Sediment characteristics and hydrodynamic conditions of the Swartkops estuary, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Best, Lutho https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6400-9061
- Authors: Best, Lutho https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6400-9061
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Geology, Stratigraphic , Estuarine oceanography , Swartkops River Estuary (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22611 , vital:52596
- Description: This study is a part of an environmental research project aimed at providing assessment information to the grain-size distribution, mineral compositions, sedimentary structures and coastal erosion and rehabilitation methods along the Swartkops estuary, a recent developing industry area of South Africa. The methodologies used in this study comprise desk study of literature, field geological investigation and sampling, and laboratory analyses including grainsize analysis, thin section microscope study, XRD mineral composition study and SEM-EDX grain surface texture and composition analyses.The basement and surrounding areas of the Swartkops estuary consist of three formations: the Enon Formation of mainly conglomerate, the Kirkwood Formation of sandstone and mudstone, and the Sundays River Formation of dominantly mudstone with sandstone, which integrated as Uitenhage Group of Cretaceous sequence with modern estuarine sand and alluvial sediments filled in the entire basin. Grain size analysis is a useful tool to assess hydrodynamic environments. The grain size parameters showed that most of the Swartkops estuary sediments are moderately sorted with very few well and poorly sorted, coarse to fine skewed in grain size distribution.Whereas the Bluewater Bay beach sediments are mostly fine grained, well sorted, fine to coarse skewed in grain size distribution. The bivariate scatter plots are an indication of shallow marine environment by beach and coastal processes with the influence of water flow and wind influence during transportation and deposition processes. Mineralogy studies revealed that the Swartkops estuary sediments are dominantly composed of minerals such as: quartz, calcite, feldspar (orthoclase and plagioclase), aragonite, clay minerals (smectite and illite), and salts such as NaCl and MgCl2. Skeletal carbonate minerals (shell fragments) are more than chemical precipitated carbonate minerals. Quartz is the most abundant detrital mineral observed in all the sediments and it comes from inland and transported into the estuary and the beach by fluvial streams, whereas skeletal calcite/aragonite is the most abundant biogenic carbonate derived from sea side and transported by marine currents. The study shows that grain surface textures reveal the existence of several features that reflect the depositional environments. Observed grain surface textures by microscope and SEM include V-shape pits, upturned pits caused by mechanical crashing and corrosion during transportation; crystalline precipitation of calcite, quartz, salt and clay by chemical precipitation and crystallization; dissolution pits and pores formed by dissolution, and burrow and boring by biogenetic activities. The grain surface morphologies are closely linked to different formation mechanisms and depositional environments. Well-developed sedimentary structures have been found in the beach and estuary, including sand dune, sand ridge, straight and sinuous ripple, ripple marks, aeolian nail marks, high angle tabular cross bedding, antidune, rill mark, rhomboid mark, swash line, mud crack, gravel pavement, interfering ripples, flat topped ripple mark, linguiod mark, asymmetric sinuous ripples, dendritic pattern on sandy beach, boring and bioturbation, burrows desiccation cracks and water escape hole. Different sedimentary structures are reflective of different hydrodynamic conditions and depositional environments. Coastal erosion is a major problem for damage of road, bridge and properties in the industrial areas in Swartkops, which is also a task for this study. The author had suggested some practical mitigation-methods to local government, such as groins, revetments, shoreline hardening, planting of vegetation, and vertical walls, bulkheads, sills, which could be useful for the protection of coastal erosion. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
- Authors: Best, Lutho https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6400-9061
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Geology, Stratigraphic , Estuarine oceanography , Swartkops River Estuary (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22611 , vital:52596
- Description: This study is a part of an environmental research project aimed at providing assessment information to the grain-size distribution, mineral compositions, sedimentary structures and coastal erosion and rehabilitation methods along the Swartkops estuary, a recent developing industry area of South Africa. The methodologies used in this study comprise desk study of literature, field geological investigation and sampling, and laboratory analyses including grainsize analysis, thin section microscope study, XRD mineral composition study and SEM-EDX grain surface texture and composition analyses.The basement and surrounding areas of the Swartkops estuary consist of three formations: the Enon Formation of mainly conglomerate, the Kirkwood Formation of sandstone and mudstone, and the Sundays River Formation of dominantly mudstone with sandstone, which integrated as Uitenhage Group of Cretaceous sequence with modern estuarine sand and alluvial sediments filled in the entire basin. Grain size analysis is a useful tool to assess hydrodynamic environments. The grain size parameters showed that most of the Swartkops estuary sediments are moderately sorted with very few well and poorly sorted, coarse to fine skewed in grain size distribution.Whereas the Bluewater Bay beach sediments are mostly fine grained, well sorted, fine to coarse skewed in grain size distribution. The bivariate scatter plots are an indication of shallow marine environment by beach and coastal processes with the influence of water flow and wind influence during transportation and deposition processes. Mineralogy studies revealed that the Swartkops estuary sediments are dominantly composed of minerals such as: quartz, calcite, feldspar (orthoclase and plagioclase), aragonite, clay minerals (smectite and illite), and salts such as NaCl and MgCl2. Skeletal carbonate minerals (shell fragments) are more than chemical precipitated carbonate minerals. Quartz is the most abundant detrital mineral observed in all the sediments and it comes from inland and transported into the estuary and the beach by fluvial streams, whereas skeletal calcite/aragonite is the most abundant biogenic carbonate derived from sea side and transported by marine currents. The study shows that grain surface textures reveal the existence of several features that reflect the depositional environments. Observed grain surface textures by microscope and SEM include V-shape pits, upturned pits caused by mechanical crashing and corrosion during transportation; crystalline precipitation of calcite, quartz, salt and clay by chemical precipitation and crystallization; dissolution pits and pores formed by dissolution, and burrow and boring by biogenetic activities. The grain surface morphologies are closely linked to different formation mechanisms and depositional environments. Well-developed sedimentary structures have been found in the beach and estuary, including sand dune, sand ridge, straight and sinuous ripple, ripple marks, aeolian nail marks, high angle tabular cross bedding, antidune, rill mark, rhomboid mark, swash line, mud crack, gravel pavement, interfering ripples, flat topped ripple mark, linguiod mark, asymmetric sinuous ripples, dendritic pattern on sandy beach, boring and bioturbation, burrows desiccation cracks and water escape hole. Different sedimentary structures are reflective of different hydrodynamic conditions and depositional environments. Coastal erosion is a major problem for damage of road, bridge and properties in the industrial areas in Swartkops, which is also a task for this study. The author had suggested some practical mitigation-methods to local government, such as groins, revetments, shoreline hardening, planting of vegetation, and vertical walls, bulkheads, sills, which could be useful for the protection of coastal erosion. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
Study on the effect of shade net on internal and external quality parameters and chilling injury of fruits of citrus species in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Moabelo, Phillipine https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9040-1390
- Authors: Moabelo, Phillipine https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9040-1390
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Fruit-culture , Horticulture , Citrus fruits
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22622 , vital:52600
- Description: Pre-harvest technology of shade net is environmental friendly and was found previously to improve fruit growth and yield. In addition, it reduces wind blemishes and sunburn, and effectively act as a buffer against climate fluctuations, such as excessive light, wind and hail damages. However, commercial shade nets are capital intensive; therefore, it is important for farmers to understand its impact on fruit quality that is desired for export market and assess whether the investment is profitable to the industry or not. It was brought to attention that several citrus cultivars grown in Addo, Eastern Cape under 20percent commercial shade net shows sensitivity to chilling injury (CI); however. no information is yet documented about the impact of this technology on fruit quality. To determine the efficacy of 20percent-shade net technology in relation to the control (no shade net), the present study was designed with the objective to compare internal and external quality parameters of ‘Washington and Cambria’ navels, ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin, and ‘Eureka’ lemon fruit grown in shade netted orchards and stored at low temperatures (4 and -0.6°C) for 30 days in Addo area, Eastern Cape. Internal quality attributes assessed includes juice content, °Brixpercent, titratable acid (TA), °Brix:acid ratio and average number of seeds. External quality data assessed include rind colour, and fruit size, firmness/texture and fresh weight loss. For chilling injury, fruits were evaluated by examining the degree of rind pitting and assigning levels of severity namely 0, 1, 2 or 3 where 0 = no pitting detected, 1 = 1 pit, 2 = 2 or more pitting detected and 3 = severe pitting detected. The post-harvest experiments were done on fruits harvested from commercial citrus orchards in Sundays River Valley, between Kirkwood and Addo (33° 34' 0" South, 25° 41' 0" East), in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, over two harvesting seasons (2018 and 2019). The ‘Eureka’ lemon and ‘Washington navel’ fruit were collected from Allendale farm; the ‘Cambria’ navel fruits from the Nuwelande and Olifantsbos farms; and the ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin fruits from the Dunbrody/Unifruitti farm. The quality attributes were recorded in the Laboratory of the Citrus Research International (CRI), Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa during Season 1, and in the Horticulture lab of the University of Fort Hare (UFH), Alice, Eastern Cape, South, Africa during Season 2. The experimental layout was a typical pseudo randomised completely block design (RCBD) (not truly randomised) whereby treatments tested were subjected over time (pre-test, post-test). The two treatments i.e. shade vs. control (no shade net) could not be randomly allocated to orchards due to the practical issue of working on a commercial farm, . The sub-factor consisted of three postharvest treatments: Ambiemt temperature (at 0 days storage), 4°C and -0.6°C storages for 30 days. Secondly, an experiment to evaluate the impact of petroleum-based wax mixed with 2-(4-thiazolyl) benzimidazole [thiabendazole (TBZ)] (TBZ: 500 mg.L-1) on shade net vs control fruits was conducted. The fruits were stored at 4°C and - 0.6°C (coated) for 30 days and were evaluated after 7 days storage at room temperature. Shade net did not significantly affect the internal quality attributes of citrus fruits. The 20percent- shade net promoted size of ‘Washington’, ‘Cambria’ navels and ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin, whilst rind colour was not affect. Firmness loss was higher on ‘Eureka’ lemon and ‘Washington’ navel, regardless of the growing conditions and cold storage duration. Rind firmness of ‘Cambria’ navel and ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin were not significantly affected by shade net and storage duration. ‘Eureka’ lemon was found to be more sensitive to CI. However, the application of wax+ TBZ eliminated CI on all 4-cultivars. Therefore, it is recommended to apply wax+ TBZ in packline to eliminate CI and fungal development. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
- Authors: Moabelo, Phillipine https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9040-1390
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Fruit-culture , Horticulture , Citrus fruits
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22622 , vital:52600
- Description: Pre-harvest technology of shade net is environmental friendly and was found previously to improve fruit growth and yield. In addition, it reduces wind blemishes and sunburn, and effectively act as a buffer against climate fluctuations, such as excessive light, wind and hail damages. However, commercial shade nets are capital intensive; therefore, it is important for farmers to understand its impact on fruit quality that is desired for export market and assess whether the investment is profitable to the industry or not. It was brought to attention that several citrus cultivars grown in Addo, Eastern Cape under 20percent commercial shade net shows sensitivity to chilling injury (CI); however. no information is yet documented about the impact of this technology on fruit quality. To determine the efficacy of 20percent-shade net technology in relation to the control (no shade net), the present study was designed with the objective to compare internal and external quality parameters of ‘Washington and Cambria’ navels, ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin, and ‘Eureka’ lemon fruit grown in shade netted orchards and stored at low temperatures (4 and -0.6°C) for 30 days in Addo area, Eastern Cape. Internal quality attributes assessed includes juice content, °Brixpercent, titratable acid (TA), °Brix:acid ratio and average number of seeds. External quality data assessed include rind colour, and fruit size, firmness/texture and fresh weight loss. For chilling injury, fruits were evaluated by examining the degree of rind pitting and assigning levels of severity namely 0, 1, 2 or 3 where 0 = no pitting detected, 1 = 1 pit, 2 = 2 or more pitting detected and 3 = severe pitting detected. The post-harvest experiments were done on fruits harvested from commercial citrus orchards in Sundays River Valley, between Kirkwood and Addo (33° 34' 0" South, 25° 41' 0" East), in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, over two harvesting seasons (2018 and 2019). The ‘Eureka’ lemon and ‘Washington navel’ fruit were collected from Allendale farm; the ‘Cambria’ navel fruits from the Nuwelande and Olifantsbos farms; and the ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin fruits from the Dunbrody/Unifruitti farm. The quality attributes were recorded in the Laboratory of the Citrus Research International (CRI), Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa during Season 1, and in the Horticulture lab of the University of Fort Hare (UFH), Alice, Eastern Cape, South, Africa during Season 2. The experimental layout was a typical pseudo randomised completely block design (RCBD) (not truly randomised) whereby treatments tested were subjected over time (pre-test, post-test). The two treatments i.e. shade vs. control (no shade net) could not be randomly allocated to orchards due to the practical issue of working on a commercial farm, . The sub-factor consisted of three postharvest treatments: Ambiemt temperature (at 0 days storage), 4°C and -0.6°C storages for 30 days. Secondly, an experiment to evaluate the impact of petroleum-based wax mixed with 2-(4-thiazolyl) benzimidazole [thiabendazole (TBZ)] (TBZ: 500 mg.L-1) on shade net vs control fruits was conducted. The fruits were stored at 4°C and - 0.6°C (coated) for 30 days and were evaluated after 7 days storage at room temperature. Shade net did not significantly affect the internal quality attributes of citrus fruits. The 20percent- shade net promoted size of ‘Washington’, ‘Cambria’ navels and ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin, whilst rind colour was not affect. Firmness loss was higher on ‘Eureka’ lemon and ‘Washington’ navel, regardless of the growing conditions and cold storage duration. Rind firmness of ‘Cambria’ navel and ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin were not significantly affected by shade net and storage duration. ‘Eureka’ lemon was found to be more sensitive to CI. However, the application of wax+ TBZ eliminated CI on all 4-cultivars. Therefore, it is recommended to apply wax+ TBZ in packline to eliminate CI and fungal development. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
