at both the FBMI and the IBMIs due to reasons, such as unfavourable climatic condition for the operation of the clamp kiln and end of the year break of FBMI. Additionally, maximal impact of PM2.5 concentration, from brick kilns, was observed on monitoring station (BM) located downwind and ≤500 m from the brick kilns, VB1 and VB2 (monitoring stations within the FBMI). For the other monitoring stations
situated around the informal BMIs, influx of PM2.5 were observed at wind speed of > 5 ms-1 at the southwest direction, signifying industries as the potential PM2.5 source. Other likely potential sources responsible for the high PM2.5 concentrations around the monitoring stations, included residential settlements, construction sites, the R534 road and Thohoyandou township.
Furthermore, the exposure level of the populace residing around the BMIs was investigated using the annual mean PM2.5 concentrations from the monitoring stations and the population census of the wards in the study area. Since 6 out of the 11 wards in the study area do not have any monitoring stations in them, spatial interpolation of PM2.5 level in these wards using the inverse distance weighting was carried out. A PM2.5 Population weighted exposure level of 26.5 μg/m3 was estimated for the study area. This implies that local communities around the brick kiln in Vhembe District are exposed to high levels of PM2.5 exceeding the annual South African NAAQS for PM2.5 (20 μg/m3).
The study also investigated the impact of brickmaking industrial emissions on ambient PM2.5 levels of the Vhembe District, using the American Meteorology Society-Environmental Protection Agency Regulatory Model (AERMOD). The study found that sensitive discrete receptors situated within 500 m of the brickmaking industrial sources were the most affected by PM2.5 emissions from the BMI. These receptors experienced higher concentrations of simulated PM2.5 compared to receptors farther away from the BMIs. The sensitive receptors located more than 500 m from the BMI had simulated PM2.5 concentration ranged of 0.53-1.34 μg/m³, while those within 500 m had simulated PM2.5 concentration ranging from 2.34 to 10.12 μg/m³. This signifies that proximity of sensitive receptors to the BMI source significantly influences PM2.5 levels. The study further quantified the contribution of brickmaking industrial emissions to ambient PM2.5. Percent contribution range of 1.9-4.2% and 11.2–34.9% were obtained for the sensitive receptors >500 m from the BMI and the receptors ≤500 m from the BMI, respectively. The model validation exercise carried out in this study, showed that the model has been able to perform, relatively well, in most of the monitoring stations/ sensitive discrete receptors. However, negative FB were observed with sensitive receptors <500 m from the BMIs (VB1 and VB2), giving an indication of likely overprediction of the model when the receptors are close to the source of PM2.5. Summarily, this thesis has shown that brickmaking in Vhembe District is predominantly by the use of the energy-inefficient clamp kiln. However, impact of the BMI in terms of PM2.5 concentration is low, but the impact is most felt at locations within 500 m from the BMI source.NR