The experiences of youth foster care leavers in Makanda town, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Maselana, Tembisa https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6959-0895
- Authors: Maselana, Tembisa https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6959-0895
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Foster children -- Services for , Foster home care
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22368 , vital:52031
- Description: This study sought to explore the experiences of foster care youth who had exited the system within a period of three years in Makhanda Town, Eastern Cape. The coping mechanisms employed by foster care youth after exiting the system, and the policies, legislations and support services available were explored. The study adopted a qualitative research method. Non-probability sampling was employed to recruit 23 foster care youth who had exited the system within three years in Makhanda Town. In addition, 6 professionals dealing with statutory cases, three (3) foster parents and one (1) key informant were selected. Data was collected through the use of face-to-face semistructured individual interviews with foster care youth who had exited the system. The focus group discussion was held with professionals dealing with statutory cases and the ward councillor. The researcher analysed the data thematically. The study findings revealed that long term and comprehensive planning was important so as to provide a consistent and all round support to the fostered youth during the pre and post foster care phases. It was established that for most foster care children, the lack of a complete plan affects their transition from their biological home through the foster care system. Consequently, they come out more vulnerable than when there were initially placed in foster care. The study highlighted the serious need for training and job placement for the youths, a structure that is currently non-existent. The study recommended that the Department of Social Development (DSD) should make it compulsory for statutory social workers within the foster care domain to come up with individualized and personalized plans that outline the needs and deliverables for each child placed in the foster care system. Importantly, DSD must create a framework that is endorsed and accepted by all stakeholders so as to achieve the best interest of the child in all situations. Furthermore, the study recommends that DSD should employ more social workers to address the current human resources shortages in foster care units. Lastly, the study recommends restructuring of placement system to be less paper-work for effective and efficient, integrity, and quality of the service provision. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
- Authors: Maselana, Tembisa https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6959-0895
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Foster children -- Services for , Foster home care
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22368 , vital:52031
- Description: This study sought to explore the experiences of foster care youth who had exited the system within a period of three years in Makhanda Town, Eastern Cape. The coping mechanisms employed by foster care youth after exiting the system, and the policies, legislations and support services available were explored. The study adopted a qualitative research method. Non-probability sampling was employed to recruit 23 foster care youth who had exited the system within three years in Makhanda Town. In addition, 6 professionals dealing with statutory cases, three (3) foster parents and one (1) key informant were selected. Data was collected through the use of face-to-face semistructured individual interviews with foster care youth who had exited the system. The focus group discussion was held with professionals dealing with statutory cases and the ward councillor. The researcher analysed the data thematically. The study findings revealed that long term and comprehensive planning was important so as to provide a consistent and all round support to the fostered youth during the pre and post foster care phases. It was established that for most foster care children, the lack of a complete plan affects their transition from their biological home through the foster care system. Consequently, they come out more vulnerable than when there were initially placed in foster care. The study highlighted the serious need for training and job placement for the youths, a structure that is currently non-existent. The study recommended that the Department of Social Development (DSD) should make it compulsory for statutory social workers within the foster care domain to come up with individualized and personalized plans that outline the needs and deliverables for each child placed in the foster care system. Importantly, DSD must create a framework that is endorsed and accepted by all stakeholders so as to achieve the best interest of the child in all situations. Furthermore, the study recommends that DSD should employ more social workers to address the current human resources shortages in foster care units. Lastly, the study recommends restructuring of placement system to be less paper-work for effective and efficient, integrity, and quality of the service provision. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
Assessing the local awareness and perception of invasive alien plants: A case study of Port St Johns Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Somkala, Avela Abongile
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Alien plants , Invasive plants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22600 , vital:52595
- Description: Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are introduced species that constitute a self-sustaining population, consistently producing offspring in large numbers and at considerable distances from the parent plants with the potential to spread over a large area. Species invasions are one of the main conservation threats today and have caused modification of ecosystems, particularly in coastal areas. Therefore, Port St Johns Local Municipality (PSJ LM) was an appropriate study site to evaluate the local awareness and perceptions of IAPs. The study investigated the local community’s perceptions of invasive alien plants' uses and ecological impacts. Information about the local awareness and perceptions of invasive alien plant species in PSJ LM was gathered through semi-structured interviews, observation and guided field walks with 120 participants between February and April 2021. The participants included 30 people working on the alien plant eradication project in PSJ LM (Wards 1, 2 and 3) and 90 randomly selected community members. The data collected were entered in Microsoft Excel 2016 programme and analyzed for descriptive statistical patterns using Statistical Package for Social Studies (SPSS) version 22.0. Biological invasion by IAPs was ubiquitously perceived, with participants working on invasive alien plant eradication project in the area exhibiting more scientifically based knowledge on IAPs than ordinary community members. Invasive alien plants in the area appear to have adverse environmental and socio-economic impacts, as the participants are not benefiting from these plant species. Similarly, costs of eradicating these species were also acknowledged. The ability of local community members to identify IAPs is vital in effective management of the spread of these species. A total of seven invasive IAPs were recorded. Evaluating the perceptions of local people towards IAPs provides valuable insights for development planning and future management programmes focusing on biological invasions. The study will provide a basis for an enabling policy and institutional environment that provides a coherent framework for the sustainable management of IAPs in the Eastern Cape Province. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Somkala, Avela Abongile
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Alien plants , Invasive plants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22600 , vital:52595
- Description: Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are introduced species that constitute a self-sustaining population, consistently producing offspring in large numbers and at considerable distances from the parent plants with the potential to spread over a large area. Species invasions are one of the main conservation threats today and have caused modification of ecosystems, particularly in coastal areas. Therefore, Port St Johns Local Municipality (PSJ LM) was an appropriate study site to evaluate the local awareness and perceptions of IAPs. The study investigated the local community’s perceptions of invasive alien plants' uses and ecological impacts. Information about the local awareness and perceptions of invasive alien plant species in PSJ LM was gathered through semi-structured interviews, observation and guided field walks with 120 participants between February and April 2021. The participants included 30 people working on the alien plant eradication project in PSJ LM (Wards 1, 2 and 3) and 90 randomly selected community members. The data collected were entered in Microsoft Excel 2016 programme and analyzed for descriptive statistical patterns using Statistical Package for Social Studies (SPSS) version 22.0. Biological invasion by IAPs was ubiquitously perceived, with participants working on invasive alien plant eradication project in the area exhibiting more scientifically based knowledge on IAPs than ordinary community members. Invasive alien plants in the area appear to have adverse environmental and socio-economic impacts, as the participants are not benefiting from these plant species. Similarly, costs of eradicating these species were also acknowledged. The ability of local community members to identify IAPs is vital in effective management of the spread of these species. A total of seven invasive IAPs were recorded. Evaluating the perceptions of local people towards IAPs provides valuable insights for development planning and future management programmes focusing on biological invasions. The study will provide a basis for an enabling policy and institutional environment that provides a coherent framework for the sustainable management of IAPs in the Eastern Cape Province. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
Barriers to participation in sports among urban adolescents at an International School in Cape Town, South Africa
- Authors: Klaasen, Robyn Jade
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Urban teenagers -- Sports , Sports administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22155 , vital:51991
- Description: The benefits of participating in sport have been well documented and great emphasis has been placed on the role that it plays in the development of character and social skills, apart from physical and psychological benefits. Sport represents an optimal means of enabling children and adolescents to meet their daily requirements for physical activity to maintain health. Conversely, despite all of the widely acknowledged benefits, participation in sport among children and adolescents continues to decline throughout the world. Although a great deal of research has been conducted to identify barriers to participation in sport, most of it has concerned poor, rural, disadvantaged, or other marginalised groups. As a consequence, a large proportion of the research has attributed low rates of participation in sport to practical barriers, which usually take the forms of either logistical problems or a lack of resources. The aim of this study was to identify the barriers to participation in sport among adolescents in an affluent, urban setting, at an international school in Cape Town, South Africa. The Barriers to Sport Participation Questionnaire was used to identify the social, personal, and practical barriers that affected 107 adolescents who were enrolled in the school. The data was analysed by means of the SPSS (IBM, Version 27) software package and seven significant barriers were identified. Fear of academic failure, environmental constraints, and lack of interest were identified as the primary barriers, thereby emphasising the significant influence of personal barriers, rather than practical ones. It was also found that the influence of particular barriers was greater on females than their male counterparts and that the respondents who either did not participate in sport themselves or were from households in which other members did not do so were more adversely affected by some barriers than the others. Significant correlations were found between some grades and certain barriers, the most notable being those between respondents in Grades 7, 9, and 10 and the fear of academic failure barrier. In light of these findings, it could be concluded that the global decline in participation in sport among the youth is a complex problem and that particular barriers, which might not have been identified in previous research, could be particularly influential in affluent environments. As it is evident that as barriers can be specific to particular groups and settings, the optimal means of overcoming them is unlikely to be found through the adoption of a one-size-fitsall approach. Instead, further research and customised interventions are required. , Thesis (HMS) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Klaasen, Robyn Jade
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Urban teenagers -- Sports , Sports administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22155 , vital:51991
- Description: The benefits of participating in sport have been well documented and great emphasis has been placed on the role that it plays in the development of character and social skills, apart from physical and psychological benefits. Sport represents an optimal means of enabling children and adolescents to meet their daily requirements for physical activity to maintain health. Conversely, despite all of the widely acknowledged benefits, participation in sport among children and adolescents continues to decline throughout the world. Although a great deal of research has been conducted to identify barriers to participation in sport, most of it has concerned poor, rural, disadvantaged, or other marginalised groups. As a consequence, a large proportion of the research has attributed low rates of participation in sport to practical barriers, which usually take the forms of either logistical problems or a lack of resources. The aim of this study was to identify the barriers to participation in sport among adolescents in an affluent, urban setting, at an international school in Cape Town, South Africa. The Barriers to Sport Participation Questionnaire was used to identify the social, personal, and practical barriers that affected 107 adolescents who were enrolled in the school. The data was analysed by means of the SPSS (IBM, Version 27) software package and seven significant barriers were identified. Fear of academic failure, environmental constraints, and lack of interest were identified as the primary barriers, thereby emphasising the significant influence of personal barriers, rather than practical ones. It was also found that the influence of particular barriers was greater on females than their male counterparts and that the respondents who either did not participate in sport themselves or were from households in which other members did not do so were more adversely affected by some barriers than the others. Significant correlations were found between some grades and certain barriers, the most notable being those between respondents in Grades 7, 9, and 10 and the fear of academic failure barrier. In light of these findings, it could be concluded that the global decline in participation in sport among the youth is a complex problem and that particular barriers, which might not have been identified in previous research, could be particularly influential in affluent environments. As it is evident that as barriers can be specific to particular groups and settings, the optimal means of overcoming them is unlikely to be found through the adoption of a one-size-fitsall approach. Instead, further research and customised interventions are required. , Thesis (HMS) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
Impact of press freedom on reportage of corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas industry : a comparative content analysis of four Nigerian Newspapers
- Ayodeji-Falade, Monisola Bolajoko
- Authors: Ayodeji-Falade, Monisola Bolajoko
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Newspapers -- Nigeria , Freedom of the press , Mass media -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21805 , vital:51787
- Description: A free press is pivotal to eradication of corruption in the society as the press remains the most powerful channel of communication that cut across all publics. Thus, this study seeks to evaluate the impact of press freedom on reportage of corruption in the oil and gas industry through a content analysis of four Nigerian newspapers (The Punch, Vanguard, Guardian and Nigerian Tribune). The study adopted a mixed research method involving both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected and analysed through content analysis of the selected newspapers while the qualitative data collected through interview of the respective newspaper correspondents were analysed using thematic analysis. The study revealed that 534 stories were published on corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas sector by all the newspapers within the study period (July 2018-June 2019), with the Punch having the highest magnitude of stories (n = 196, 36.70percent) while Nigerian Tribune had the highest number of stories reported on its front and back pages (n = 143, 92.25percent). However, Guardian had the highest number of full-paged stories (n = 15, 20percent) whereas the Punch and Nigerian Tribune adopted the widest range of publication formats with news being the most dominant format employed by all the dailies (n = 462, 86.52percent). Although, all the newspapers employed more episodic frame (n = 432, 80.89percent) than thematic frame (n = 93,17.41percent), framing analysis revealed oil theft, vandalism, alleged-fraud, environmental consequences and economic consequences as the major frames used in the coverage of stories on corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Thematic analysis showed that the newspaper correspondents did not have access to adequate information on corruption in the sector while journalists in the country are still being subjected to intimidation, arrest and imprisonment. These findings suggest that the selected newspapers gave prominence to reportage of corruption in the oil and gas sector in country, which implies that the newspapers are fulfilling their agenda-setting roles and social responsibility in the society. Nevertheless, the level of press freedom in Nigeria has partly affected the reportage of corruption in the oil and gas sector of the country as this has restricted the use of investigative reporting occasioned by the lack of access to classified information on corruption and envisaged harm by potential sources and journalists. Nevertheless, this study proposes an anticorruption-media model, which focuses on the significance of the media as an anticorruption agent in a developing country. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Ayodeji-Falade, Monisola Bolajoko
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Newspapers -- Nigeria , Freedom of the press , Mass media -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21805 , vital:51787
- Description: A free press is pivotal to eradication of corruption in the society as the press remains the most powerful channel of communication that cut across all publics. Thus, this study seeks to evaluate the impact of press freedom on reportage of corruption in the oil and gas industry through a content analysis of four Nigerian newspapers (The Punch, Vanguard, Guardian and Nigerian Tribune). The study adopted a mixed research method involving both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected and analysed through content analysis of the selected newspapers while the qualitative data collected through interview of the respective newspaper correspondents were analysed using thematic analysis. The study revealed that 534 stories were published on corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas sector by all the newspapers within the study period (July 2018-June 2019), with the Punch having the highest magnitude of stories (n = 196, 36.70percent) while Nigerian Tribune had the highest number of stories reported on its front and back pages (n = 143, 92.25percent). However, Guardian had the highest number of full-paged stories (n = 15, 20percent) whereas the Punch and Nigerian Tribune adopted the widest range of publication formats with news being the most dominant format employed by all the dailies (n = 462, 86.52percent). Although, all the newspapers employed more episodic frame (n = 432, 80.89percent) than thematic frame (n = 93,17.41percent), framing analysis revealed oil theft, vandalism, alleged-fraud, environmental consequences and economic consequences as the major frames used in the coverage of stories on corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Thematic analysis showed that the newspaper correspondents did not have access to adequate information on corruption in the sector while journalists in the country are still being subjected to intimidation, arrest and imprisonment. These findings suggest that the selected newspapers gave prominence to reportage of corruption in the oil and gas sector in country, which implies that the newspapers are fulfilling their agenda-setting roles and social responsibility in the society. Nevertheless, the level of press freedom in Nigeria has partly affected the reportage of corruption in the oil and gas sector of the country as this has restricted the use of investigative reporting occasioned by the lack of access to classified information on corruption and envisaged harm by potential sources and journalists. Nevertheless, this study proposes an anticorruption-media model, which focuses on the significance of the media as an anticorruption agent in a developing country. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
Investigating the feasibility of using remote sensing in index-based crop insurance for South Africa’s smallholder farming systems
- Masiza, Wonga https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6224-3812
- Authors: Masiza, Wonga https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6224-3812
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Precision farming , Agricultural engineering , Climatic changes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23000 , vital:54890
- Description: Crop farming in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is largely practiced by resource-poor farmers under rain-fed and unpredictable weather conditions. Since agriculture is the mainstay of SSA’s economy, the lack of improved and adapted agricultural technologies in this region sets back economic development and the fight against poverty. Overcoming this constraint and achieving the sustainable development goal to end poverty, requires innovative tools that can be used for weather risk management. One tool that has been gaining momentum recently is index-based crop insurance (IBCI). Since the launch of the first IBCI program in Africa around 2005, the number of IBCI programs has increased. Unfortunately, these programs are constrained by poor product design, basis risk, and low uptake of contracts. When these issues were first pointed-out in the earliest IBCI programs, many reports suggested satellite remote sensing (RS) as a viable solution. Hence, the first objective of this study was to assess how RS has been used in IBCI, the challenges RS faces, and potential contributions of RS that have not yet been meaningfully exploited. The literature shows that IBCI programs are increasingly adopting RS. RS has improved demarcation of unit areas of insurance and enabled IBCI to reach inaccessible areas that do not have sufficient meteorological infrastructure. However, the literature also shows that IBCI is still tainted by basis risk, which emanates from poor contract designs, the influence of non-weather factors on crop yields, imperfect correlations between satellite-based indices and crop yields, and the lack of historical data for calibration. Although IBCI reports cover vegetation and crop health monitoring, few to none cover crop type and crop area mapping. Furthermore, areas including high-resolution mapping, data fusion, microwave RS, machine learning, and computer vision have not been sufficiently tested in IBCI. The second objective of this study was to assess how RS and machine learning techniques can be used to enhance the mapping of smallholder crop farming landscapes. The findings show that machine learning ensembles and the combination of optical and microwave data can map a smallholder farming landscape with a maximum accuracy of 97.71 percent. The third objective was to identify factors that influence crop yields and crop losses in order to improve IBCI design. Results demonstrated that the pervasive notion that low yields in smallholder farms are related to rainfall is an oversimplification. Factors including fertilizer use, seed variety, soil properties, soil moisture, growing degree-days, management, and socioeconomic conditions are some of the most important factors influencing crop yields and crop losses in smallholder farming systems. This shows why IBCI needs to be part of a comprehensive risk management system that understands and approaches smallholder crop farming as complex by linking insurance with advisories and input supplies. Improved inputs and good farming practices could reduce the influence of non-weather factors on crop losses, and thereby reduce basis risk in weather-based index insurance (WII) contracts. The fourth objective of this study was to assess how well the combination of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and optical indices estimate soil moisture. As stated earlier, soil moisture was found to be one of the most important factors affecting crop yields. Although this method better estimated soil moisture over the first half of the growing season, estimation accuracies were comparable to those found in studies that had used similar datasets (RMSE = 0.043 m3 m-3, MAE = 0.034 m3 m- 3). Further interrogation of interaction effects between the variables used in this study and consideration of other factors that affect SAR backscatter could improve the method. More importantly, incorporating high-resolution satellite-based monitoring of soil moisture into IBCI could potentially reduce basis risk. The fifth objective of this study was to develop an IBCI for smallholder crop farming systems. The proposed IBCI scheme covers maize and derives index thresholds from crop water requirements and satellite-based rainfall estimates. It covers rainfall deficits over the vegetative, mid-season, and late-season stages of maize growth. The key contribution of this system is the derivation of index thresholds from CWR and site-specific rainfall conditions. The widely used approach, which calibrates IBCI by correlating yields and rainfall, exposes contracts to basis risk because, by simply correlating yield and rainfall data, it overlooks the influence of non-weather factors on crop yields and losses. The proposed system must be linked or bundled with non-weather variables that affect crop yields. Effectively, this means that the insurance must be linked or bundled with advisories and input supplies to address the influence of non-weather factors on crop losses. This system also incorporates a crop area-mapping component, which was found to be lacking in many IBCI systems. In conclusion, an IBCI that is based on crop water requirements, which incorporates crop area mapping and links insurance with non-weather crop yield-determining factors, is potentially capable of improving crop insurance for smallholder farming systems. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Masiza, Wonga https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6224-3812
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Precision farming , Agricultural engineering , Climatic changes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23000 , vital:54890
- Description: Crop farming in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is largely practiced by resource-poor farmers under rain-fed and unpredictable weather conditions. Since agriculture is the mainstay of SSA’s economy, the lack of improved and adapted agricultural technologies in this region sets back economic development and the fight against poverty. Overcoming this constraint and achieving the sustainable development goal to end poverty, requires innovative tools that can be used for weather risk management. One tool that has been gaining momentum recently is index-based crop insurance (IBCI). Since the launch of the first IBCI program in Africa around 2005, the number of IBCI programs has increased. Unfortunately, these programs are constrained by poor product design, basis risk, and low uptake of contracts. When these issues were first pointed-out in the earliest IBCI programs, many reports suggested satellite remote sensing (RS) as a viable solution. Hence, the first objective of this study was to assess how RS has been used in IBCI, the challenges RS faces, and potential contributions of RS that have not yet been meaningfully exploited. The literature shows that IBCI programs are increasingly adopting RS. RS has improved demarcation of unit areas of insurance and enabled IBCI to reach inaccessible areas that do not have sufficient meteorological infrastructure. However, the literature also shows that IBCI is still tainted by basis risk, which emanates from poor contract designs, the influence of non-weather factors on crop yields, imperfect correlations between satellite-based indices and crop yields, and the lack of historical data for calibration. Although IBCI reports cover vegetation and crop health monitoring, few to none cover crop type and crop area mapping. Furthermore, areas including high-resolution mapping, data fusion, microwave RS, machine learning, and computer vision have not been sufficiently tested in IBCI. The second objective of this study was to assess how RS and machine learning techniques can be used to enhance the mapping of smallholder crop farming landscapes. The findings show that machine learning ensembles and the combination of optical and microwave data can map a smallholder farming landscape with a maximum accuracy of 97.71 percent. The third objective was to identify factors that influence crop yields and crop losses in order to improve IBCI design. Results demonstrated that the pervasive notion that low yields in smallholder farms are related to rainfall is an oversimplification. Factors including fertilizer use, seed variety, soil properties, soil moisture, growing degree-days, management, and socioeconomic conditions are some of the most important factors influencing crop yields and crop losses in smallholder farming systems. This shows why IBCI needs to be part of a comprehensive risk management system that understands and approaches smallholder crop farming as complex by linking insurance with advisories and input supplies. Improved inputs and good farming practices could reduce the influence of non-weather factors on crop losses, and thereby reduce basis risk in weather-based index insurance (WII) contracts. The fourth objective of this study was to assess how well the combination of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and optical indices estimate soil moisture. As stated earlier, soil moisture was found to be one of the most important factors affecting crop yields. Although this method better estimated soil moisture over the first half of the growing season, estimation accuracies were comparable to those found in studies that had used similar datasets (RMSE = 0.043 m3 m-3, MAE = 0.034 m3 m- 3). Further interrogation of interaction effects between the variables used in this study and consideration of other factors that affect SAR backscatter could improve the method. More importantly, incorporating high-resolution satellite-based monitoring of soil moisture into IBCI could potentially reduce basis risk. The fifth objective of this study was to develop an IBCI for smallholder crop farming systems. The proposed IBCI scheme covers maize and derives index thresholds from crop water requirements and satellite-based rainfall estimates. It covers rainfall deficits over the vegetative, mid-season, and late-season stages of maize growth. The key contribution of this system is the derivation of index thresholds from CWR and site-specific rainfall conditions. The widely used approach, which calibrates IBCI by correlating yields and rainfall, exposes contracts to basis risk because, by simply correlating yield and rainfall data, it overlooks the influence of non-weather factors on crop yields and losses. The proposed system must be linked or bundled with non-weather variables that affect crop yields. Effectively, this means that the insurance must be linked or bundled with advisories and input supplies to address the influence of non-weather factors on crop losses. This system also incorporates a crop area-mapping component, which was found to be lacking in many IBCI systems. In conclusion, an IBCI that is based on crop water requirements, which incorporates crop area mapping and links insurance with non-weather crop yield-determining factors, is potentially capable of improving crop insurance for smallholder farming systems. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
Molecular characterization and antimicrobial resistance profiling of Salmonella species isolated from final effluent discharged from the Fort Hare Dairy Farm in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality
- Thinyane, Pindile https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8236-9407
- Authors: Thinyane, Pindile https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8236-9407
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Salmonella typhimurium , Anti-infective agents , Multidrug resistance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22666 , vital:52618
- Description: The exposure of livestock to antimicrobials for treatment, prophylaxis, or development advancement can select for antimicrobial resistant organisms that can be transmitted to humans. Salmonella as a significant zoonotic microorganism can go about as a likely supply of antimicrobial resistant determinants. Salmonella is a zoonotic pathogen that causes food and waterborne infections. It affects wild and domestic animals, and humans, by causing a number of infections including Salmonellosis. Salmonella species infect humans through the consumption of contaminated meat, like beef, chicken, pork etc. This study aimed to determine the molecular characterization and antimicrobial resistance profile of Salmonella species isolated from effluent discharged from the Fort Hare Dairy Farm in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for the molecular confirmation of the presumptive Salmonella isolates targeting both ompC gene and typh gene. Standard disc diffusion method was used for the antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) as recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. The confirmed Salmonella isolates were tested against 12 test antimicrobial agents and were screened for antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) including blaTEM and amp for beta-lactams, and tetC for tetracycline. The research showed that the effluent discharge from this farm is contaminated with Salmonella. Presumptive Salmonella densities were ranging between 1,7 ×102 to 6,1×102 CFU/100ml, out of 83 presumptive isolates recovered, 61 were molecularly confirmed Salmonella typhimurium. The most prevalent Salmonella species found in this study was Salmonella typhimurium, which was more abundant in the final effluent discharges than in the water samples. This may be due to the contamination from farm animal faeces. The susceptibility against 12 different antibiotics by the recovered Salmonella typhimurium were examined, and Salmonella typhimurium isolates was notably resistant to azithromycin, ampicillin, amoxiclav, but less resistance were seen on doripenem , meropenem and ciprofloxacin but none of the isolates were resistant to norfloxacin. Antibiotic results obtained from this research suggest that Quinolones (Norfloxicin, Ciprofloxacin and Nalidixic acid), and Carbapenems (Meropenem and Doripenem.) were the most effective antibiotics against Salmonella. Forty-eight percent of isolates were found to be resistant to more than 3 antibiotics from different families thus considering them to be multidrug resistant. Resistant determinants ampC, blaTEM and tetC were detected on resistant isolates. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics on animal producing farms put human lives at risk as it promotes the emergency of multidrug resistant bacteria. Findings of this study revealed that animal producing farm pose a threat to the community as they harbour and promote the emergence of multidrug resistant Salmonella typhimurium. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Thinyane, Pindile https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8236-9407
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Salmonella typhimurium , Anti-infective agents , Multidrug resistance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22666 , vital:52618
- Description: The exposure of livestock to antimicrobials for treatment, prophylaxis, or development advancement can select for antimicrobial resistant organisms that can be transmitted to humans. Salmonella as a significant zoonotic microorganism can go about as a likely supply of antimicrobial resistant determinants. Salmonella is a zoonotic pathogen that causes food and waterborne infections. It affects wild and domestic animals, and humans, by causing a number of infections including Salmonellosis. Salmonella species infect humans through the consumption of contaminated meat, like beef, chicken, pork etc. This study aimed to determine the molecular characterization and antimicrobial resistance profile of Salmonella species isolated from effluent discharged from the Fort Hare Dairy Farm in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for the molecular confirmation of the presumptive Salmonella isolates targeting both ompC gene and typh gene. Standard disc diffusion method was used for the antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) as recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. The confirmed Salmonella isolates were tested against 12 test antimicrobial agents and were screened for antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) including blaTEM and amp for beta-lactams, and tetC for tetracycline. The research showed that the effluent discharge from this farm is contaminated with Salmonella. Presumptive Salmonella densities were ranging between 1,7 ×102 to 6,1×102 CFU/100ml, out of 83 presumptive isolates recovered, 61 were molecularly confirmed Salmonella typhimurium. The most prevalent Salmonella species found in this study was Salmonella typhimurium, which was more abundant in the final effluent discharges than in the water samples. This may be due to the contamination from farm animal faeces. The susceptibility against 12 different antibiotics by the recovered Salmonella typhimurium were examined, and Salmonella typhimurium isolates was notably resistant to azithromycin, ampicillin, amoxiclav, but less resistance were seen on doripenem , meropenem and ciprofloxacin but none of the isolates were resistant to norfloxacin. Antibiotic results obtained from this research suggest that Quinolones (Norfloxicin, Ciprofloxacin and Nalidixic acid), and Carbapenems (Meropenem and Doripenem.) were the most effective antibiotics against Salmonella. Forty-eight percent of isolates were found to be resistant to more than 3 antibiotics from different families thus considering them to be multidrug resistant. Resistant determinants ampC, blaTEM and tetC were detected on resistant isolates. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics on animal producing farms put human lives at risk as it promotes the emergency of multidrug resistant bacteria. Findings of this study revealed that animal producing farm pose a threat to the community as they harbour and promote the emergence of multidrug resistant Salmonella typhimurium. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
Rethinking the role of councilors in a digital era governance:: a critical analysis of Shinyanga Municipality and Nzega District Council in Tanzania
- Linje, Anna Peter https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1990-3309
- Authors: Linje, Anna Peter https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1990-3309
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Internet in public administration , Information technology Political aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21759 , vital:51749
- Description: This study endeavored to rethink the roles of councilors in a digital era governance. The essence of councils’ role according to Adams (2013), is that they are the only level of government with a legislative mandate for the well-being of people and responsive to local risks and opportunities. Therefore, it is important to rethink their roles as they require a full range of interactions which can now be facilitated by the use of digital potentials (Adams, 2013). The study explored the councilors’ undertakings to understand the current situation and if they embrace the new forms of digital governance. Also, the researcher reviewed the laws and policies guiding the councilors in their undertakings and if they accommodated the digital era requirements. Moreover, the researcher examined the capacity of councilors and the challenges they face in their undertakings. The study employed a qualitative approach, whereby semistructured interviews, observation and documentary review were used to collect data. The findings revealed that councils’ practices and processes continue to be outside the digital age. One of the major factors was a dearth of limited practical experiences to upkeep the digital governance opportunities and tailor their decisions accordingly. Regarding legislatives, the findings showed that there was evidence of formulation of new legislatives including the current ICT policy (2016) that respond to the digital governance. Yet, it was indicated that the digital legislatives were not well captured by the individual councilors, while the enforcement mechanisms were still at its infancy. Also, councils could not provide a clear digital platform framework. The capacity of councilors was found to be insufficient, they were not well equipped in terms of facilities, skills and digital technicalities. Generally, lack of political readiness, spirit of fear and poor digital infrastructure were major challenges. The study recommended councils adopt new ways in parallel with the existing ones, this should be inclusive of frequent trainings. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Linje, Anna Peter https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1990-3309
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Internet in public administration , Information technology Political aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21759 , vital:51749
- Description: This study endeavored to rethink the roles of councilors in a digital era governance. The essence of councils’ role according to Adams (2013), is that they are the only level of government with a legislative mandate for the well-being of people and responsive to local risks and opportunities. Therefore, it is important to rethink their roles as they require a full range of interactions which can now be facilitated by the use of digital potentials (Adams, 2013). The study explored the councilors’ undertakings to understand the current situation and if they embrace the new forms of digital governance. Also, the researcher reviewed the laws and policies guiding the councilors in their undertakings and if they accommodated the digital era requirements. Moreover, the researcher examined the capacity of councilors and the challenges they face in their undertakings. The study employed a qualitative approach, whereby semistructured interviews, observation and documentary review were used to collect data. The findings revealed that councils’ practices and processes continue to be outside the digital age. One of the major factors was a dearth of limited practical experiences to upkeep the digital governance opportunities and tailor their decisions accordingly. Regarding legislatives, the findings showed that there was evidence of formulation of new legislatives including the current ICT policy (2016) that respond to the digital governance. Yet, it was indicated that the digital legislatives were not well captured by the individual councilors, while the enforcement mechanisms were still at its infancy. Also, councils could not provide a clear digital platform framework. The capacity of councilors was found to be insufficient, they were not well equipped in terms of facilities, skills and digital technicalities. Generally, lack of political readiness, spirit of fear and poor digital infrastructure were major challenges. The study recommended councils adopt new ways in parallel with the existing ones, this should be inclusive of frequent trainings. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
Water Struggles and Rural People’s Experiences of Waiting in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Twalo, Lindani
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Water security , Right to water
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21201 , vital:47394
- Description: This study examined water struggles and rural people’s experiences of waiting in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. Primarily, it investigated how such struggles connect to people’s experiences of waiting for water services. In essence, the study demonstrates how experiences of waiting are profoundly shaped by subjective meanings that the rural people attach to water at a local level. Thus, the study connects rural water politics to contested meanings over natural resources in South Africa’s communal areas. The empirical analysis in this study goes beyond the largely urban focus in the focus in the politics of waiting – mainly in the informal settlements, slums and other urban peripheries. The study presents some of the less known struggles of rural dwellers, particularly their experiences of waiting for water service provision from the state. South Africa’s Constitution promotes the right to clean water. Despite all the progress made by the democratic government, it is still evident that people in deep rural areas of South Africa are in a very precarious situation when it comes to accessing clean water. The study utilised Auyero (2011) concept of the politics of waiting to examine the poor people’s experiences of waiting for water. The study adopted a case study of Lower Didimana village. The researcher conducted a range of qualitative research techniques – the key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observations and semi-structured interviews. The study found that rural residents of South Africa continue to wait for long periods for water service provision in the current democratic era. Moreover, they are still faced with severe challenges of accessing water; as a result, they are left with no better option but to use traditional ways of retrieving water. It also found that there are strong cultural and spiritual claims that rural dwellers attach to water. To them water is not just only a physiological need which could be addressed through efficient state service – the provision of sufficient tap water. Water is deeply connected in human existence. Just like land, water is a cultural as well as spiritual resource. As such, rural experiences of waiting are not limited to state agency and how the poor experience the state, but are also influences by local struggles over meanings of water. Finally, the study reveals the limitation in state policy on water provision, which is locked in a purely engineering use based paradigm, which mainly strives to address (technically) scarcity of drinking water. However, the findings of this study demonstrates that drinking is just one function of water. Although villagers try to mobilise to engage the state while waiting for water service they articulate other claims that connect to diverse water meanings. Such meanings are barely captured in contemporary literature on rural politics of water. As such, although water is increasing becoming scarce in rural South Africa and the state intervention is increasingly demanded, villagers’ experiences of waiting in Lower Didimana remain strongly connected to what water means to locals. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Rural Development) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Twalo, Lindani
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Water security , Right to water
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21201 , vital:47394
- Description: This study examined water struggles and rural people’s experiences of waiting in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. Primarily, it investigated how such struggles connect to people’s experiences of waiting for water services. In essence, the study demonstrates how experiences of waiting are profoundly shaped by subjective meanings that the rural people attach to water at a local level. Thus, the study connects rural water politics to contested meanings over natural resources in South Africa’s communal areas. The empirical analysis in this study goes beyond the largely urban focus in the focus in the politics of waiting – mainly in the informal settlements, slums and other urban peripheries. The study presents some of the less known struggles of rural dwellers, particularly their experiences of waiting for water service provision from the state. South Africa’s Constitution promotes the right to clean water. Despite all the progress made by the democratic government, it is still evident that people in deep rural areas of South Africa are in a very precarious situation when it comes to accessing clean water. The study utilised Auyero (2011) concept of the politics of waiting to examine the poor people’s experiences of waiting for water. The study adopted a case study of Lower Didimana village. The researcher conducted a range of qualitative research techniques – the key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observations and semi-structured interviews. The study found that rural residents of South Africa continue to wait for long periods for water service provision in the current democratic era. Moreover, they are still faced with severe challenges of accessing water; as a result, they are left with no better option but to use traditional ways of retrieving water. It also found that there are strong cultural and spiritual claims that rural dwellers attach to water. To them water is not just only a physiological need which could be addressed through efficient state service – the provision of sufficient tap water. Water is deeply connected in human existence. Just like land, water is a cultural as well as spiritual resource. As such, rural experiences of waiting are not limited to state agency and how the poor experience the state, but are also influences by local struggles over meanings of water. Finally, the study reveals the limitation in state policy on water provision, which is locked in a purely engineering use based paradigm, which mainly strives to address (technically) scarcity of drinking water. However, the findings of this study demonstrates that drinking is just one function of water. Although villagers try to mobilise to engage the state while waiting for water service they articulate other claims that connect to diverse water meanings. Such meanings are barely captured in contemporary literature on rural politics of water. As such, although water is increasing becoming scarce in rural South Africa and the state intervention is increasingly demanded, villagers’ experiences of waiting in Lower Didimana remain strongly connected to what water means to locals. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Rural Development) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
A framework to influence the behavioural intention of adults to monitor their health using gamification: a case of discovery vitality in East London, South Africa.
- Authors: Ntshona, Linda
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Autonomy (Psychology) , Medical telematics. , Patient self-monitoring.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22242 , vital:52005
- Description: The epidemic of overweight or obesity conditions has become a public health concern in South Africa, and signifies major challenges of chronic diseases affecting the healthcare sector. Recent years have noted the increasing prevalence of gamification and development across all age groups. The rapid adoption and use of gamification as a tool to improve adult motivation and engagement when monitoring their health and wellness is an essential form of health intervention. Gamification allows its users to keep track of their health in real time and encourages an active healthy lifestyle behaviour. Research has found that there are factors that may inhibit the behavioural intention of adults to use gamification for health monitoring in the long term. These factors include cost or membership fees associated with gamification that uses Discovery Vitality and privacy concerns. The main aim of this research study was to develop a framework to influence the behavioural intention of adults to monitor their health through gamification making use of Discovery Vitality as the case study. The self-determination theory was used as the theoretical framework to ensure continuance usage of gamification for sustained health monitoring. A qualitative research approach was chosen for this study. The purposive sampling technique was selected to identify 20 adults between the ages of 18-59 years that are members of Discovery Vitality in East London, South Africa. Interviews were conducted with the 20 participants to identify the factors that will influence their behavioural intention to make use of gamification to monitor their health. After data collection, thematic analysis was used to analyse the data and the data provided by the participants was organised and summarised into relevant themes to answer the main research question. The study developed a framework which incorporated the four constructs of the self-determination theory, namely perceived autonomy, competence, relatedness and satisfaction of basic psychological needs for sustained health monitoring. The study also developed the five factors influencing the behavioural intention of adults to continue using gamification for sustained health monitoring. These factors are known as: broad appeal, applicability and accessibility through mobile technology and pervasive sensors, development and accomplishment, employment of creativity and feedback, and lastly social influence and relatedness. The recognition of weight loss, tracking and monitoring of physical activities and medication adherence was found to positively influence the behavioural intention of adults to continuosly use gamification to monitor their health. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Ntshona, Linda
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Autonomy (Psychology) , Medical telematics. , Patient self-monitoring.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22242 , vital:52005
- Description: The epidemic of overweight or obesity conditions has become a public health concern in South Africa, and signifies major challenges of chronic diseases affecting the healthcare sector. Recent years have noted the increasing prevalence of gamification and development across all age groups. The rapid adoption and use of gamification as a tool to improve adult motivation and engagement when monitoring their health and wellness is an essential form of health intervention. Gamification allows its users to keep track of their health in real time and encourages an active healthy lifestyle behaviour. Research has found that there are factors that may inhibit the behavioural intention of adults to use gamification for health monitoring in the long term. These factors include cost or membership fees associated with gamification that uses Discovery Vitality and privacy concerns. The main aim of this research study was to develop a framework to influence the behavioural intention of adults to monitor their health through gamification making use of Discovery Vitality as the case study. The self-determination theory was used as the theoretical framework to ensure continuance usage of gamification for sustained health monitoring. A qualitative research approach was chosen for this study. The purposive sampling technique was selected to identify 20 adults between the ages of 18-59 years that are members of Discovery Vitality in East London, South Africa. Interviews were conducted with the 20 participants to identify the factors that will influence their behavioural intention to make use of gamification to monitor their health. After data collection, thematic analysis was used to analyse the data and the data provided by the participants was organised and summarised into relevant themes to answer the main research question. The study developed a framework which incorporated the four constructs of the self-determination theory, namely perceived autonomy, competence, relatedness and satisfaction of basic psychological needs for sustained health monitoring. The study also developed the five factors influencing the behavioural intention of adults to continue using gamification for sustained health monitoring. These factors are known as: broad appeal, applicability and accessibility through mobile technology and pervasive sensors, development and accomplishment, employment of creativity and feedback, and lastly social influence and relatedness. The recognition of weight loss, tracking and monitoring of physical activities and medication adherence was found to positively influence the behavioural intention of adults to continuosly use gamification to monitor their health. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Access to justice for female victims of crime: a study of girls and women with disabilities in Mashonaland Central Province of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Shumba, Nyaradzo Dorcas
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Criminal justice, Administration of -- Zimbabwe , Women -- Crimes against , Victims of crimes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22176 , vital:51994
- Description: This thesis utilized a thematic content analysis, looked at how significant barriers affect Mashonaland Central girls and women living with disabilities as victims of crime from accessing justice. Zimbabwe is an optimal case to apply this study, due to its contradictory legislation and evidence of high rate of human rights violations. Mashonaland Central Province is an ideal case study due to the extant records that indicate that it has the highest incidences of violence against women. This study is therefore based in a Victimological epoch with the aim to fill the research gap in acknowledging the process of accessing justice as an important step for protecting and promoting human right. By analyzing interviews conducted with 3 different women aged 18-65 and 3 girls living with disability who were under the age of 18, through the theoretical framework of basic human rights theory and victim dynamics, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge, with suggestions of how these barriers which are inclusive of societal and cultural structures tend to affect the respondents’ everyday lives and in a most pertinent manner towards their right to access justice. This thesis is also governed by the perspectives of key actors in the judicial process including but not limited to the Victim Friendly Unit. The theoretical framework is also operationalized into themes and criteria, which are then applied to analyze the conducted interviews. The emerging findings illuminate that there is a discrepancy between government policy surrounding girls and women living with disabilities and the practical experiences of the respondents. The respondents experienced a lack of accessibility to basic rights such as health care, the law, and to sex education – which are all rights ensured by government policy. Identified consequences included: discouragement in seeking justice due to fears of cultural and social stigma, discouragement in reporting crimes, and receiving adequate support, as well as information from secondhand sources. This study therefore concludes lack of access to justice is a violation of security of person, human dignity and rights to health and life to women and girls living with disability. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Shumba, Nyaradzo Dorcas
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Criminal justice, Administration of -- Zimbabwe , Women -- Crimes against , Victims of crimes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22176 , vital:51994
- Description: This thesis utilized a thematic content analysis, looked at how significant barriers affect Mashonaland Central girls and women living with disabilities as victims of crime from accessing justice. Zimbabwe is an optimal case to apply this study, due to its contradictory legislation and evidence of high rate of human rights violations. Mashonaland Central Province is an ideal case study due to the extant records that indicate that it has the highest incidences of violence against women. This study is therefore based in a Victimological epoch with the aim to fill the research gap in acknowledging the process of accessing justice as an important step for protecting and promoting human right. By analyzing interviews conducted with 3 different women aged 18-65 and 3 girls living with disability who were under the age of 18, through the theoretical framework of basic human rights theory and victim dynamics, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge, with suggestions of how these barriers which are inclusive of societal and cultural structures tend to affect the respondents’ everyday lives and in a most pertinent manner towards their right to access justice. This thesis is also governed by the perspectives of key actors in the judicial process including but not limited to the Victim Friendly Unit. The theoretical framework is also operationalized into themes and criteria, which are then applied to analyze the conducted interviews. The emerging findings illuminate that there is a discrepancy between government policy surrounding girls and women living with disabilities and the practical experiences of the respondents. The respondents experienced a lack of accessibility to basic rights such as health care, the law, and to sex education – which are all rights ensured by government policy. Identified consequences included: discouragement in seeking justice due to fears of cultural and social stigma, discouragement in reporting crimes, and receiving adequate support, as well as information from secondhand sources. This study therefore concludes lack of access to justice is a violation of security of person, human dignity and rights to health and life to women and girls living with disability. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
An evaluation of communication strategies for the eradication of female genital mutilation (FGM): a case study of West Pokot, Kenya
- Authors: Onyango, Quinter
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Female circumcision , Communication
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21103 , vital:46986
- Description: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is still rampant in many Kenya communities, especially the Maa and the Pokot speaking people, despite communication strategies and programmes instituted to eradicate the cultural practice. Female Genital Mutilation is a procedure that intentionally alters or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The gains of eliminating FGM resulted from robust communication strategies introduced by the United Nations and the Kenyan government to educate and raise consciousness regarding the dangers of FGM practice. However, despite widespread communication efforts worldwide, at least thirty-one countries are still practising FGM. West Pokot County in Kenya has an 86% rate as a county that still practices FGM. The statistics are an indication that communication alone cannot achieve the desired goal as long as the communities feel that these organizations and their communication expects are looking down upon their culture, beliefs and practices. As far as FGM is concerned, attitude change is vital in communities to understand the dangers. Members of communities are often left behind or not consulted when developing strategies for eradicating FGM. Emphasis should be drawn on the involvement and ownership of such development programmes. Lack of participation from the communities seems to be the key reason for the failure of the campaigns to encourage people into deserting FGM practices. Therefore, this study evaluated communication strategies and explanations of why there is still a high level of FGM practice regardless of the prevalent consciousness of the consequences of its continued practice in West Pokot County, Kenya. This study adopts a mixed methodology (qualitative and quantitative) research approach. Convenience and purposive non-probability sampling techniques were subsequently used to select samples for this study. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were held with the different community members in West Pokot County. There were five focus groups with nine participants in each focus group, making 45 participants for the focus group discussions. The collected data were interpreted and analysed thematically. This research showed a remarkable disparity between the community members ranging from their opinion and perceptions on the best and effective modes of communication to eradicate female genital mutilation and an alternative rite of passage. Another critical finding of this study indicated that beads of bondage linked to the community sanctioned rite of passage are another traditional practice that is endangering the lives of the girl child in Lokornoi, West Pokot County. Hence, this study proposed using mass media (newspapers, radio, television) using their vernacular language, which they understand and other interpersonal communication strategies (elders, chiefs and religious leaders) to eradicate FGM. Also, communication groups can involve communities to encourage a sense of ownership, which was the biggest reason for the communities to resist leaving FGM practice. This research suggests a need to develop alternative ways of communicating the message and that interpersonal channels are necessary to eradicate FGM in Kenya. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Onyango, Quinter
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Female circumcision , Communication
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21103 , vital:46986
- Description: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is still rampant in many Kenya communities, especially the Maa and the Pokot speaking people, despite communication strategies and programmes instituted to eradicate the cultural practice. Female Genital Mutilation is a procedure that intentionally alters or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The gains of eliminating FGM resulted from robust communication strategies introduced by the United Nations and the Kenyan government to educate and raise consciousness regarding the dangers of FGM practice. However, despite widespread communication efforts worldwide, at least thirty-one countries are still practising FGM. West Pokot County in Kenya has an 86% rate as a county that still practices FGM. The statistics are an indication that communication alone cannot achieve the desired goal as long as the communities feel that these organizations and their communication expects are looking down upon their culture, beliefs and practices. As far as FGM is concerned, attitude change is vital in communities to understand the dangers. Members of communities are often left behind or not consulted when developing strategies for eradicating FGM. Emphasis should be drawn on the involvement and ownership of such development programmes. Lack of participation from the communities seems to be the key reason for the failure of the campaigns to encourage people into deserting FGM practices. Therefore, this study evaluated communication strategies and explanations of why there is still a high level of FGM practice regardless of the prevalent consciousness of the consequences of its continued practice in West Pokot County, Kenya. This study adopts a mixed methodology (qualitative and quantitative) research approach. Convenience and purposive non-probability sampling techniques were subsequently used to select samples for this study. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were held with the different community members in West Pokot County. There were five focus groups with nine participants in each focus group, making 45 participants for the focus group discussions. The collected data were interpreted and analysed thematically. This research showed a remarkable disparity between the community members ranging from their opinion and perceptions on the best and effective modes of communication to eradicate female genital mutilation and an alternative rite of passage. Another critical finding of this study indicated that beads of bondage linked to the community sanctioned rite of passage are another traditional practice that is endangering the lives of the girl child in Lokornoi, West Pokot County. Hence, this study proposed using mass media (newspapers, radio, television) using their vernacular language, which they understand and other interpersonal communication strategies (elders, chiefs and religious leaders) to eradicate FGM. Also, communication groups can involve communities to encourage a sense of ownership, which was the biggest reason for the communities to resist leaving FGM practice. This research suggests a need to develop alternative ways of communicating the message and that interpersonal channels are necessary to eradicate FGM in Kenya. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
An investigation on records management of student allocation for accommodation in selected universities of South Africa
- Authors: Mboya, Ncumisa
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Records--Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23710 , vital:58584
- Description: The study aimed at investigating the management of students’ residential records at University of Fort Hare (UFH) and Rhodes University (RU). The objectives of the study were to: Investigate the residential policies and records management policies of the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Assess the records management practices at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Determine how records management affects the process of allocating accommodation to students at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Identify areas of possible improvement of records management and student satisfaction concerning accommodation and allocation in both institutions. To achieve these objectives, the study used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. A purposive non-probability sampling technique was used to select the participants of the study. Out of the targeted sample size of 39, the researcher administered questionnaires to 29 respondents and only 28 questionnaires were returned while 10 participants were interviewed. Therefore, a total of 38 staff members were included in the study. The qualitative data collected was analysed using thematic analysis while quantitative data collected was analysed using descriptive statistical analysis. The findings of the study showed that UFH and Rhodes University mostly make use of capturing process as one of the essential processes of records keeping used to allocate accommodation to students in their institutions. More importantly, the findings also revealed that there are different challenges faced by both universities. One of the challenges hindering student residence records at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) includes a lack of records xv management knowledge and incompetence. This might be because there are no records management personnel to take responsibility for student records. On the other hand, Rhodes University is faced with the unavailability of information sources, which might be attributed to a lack of information technology. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Mboya, Ncumisa
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Records--Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23710 , vital:58584
- Description: The study aimed at investigating the management of students’ residential records at University of Fort Hare (UFH) and Rhodes University (RU). The objectives of the study were to: Investigate the residential policies and records management policies of the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Assess the records management practices at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Determine how records management affects the process of allocating accommodation to students at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Identify areas of possible improvement of records management and student satisfaction concerning accommodation and allocation in both institutions. To achieve these objectives, the study used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. A purposive non-probability sampling technique was used to select the participants of the study. Out of the targeted sample size of 39, the researcher administered questionnaires to 29 respondents and only 28 questionnaires were returned while 10 participants were interviewed. Therefore, a total of 38 staff members were included in the study. The qualitative data collected was analysed using thematic analysis while quantitative data collected was analysed using descriptive statistical analysis. The findings of the study showed that UFH and Rhodes University mostly make use of capturing process as one of the essential processes of records keeping used to allocate accommodation to students in their institutions. More importantly, the findings also revealed that there are different challenges faced by both universities. One of the challenges hindering student residence records at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) includes a lack of records xv management knowledge and incompetence. This might be because there are no records management personnel to take responsibility for student records. On the other hand, Rhodes University is faced with the unavailability of information sources, which might be attributed to a lack of information technology. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Analysis of factors affecting technical efficiency of a1 smallholder maize farmers under command agriculture scheme in Zimbabwe: the case of Chegutu and Zvimba districts.
- Authors: Muzeza, Norman Tatenda
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Food security , Farms, Small , Agricultural extension work
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20826 , vital:46607
- Description: Maize is the most essential cereal crop grown in Zimbabwe. This crop is produced across the country under different conditions and environments. The study focused on analyzing technical efficiency of A1 smallholder maize farmers in Chegutu and Zvimba districts under the Command Agriculture Scheme. Understanding technical efficiency is essential under developing agriculture, especially where resources are limited, and high population growth is quite common. In such a setting, increased output depends on efficiency improvements. The specific objectives of the study focused on estimating the level of technical efficiency, determinants of technical efficiency and the level of productivity among a randomly selected sample of 240 A1 smallholder maize farmers under the Command Agriculture Scheme. Purposive, cluster and random sampling techniques were used to collect primary data from the selected sample. The study applied the single-stage modelling stochastic frontier approach to assess technical efficiency of A1 smallholder maize farmers. The stochastic frontier results revealed that A1 smallholder farmers in Chegutu and Zvimba districts are technically efficient at 85 percent and 94 percent, respectively. The major determinants of technical efficiency varied across each district. In Chegutu district, major determinants of technical efficiency were basal fertilizer, labour and area of land cultivated for maize production, and all indicated a positive relationship with level of significance less than 10 percent and 1 percent (0.012, 0.000 and 0.000) respectively. In Zvimba district, major determinants of technical efficiency were basal fertilizer, topdressing and area of land cultivated for maize production, and all indicated a positive relationship with level of significance less than 5 percent, 10 percent and 1 percent (0.002, 0.021, 0.000) respectively. The study further estimated determinants of technical inefficiency. Main determinants of technical inefficiency in Chegutu district were age, maize farming experience and level of education. In Zvimba district, main determinants were maize farming experience, level of education, marital status, occupation status and other sources of income. The return to scale that measures the productivity level of farmers varied among the two districts in which farmers from Chegutu district had increasing returns to scale (1.43), whilst famers from Zvimba district had decreasing returns to scale (0.54). The study, therefore, argues that despite observed high technical efficiencies, Chegutu farmers could bridge their 15 percent gap between their observed output and the frontier output by focusing more on input usage with increasing returns to scale (1.43 percent). On the other hand, Zvimba farmers could bridge their 6 percent gap between their observed output and frontier output by focusing more on socio-economic drivers of technical inefficiency, given the decreasing returns to scale of their inputs (0.54 percent). , Thesis (MSc) (Agricultural Economics) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Muzeza, Norman Tatenda
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Food security , Farms, Small , Agricultural extension work
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20826 , vital:46607
- Description: Maize is the most essential cereal crop grown in Zimbabwe. This crop is produced across the country under different conditions and environments. The study focused on analyzing technical efficiency of A1 smallholder maize farmers in Chegutu and Zvimba districts under the Command Agriculture Scheme. Understanding technical efficiency is essential under developing agriculture, especially where resources are limited, and high population growth is quite common. In such a setting, increased output depends on efficiency improvements. The specific objectives of the study focused on estimating the level of technical efficiency, determinants of technical efficiency and the level of productivity among a randomly selected sample of 240 A1 smallholder maize farmers under the Command Agriculture Scheme. Purposive, cluster and random sampling techniques were used to collect primary data from the selected sample. The study applied the single-stage modelling stochastic frontier approach to assess technical efficiency of A1 smallholder maize farmers. The stochastic frontier results revealed that A1 smallholder farmers in Chegutu and Zvimba districts are technically efficient at 85 percent and 94 percent, respectively. The major determinants of technical efficiency varied across each district. In Chegutu district, major determinants of technical efficiency were basal fertilizer, labour and area of land cultivated for maize production, and all indicated a positive relationship with level of significance less than 10 percent and 1 percent (0.012, 0.000 and 0.000) respectively. In Zvimba district, major determinants of technical efficiency were basal fertilizer, topdressing and area of land cultivated for maize production, and all indicated a positive relationship with level of significance less than 5 percent, 10 percent and 1 percent (0.002, 0.021, 0.000) respectively. The study further estimated determinants of technical inefficiency. Main determinants of technical inefficiency in Chegutu district were age, maize farming experience and level of education. In Zvimba district, main determinants were maize farming experience, level of education, marital status, occupation status and other sources of income. The return to scale that measures the productivity level of farmers varied among the two districts in which farmers from Chegutu district had increasing returns to scale (1.43), whilst famers from Zvimba district had decreasing returns to scale (0.54). The study, therefore, argues that despite observed high technical efficiencies, Chegutu farmers could bridge their 15 percent gap between their observed output and the frontier output by focusing more on input usage with increasing returns to scale (1.43 percent). On the other hand, Zvimba farmers could bridge their 6 percent gap between their observed output and frontier output by focusing more on socio-economic drivers of technical inefficiency, given the decreasing returns to scale of their inputs (0.54 percent). , Thesis (MSc) (Agricultural Economics) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Compartmentalization of mineral elements, nutritional factors, biological potentials and phytochemical profiles in the fruits of Musa sinensis L.(Banana) and Musa paradisiaca L.(Plantain): A comparison among soft flesh, peel and boiled peel extract
- Oyeyinka, Barnabas Oluwatomide https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1191-9365
- Authors: Oyeyinka, Barnabas Oluwatomide https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1191-9365
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Bananas , Plantain banana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23655 , vital:58274
- Description: Fruits are key contributors to human nutrition and health. However, banana and plantain are typical examples of fruits that have nutritionally under-utilized peel by-products. This study was thus carried out to investigate the compartmental distribution (soft flesh, peel, and boiled peel extract) of mineral elements, nutritional factors, biological potentials, and phytochemical profiles in M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca fruits (ripening stage 4-5), with focus on the peels. Proximal and and antinutritive analyses were done with standard methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), while mineral element composition in the fruit components was analyzed with the inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The pharmacological potential of M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca fruit components was investigated spectrophotometrically by evaluating the polyphenolic constituents (total phenol, proanthocyanidin, flavonoid) and in vitro radical scavenging activities of the aqueous, acetone and ethanol extracts, using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assay models. The correlational evaluation of the polyphenolics and antioxidant activity in the components of both fruits using Pearson’s correlational coefficient (r). The proximal assays revealed that moisture content, fiber content, and carbohydratecontent were substantially present in the flesh and peel of M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca, while lipid content was low. The antinutritive results revealed safe levels of alkaloid, oxalate, phytate, and saponin factors in the flesh and peel by-products. Mineral analysis results indicated substantial levels of the macroelements K, Mg, Ca, and P in the peels. Other results revealed that acetone extracts had the highest phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavonoid constituents respectively, across the soft flesh components ofM. sinensis (119.05 ± 5.80 mgGAE/g; 337.48 ± 13.16 mgCE/g; 602.64 ± 3.65 mgQE/g), M. paradisiaca (114.80 ± 1.49 mgGAE/g; 436.09 ± 36.44 mgCE/g; 777.35 ± 150.95mgQE/g) and the peel component of M. paradisiaca (136.87 ± 5.69 mgGAE/g; 530.06 ± 53.51 mgCE/g; 750.87 ± 55.61 mgQE/g), with an exception of the phenolic content of M. sinensis peel, where it was highest in the ethanol extract (157.19 ± 4.76 mgGAE/g). The ABTS (0.03 mg/mL) and DPPH (0.03 mg/mL) activities were at their highest in the boiled peel extracts of M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca, while ferric reducing power was highest in ethanol extracts across M. sinensis soft flesh, peel, and M. paradisiaca flesh. Acetone extract of M. paradisiaca peel had the highest ferric reducing capacity at peak concentration (0.1 mg/mL). Correlational analysis revealed a negative correlation between respective phenolic, proanthocyanidin, and flavonoid content and the IC50DPPH antioxidant capacity in M. sinensis flesh, M. sinensis peel and M. paradisiaca flesh. Conversely, there was positive correlation between IC50 DPPH with proanthocyanidin and flavonoid in M. paradisiaca peel. Negative correlation was detected between the phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavonoid contents and IC50ABTS in M. sinensis flesh. Positive correlation was observed between respective phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavonoid contentwith IC50 ABTS in M. sinensis peel, M. paradisiaca flesh and M. paradisiaca peel. There was negative correlation between the respective phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavonoid contents and IC50 FRAP in the flesh of M. sinensis, while positive correlation was observed in M. sinensis peel. M. paradisiaca flesh on the other hand, showed positive correlation between the IC50 FRAP and the respective phytochemical contents. However, the peel, there was negative correlation. The correlational evaluation in this study revealed general positive and negative correlational patterns, which implies that no polyphenolic constituent contributed exclusively to antioxidant activity, but rather in combination. Ultrastructure and elemental spectra of M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca exocarps were analysed with electron microscopy (SEM)and energy dispersive x-ray (EDX). Microstructures such as interlocked, polyhedral epidermal cells, ellipsoid-shaped stomata, guard cells, intercellular space, anticlinal-patterned walls, and subsidiary cells were observed. The elemental spectra revealed the presence of elements such as potassium, iron, carbon, oxygen, silicon, and gold, with consistently high to relatively high carbon and oxygen peaks in M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca exocarps. The relative similarity observed in the constituents of a number of the elemental spectra in M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca peels, reflects some degree of relatedness. These outcomes indicate that banana and plantain peel and boiled peel extracts are nutritive, medicinal and potential nutraceuticals, with food preservative, shelf-life and quality enhancement potentials. The instrumentation in this study also have potential relevance in industrial food product analysis. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Oyeyinka, Barnabas Oluwatomide https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1191-9365
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Bananas , Plantain banana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23655 , vital:58274
- Description: Fruits are key contributors to human nutrition and health. However, banana and plantain are typical examples of fruits that have nutritionally under-utilized peel by-products. This study was thus carried out to investigate the compartmental distribution (soft flesh, peel, and boiled peel extract) of mineral elements, nutritional factors, biological potentials, and phytochemical profiles in M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca fruits (ripening stage 4-5), with focus on the peels. Proximal and and antinutritive analyses were done with standard methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), while mineral element composition in the fruit components was analyzed with the inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The pharmacological potential of M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca fruit components was investigated spectrophotometrically by evaluating the polyphenolic constituents (total phenol, proanthocyanidin, flavonoid) and in vitro radical scavenging activities of the aqueous, acetone and ethanol extracts, using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assay models. The correlational evaluation of the polyphenolics and antioxidant activity in the components of both fruits using Pearson’s correlational coefficient (r). The proximal assays revealed that moisture content, fiber content, and carbohydratecontent were substantially present in the flesh and peel of M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca, while lipid content was low. The antinutritive results revealed safe levels of alkaloid, oxalate, phytate, and saponin factors in the flesh and peel by-products. Mineral analysis results indicated substantial levels of the macroelements K, Mg, Ca, and P in the peels. Other results revealed that acetone extracts had the highest phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavonoid constituents respectively, across the soft flesh components ofM. sinensis (119.05 ± 5.80 mgGAE/g; 337.48 ± 13.16 mgCE/g; 602.64 ± 3.65 mgQE/g), M. paradisiaca (114.80 ± 1.49 mgGAE/g; 436.09 ± 36.44 mgCE/g; 777.35 ± 150.95mgQE/g) and the peel component of M. paradisiaca (136.87 ± 5.69 mgGAE/g; 530.06 ± 53.51 mgCE/g; 750.87 ± 55.61 mgQE/g), with an exception of the phenolic content of M. sinensis peel, where it was highest in the ethanol extract (157.19 ± 4.76 mgGAE/g). The ABTS (0.03 mg/mL) and DPPH (0.03 mg/mL) activities were at their highest in the boiled peel extracts of M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca, while ferric reducing power was highest in ethanol extracts across M. sinensis soft flesh, peel, and M. paradisiaca flesh. Acetone extract of M. paradisiaca peel had the highest ferric reducing capacity at peak concentration (0.1 mg/mL). Correlational analysis revealed a negative correlation between respective phenolic, proanthocyanidin, and flavonoid content and the IC50DPPH antioxidant capacity in M. sinensis flesh, M. sinensis peel and M. paradisiaca flesh. Conversely, there was positive correlation between IC50 DPPH with proanthocyanidin and flavonoid in M. paradisiaca peel. Negative correlation was detected between the phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavonoid contents and IC50ABTS in M. sinensis flesh. Positive correlation was observed between respective phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavonoid contentwith IC50 ABTS in M. sinensis peel, M. paradisiaca flesh and M. paradisiaca peel. There was negative correlation between the respective phenolic, proanthocyanidin and flavonoid contents and IC50 FRAP in the flesh of M. sinensis, while positive correlation was observed in M. sinensis peel. M. paradisiaca flesh on the other hand, showed positive correlation between the IC50 FRAP and the respective phytochemical contents. However, the peel, there was negative correlation. The correlational evaluation in this study revealed general positive and negative correlational patterns, which implies that no polyphenolic constituent contributed exclusively to antioxidant activity, but rather in combination. Ultrastructure and elemental spectra of M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca exocarps were analysed with electron microscopy (SEM)and energy dispersive x-ray (EDX). Microstructures such as interlocked, polyhedral epidermal cells, ellipsoid-shaped stomata, guard cells, intercellular space, anticlinal-patterned walls, and subsidiary cells were observed. The elemental spectra revealed the presence of elements such as potassium, iron, carbon, oxygen, silicon, and gold, with consistently high to relatively high carbon and oxygen peaks in M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca exocarps. The relative similarity observed in the constituents of a number of the elemental spectra in M. sinensis and M. paradisiaca peels, reflects some degree of relatedness. These outcomes indicate that banana and plantain peel and boiled peel extracts are nutritive, medicinal and potential nutraceuticals, with food preservative, shelf-life and quality enhancement potentials. The instrumentation in this study also have potential relevance in industrial food product analysis. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Conflict-induced displacement: a study of risk and support for the older refugees in South Africa
- Yusuf, Mohammed Sanusi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6871-0186
- Authors: Yusuf, Mohammed Sanusi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6871-0186
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Migration, Internal , Displacement (Psychology) , Refugees -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22231 , vital:52001
- Description: With the exponential rise in conflict scenarios globally, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees in foreign countries continues to grow. Although there has been several international efforts and conventions aimed at alleviating the global refugee crisis, the international community has not found a sustainable answer to this knotty problem. In Africa, with some of the worst conflict situations, the scourge of social displacement resulting in migrations have caused different levels of risks and vulnerability for the refugees, as well as capacity constraints for the host communities, governments of host countries and non-governmental bodies working with refugees. In South Africa, with one of the highest numbers of refugees in Africa, especially those coming from African countries, contention for socio-economic space and cultural differences occasionally result in violence between refugees and local people. For the older refugees, the level of risk exposure and hardship have generated interests for both scholars and officials. This thesis explores the risks and support systems for older refugees in South Africa, with specific focus on the Eastern Cape province. Various stakeholders (such as government, NGOs, host communities and the older refugees) in refugee management in South Africa have argued differently on ‘how best’ to manage older refugees in the country. Using qualitative data gathered from refugee communities in the Eastern Cape province and documentary analysis, the study found that the experiences of older refugees in the Eastern Cape province are nuanced. The dominant narrative on the experiences of older refugees indicate peaceful coexistence and resilient organic community support systems, with minor conflicts – often associated with contestations for scarce economic opportunities. Although the study focuses on one province of South Africa, this finding challenges the often-overgeneralised perception of South Africa as ‘xenophobic’. It unpacks the hidden resilient social systems and networks of relationships that bind local populations and the refugees, especially the older ones. In the search for national, regional and global answers on the best way to manage refugee crisis, this study provides insights into community-level structures and dynamics that would benefit policymaking at the national and international levels , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Yusuf, Mohammed Sanusi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6871-0186
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Migration, Internal , Displacement (Psychology) , Refugees -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22231 , vital:52001
- Description: With the exponential rise in conflict scenarios globally, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees in foreign countries continues to grow. Although there has been several international efforts and conventions aimed at alleviating the global refugee crisis, the international community has not found a sustainable answer to this knotty problem. In Africa, with some of the worst conflict situations, the scourge of social displacement resulting in migrations have caused different levels of risks and vulnerability for the refugees, as well as capacity constraints for the host communities, governments of host countries and non-governmental bodies working with refugees. In South Africa, with one of the highest numbers of refugees in Africa, especially those coming from African countries, contention for socio-economic space and cultural differences occasionally result in violence between refugees and local people. For the older refugees, the level of risk exposure and hardship have generated interests for both scholars and officials. This thesis explores the risks and support systems for older refugees in South Africa, with specific focus on the Eastern Cape province. Various stakeholders (such as government, NGOs, host communities and the older refugees) in refugee management in South Africa have argued differently on ‘how best’ to manage older refugees in the country. Using qualitative data gathered from refugee communities in the Eastern Cape province and documentary analysis, the study found that the experiences of older refugees in the Eastern Cape province are nuanced. The dominant narrative on the experiences of older refugees indicate peaceful coexistence and resilient organic community support systems, with minor conflicts – often associated with contestations for scarce economic opportunities. Although the study focuses on one province of South Africa, this finding challenges the often-overgeneralised perception of South Africa as ‘xenophobic’. It unpacks the hidden resilient social systems and networks of relationships that bind local populations and the refugees, especially the older ones. In the search for national, regional and global answers on the best way to manage refugee crisis, this study provides insights into community-level structures and dynamics that would benefit policymaking at the national and international levels , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Determination of acaricide resistance profiles, and geographic range of boophilid Rhipicephalus tick spp. (Acari: Ixodidae), and sero-status of tick-borne pathogens on communal cattle in the north-eastern regions of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Yawa, Mandla https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2402-298X
- Authors: Yawa, Mandla https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2402-298X
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Cattle -- Diseases , Ticks as carriers of disease , Ticks
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21590 , vital:49356
- Description: Cattle industry improves livelihoods for many developing farmers in South Africa, however, ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a detriment impact on cattle success; this is due to their resistance to acaricide application. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the extent of acaricide resistance, serostatus of tick-borne pathogens, and geographic range of boophilid ticks in communal grazing cattle in the north-eastern regions of the Eastern Cape Province (ECP), South Africa. A total of 160 structured questionnaires were prepared and randomly administered to cattle farmers to investigate their knowledge, attitudes, and practice on ticks and TBDs affecting cattle, tick control methods used, and their knowledge of acaricide resistance. Engorged visible cattle ticks were collected seasonally from 10 randomly selected cattle from the community cattle herds during dipping days between October 2018 and September 2019, and stored into the labelled test tubes containing 70 percent ethanol. For TBDs determination, a total of 240 cattle from Elundini and Senqu Municipalities were seasonally used to investigate the prevalence of ticks and TBDs, packed cell volume (PCV), and body condition scores (BCS). Shaw Larval Immersion Test (SLIT) method was used to determine the resistance of Rhipicephalus decoloratus larvae to various acaricides such as amidines, organophosphate, and synthetic pyrethroids. This study indicates that approximately 59 percent of the interviewed cattle farmers had no knowledge of the effect of TBDs affecting cattle production, and 78 percent of respondents considered ticks are the major challenge to the success of their cattle farming. Pour-on (61 percent) was the most commonly used acaricidal treatment system with fortnightly (40 percent and 31percent) treatment frequencies during the summer and winter seasons respectively. Synthetic pyrethroids (73 percent) were the most used acaricide compounds to control ticks. Moreover, approximately 85 percent of respondents perceived that they do not practice acaricide rotation, and 88 percent of the respondents had no knowledge of acaricide resistance. Interestingly, the current study record Rhipicephalus microplus for the first time at Elundini, Senqu, and Walter Sisulu. Based on the morphological traits, a total of 6176 ticks belonging to two boophilid tick species of Rhipicephalus were identified: R. decoloratus (98 percent) and R. microplus (2 percent). Rhipicephalus decoloratus was significantly higher (P<0.05) in Elundini during the hot-dry (3.37±0.121) and hot-wet (3.35±0.121) seasons compared to other localit ies. In Senqu, R. microplus had high counts (P<0.05) during the post-rainy season (1.06±0.027) compared to other localities. From this present study, it was observed that Ehrlichia ruminantium was the most prevalent at Elundini (16 percent) and (14 percent) during post-rainy and hot-dry seasons respectively and 15 percent at Senqu during the post-rainy season. Babesia bigemina was more frequent at Elundini (18 percent) and Senqu (16 percent) during the post-rainy season and hot-wet season, respectively. Cattle BCS were significantly negatively correlated with E. ruminantium (P<0.01; r = -0.203), B. bovis (P<0.01; r = -0.125), and A. marginale (P < 0.01; r = -0.122). On the other hand, PCV was significantly negatively correlated with B. bigemina (P<0.01; r =-0.138). E. ruminantium was strongly positively correlated with Amblyomma hebraeum (P<0.05; r = 0.112), while B. bovis (P<0.05; r = 0.134) and B. bigemina (P<0.05; r = 0.188) were strong positively correlated with Rhipicephalus microplus infestation and B. bigemina (P<0.05; r = 0.077) with Rhipicephalus decoloratus. During acaricide resistance testing, Shaw Larvae Immersion Testing (SLIT) was only performed on R. decoloratus larvae as engorged R. microplus ticks could not meet the required sample size for resistance testing. The current study found that the majority of the tick were susceptible at exposure to differe nt acaricide field concentrations of amidines (49 percent at 250ppm), organophosphates (33 percent and 47 percent at 300ppm and 500ppm, respectively), and synthetic pyrethroids (44 percent and 23 percent at 150ppm and 300ppm, respectively). In conclusion, less knowledge of cattle farmers on the threat pose by ticks on their cattle production results in the spatio-temporal spread of boophilid tick from region to region and from season to season thus increases incidence and risk for tick resistance. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Yawa, Mandla https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2402-298X
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Cattle -- Diseases , Ticks as carriers of disease , Ticks
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21590 , vital:49356
- Description: Cattle industry improves livelihoods for many developing farmers in South Africa, however, ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a detriment impact on cattle success; this is due to their resistance to acaricide application. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the extent of acaricide resistance, serostatus of tick-borne pathogens, and geographic range of boophilid ticks in communal grazing cattle in the north-eastern regions of the Eastern Cape Province (ECP), South Africa. A total of 160 structured questionnaires were prepared and randomly administered to cattle farmers to investigate their knowledge, attitudes, and practice on ticks and TBDs affecting cattle, tick control methods used, and their knowledge of acaricide resistance. Engorged visible cattle ticks were collected seasonally from 10 randomly selected cattle from the community cattle herds during dipping days between October 2018 and September 2019, and stored into the labelled test tubes containing 70 percent ethanol. For TBDs determination, a total of 240 cattle from Elundini and Senqu Municipalities were seasonally used to investigate the prevalence of ticks and TBDs, packed cell volume (PCV), and body condition scores (BCS). Shaw Larval Immersion Test (SLIT) method was used to determine the resistance of Rhipicephalus decoloratus larvae to various acaricides such as amidines, organophosphate, and synthetic pyrethroids. This study indicates that approximately 59 percent of the interviewed cattle farmers had no knowledge of the effect of TBDs affecting cattle production, and 78 percent of respondents considered ticks are the major challenge to the success of their cattle farming. Pour-on (61 percent) was the most commonly used acaricidal treatment system with fortnightly (40 percent and 31percent) treatment frequencies during the summer and winter seasons respectively. Synthetic pyrethroids (73 percent) were the most used acaricide compounds to control ticks. Moreover, approximately 85 percent of respondents perceived that they do not practice acaricide rotation, and 88 percent of the respondents had no knowledge of acaricide resistance. Interestingly, the current study record Rhipicephalus microplus for the first time at Elundini, Senqu, and Walter Sisulu. Based on the morphological traits, a total of 6176 ticks belonging to two boophilid tick species of Rhipicephalus were identified: R. decoloratus (98 percent) and R. microplus (2 percent). Rhipicephalus decoloratus was significantly higher (P<0.05) in Elundini during the hot-dry (3.37±0.121) and hot-wet (3.35±0.121) seasons compared to other localit ies. In Senqu, R. microplus had high counts (P<0.05) during the post-rainy season (1.06±0.027) compared to other localities. From this present study, it was observed that Ehrlichia ruminantium was the most prevalent at Elundini (16 percent) and (14 percent) during post-rainy and hot-dry seasons respectively and 15 percent at Senqu during the post-rainy season. Babesia bigemina was more frequent at Elundini (18 percent) and Senqu (16 percent) during the post-rainy season and hot-wet season, respectively. Cattle BCS were significantly negatively correlated with E. ruminantium (P<0.01; r = -0.203), B. bovis (P<0.01; r = -0.125), and A. marginale (P < 0.01; r = -0.122). On the other hand, PCV was significantly negatively correlated with B. bigemina (P<0.01; r =-0.138). E. ruminantium was strongly positively correlated with Amblyomma hebraeum (P<0.05; r = 0.112), while B. bovis (P<0.05; r = 0.134) and B. bigemina (P<0.05; r = 0.188) were strong positively correlated with Rhipicephalus microplus infestation and B. bigemina (P<0.05; r = 0.077) with Rhipicephalus decoloratus. During acaricide resistance testing, Shaw Larvae Immersion Testing (SLIT) was only performed on R. decoloratus larvae as engorged R. microplus ticks could not meet the required sample size for resistance testing. The current study found that the majority of the tick were susceptible at exposure to differe nt acaricide field concentrations of amidines (49 percent at 250ppm), organophosphates (33 percent and 47 percent at 300ppm and 500ppm, respectively), and synthetic pyrethroids (44 percent and 23 percent at 150ppm and 300ppm, respectively). In conclusion, less knowledge of cattle farmers on the threat pose by ticks on their cattle production results in the spatio-temporal spread of boophilid tick from region to region and from season to season thus increases incidence and risk for tick resistance. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Evaluation of bacteria laccase hybrid biosensor and application in the detection of phenolic contaminants in water
- Edoamodu, Chiedu Epiphany https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9254-3955
- Authors: Edoamodu, Chiedu Epiphany https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9254-3955
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Laccase , Water -- Purification
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22820 , vital:52802
- Description: The continuous outpour of aromatic pollutants in diverse groups, emanating from the industrial and domestic system due to population density, industrialisation and technological advancement is alarming. The increasing strength in wastewater discharge constitutes the main cause of the natural water pollution load, causing scarcity of potable water for consumption with an increasing health challenge. The physiochemical treatment approach has faced a series of limitations with little or no success. Hindrance to wastewater management can cause a point source contamination problem that might increase treatment cost and release a broad range of chemical contaminants in the environment. Hence, green, eco-friendly and cost-effective tools are imperative. The application of laccase has received much attention in bioremediation and bioprocessing matters owing to the oxidising capacity of a wide range of substrates. The process requires available molecular oxygen for its activation, releasing water as a by-product thus, establishing this research. This study was devised to examine the bioprocessing potentials of hybrid and amalgamated laccases extracted from the diverse environmental milieu of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Bacteria producing laccase were isolated from marine sediment, cow dung, and wastewater samples via selective enrichment with some aromatic compounds. The axenic cultures were screened for laccase activity on various phenolic and non-phenolic substrates. The isolates were identified via molecular techniques and they belonged to the gammaproteobacteria and Bacilli classes under the following genera, Enterobacter and Bacillus. They were deposited in the NCBI database as Enterobacter asburiae ES1, Enterobacter sp. Kamsi, Enterobacter sp. AI1, and Bacillus sp. NU2 with the assigned accession number MN686602, MN686603, MN686605, MN686607, respectively. Optimisation of the laccase production via one factor at a time technique (OFAT) from the four bacteria species showed more enzyme yield in all lignocellulosic agro-waste media. However, wheat bran and mandarin peel maximally enhanced laccase production. In addition, xylose, galactose, fructose, and sorbitol were the best carbon sources utilised while (NH₄)₂SO8, KNO3 and NaNO3 were noted as the best nitrogen sources employed. Laccase yields were increased at pH 4 and 5, at temperatures 45 and 55 o C, and at 50 and 100 rpm, and precisely, at day eight of the incubation period. Further purification of the crude laccase yielded a purification fold of 4.18, 4.39, 2.78, 8.11, and the SDS-PAGE analysis showed a molecular size of 90, 55, 75 and 50 kDa for ES1, Kamsi, AI1, and NU2 laccases, respectively. The characterised purified laccase demonstrated polyextremotolerant potentials. The laccases were active through a wide temperature regime (30-90 o C) with maximum activity at 50 o C (ES1/AI1 and Kamsi/NU2) 60 o C (AI1), 70 o C (ES1, Kamsi, NU2); and were stable at 60 o C (ES1, AI1, NU2), 70 o C (ES1/AI1), 80 o C (Kamsi and Kamsi/NU2). Also, the laccases remained active through pH 3 - 8 and optimal at pH 4 (AI1, NU2), pH 5 (Kamsi, ES1/AI1), pH 7 (ES1), pH 8 (Kamsi/NU2), and the individual stability was measured at pH 4 (Kamsi, NU2), pH 5 (AI1), pH 6 (ES1), pH 7 (Kamsi/NU2), pH 10 (ES1/AI1). The purified laccases were either enhanced or left unchanged by a variable concentration of metallic salts, inhibitors, chelating agents and organic solvents. Clearly, the activities of the laccase were enhanced when pre-incubated with 1, 3, and 6 mm of CuCl2, FeCl3, MgCl2, ZnCl2 and AgCl, and 1, 2, 3 mm of Triton x-100, PMSF, EDTA, Tween 20, and NaCl. Additionally, 20, 30, and 10 percent v/v of acetone and DMSO were prominent organic solvents that also stimulated both the hybrid and amalgamated laccase activity. The gene of the purified laccases targeted showed a clear band size of 690 bp for the Enterobacter species laccases and 775 bp for the laccase from Bacillus sp. The protein sequence was deposited in NCBI database with the assigned accession numbers, MW251989, MW25990, MW251992, and MW251994 for ES1, Kamsi, AI1, and NU2 laccases, respectively. The optimised pH and temperature parameter examined on the decolourising potential of the bacteria laccases showed an effective dye removal on the five synthetic dyes (Congo Red (CR), Methyl Orange (MO), Malachite Green (MG), Reactive Blue 4 (RB4), Ramazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR)) applied. The purified laccases were successfully immobilised in Na-alginate with cca. 88.49, 70.91, 76.04, 76.13, 90.07, and 91.99 laccase yield for the hybrid (ES1, ES1, Kamsi, AI1, NU2) and amalgamated (ES1/AI1 and Kamsi/NU2) laccases. The immobilised laccases were able to retain an average activity of 32 – 52 percent after eight dye decolourising cycles, exhibiting strong catalytic activity than the free laccases. Nonetheless, no significant difference was examined between the hybrid and amalgamated laccase activity. Also, the immobilised laccases were shown to be more efficient in biotechnological application than the free laccases. The result suggests that immobilising an enzyme in a carrier matrix served effectively as the remediation approach than the hybrid and the amalgamation of the free enzymes. Also, the application of lignocellulosic waste served as a cheaper substrate for commercial production of laccase and could help s in promoting es the biotechnology application and the bioeconomy. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Edoamodu, Chiedu Epiphany https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9254-3955
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Laccase , Water -- Purification
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22820 , vital:52802
- Description: The continuous outpour of aromatic pollutants in diverse groups, emanating from the industrial and domestic system due to population density, industrialisation and technological advancement is alarming. The increasing strength in wastewater discharge constitutes the main cause of the natural water pollution load, causing scarcity of potable water for consumption with an increasing health challenge. The physiochemical treatment approach has faced a series of limitations with little or no success. Hindrance to wastewater management can cause a point source contamination problem that might increase treatment cost and release a broad range of chemical contaminants in the environment. Hence, green, eco-friendly and cost-effective tools are imperative. The application of laccase has received much attention in bioremediation and bioprocessing matters owing to the oxidising capacity of a wide range of substrates. The process requires available molecular oxygen for its activation, releasing water as a by-product thus, establishing this research. This study was devised to examine the bioprocessing potentials of hybrid and amalgamated laccases extracted from the diverse environmental milieu of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Bacteria producing laccase were isolated from marine sediment, cow dung, and wastewater samples via selective enrichment with some aromatic compounds. The axenic cultures were screened for laccase activity on various phenolic and non-phenolic substrates. The isolates were identified via molecular techniques and they belonged to the gammaproteobacteria and Bacilli classes under the following genera, Enterobacter and Bacillus. They were deposited in the NCBI database as Enterobacter asburiae ES1, Enterobacter sp. Kamsi, Enterobacter sp. AI1, and Bacillus sp. NU2 with the assigned accession number MN686602, MN686603, MN686605, MN686607, respectively. Optimisation of the laccase production via one factor at a time technique (OFAT) from the four bacteria species showed more enzyme yield in all lignocellulosic agro-waste media. However, wheat bran and mandarin peel maximally enhanced laccase production. In addition, xylose, galactose, fructose, and sorbitol were the best carbon sources utilised while (NH₄)₂SO8, KNO3 and NaNO3 were noted as the best nitrogen sources employed. Laccase yields were increased at pH 4 and 5, at temperatures 45 and 55 o C, and at 50 and 100 rpm, and precisely, at day eight of the incubation period. Further purification of the crude laccase yielded a purification fold of 4.18, 4.39, 2.78, 8.11, and the SDS-PAGE analysis showed a molecular size of 90, 55, 75 and 50 kDa for ES1, Kamsi, AI1, and NU2 laccases, respectively. The characterised purified laccase demonstrated polyextremotolerant potentials. The laccases were active through a wide temperature regime (30-90 o C) with maximum activity at 50 o C (ES1/AI1 and Kamsi/NU2) 60 o C (AI1), 70 o C (ES1, Kamsi, NU2); and were stable at 60 o C (ES1, AI1, NU2), 70 o C (ES1/AI1), 80 o C (Kamsi and Kamsi/NU2). Also, the laccases remained active through pH 3 - 8 and optimal at pH 4 (AI1, NU2), pH 5 (Kamsi, ES1/AI1), pH 7 (ES1), pH 8 (Kamsi/NU2), and the individual stability was measured at pH 4 (Kamsi, NU2), pH 5 (AI1), pH 6 (ES1), pH 7 (Kamsi/NU2), pH 10 (ES1/AI1). The purified laccases were either enhanced or left unchanged by a variable concentration of metallic salts, inhibitors, chelating agents and organic solvents. Clearly, the activities of the laccase were enhanced when pre-incubated with 1, 3, and 6 mm of CuCl2, FeCl3, MgCl2, ZnCl2 and AgCl, and 1, 2, 3 mm of Triton x-100, PMSF, EDTA, Tween 20, and NaCl. Additionally, 20, 30, and 10 percent v/v of acetone and DMSO were prominent organic solvents that also stimulated both the hybrid and amalgamated laccase activity. The gene of the purified laccases targeted showed a clear band size of 690 bp for the Enterobacter species laccases and 775 bp for the laccase from Bacillus sp. The protein sequence was deposited in NCBI database with the assigned accession numbers, MW251989, MW25990, MW251992, and MW251994 for ES1, Kamsi, AI1, and NU2 laccases, respectively. The optimised pH and temperature parameter examined on the decolourising potential of the bacteria laccases showed an effective dye removal on the five synthetic dyes (Congo Red (CR), Methyl Orange (MO), Malachite Green (MG), Reactive Blue 4 (RB4), Ramazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR)) applied. The purified laccases were successfully immobilised in Na-alginate with cca. 88.49, 70.91, 76.04, 76.13, 90.07, and 91.99 laccase yield for the hybrid (ES1, ES1, Kamsi, AI1, NU2) and amalgamated (ES1/AI1 and Kamsi/NU2) laccases. The immobilised laccases were able to retain an average activity of 32 – 52 percent after eight dye decolourising cycles, exhibiting strong catalytic activity than the free laccases. Nonetheless, no significant difference was examined between the hybrid and amalgamated laccase activity. Also, the immobilised laccases were shown to be more efficient in biotechnological application than the free laccases. The result suggests that immobilising an enzyme in a carrier matrix served effectively as the remediation approach than the hybrid and the amalgamation of the free enzymes. Also, the application of lignocellulosic waste served as a cheaper substrate for commercial production of laccase and could help s in promoting es the biotechnology application and the bioeconomy. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Experiences of patients with cancer regarding decentralization of oncology services at a selected tertiary hospital in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Jojo, Lumkile
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Cancer -- Nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26907 , vital:66080
- Description: Background: Cancer burden is a global public health concern. It is associated with high morbidities and mortalities worldwide. Over the past decade, there has been a constant increase in the incidence of cancer cases affecting mostly low-income countries and middle- income countries. South Africa as a middle-income country is also affected by this cancer rise. The limited access to oncology services contributed to the late presentation and late diagnosis. In the Eastern Cape, oncology services were previously offered in Port Elizabeth and East London only. Oncology unit was recently opened in Mthatha to decentralize oncology services in the province. The purpose of the study was to explore the experiences of patients with cancer regarding decentralization of oncology services at a public tertiary hospital in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Objectives were to describe experiences of patients with cancer regarding decentralization of oncology services at a public tertiary hospital in the Eastern Cape, and to describe the quality of oncology services provided by a public tertiary hospital in the Eastern Cape. Methods: a qualitative research approach with a descriptive, explorative, and contextual design was undertaken in this study, to get the perspective of the oncology healthcare service recipients on the decentralization of oncology services at a public tertiary hospital. An interview guide was used to get experiences of the cancer patients attending oncology clinic. Interviews were conducted to 19 participants on a one-to-one basis. With ethical consideration, all COVID-19 protocols were observed. All interviews were transcribed carefully against their audio-recordings. Field notes were also taken by the researcher on what was heard, observed, thought and experienced during the interview process. The concept of trustworthiness was used to ensure rigour throughout this study. Data was analysed by means of thematic analysis. Data was organized into themes using the Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Results: seven themes emerged: 1) experience related to a high level of satisfaction with services provided and desired expectations, 2) waiting time, 3) availability of human and material resources, 4) attitude of health care workers, 5) appropriate treatment and care, 6) access to services, and 7) need for improved infrastructural facilities Many patients had positive experiences about decentralization of oncology services in the province. Most patients were happy about travelling short distances, a smaller number of days, using less money and the time it takes to see a doctor. They also expressed their satisfaction on the quality of oncology services rendered in the unit. The waiting times were acceptable, medicines available and staff had positive attitudes towards the patients. The study revealed that, there were complaints about infrastructure, poor hospital record keeping, and lack of resources. The themes which emanated from the recordings of the study showed that patients with cancer, attending oncology clinic at a public tertiary hospital had positive experiences in this decentralized oncology unit. The services rendered at the facility were of acceptable quality. Staff had positive attitude towards their patients. All patients were seen by the doctors within acceptable waiting time, and they all got their prescribed medication. Access to services was much improved in terms of distance, number of days travelled by patients to access the service and time taken to see the doctor for appointments. Conclusion: The hospital must improve its infrastructure, record keeping, security, and expand the services. Put more focus on cancer awareness programs. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Jojo, Lumkile
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Cancer -- Nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26907 , vital:66080
- Description: Background: Cancer burden is a global public health concern. It is associated with high morbidities and mortalities worldwide. Over the past decade, there has been a constant increase in the incidence of cancer cases affecting mostly low-income countries and middle- income countries. South Africa as a middle-income country is also affected by this cancer rise. The limited access to oncology services contributed to the late presentation and late diagnosis. In the Eastern Cape, oncology services were previously offered in Port Elizabeth and East London only. Oncology unit was recently opened in Mthatha to decentralize oncology services in the province. The purpose of the study was to explore the experiences of patients with cancer regarding decentralization of oncology services at a public tertiary hospital in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Objectives were to describe experiences of patients with cancer regarding decentralization of oncology services at a public tertiary hospital in the Eastern Cape, and to describe the quality of oncology services provided by a public tertiary hospital in the Eastern Cape. Methods: a qualitative research approach with a descriptive, explorative, and contextual design was undertaken in this study, to get the perspective of the oncology healthcare service recipients on the decentralization of oncology services at a public tertiary hospital. An interview guide was used to get experiences of the cancer patients attending oncology clinic. Interviews were conducted to 19 participants on a one-to-one basis. With ethical consideration, all COVID-19 protocols were observed. All interviews were transcribed carefully against their audio-recordings. Field notes were also taken by the researcher on what was heard, observed, thought and experienced during the interview process. The concept of trustworthiness was used to ensure rigour throughout this study. Data was analysed by means of thematic analysis. Data was organized into themes using the Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Results: seven themes emerged: 1) experience related to a high level of satisfaction with services provided and desired expectations, 2) waiting time, 3) availability of human and material resources, 4) attitude of health care workers, 5) appropriate treatment and care, 6) access to services, and 7) need for improved infrastructural facilities Many patients had positive experiences about decentralization of oncology services in the province. Most patients were happy about travelling short distances, a smaller number of days, using less money and the time it takes to see a doctor. They also expressed their satisfaction on the quality of oncology services rendered in the unit. The waiting times were acceptable, medicines available and staff had positive attitudes towards the patients. The study revealed that, there were complaints about infrastructure, poor hospital record keeping, and lack of resources. The themes which emanated from the recordings of the study showed that patients with cancer, attending oncology clinic at a public tertiary hospital had positive experiences in this decentralized oncology unit. The services rendered at the facility were of acceptable quality. Staff had positive attitude towards their patients. All patients were seen by the doctors within acceptable waiting time, and they all got their prescribed medication. Access to services was much improved in terms of distance, number of days travelled by patients to access the service and time taken to see the doctor for appointments. Conclusion: The hospital must improve its infrastructure, record keeping, security, and expand the services. Put more focus on cancer awareness programs. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09